Tent camping around Salado, Texas offers access to multiple watersheds including Stillhouse Hollow Lake, Lake Georgetown, and Lake Travis. The area sits at the edge of Texas Hill Country where limestone outcroppings and cedar-covered hills create distinct camping environments. Summer temperatures regularly exceed 100°F, while spring and fall camping seasons provide milder conditions with nighttime temperatures in the 60-70°F range.
What to do
Hiking the Goodwater Loop: The 26-mile trail at Tejas Park circles Lake Georgetown and provides various access points for day hikers or backpackers. One camper notes, "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."
Waterfront relaxation: Set up directly on the shoreline at Shaffer Bend Recreation Area when water levels permit. "We set up at site 15 it has an awesome view of the river/lake and it's walking distance down to the waters edge. Great spot to fish for some bass or take a dip in the water," shares one visitor who enjoyed the sandy beach area.
Wildlife observation: The relative seclusion of many camping areas provides opportunities to spot local wildlife. At Grelle Recreation Area, one camper reported, "There were lots of deer, really neat to look at. The deer didn't even seem bothered by us."
What campers like
Secluded tent-only areas: Many campers appreciate the dedicated tent spaces at Russell Park where RVs aren't permitted. As one visitor described, "This is a review of the established campsites at Russell Park along the San Gabriel River Trail. Russell Park has 27 tent-only sites with no utilities."
Spacious campsites: The camping areas near Salado often provide ample space between sites. At Tejas Park, one camper observed, "The campsites are spacious, easily allowing our 2 tent set up, but if set up well, they could potentially house 3-4 2-person tents."
Spring wildflowers: Visiting during spring provides an extra visual element. According to a Shaffer Bend visitor, "Going in the spring time is the best because of all the wildflowers. Trails are easy. Campsites are clean with a fire pit and a grill."
What you should know
Water level fluctuations: Lake levels can vary dramatically throughout the year, affecting shoreline camping and water access. One camper at Grelle - Lake Travis reported, "The drought caused the lake to be pretty dried up so our water front view didn't have much water!"
Limited facilities: Most tent camping sites near Salado offer basic amenities. At Camp Creek Recreation Area, a camper noted, "I do think 25 bucks for a place with no running water, no electric, and no actual bathroom is expensive but this park is actually extremely nice and the view is great."
Reservation systems: Some sites require advance planning while others operate on first-come systems. Russell Park requires reservations: "Reservations for campsites can be made through (877) 444-6777 or www.recreation.gov."
Wildlife precautions: Several areas have notable wildlife presence. One Iron Bridge camper advised, "Highly suggest having some sort of personal protection for the critters that come in the wee hours of the night."
Tips for camping with families
Beginner-friendly locations: Shaffer Bend Recreation Area provides accessible camping for families new to tent camping. A visitor explained, "We set up at site 15 it has an awesome view of the river/lake and it's walking distance down to the waters edge. Great spot to fish for some bass or take a dip in the water."
Footwear considerations: Bring appropriate shoes for varied terrain. At Shaffer Bend, campers warned about "the various amounts of stickers everywhere we got plenty on our ankles and our hands."
Test trip locations: For first-time family camping, several sites near Salado offer good introduction experiences. One parent shared about Tejas Park: "My 5 year old wanted to go camping for the first time. This location is close enough to be near civilization, but feels remote to get the primitive camping experience."
Tips from RVers
Limited RV options: Most tent camping areas around Salado have restrictions or limitations for RVs. At Tejas Park, campers note the campground "is perfect for those in the area looking for tent camping without wanting to be surrounded by RVs."
Generator considerations: Noise pollution can impact the camping experience. One camper at Grelle mentioned, "Personally my camping experience was ruined by the generator a couple spots down - constantly on and did not take a break - so it kinda ruined the beauty of the outdoor experience for me."
Size restrictions: When RVs are permitted, they're often limited to smaller units. Most tent camping areas near Salado don't accommodate large RVs, with some sites specifically labeled as "NO big-rig-friendly" in their amenities listings.
