The Round Mountain area of Texas, situated at elevations between 1,200 and 1,500 feet, serves as a gateway to Hill Country camping destinations. During spring months, overnight temperatures can drop below 50°F while daytime highs reach the mid-70s, creating ideal camping conditions. The limestone terrain creates unique swimming and climbing opportunities at many of the region's water-based recreation areas.
What to do
Hiking the Goodwater Loop: The 26-mile trail circling Lake Georgetown provides multiple access points for day hikers and backpackers. Tejas Park serves as a popular trailhead. "The Goodwater trail is a loop trail that circles Lake Georgetown and runs about 28 miles. When backpacking the Goodwater Loop people typically start/park at either Tejas Park Trailhead, Jim Hogg Trailhead or Cedar Breaks Trailhead," notes a Tejas Park visitor.
Cliff jumping at Lake Travis: A popular summer activity at Pace Bend Park involves jumping from limestone cliffs 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," reports a camper at Pace Bend Park.
Mountain biking: Several parks offer technical trail systems suitable for mountain biking. Cedar Breaks Park provides access to challenging terrain. One reviewer noted, "The trail is very rugged for bikes. The boat traffic on the lake was pretty low so it's a good place to take a kayak or canoe."
Swimming in natural springs: Krause Springs features natural pools formed by spring water flowing over limestone formations. "We loved it. It was our first time EVER tent camping on our own, and we really enjoyed our time at Krause Springs. We walked around the property and were stunned at how beautiful the waterfall and spring swimming area were," shared a first-time camper.
What campers like
Spacious, private sites: Many camping spots near Round Mountain offer good separation between sites. At Jim Hogg Park, a camper noted, "Great spot, clean and quiet. Pros: Beautiful lake views, lots of space between sites."
Water-adjacent camping: Direct lakefront access ranks high with campers. "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," shared one visitor.
Well-maintained facilities: State parks and Corps of Engineers sites typically feature clean restrooms and showers. A visitor to Pedernales Falls State Park stated, "The camp ground is wonderful. Very spread out and wooded for privacy between the campsites. Hook ups for both water and electricity, if needed. Extremely dog friendly!"
Year-round accessibility: Unlike some regions, most Round Mountain area campgrounds remain open throughout the year. "Inks Lake is a great day trip or weekend car camping trip in the Central Texas / Hill Country area. Good camp sites and plenty of water to fish in, boat on, or just look at," reported a camper.
What you should know
Flash flood awareness: Hill Country watersheds can experience rapid flooding. A camper at Pedernales Falls warned, "Made me aware of how serious flash flooding is here. Respect weather warnings!"
Limited primitive camping options: While most parks offer developed sites, true backcountry camping is limited. At Muleshoe Bend Recreation Area, a visitor noted, "There are a few miles of hike and bike trails, but I HIGHLY suggest coming out here during Bluebonnet season. It is Absolutely beautiful!!!"
Reservation requirements: Most sites require advance booking, especially during spring and summer weekends. "It's a large campground with many sites, some of which are even double sites if you're camping with friends. A decent number of them are lake front and all have a cement covered pad for the picnic table," noted a Lake Georgetown visitor.
Road conditions vary: Some campgrounds require navigating rough roads. Regarding Krause Springs, a reviewer cautioned, "My only warning is 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."
Tips for camping with families
Swimming safety: Many water access points have natural hazards requiring supervision. A Inks Lake State Park camper mentioned, "The best swimming place is the Devil's Waterhole. There are some rocks on the far side that people climb up on to jump off of."
Kid-friendly campsites: Certain campgrounds offer better amenities for children. "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," commented a visitor.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Children enjoy spotting local fauna at many campgrounds. One camper at Muleshoe Bend shared, "Every time I've been there there have been tons of deer, probably the name sake of this place."
Beginners start here: For first-time camping families, certain sites offer easier experiences. "Great beginner campsite. The sites have a pad to set up your tent, along with fire rings and plenty of shade. There is plenty of trail to hike as it's connected with the good water loop," noted a family camping at Tejas Park.
Tips from RVers
Leveling challenges: Some campgrounds feature uneven sites requiring preparation. At Cedar Breaks Park, a reviewer warned, "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."
Limited sewer hookups: Many parks offer water and electric but not full hookups. "Campsites are well-maintained with spacious sites. Many of the sites are wooded. Each site has a shelter with a concrete base. The sites have water and electric. The shower and toilet facilities are OK but not great," reported a Jim Hogg Park camper.
Dump station access: Plan for dump station availability as some parks have limited facilities. "The main downsides are the pure number of campsites in one park and the fact that there's only one dump station for all of them!" noted a Lake Georgetown visitor.
Shade availability: Tree cover varies significantly between sites. "Lots of shade at the campsites and each site has a picnic table. It's worth mentioning the campground doesn't have running water or electric hook-up at the campsites," shared a Muleshoe Bend visitor.
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