Best Campgrounds near Salado, TX
Stillhouse Hollow Lake and Belton Lake provide the backbone for camping near Salado, Texas, with several campgrounds offering lakeside access. Dana Peak, Union Grove, and Live Oak Ridge campgrounds are operated by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, featuring a mix of tent and RV sites with basic amenities. Gather Campground in Bell County stands out with full hookups and resort-style facilities. Most campgrounds in the area provide water and electric hookups, with select locations offering sewer connections for extended stays.
Camping is primarily concentrated around the two lakes, with most developed sites requiring reservations. Many campgrounds remain open year-round despite Central Texas heat. "Awesome visit to Union Grove and Stillhouse hollow lake. Inexpensive, great campsites along the lake. Clean bathrooms. Quiet. Awesome sunrise and sunsets," noted one visitor about their experience. Tent camping options are somewhat limited, as several reviews mention challenges finding tent-friendly locations in the Salado area. Access roads are generally well-maintained with paved surfaces at most developed campgrounds, though high winds can affect comfort in exposed areas during winter months.
The waterfront sites consistently receive the highest ratings from campers, with Union Grove and Dana Peak particularly praised for their lake views. Several visitors highlighted the crystal-clear water at Stillhouse Hollow Lake, which features a rocky bottom ideal for swimming. Wildlife viewing opportunities abound, with numerous reviews mentioning deer sightings near campsites. One camper remarked, "Words can't describe the beauty this little camp area had. The lake is gorgeous, with wildlife all around." Most campgrounds provide covered picnic tables and basic restroom facilities, though shower availability varies significantly between locations. RV-focused parks like Tranquil Gardens RV Park and Gather Campground - Bell County offer more amenities including full hookups and on-site conveniences, while the Corps of Engineers sites maintain a more natural setting with spacious sites and better lake access.