Primitive camping near Round Mountain, Texas centers around the San Gabriel River Trail system that encircles Lake Georgetown. The trail spans 26.2 miles through diverse Central Texas terrain, with elevations ranging from 791 to 908 feet above sea level. Weather conditions vary seasonally, with summer highs commonly exceeding 95°F and winter overnight temperatures occasionally dropping below freezing.
What to do
Lake access points: The primitive sites provide varying lake access options. One camper at Sawyer Park Primitive Campsites shared: "We ended up not following our AllTrails after a fork in the road heading towards the campsite, and were pretty pooped so decided to camp there off Sawyer Campsite Rd. People had clearly used the shore as a campsite before as there was a makeshift fire pit and some cleared areas for tents. Water and views were beautiful." Access to water depends on your specific campsite location.
Hiking variety: The San Gabriel River Trail offers terrain for various skill levels. According to Troy W., the trail "passes through forests, grasslands, over some small hills and across a few tributaries." This diversity makes it suitable for day hikes or multi-day backpacking trips connecting multiple primitive sites.
Wildlife observation: The area hosts native Texas wildlife including white-tailed deer, armadillos, and numerous bird species. Morning and evening hours typically offer the best viewing opportunities when animals are most active. Bring binoculars for distant spotting and maintain appropriate distance from all wildlife.
What campers like
Solitude options: Weekday visitors to these primitive camping areas near Round Mountain often experience minimal crowds. As one reviewer of San Gabriel River Trail notes, "During the weekdays you may not see a single person." This contrasts with busier weekend periods when various groups utilize the trails and camping areas.
Flexible camping setups: The Walnut Springs Primitive Campground provides versatile spaces for different camping styles. Guillermo L. described: "Large open area; four fire pits four lamp hangers four picnic tables trees closer the trail and grass sea areas closer to the water." This arrangement allows campers to choose between more sheltered or open-view sites.
Multiple access methods: The primitive sites can be reached through various approaches. For Walnut Springs, Guillermo noted you "Can be biked in from camp Tejas four miles away or can hiking from Russell Park 2 mi away." Some areas, like Sawyer Park, can even be accessed by boat, providing transportation flexibility based on your equipment and preferences.
What you should know
Weather considerations: Storm preparedness is essential when camping in these primitive areas. Guillermo from Walnut Springs shared his experience "during a thunderstorm under the big trees," indicating both protection and potential concerns during inclement weather. Seasonal storms are most common in spring and early summer.
Actual hiking distances: Trail distances between access points and campsites may differ from expectations. Alexandra at Sawyer Park Primitive Campsites reported: "We ended up not following our AllTrails after a fork in the road heading towards the campsite, and were pretty pooped so decided to camp there off Sawyer Campsite Rd... after the 6 miles in." Consider adding 20% buffer to estimated hiking distances.
Site popularity variances: Usage patterns fluctuate throughout the year and week. Troy W. observed: "The trail is getting more and more popular with backpackers, so it is likely that you may see others on the trail. On weekends you may encounter scout troops practicing backpacking." Summer holidays and spring break periods see particularly increased usage.
Tips for camping with families
Appropriate age considerations: The hiking required to reach these primitive campsites makes them better suited for families with older children. Minimum hiking distances of 2-6 miles with elevation changes require reasonable fitness levels for all group members. Children under 8 may struggle with the longer access routes.
Extra water requirements: Children require additional hydration, particularly important given limited water sources. Troy's advice applies especially to families: "Take precautions, drink lots of water and stay in the shade all that you can. While you may be hiking within site of Lake Georgetown and the water, it is not always convenient to access the water."
Educational opportunities: The diverse ecosystems around these primitive sites offer natural learning experiences. Pack field guides for identifying local plants and wildlife. The trail system provides hands-on lessons about water conservation, as campers must carry or filter their water supplies.
Tips from RVers
Nearby parking limitations: RV owners should note that these primitive campsites require hike-in access, with no direct RV accommodation. Troy W. advises: "Upon entering one of the access points, park your car for free near the trailhead. It is good to advise one of the park administers that you will be hiking or place a note inside your car that you are hiking." Verify that your specific RV length can be accommodated at trailhead parking areas.
Base camp options: Consider using developed campgrounds as base camps for day hikes to the primitive areas. Several established campgrounds with RV facilities exist around Lake Georgetown, providing shower access and hookups while allowing day trips to the primitive camping zones.
Equipment transfer challenges: Moving camping gear from vehicles to primitive sites requires planning. For multi-day trips, consider using backpacks specifically designed for gear transport over the required hiking distances, as wheeled equipment cannot navigate the trail system.
