Equestrian camping near Round Mountain, Texas offers access to scenic Hill Country trails with varying terrain difficulty levels. The region's mixed limestone and sandy soil provides stable footing for horses on most trails, with elevations ranging from 900-1,200 feet throughout the area. Water access points at several locations allow horses to cool off during summer months when temperatures regularly exceed 95°F.
What to do
Trail riding with lake views: At Pace Bend Park - Lake Travis, riders can access multiple trail systems with lake overlooks. "We stay at Pace Bend every time we go rock climbing in Austin. The campsites are private and there are always sites available. The campsites along the cliffs are beautiful at night," notes Katie B.
Mountain biking alongside horses: Several parks permit both horses and bikes on designated multi-use trails. "We went mountain biking in shorts the first day and a backpack training hike the next. Nice trails," mentions Rick from Willis Creek Park, highlighting the terrain variety suitable for both riders and cyclists.
Spring wildflower viewing: Muleshoe Bend Recreation Area offers seasonal trail riding through bluebonnet fields. "I have not camped out here, but have made a few day trips. There are a few miles of hike and bike trails, but I HIGHLY suggest coming out here during Bluebonnet season. It is Absolutely beautiful!!!" writes Jennifer J.
What campers like
Privacy between campsites: Many equestrian-friendly campgrounds offer good separation between sites. "The campsites are private and there are always sites available," notes Katie B. about Pace Bend Park, while another camper mentions, "Spacious pavilion at every spot" at Willis Creek.
Water access for cooling horses: Pedernales Falls State Park Campground offers stream access where horses can cool off. "Lots of hiking trails here. Good swimming. The falls are pretty. You can walk upriver from the falls, bouldering for quite a long way," says Emily M., highlighting water features available to both riders and horses.
Level camping areas: Several campgrounds feature flat terrain suitable for horse trailers. "Very peaceful, clean, spots are pretty spread out with covered picnic tables, fire pit and grill," notes Leslie about Willis Creek, adding that "all back in sites have plenty of grass and are in level pavement."
What you should know
Limited tree coverage: Summer heat can be challenging for horse camping. "We stayed here for 4 days before Memorial Day weekend and it was hot. There are no showers or bath houses. Texas in summer can be unforgiving," warns Kyle G. about Shaffer Bend Recreation Area.
Varying water levels: Lake access points can change seasonally. "Be warned that if you stay at sites 1-12 you are right next to the boat ramp where people will be loading/unloading at all hours of the night," cautions Shainna M. about Muleshoe Bend, highlighting the importance of site selection near water.
Trail conditions: Some parks have rocky terrain requiring horse shoes. "Walking trails are nice for a stroll not too difficult and not much elevation change. Only negative is the amount of stickers everywhere," notes Steve L. from Shaffer Bend Recreation Area, warning about potential hazards for unshod horses.
Ranger
