The Salado, Texas area offers convenient camping options for RV travelers along the Interstate 35 corridor. Located in Central Texas at an elevation of 600-700 feet, this region typically experiences hot summers with temperatures reaching 95-100°F and mild winters. Most RV parks near Salado maintain year-round operations with concrete pads that can accommodate larger vehicles and fifth wheels.
What to do
Tubing on the Colorado River: River Forest Haven provides direct river access for tubing activities. "The tubing is great for people with children who don't necessarily want to go tubing two to four hours... Very short route but water safety should be practiced as it is very deep in some areas," notes Guillermo L.
Local festivals and events: Timing your stay around Salado's cultural events can enhance your trip. Weekends typically see higher occupancy rates at local RV parks. "We looked for the closest, highest rated RV park," shares Angelia J., who discovered Redbud Ranch RV Resort during their first RV outing.
Walking trails: Several parks feature walking paths and green spaces. At Redbud Ranch, "A trail runs along the length of the park along the creek. No getting in the creek though," according to Denise V., who noted the balance between city amenities and rural atmosphere.
What campers like
Spacious sites with privacy: Many campers appreciate parks that offer adequate spacing between RVs. "This site is on a corner, so it was a little bigger. There's a little tree planted there that will give shade in a few years," writes Denise V. about Redbud Ranch RV Resort.
Responsive management: Park hosts who address issues quickly receive positive mentions. At East View RV Ranch, a camper appreciated the special attention: "Harry bent over backwards to help us out. We had to move back and forth a couple of times, but then we were able to get situated in a spot that he said was ours as long as we wanted it."
Clean facilities: Well-maintained shower and restroom facilities rank high in camper reviews. "I used the ladies restroom to shower and it was very nice and clean," noted Angelia about Redbud Ranch, while another camper at a different park mentioned "large clean newly renovated shower rooms."
What you should know
Train noise: Some RV parks in the area experience railroad noise. A reviewer at Redbud Ranch mentioned, "Almost unbearable! We found the campground overpriced ($99), and practically empty except for what seemed like temporary area workers. But what made this place a 'no-go' for us were the constant nonstop trains running throughout the night!"
Variable pricing: Several RV parks near Salado implement demand-based pricing. At Redbud Ranch RV Resort, one camper noted they were "a little pricey and the prices are subject to change depending on capacity (don't really care for that)."
Tent camping restrictions: Not all RV parks accept tent campers. A reviewer at Tranquil Gardens RV Park shared their experience: "Around Salado there is not a lot of opportunity to be close to the historic areas and have tent camping... it does not accept tent campers at all!"
Tips for camping with families
Splash pad and pool access: Family-friendly amenities can make summer stays more enjoyable. "Pool with shallow end and lounge chairs in the water. A hot tub that will hold about 30 people. You can literally swim across it. Small splash pad area for the kids," notes a camper about Redbud Ranch.
Playground facilities: Parks with play equipment provide activities for children. Redbud Ranch features "Playground equipment, 2 volleyball courts, horseshoes, tether ball, hammocks, tables, porch swing (hanging from a tree), ping pong table," according to Denise V.
Weekend activities: Some RV parks near Salado organize special events. "They go above and beyond with their amenities providing an indoor play room, full kitchen, business center, etc. Very family friendly resort with plenty of activities planned," notes Claire M. about Jellystone Park Austin North.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: When staying at RV parks near Salado, request specific sites when possible. "We didn't get the sites that we had put a deposit down for. There seems to be a lot of turnover in the office," mentions Claire M. about Jellystone Park Austin North.
Parking options: Some parks offer additional parking for tow vehicles. "Two of the overflow parking spaces were on the side of the site, so it was handy," notes Denise V. about Redbud Ranch RV Resort.
Resort-style amenities: For longer stays, some RV parks provide extensive facilities. At Berry Springs RV Park, "They have ample space and lots of amenities. Nice choice for long term or just passing through. They can handle large and small rigs," according to Steve & Ashley G.
