Hill Country State Natural Area features over 5,300 acres of rugged terrain with 40 miles of multi-use trails through canyons, plateaus, and creek bottoms. Located 45 miles northwest of San Antonio, the area provides primitive camping with minimal facilities and sees temperatures ranging from winter lows in the 40s to summer highs over 90°F. Weather conditions significantly impact trail access, with some routes closing after rainfall.
What to do
Trail riding with horses: Bring your own horses to explore the extensive trail network at Hill Country State Natural Area. "Super camping & hiking with our dog and friends. Set up two tents at one site, and had plenty of space for everyone. The hiking was great with some challenging trails and some moderate ones, which allowed us to explore quite a bit of the park," notes Sarah D. about Hill Country State Natural Area.
River access camping: Several horse campgrounds near San Antonio, Texas offer water activities alongside equestrian trails. "Right in the action of Bandera, Texas. Park your RV and within walking distance of Main Street. Very friendly staff and patrons and the area is clean. Large pool for kids and has river access," shares Brittney W. about Bandera Pioneer RV River Resort.
Hiking to scenic overlooks: Many trails lead to elevated viewpoints. "Be sure to hike to the top of the hill and enjoy a coffee on the bench - amazing view of the hill country!" recommends Ronnie M. about the trail system.
Wildlife viewing: "We loved walking the trails and seeing deer and other wildlife. We absolutely loved it!" says Hilary K. about the natural settings at Alamo River RV Ranch Resort & Campground.
What campers like
Fossil hunting: Several trails contain exposed limestone with visible fossils. "Seemed to boast lots of fossils according to some fellow hikers," reports Sarah D. about the geological features.
Spacious campsites: "Spacious, quiet & diverse" describes Sarah D. about her experience at Hill Country State Natural Area, adding "Set up two tents at one site, and had plenty of space for everyone."
Water features: "This campground is beautiful. There's a river right next to it for fishing, I stayed during the week and I was the only one camping," says a reviewer about San Marcos River Retreat.
Natural swimming spots: "Stayed here in October and did cold plunges and it was so lovely! Beautiful hikes and sunsets!" mentions Lexi W. about water features at COE Canyon Lake Canyon Park.
What you should know
Trail conditions vary seasonally: "I would recommend checking their Facebook page if it has recently rained to see the status of the park and trails. Occasionally the park or some trails will close if the risk of damage to the natural area is high," advises Megan E.
Limited utilities at some sites: "I didn't stay there, but it is basically an equestrian state park. You can camp there, but there's not electrical and water hook ups. It's mostly tent camping," explains Red S. about Hill Country State Natural Area.
Reservation requirements: Most equestrian campgrounds near San Antonio require advance booking, especially during spring and fall when weather conditions are most favorable.
Disconnected experience: "Located in the hills about 10 miles from Bandera, TX, this campground is the perfect place to disconnect (you won't get signal anyways) and hike, run or horseback ride through a plethora of trails," notes Megan E.
Tips for camping with families
Pack extra water: "This area of Texas gets hot so bring plenty of water," warns Megan E. about summer conditions.
Choose campsites strategically: "We took jet skis and had a blast. Purple campsite was just a small walk away from the small store and bathrooms. It was a nice campsite but the sites were kinda close together," shares Robert A. about family camping at Canyon Lake.
Consider family-oriented campgrounds: Some equestrian facilities near San Antonio emphasize family experiences. "This is a private campground managed by a super sweet family that really cares about the river and the community. You must call to ask permission to use this site for camping and river access, as there are some pretty clear rules. It is a family oriented campground that is alcohol free," explains Brent F. about San Marcos River Retreat.
Tips from RVers
RV length limitations: Most horse-friendly campgrounds near San Antonio accommodate smaller to mid-sized RVs rather than large rigs. "Not my first trip here. This park is handy if you want to walk to events, restaurants, bars, shopping on Main Street or to City Park. Friendly staff (and they're dog friendly too)," shares Denise V. about Bandera Pioneer RV River Resort.
Site leveling: "Back In, lower level, site was very level side-to-side. Site Pad: gravel," notes Denise V. about RV camping at Pioneer River Resort.
Winter camping considerations: "Water- knee height, wrapped with insulation due to cold weather," mentions Denise V. about winter RV camping infrastructure.
Hookup quality varies: "Sewer- threads a little stripped out," cautions Denise V. about maintenance at some sites.
