Round Mountain sits in the Texas Hill Country at around 1,200 feet elevation, offering milder summer temperatures than nearby Austin. The area features limestone terrain with oak-juniper woodlands surrounding the Colorado River watershed. Primitive camping locations often place you directly on lake shores or near natural springs, providing water access during the hot Texas summers.
What to do
Cliff jumping opportunities: At Pace Bend Park - Lake Travis, campers can experience thrilling cliff jumps into the lake. "My favorite part about this campsite is the ability to cliff jump into a lake. I love the water and this campsite was perfect for me," notes Aaron S.
River exploration: Wade through the Pedernales River at different depths and explore its geological features. "You can walk upriver from the falls, bouldering for quite a long way. Classic hill country terrain," explains Emily M.
Night sky viewing: The Hill Country's dark skies provide excellent stargazing conditions year-round. "We stayed here on Monday, December 21 (winter solstice) 2020. There were only four other campsites taken. It was very quiet," explains Rick from Pace Bend Park.
Mountain biking: Several parks offer terrain suitable for mountain biking enthusiasts. "We went mountain biking in shorts the first day and a backpack training hike the next. Nice trails," reports Rick from Pace Bend Park.
What campers like
Spacious sites: Many campers appreciate the ample room at Pedernales Falls State Park Campground. "The camp ground is wonderful. Very spread out and wooded for privacy between the campsites. Hook ups for both water and electricity, if needed," says Kaitlyn M.
Primitive camping options: For those seeking a more rustic experience, back-country sites provide isolation. "Primitive sites are a few miles hike in, very doable. Beware of cayotes and curious deer," notes Jimmy R. from Pedernales Falls.
Yurt camping Round Mountain, Texas: For glamping options near Round Mountain, luxury tents and yurts provide comfortable accommodations with natural immersion. The yurt camping in Round Mountain offers all-season comfort with sturdy structures.
Private waterfront access: At Grelle - Lake Travis, campers enjoy direct lake access. "I brought my family of four here for our first solo camping trip with two littles and we loved it... Already making plans for our next trip!" shares taylor from Grelle.
What you should know
Flash flood awareness: The Texas Hill Country can experience sudden water level changes. "Made me aware of how serious flash flooding is here. Respect weather warnings!" emphasizes Faith S. from Pedernales Falls.
Trail difficulty varies: Some hiking trails present challenges for inexperienced hikers. "The trails are the must for going to the park! Great hike down to the Pedernales Falls and cool little caves to explore," says Kaitlyn M.
Water safety concerns: Swimming areas require caution, particularly for children or inexperienced swimmers. "Please be careful swimming. If you can't swim, please refrain or wear a life jacket. There have been several drownings here," warns Emily M.
Reservation requirements: Most established campgrounds require advance booking, especially during peak seasons from March through October. McKinney Falls State Park Campground often fills quickly due to its proximity to Austin.
Tips for camping with families
Natural pool options: Find swimming areas suitable for various skill levels. "Wonderful summer time spot, plenty of drive-up tent sites...great cliff jumping and deep-water soloing opportunities for the seeking. Also great swimming/fishing holes," recommends Kadyn D. from Pace Bend Park.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Many children enjoy seeing the native wildlife. "There were lots of deer, really neat to look at. The deer didn't even seem bothered by us," notes Melissa P. from Grelle.
Bathroom access considerations: Facilities vary greatly between parks. "The only down side to this park is 9 out 10 of the toilets are drop toilets (no flush, hole in the ground). Other then that, this park is a great fit for families, elderly people and even college groups," advises Ruth P. from Pace Bend Park.
Spring camping timing: For wildflower viewing with kids, time visits between March and early May. "Bluebonnets are amazing here in Spring," mentions Emily M. about Camp Creek Recreation Area.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling challenges: Some campgrounds feature uneven terrain requiring preparation. "The sites along the outside of the loop have lake views and are level. The sites along the inside are scary unlevel! Some of the big rigs were backed in and jacked up 4 feet or so in front," warns Karen H. about Cedar Breaks Park.
Low-clearance awareness: RV campers should note tree hazards at some parks. "Staying 3 days without any problem or inconvenience. Everything clean and organized. Good service and attention to details. The only difficult is the road to get access," explains Maria from Leander-NW Austin KOA.
Tree canopy restrictions: Some parks have dense overhead tree coverage. "Low hanging trees everywhere. I couldn't imagine trying to navigate the campground in a 5th wheel or class A. You could do some rooftop damage," cautions Brandi W. about Krause Springs.
Dog amenities: Pet-friendly RV parks often provide specialized facilities. "Nice quiet clean well organized! Amazing dog park!" notes Jason A. from Leander-NW Austin KOA.
