Best Tent Camping near Rockdale, TX

Looking for the best Rockdale tent camping? The Dyrt can help you find the best tent campsites for your next trip. Each tent site offers quick access to one or more of Rockdale, Texas's most popular destinations.

Best Tent Sites Near Rockdale, Texas (16)

    Camper-submitted photo at Stillhouse near Rockdale, TX
    Camper-submitted photo at Stillhouse near Rockdale, TX
    Camper-submitted photo at Stillhouse near Rockdale, TX
    Camper-submitted photo at Stillhouse near Rockdale, TX
    Camper-submitted photo at Stillhouse near Rockdale, TX
    Camper-submitted photo at Stillhouse near Rockdale, TX

    1. Stillhouse

    6 Reviews
    7 Photos
    6 Saves
    Belton, Texas

    Overview

    Stillhouse Park is a day use area that has two reservable group pavilions along the shore of Stillhouse Hollow Lake in central Texas. With activities such as picnicking, swimming, basketball and fishing, the park is popular for family gatherings and other large group events. Stillhouse Hollow Lake was created by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers with the construction of Stillhouse Hollow Dam in 1968. The 6,430-acre lake is located 16 miles upstream of the confluence of the Lampasas and Leon Rivers, which flow into the Little River.

    Recreation

    With 58 miles of shoreline, Stillhouse Hollow Lake is an often uncrowded haven for boaters and fishermen. Those who do not have motor boats, canoes or kayaks can rent them nearby. A variety of land-based activities are also offered, such as volleyball, basketball and horseshoes. Birding is a favorite pastime for many visitors. Hawks, great blue herons, ducks, geese, many species of songbirds, bobwhite quail, Rio Grande turkey and even an occasional bald eagle visit the lake area, yielding year-round opportunities for bird sightings.

    Facilities

    The lake's only marina and fuel dock are located within the park. There are two reservable group pavilions, Island View and Tear Drop, which can each hold up to 120 visitors. There are also nearly 40 individual picnic sites around the beach area, as well as a swimming beach popular with families.

    Natural Features

    Aside from the park and two nearby campgrounds, very little of the lakeshore is developed. It has rocky beaches and sandy bluffs along the edges, and much of it is forested. Stillhouse Park has grassy, open areas interspersed with trees. The lake has noticeably clear and deep water inhabited by largemouth bass, smallmouth bass and channel catfish. A man-made wetland was constructed on the south shore of the lake, providing an additional 10 acres of wildlife habitat in the lake area.

    Nearby Attractions

    The nearby Village of Salado offers golf, art galleries and shopping, among other activities. Chalk Ridge Falls Environmental Learning Center is below the Stillhouse Hollow Lake Dam. The center has about five miles of hiking trails, including a one-mile nature trail along the Lampasas River, a spring-fed creek, a waterfall, bridges and several wildlife viewing points. Stillhouse Hollow Lake is located near the Fort Hood Army Base, which has several points of interest for the military buff.

    • Pets
    • Electric Hookups
    • Tents
    • Group
    • Trash
    • Picnic Table

    $120 / night

    Steve L.'s photo of tent camping at Tejas Park near Rockdale, TX
    Camper-submitted photo at Tejas Park near Rockdale, TX
    Camper-submitted photo at Tejas Park near Rockdale, TX
    Camper-submitted photo at Tejas Park near Rockdale, TX
    Camper-submitted photo at Tejas Park near Rockdale, TX
    Camper-submitted photo at Tejas Park near Rockdale, TX

    2. Tejas Park

    10 Reviews
    62 Photos
    171 Saves
    Liberty Hill, Texas

    Overview

    Tejas Park sits on the south side of Georgetown Lake in the Hill Country of Texas, about 25 miles north of Austin. Tejas park sits upon the south bank of the North San Gabriel River offering good opportunities for fishing, wading or floating and features plenty of large, grassy open areas for running around and enjoying the scenic Texas countryside.

    Recreation

    Boating is the most popular way to enjoy the clear waters of the lake. Fishing is excellent in the area, and the lake contains Black bass, White bass, Hybrid stripers, White crappie, Channel catfish and Flathead catfish, but its most known for its abundance of Smallmouth bass. The San Gabriel River Trail is a 26 mile rugged trail winding through dense juniper forest, hardwood bottomlands and prairie grasslands. The trail wraps completely around Georgetown Lake via the dam and is open to both hiking and biking. Hunting is available for for small game like dove, waterfowl, rabbit and squirrel, as well as white tail deer. Hunting is by permit only.

    Natural Features

    Lake Georgetown is a reservoir on the north fork of the San Gabriel River in central Texas. The dam was completed in 1979 to provide flood control and water supply for the nearby community of Georgetown, and now provides countless recreation opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts.

    Nearby Attractions

    The nearby town of Georgetown offers gas, groceries and more. The historic downtown square district has shops and restaurants, and concerts and events are held on a regular basis. Additionally, Austin is located just 25 miles from the lake, offering countless tourist attractions.

    Charges & Cancellations

    Cancellations: Once a reservation date has begun, customers cannot change a reservation using the online system or through the Call Center. On-site personnel are not able to modify reservations. Individual Campsites: Cancellations up to 2 days before a reservation start date incur a $10.00 cancellation fee. A customer who cancels a reservation the day before or on the day of arrival will pay a $10.00 service fee AND forfeit the first night's use fee (not to exceed the total paid for the original reservation). Cancellations for a one-night reservation will forfeit the entire amount paid and will not be subject to an additional service fee. Group Facility (including Cabins and Lookouts): Customers who cancel a group overnight facility reservation less than 14 days before the arrival date will pay a $10.00 service fee AND forfeit the first night's use fee. Refunds: Customers can request refunds online up to 7 days after the scheduled departure date. After 7 days, customers must request refunds through the call center. Cancellation fees are non-refundable.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • Tents
    • Group

    $10 - $16 / night

    Camper-submitted photo at Paradise Acres near Rockdale, TX
    Camper-submitted photo at Paradise Acres near Rockdale, TX
    Camper-submitted photo at Paradise Acres near Rockdale, TX
    Camper-submitted photo at Paradise Acres near Rockdale, TX
    Camper-submitted photo at Paradise Acres near Rockdale, TX
    Camper-submitted photo at Paradise Acres near Rockdale, TX

    3. Paradise Acres

    2 Reviews
    7 Photos
    42 Saves
    Franklin, Texas

    15 Acres just 45min north of College Station, TX and 45min South of Temple, TX right off HWY 6

    Enjoy a campfire, tent camping, hammocks, and peace and quiet in a secluded ranch. Only sounds you'll hear is a distant train on a still night, the occasianal coyote, and the sparks from a roaring camp fire.

    2 beautiful ponds with fishing and a mix of both wooded and open areas.

    Currently off-grid camping only with port-a-toilet. No water/electric. Cell service available for most carriers.

    Closest grocery store 19 min drive in Hearne, TX. Only 10 min from cozy town of Calvert, TX Includes gas stations, restraunts, bars w/game room (billiards, darts, tvs)

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    • Tents

    $5 - $20 / night

    Mark H.'s photo of tent camping at Russell Park near Rockdale, TX
    Camper-submitted photo at Russell Park near Rockdale, TX
    Camper-submitted photo at Russell Park near Rockdale, TX
    Camper-submitted photo at Russell Park near Rockdale, TX
    Camper-submitted photo at Russell Park near Rockdale, TX
    Camper-submitted photo at Russell Park near Rockdale, TX

    4. Russell Park

    4 Reviews
    14 Photos
    76 Saves
    Georgetown, Texas

    Overview

    Russell Park is located on the west side of Georgetown Lake, in the Texas Hill Country approximately 25 miles north of Austin. Visitors enjoy boating, fishing and exploring the San Gabriel River Trail.

    Recreation

    Boating is the most popular way to enjoy the lake, and a boat ramp is provided for guests. Fishing is excellent in the area, and the lake contains black bass, white bass, hybrid stripers, white crappie and channel and flathead catfish, but it's most known for its abundance of smallmouth bass. Fishing docks are located on the shore within the campground. The San Gabriel River Trail is a 26-mile rugged path winding through dense juniper forest, hardwood bottomlands and prairie grasslands. The trail extends completely around Georgetown Lake via the dam and is open to hiking and biking. Hunting is available for small game species such as dove, waterfowl, rabbit and squirrel, as well as white-tailed deer. Hunting is by permit only.

    Natural Features

    Georgetown Lake is a reservoir on the North Fork San Gabriel River in central Texas. The dam was completed in 1979 to provide flood control and water supply for the nearby community of Georgetown, and now provides countless recreation opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts.

    Nearby Attractions

    The nearby town of Georgetown offers gas, groceries and more. The historic downtown square district has shops and restaurants, and concerts and events are held on a regular basis. Additionally, Austin is located just 25 miles from the lake, offering countless tourist attractions.

    Charges & Cancellations

    Cancellations: Once a reservation date has begun, customers cannot change a reservation using the online system or through the Call Center. On-site personnel are not able to modify reservations. Individual Campsites: Cancellations up to 2 days before a reservation start date incur a $10.00 cancellation fee. A customer who cancels a reservation the day before or on the day of arrival will pay a $10.00 service fee AND forfeit the first night's use fee (not to exceed the total paid for the original reservation). Cancellations for a one-night reservation will forfeit the entire amount paid and will not be subject to an additional service fee.  Group Facility (including Cabins and Lookouts): Customers who cancel a group overnight facility reservation less than 14 days before the arrival date will pay a $10.00 service fee AND forfeit the first night's use fee.  Group Day Use Area: Customers who cancel a group day-use facility reservation less than 14 days before the arrival date will forfeit the total day-use fee. Refunds: Customers can request refunds online up to 7 days after the scheduled departure date. After 7 days, customers must request refunds through the call center. Cancellation fees are non-refundable. 

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • Tents

    $80 / night

    Camper-submitted photo at Lost Pines Camping near Rockdale, TX
    Camper-submitted photo at Lost Pines Camping near Rockdale, TX
    Camper-submitted photo at Lost Pines Camping near Rockdale, TX
    Camper-submitted photo at Lost Pines Camping near Rockdale, TX
    Camper-submitted photo at Lost Pines Camping near Rockdale, TX
    Camper-submitted photo at Lost Pines Camping near Rockdale, TX

    5. Lost Pines Camping

    1 Review
    7 Photos
    1 Save
    Smithville, Texas

    Private, peaceful and secluded. We purchased the 5.3 acres as a forest back in 2007. We cut down a little bit of the forest to build our house.

    Native Americans once lived here. Sometimes you can find arrowheads.

    Some of the forest burned down in the great Bastrop wildfire in 2011, but it has grown back.

    Learn more about this land:

    Lost Pines Camping is located on a gravel dead-end road. We are in a pine forest with some oaks and have a two-acre lake on the property that is good for swimming. Bastrop and Buescher State Parks are nearby and easy to access through back roads. Blackberries can be picked for a month or so in springtime. The land is a bit hilly. Downtown Bastrop and Downtown Smithville are both a ten-minute drive away. There is one tent site a one minute hike downhill into the forest. The bathroom is on the other side of the property near our house, a 2 minute walk from the tent site.

    The tent site has a water spigot and electricity. There is no tenting next to the parking spot.

    • Pets
    • Electric Hookups
    • Reservable
    • Tents
    • Showers
    • Drinking Water

    $29 / night

    Camper-submitted photo at Colorado RiverBend Retreat near Rockdale, TX
    Camper-submitted photo at Colorado RiverBend Retreat near Rockdale, TX
    Camper-submitted photo at Colorado RiverBend Retreat near Rockdale, TX
    Camper-submitted photo at Colorado RiverBend Retreat near Rockdale, TX
    Camper-submitted photo at Colorado RiverBend Retreat near Rockdale, TX
    Camper-submitted photo at Colorado RiverBend Retreat near Rockdale, TX

    6. Colorado RiverBend Retreat

    2 Reviews
    51 Photos
    9 Saves
    Smithville, Texas

    We are a very private campground Situated On The Colorado River Off Hwy 71 Just a stones throw from downtown Smithville, A Few Minutes To Lagrange, Bastrop, Roundtop, etc.

    We Have A Total Of 3 Campsites To Keep A Most Private & Serene Camp! Each site is equipped with 20Amp Power, A Picnic Table, A Fire Pit With Cooking Grate, And A Garbage Bin!! There is a Community bathhouse Central To The Camp Making It Just Feet Away No Matter which site you camp! The bathhouse is complete with 2 Hot Shower's, 2 Sink's, & 1 Potty!! It's Stocked With Most Of What You Would need!

    Come Enjoy... Camping, Fishing, Kayaking, Bird Watching (Eagle's Nest Across The Way) Horshoes, CornHole, Or Just Relaxing & Soaking Up Natures Truly Magical Ambience.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • Tents

    $55 - $65 / night

    7. Plum Park on the Colorado

    1 Review
    9 Saves
    La Grange, Texas
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • Tents
    • Group
    • Trash

    8. Flag Pond Campsite — Lake Somerville State Park

    Be the first to review!
    2 Saves
    Somerville, Texas

    Primitive Campsite (Hike-in | Trailway) People per Site: 8 Number of Sites: 1 The Flag Pond campsite is located one mile from the Newman Bottom parking area and 4.5 miles from Nails Creek Unit. Potable water is not available. Access the site by hike, bike or horse via the 13-mile long Trailway.

    No Water Chemical toilets

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Reservable
    • Tents
    • Dispersed
    • Toilets

    $10 / night

    9. Owl Creek

    1 Review
    7 Saves
    Belton Lake, Texas
    • Tents
    Camper-submitted photo at SHAMBA Farm near Rockdale, TX
    Camper-submitted photo at SHAMBA Farm near Rockdale, TX
    Camper-submitted photo at SHAMBA Farm near Rockdale, TX
    Camper-submitted photo at SHAMBA Farm near Rockdale, TX
    Camper-submitted photo at SHAMBA Farm near Rockdale, TX
    Camper-submitted photo at SHAMBA Farm near Rockdale, TX

    10. SHAMBA Farm

    Be the first to review!
    8 Photos
    6 Saves
    Elgin, Texas

    SHAMBA is an acronym for Sustainable Homestead and Microclimate Based Agriculture. This conveys a focus on place-based agriculture, observation, and refinement. SHAMBA is founded on the principle that all living things deserve to be treated with respect, and that we can raise food in a manner that is in harmony with nature. The word “shamba” also happens to mean homestead in Swahili, and perfectly describes the scope of the farm: small and managed mostly by hand.

    SHAMBA was started by me (Sarah) - educator, yoga teacher, herbalist, beekeeper, and gardening enthusiast - in 2016, but the story starts much earlier. Over a decade ago, I stumbled upon a beautiful piece of land and fell in love. I had been searching for a place to put down roots after traveling for much of my 20s, and luckily I found her spot. My goal was, and remains, to create an abundance of food while using efficient management systems and increasing the amount of resources here on the farm.

    Growth was slow at first as I worked full time in Austin, built a straw bale home, and had two beautiful children. I put in fruit trees, a garden, and chicken coop. When I began keeping bees, honey was added to the offerings and SHAMBA became official. Now I sell eggs, honey, herbal medicine and salves, and fresh herbs. Sustainability is the focal point of farm design and growth. As a certified permaculture designer, I use my knowledge (mostly made from mistakes!) to refine the flow of resources here on the farm to create products that are clean, natural, and safe. You can trust that SHAMBA products are created with love and care for the land, animals, and customers.

    Campsites:

    Choose your own rustic, simple campsite on 10.5 acres of sustainable farmland and nature preserve. Enjoy watching chickens frolic in a small fruit orchard or a mix flock of ducks and geese swimming in the pond. Listen to coyotes calling and savor a clear view of the stars at night.

    Our farm is home to bees, goats, chickens, ducks, and geese as well as a variety of herbs, fruits, and vegetables. We also have a small pond surrounded by willows and wildflowers. The pace of life in generally slow and quiet.

    You'll be able to choose from a variety of spots to pitch your tent, but all are primitive and do not have tent pads. Water is onsite but away from the campsites. Composting toilet is available.

    Please note that there are full time tenants that live on site in two RVs and a rental guesthouse. They live near and will share the common playground area. So while you will be the only campers, you will not be the only people on the property.

    The easiest spot to camp is near the main house, so you will have the owner nearby. There is a more secluded spot set up a further distance away near the pond. You may camp more primitively than that, but it will be a further distance from the parking area.

    • Reservable
    • Tents
    • Trash
    • Picnic Table
    • Firewood Available
    • Drinking Water

    $25 / night

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Showing results 1-10 of 16 campgrounds

Recent Tent Reviews near Rockdale, TX

388 Reviews of 16 Rockdale Campgrounds


  • Yvette K.
    Camper-submitted photo at Bluff Creek Ranch near Rockdale, TX
    May. 30, 2019

    Bluff Creek Ranch

    FANTASTIC mountain bike trails!

    This is a mountain biker's dream! Well groomed tent camping around a large pond with showers and toilets just a short walk away. Firewood and ice are complimentary! Great trails for intermediate to advanced mountain bikers. There's also an Air B-N-B on the property for those who don't want to tent camp as well as a sheltered area for cots, etc. Helpful, available staff and I didn't hear a peep of highway traffic or other sounds of civilization for the 3 days we were there!

  • Haleigh A.
    Steve & Ashley  G.'s photo of tent camping at Buescher State Park Campground near Rockdale, TX
    Jun. 16, 2018

    Buescher State Park Campground

    Great Park

    This is a very nice, small, State park. There is a lot to do and it didn't feel crowded at all. The tent camping spots were great! We stayed at a walk in site (water only) and had a great time! Good fishing, hiking, etc.

  • H
    Heath L.'s photo of tent camping at Union Grove near Rockdale, TX
    Jan. 28, 2021

    Union Grove

    Clean

    Clean and quiet. I probably wouldn’t stop here again tent camping in the winter. Random windstorm 30mph no way really to block it. I felt like it was more of an RV park. Plenty of deer and pretty view of the lake. Clean restrooms.

  • Janese W.
    Camper-submitted photo at Dana Peak near Rockdale, TX
    May. 6, 2021

    Dana Peak

    Tent camping

    This is a gorgeous place to camp. We did tent camping this pass week. Our camp site was right by the water an absolutely gorgeous view to wake up to. I will definitely come back. The only draw back was the winds, they were so strong they shattered our tent poles. So i would recommend to definitely check the weather before selecting a date.

  • SThe Dyrt PRO User
    Dmitri W.'s photo of tent camping at Bastrop State Park Campground near Rockdale, TX
    Jul. 7, 2018

    Bastrop State Park Campground

    Short trip out of the city

    Cabin staff are available as well as tent campgrounds. Trails are pretty. Beware of snakes, the poisonous kind we saw almost everyday.

  • Lori C.
    Lynne L.'s photo of tent camping at Rocky Creek (Somerville Lake) near Rockdale, TX
    Nov. 7, 2021

    Rocky Creek (Somerville Lake)

    COE Campground on Lake Somerville

    This is a wonderful very well maintained Corp of Engineers campground on Lake Somerville. RV sites are level with plenty of spacing, lots of people tent camping. Sites have water and electric and there is a dump station. Clean bathrooms, well maintained trails and miles of accessible shoreline. Great AT&T and 2 bars T-Mobile reception. Some areas are closed because of previous flooding. Tons of deer wandering around every evening. Highly recommend for a relaxing place to stay.

  • Will B.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo at Military Park Fort Hood Belton Lake Outdoor Recreation Area near Rockdale, TX
    May. 31, 2021

    Military Park Fort Hood Belton Lake Outdoor Recreation Area

    Great lake

    This camp ground was great. We tent camped by the water in section 3 and had the whole site to our self. The lake was nice to canoe on and had a beautiful view of the sunset.

    The bathrooms were to far to walk so we had to drive to them ever time and there were no showers so this was a negative.

    If you stay on the water just plan for the wind it was blowing the whole time and really hard at some points. Also there is no shade by the water so bring a shade tent.

    Last thing this is a open camp ground and we had several people late at night ride by and shine there lights in our tent.

  • Mark S.
    Steve L.'s photo of tent camping at Tejas Park near Rockdale, TX
    Jul. 15, 2020

    Tejas Park

    Great place to tent camp.

    Tejas Park is perfect for those in the area looking for tent camping without wanting to be surrounded by RV’s.

    Tejas is right on the river, ample opportunities to wet a line if you like. The Goodwater Loop runs right by the campground. The Goodwater Loop is a 26 mile trail that will take you completely around the lake.

    The spots are spaced out and each has a large tent pad capable of firing multiple tents. Each spot has a table and fire pit. There is a Vault toilet as well as a water spigot.

    The campground is sparsely populated during the week and cans be found completely empty regularly. Expect the campground to be filled up during the weekends though.

  • L
    Camper-submitted photo at Birch Creek Unit — Lake Somerville State Park near Rockdale, TX
    Jul. 17, 2018

    Birch Creek Unit — Lake Somerville State Park

    Fisherman’s paradise

    The lake is fairly warm, large amount of bass, huge gar, croppy, And catfish. when the water is right you can take a flat bottom boat up to any of the creeks. Overall a great campground with decent facilities. They do have horse stalls at many of the campsites so definitely bring your horse and trot around the lake !! They do have rv and tent sites with a lot of trails that are mowed down and well taken care of. Lots of picnic areas and covered areas S well!

  • Kaitlyn M.
    Kaitlyn M.'s photo of tent camping at Overlook near Rockdale, TX
    Jun. 14, 2018

    Overlook

    Great camping spot!

    We were are spot T2, along with another group at T10 (only ones camping out there)! The spots are somewhat close together. It’s an all-around great camping spot. Has ample sites to camp either in tents or RVs, with both electricity and water hook ups. Really quiet, everyone is respectful of the 10pm silent rule. Good shade spot while tent camping in the summer. Campsite is a walking distance from bathrooms and showers. Close to water (walking distance) for swimming, boating, fishing, kayaking, etc. By the campsite (not the marine side) there is a small inlet of the lake that is great for swimming. Other parts are too deep, but are perfect for taking a boat out and fishing! Staff is very friendly with any questions. Very dog friendly. Good price!

  • Lynne L.
    Lynne L.'s photo of tent camping at Rocky Creek (Somerville Lake) near Rockdale, TX
    Sep. 10, 2020

    Rocky Creek (Somerville Lake)

    A hidden gem with gorgeous sunsets!

    I recently went on a camping trip solo (minus the hubby) with my old-man dog here. We tent camped at site #177. This is a beautiful park on a beautiful lake! Here are some of the pros: friendly couple at check-in/entrance shack, friendly rangers driving around checking on folks, deer everywhere(!), beautiful lake view, well-maintained grounds, good shade trees, trash dumpsters within walking distance, electricity/water hookups worked great, picnic table/fire ring/grill, gorgeous sunsets(!), very quiet at night, cute and clean little beach/swim area to hang out in. The cons for me were: getting to the water from my site was not as direct as it looked on the map, circular bricks with holes on the shore were not dog friendly (not human leg friendly either), bathrooms/showers were closed in our area/circle due to Covid-19. I would ABSOLUTELY return to this park!! 

    I really appreciated the hospitality shown here! They recognized that I was a lone female (but a very confident/independent one) with an old man-dog and, respectfully, went out of their way to make sure that we were okay!

  • Rick G.
    Troy W.'s photo of tent camping at Lake Bastrop North Shore Park near Rockdale, TX
    Jun. 10, 2020

    Lake Bastrop North Shore Park

    Great little spot - Clean and tucked away!

    We spent 2 nights here in the tent sites a couple weeks ago. We loved it.

    There are 8 tent-only sites at the north end of the park - there is a short trail by the restrooms that lead to them. Upsides are that they are removed from most of the park's bustle, so it's easier to relax and enjoy your time "in the woods". The restrooms and shower facility are a ~200-300 ft walk, depending on which site you choose. Each site has a grill, picnic table and fire ring. The sites are not particularly level, but we were able to get two tents on the site with minimal issues. The tent area also has a community grill and fire pit that would make it a great candidate for a group camping event.

    There is a small floating dock where you can fish or launch a kayak (remember, you can't park close so you'll have to carry the boat in...good for kayaks, bad for canoes). There is ample room at the park's main launch to put in larger canoes or kayaks without carrying them as far.

    The park amenities are fine - swimming area, fishing pier, and fairly clean showers/restrooms. Also, there is a Bucee's 5-10 minutes away for those last-minute needs/forgotten supplies!

    All in all, a good weekend, and a good spot to camp!

  • Brittany S.
    Dmitri W.'s photo of tent camping at Bastrop State Park Campground near Rockdale, TX
    Oct. 1, 2018

    Bastrop State Park Campground

    Great for all!

    Bastrop would be a great place for youth groups or family reunions. It has a little for everyone and is conveniently located about thirty minutes from Lockhart where you can get, in my opinion, some of the best BBQ in Texas. This state park has tent, group, RV, group cabin w/ barracks, cabins (some are wheelchair accessible), and a dining hall (also wheelchair accessible).

    There is a swimming pool that is run by the local YMCA that is open during the summer, plus a huge playground that has disability swing set, which makes this park a 5 STAR for me. Some of the building were burned down in a fire six years ago and have since been replaced, so the bathroom and other facilities are brand spankin new!

    There are some great fishing spots along with some of my favorite hiking trails. My favorite trail is the scenic overlook trail which starts at the top of the lookout and travels 2 miles down through wildflowers and over streams. It is a shorter trail, but it is a more challenging one. Some of the longer trails have been closed since the fire and flood, but you can connect a few of the others to make for one good one. Everything is so colorful here.

    The walk-in tent sites are some of my favorites. The have a wonderful look and feel to them. Very scenic and off on their own away from noise from other campers. Also don’t forget to take the 12 mile scenic drive over to Buesher State park, it is well worth it!

  • Troy W.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo at Vernon L Richards Riverbend Park near Rockdale, TX
    Jun. 30, 2018

    Vernon L Richards Riverbend Park

    Vernon L. Richards Riverbend Park + Family Fun + Colorado River + Rodeo!

    I came across this campground while searching on thedyrt. I had not previously heard about this park, so I decided to check it out. The park is operated by the City of Smithville. There is not a park office on the grounds to accept reservations or fees for camping. To reserve a campsite, call the City Recreation Center at 512-237-3282x7 Mon-Fri, 8:00am - 4:30pm.

    There are a number or recreational facilities at the park such as a playground, baseball field and frisbee golf course. The Colorado River runs along one side of the park and offers opportunities for paddling and fishing. One of the most unique features is that there are rodeo facilities on the grounds. The rodeo events only occur during certain times of the year, so check the park's website and calendar.

    The campground area is at the very back of the grounds down a gravel road. The park is primarily designed to host RVs, but they do allow tent camping. Each site has a parking pad, water and electric hookup, picnic table and grill. There are bathroom facilities in the center of the campground.

    Compared to some of the other parks in the area such as Bastrop State Park, Buescher State Park and Lake Bastop South Shore Park, this city park is a little bit rough around the edges. The reservation system, or lack of an onsite office, is a bit baffling. But if you're looking to witness a rodeo, this might just be your only option.

  • Steve & Ashley  G.The Dyrt PRO User
    Steve & Ashley  G.'s photo of tent camping at Berry Springs Park & Preserve near Rockdale, TX
    Nov. 1, 2019

    Berry Springs Park & Preserve

    Hidden gem near Austin

    Nice park and campground very near Georgetown, Texas. Berry Springs is a local county park and preserve. The Park is located just north of Georgetown Texas about 1 mile off Interstate 35 the main highway between Dallas and Austin. It’s a Great location with loads of open space. They have basic sites with covered picnic tables, fire rings, and hooks for hanging items. The former ranch has a lot of history dating back to the Texas Pioneer days. The park is located next to clear spring fed river for swimming and fishing. This may be a great option for those looking for a location close to Austin or a local family weekend. The camp was nearly empty in October this year which is the peak season for camping in Texas. The sites are best suited for tent camper, vans, and smaller trailers.

  • Mark S.
    Camper-submitted photo at Downtown Texas RV Park near Rockdale, TX
    Jul. 5, 2020

    Downtown Texas RV Park

    Neat park with unique history.

    This park is located between Thorndale and Rockdale. There isn’t much to do in the area and we only stay here when visiting family in the area.

    The park is pretty nice with full hookup sites down on the bank of the San Gabriel river. The river isn’t much but it’s a place to escape the Texas heat. There are also more developed spots out by the road. By the more developed area there is also a restaurant and bar.

    The campground sits on the site of one of the old Spanish missions from the days when Spain was colonizing Texas. There’s a neat story about the garrison commander killing one of the Priests in a feud over an affair. There are historical markers that speak to the history in the area.

    If you’re in the area and you’re looking for a spot to stay at then you really can’t go wrong here.

  • J
    Steve L.'s photo of tent camping at Tejas Park near Rockdale, TX
    Dec. 8, 2020

    Tejas Park

    Beautiful Texas Campsite

    It was my first time camping in maybe 15 years. I wanted to pick a campsite that was affordable, not too far of a drive, and seemed primitive enough to feel like camping, while still having amenities like a bathroom and water, if need be.

    This had it all. It’s at the head of a trail, just near the river. If you want, you can easily walk down to the river and hike along it. The campsites are spacious, easily allowing our 2 tent set up, but if set up well, they could potentially house 3-4 2-person tents.

    The scenery was beautiful. It was Texas, in December, so things were dry and brown and yellow. But there was a serenity to it. At night, the stars were out. The light from nearby Georgetown and Austin didn’t allow for us to see them all, but they were there. The coyotes come out at night, but never got close to camp.

    A camp guide caught up to us at about 5pm, and warned us of the coyotes and told us about the water spigot at the front. The walk to our campsite wasn’t far from parking, maybe about 150 feet, maybe a bit more.

    There were fire rings at each campsite, and a post that had the number and a hanger for a lantern.

    All in all, we had a great time. It made me love camping again. I will certainly be back soon.

  • mThe Dyrt PRO User
    Dmitri W.'s photo of tent camping at Bastrop State Park Campground near Rockdale, TX
    Apr. 9, 2024

    Bastrop State Park Campground

    Excellent but noisy

    The only reason I gave it 4stars is because of a lot of street noise outside the park. The park itself is beautiful and quiet. Great bathroom fac; very new and clean. All of the tent sides have sand tent pads, but if you’re a hammock camper be sure the trees fit your kit.

  • George M.
    Steve L.'s photo of tent camping at Tejas Park near Rockdale, TX
    Mar. 24, 2017

    Tejas Park

    Good and primitive

    Spent the weekend with my three pups in our pop-up tent. Around a dozen tent pads with fire rings. Depending on the rain will determine if there will be any water in that part of the creek. Plenty of trails both improved and not. Overall a great weekend!

  • deb T.
    Karen H.'s photo of tent camping at Cedar Breaks Park near Rockdale, TX
    May. 30, 2018

    Cedar Breaks Park

    Close to Austin but Still a Getaway

    large, shady campsites with fire ring and BBQ. can accommodate an RV and a tent or two tents

    the lake has been low so fishing hasn’t been good. the best activity is hiking the trail which can be a little rugged. bikes are also allowed on the trail but it has been described as. “cheese grater”

    COE Park.

  • Troy W.The Dyrt PRO User
    Troy W.'s photo of tent camping at Lake Bastrop North Shore Park near Rockdale, TX
    Jul. 1, 2018

    Lake Bastrop North Shore Park

    Lake Bastrop + Family Activities + Lake Life

    This campground is located a short distance away from the city of Austin, Texas. The park is managed by the Lower Colorado River Authority (LCRA). At the entrance there is an office where you can pay your admission fee and it has a small store where you can pick up supplies. If you arrive late, there is an after hour station to pay your fee which accepts cash or a credit card.

    This park has car and RV campsites. There are no primitive sites. There is a campground called the Lake Bastrop North Shore Park located 15 minutes away with primitive sites.

    The campsites are all very similar. There is an area to park your car and it will fit a small or midsize RV. There are water and electrical hook-ups which make it very convenient. There are typically plenty of trees for shade. Each site has a picnic table for dining, a grill for outdoor cooking, a pole to hang food or trash and there is a fire ring for a campfire. Of course they also have pad sites where you can place a tent. The pad sites will fit anywhere from a two man tent up to an eight man tent. In addition to the campsites there are a number of small cabins which can hold up to four people. The cabins have some basic amenities and the restrooms are nearby. Most of the campsites and cabins are only a short walk to the lake shore where you can catch a sweet view of Lake Bastrop.

    There is limited hiking with one trail that runs along the lakeshore for about 6 miles. The main attraction of this park is living the lake life. Near the campsites one can launch a canoe or kayak. But there is also a boat ramp and boat dock where you can launch larger sized watercraft. If you don’t have your own watercraft you can rent a canoe or kayak from the office and pick it up near the boat dock. It is possible to fish from a boat or the shore. There are a number of community spaces which are great for picnicking. There is a sand volleyball court. And there’s a special area of the lake that has been roped-off and is designated for swimming.

    I think that the only possible downside about this park might be that there are always lots of families and energetic kids running around. If you’re seeking peace and quiet this might not be your place. If you are seeking some fun activities, this place is great.

    I think that the Lake Bastrop South Shore Park is a 5 star campground for all of the facilities, amenities and considering that the staff are friendly.

  • Thomas F.
    Apr. 9, 2024

    Sherwood Forest Faire Campground

    Great place

    This campground provided the perfect setting for our family's medieval adventure! The Sherwood Forest Faire itself was clean and well-maintained, with Retro Bowl spacious sites that offered plenty of room for our tent, car, and campfire.

  • Dude R.
    Steve & Ashley  G.'s photo of tent camping at Buescher State Park Campground near Rockdale, TX
    Aug. 26, 2020

    Buescher State Park Campground

    One Of My Tope 5 Texas State Parks!

    Buescher State Park, Texas is a wonderful and beautiful place to spend some time relaxing and RV camping! We had the pleasure of spending a day and night at Buescher State Park, Texas in May of 2017. This was our third stop on a 10 day 5 park tour. Buescher State Park, Texas is located in the Lost Pines area of Central Texas and is a great place for springtime camping, fishing and swimming! Hill Country wildlife abounds in this wonderful park! If you enjoy fishing, swimming, birding, hiking or Geocaching then you will enjoy a visit to Buescher State Park, Texas. 

    Want to see more fun RV tours and RV camping videos? 

    Visit my channel here...

    https://youtu.be/3vJp7HMYIjU

  • Kaitlyn M.
    Kaitlyn M.'s photo of tent camping at Overlook near Rockdale, TX
    Nov. 6, 2018

    Overlook

    Wonderful spot for Camping and Fishing!

    We camped at spot 1, right up from the lake. Very spacious spot to fit three tents. Dog friendly. Very quiet, everyone courteous. Two great fishing spots: down on the lake by the campsite and by the marina (both super close to the campsite).

  • A
    Karen H.'s photo of tent camping at Cedar Breaks Park near Rockdale, TX
    May. 18, 2019

    Cedar Breaks Park

    Lovely park

    Nice park. Spots are fairly close together with tent and RV spots near each other. Clean bathrooms and nice lakefront view. The coverings over the tables are thick wood and very large on a concrete pad. Grill with firepit and grill grates on top.

  • Brittany S.
    Steve & Ashley  G.'s photo of tent camping at Buescher State Park Campground near Rockdale, TX
    Oct. 1, 2018

    Buescher State Park Campground

    Beautiful trails!!

    Buesher State park is a great spot to take the family and relax! There is lots to do and it is a pretty good sized Texas park. They have tent, group, and RV sites, along with cabins and screened shelters alongside the lake. You cannot swim in in the lake, but they do have boat and tackle rentals at the park. It makes for a great place to fish with the family.

    The park is very shaded with lots of pine trees, but a fire did wipe out a lot of the trees on the Northern side of the park towards Bastrop. So many of the longer trails are not as shaded or are still in the process of repair. I went on a trail that was about 5 miles long and it was very nice. It was moderately challenging, a little muddy, but so much to see. Beautiful wildflowers of ever color were growing and I saw about eight white tail deer. Also a great place to birdwatch and take photography.

    The facilities are old, but well maintained and there is a store on site that sales snacks, wood, and souvenirs. The have a nice playground on site for the kids and the campsites are very spacious.

    Also if you have the time there is a 12 mile scenic road that connects Buesher State Park with Bastrop State Park that will take you about thirty minutes. It is a twisty, hilly road that has some really great views of fields of wildflowers and tall pines. You can also see where the fire took out part of the forest and is beginning to regrow. Also Bastrop state park is a great place to visit for some challenging hikes!


Guide to Rockdale

Discover the charm of tent camping near Rockdale, Texas, where nature meets adventure in a variety of scenic locations.

Explore Outdoor Activities Near Rockdale

Unique Features of Local Campgrounds

  • SHAMBA Farm offers a sweet permaculture farmstay experience, complete with drinking water and picnic tables.
  • At Integrated Regenerative Farms, campers can enjoy amenities like showers and firewood, making for a comfortable stay.
  • Tejas Park provides a mix of tent and RV camping with access to drinking water and firewood, ideal for family gatherings.

Tent Campers Should Check Out These Spots

  • Russell Park features tent-only sites with picnic tables and fire pits, perfect for a weekend getaway.
  • For a more rustic experience, Owl Creek offers a big rig-friendly environment with great fishing and swimming opportunities.
  • Plum Park on the Colorado is known for its excellent river access, making it a great choice for water enthusiasts.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Which is the most popular tent campsite near Rockdale, TX?

    According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular tent campground near Rockdale, TX is Stillhouse with a 4-star rating from 6 reviews.

  • What is the best site to find tent camping near Rockdale, TX?

    TheDyrt.com has all 16 tent camping locations near Rockdale, TX, with real photos and reviews from campers.