Best Tent Camping near San Antonio, TX

Tent camping near San Antonio, Texas includes several established campgrounds within a short drive of the city. Government Canyon State Natural Area, located on the northwest edge of San Antonio, offers 25 walk-in tent sites with well-defined pad sites and campfire rings. Wagon Ford Walk-In Area at Guadalupe River State Park, approximately 30 miles north of San Antonio, provides primitive tent pads situated near the river. North Park at Canyon Lake, managed by the Army Corps of Engineers, offers tent-only sites from March through October. Helton Nature Park, south of the city, features 43 tent sites with basic amenities.

Most tent campgrounds in the San Antonio area require reservations, particularly during peak seasons. Government Canyon's tent sites are only available Friday and Saturday nights, with the park open Friday through Monday. The campsites at Government Canyon feature crushed rock bases, picnic tables, and storage cupboards for food items. Water spigots are located at the trailheads leading to the campsites, and composting toilets are available. Burn bans are common in this region, so campers should come prepared with alternative cooking methods. At Wagon Ford Walk-In Area, tent sites include designated dirt areas for pitching tents near picnic tables, with clean restrooms and water access nearby.

The tent camping experience around San Antonio offers unique natural features and hiking opportunities. Government Canyon State Natural Area is known for its dinosaur tracks, accessible via the Joe Johnston Route trail, and the historic 1880s Zizelman House. According to reviews, site 14 at Government Canyon provides good shade and privacy from other campers. One visitor noted, "The camping spots are quite private, each one in a little nook." At Wagon Ford Walk-In Area, campers report that the sound of rushing water creates a relaxing atmosphere, with one reviewer describing "fireflies that were absolutely stunning" during evening walks to the river. Trail closures due to rain are common at Government Canyon, so checking conditions before arrival is essential.

Best Tent Sites Near San Antonio, Texas (18)

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Tent Camping Reviews near San Antonio, TX

409 Reviews of 18 San Antonio Campgrounds


  • Troy W.The Dyrt PRO User
    May. 31, 2018

    Government Canyon State Natural Area

    Government Canyon State Natural Area + History + Dinosaur Tracks

    Government Canyon State Natural Area is conveniently located near San Antonio, TX. Many visitors visit from San Antonio for the day or for the weekend. The staff sometimes limit the amount of visitors during busy times, so it is best to arrive early - before 10am. The Info Center is nicely designed and they often host educational events. The main attraction of this campground is hiking through the forest, exploring above or below the canyon, seeing the old 1880’s period Zizelman House and locating a few of the notable dinosaur tracks. There are a number of walk-in campsites with well defined pad sites, campfire rings and a table. There are often burn bans in effect at this campground so come prepared with a gas stove.

  • J
    Dec. 7, 2021

    Thousand Trails Medina Lake

    Beautiful Terrain

    Lots of wildlife everywhere in the park. Beautiful scenery in hill country. Not far from San Antonio.

  • R
    Jun. 14, 2020

    Canyon Lake Military - Randolph AFB

    We love it here. Not for everyone.

    We started with day passes, then graduated to renting out the loft cabins, then tried tent camping, and eventually and recently parked our travel trailer in the reservable RV spaces. All in the same vicinity. Made great memories at each stay.

    Pro’s: Best rate in town for military (active, retired, $ disabled). Water is beautiful. Fishing can be fantastic. Lots of water activities available for rent or bring your own. Pet friendly, Great for families, most people are very respectful and wonderful to talk to. Good food and stores nearby. Lots of wildlife. Quiet. Close to town and short drive from San Antonio.

    Cons: Hard to get ahold of staff to make reservations. Market is extremely expensive and staff isn’t very friendly. Lost and lots of fire ants.

    We recommend it to all of our friends and family and bring them often. We love staying in the loft cabins. Some are pet friendly. We have stayed in the mobile homes on the other side of the lake once but that was not a great experience as our things were stolen off our table and covered patio (on Veterans Day) and they were only left unattended for 15 min or less. The mobile home wasn’t very nice but functional at least.

  • Denise V.
    May. 14, 2021

    Texas 281 RV Park

    Home Among the Trees (for the Weekend)

    We really enjoyed this park and lovely old Live Oaks. It was close to Anhalt Halle. 

    Type of Park: Private-owned 

    Check In: 11a Check Out: 11a 

    Cost per night$44 

    Discounts: Good Sam$4/night 

    Site#10- Pull-Thru 

    Water 20/30/50 amp Sewer Picnic Table Site Pad: Asphalt

    👍🏻 Pros: Shade from Live Oaks Close to showers, restrooms, laundry There’s a little room in the same building with coffee, table, books(Botanical Room)

    👎🏻 Cons: The front area is a little close to Hwy 281 so there’s a little road noise but not bad No fire ring No grill at the sites

    📝 Park Notes: Lot of people live here full time Good Live Oak shade trees, but watch them above and on the side of your rig 

    Wifi

    Propane sold onsite

    Laundry facilities

    Club house for larger gatherings- built of native stone

    Dog Park

    Basketball court

    Chapel, church services on Sunday

    Nature Trail

    Headquarters has limited supply of RV parts(or there's a Walmart and Tractor Supply nearby)\

    Billiards, Ping Pong, Horseshoes, Shuffleboard

    RV Storage area

    Mini storage buildings

    Rental Guest Suites available

    Frog/Koi pond/fountain

    Quiet hours 9pm to 7 am

    🐦 Wildlife: Birds: Lots of happy singing ones, hummingbirds Squirrels

    More info at https://www.denisevajdak.com/2021/04/anhalt-western-roundup.html

  • Denise V.
    Nov. 23, 2021

    Guadalupe River RV Park and Campgrounds

    Camp on the Guadalupe, Nice in the Fall

    Note: This is NOT the Guadalupe STATE Park!

    Check In: 1p Check Out: 12p

    ⛺ Site#34- Back-In| Pull-Thru

    💲45 per night (Pull-thru sites not along the river are $5 cheaper)

    • Water
    • 20/30/50 amp- 2 poles, one on each side of site
    • Sewer
    • Fire Ring
    • Picnic Table
    • Site Pad: Asphalt/gravel

    👍🏻 Pros:

    • Next to the restrooms/showers
    • Discount for going to Anhalt Hall events

    👎🏻 Cons:

    • NOT very level. Slopes a lot front to back. Could be a pull-thru
    • Lots of carpet burrs. Don't go barefoot and watch fur babies

    📝 Park Notes: 

    • Dump Station
    • Select items for sale in the office
    • Restrooms/ Bath House (looks better from the inside)
    • Tent sites are available along the river
    • Good place for tubing, Rvers have a parking lot down by the river
    • Laundry
    • Cabins
    • Propane
    • Winery across the street
    • Bring tubes or kayaks
    • There are some RVs and equipment parked near the office so it's not the best looking campground
    • Some long-time residents. RVs need to be cleaned.
    • There is a cave on site, but it was closed for some construction at the time we were there

    ❗ Lots of deer on the roads and in the park this time of year- drive with caution after dark

    🐦 Wildlife:

    • Birds: ducks, hawks
    • Deer

    More info on my website at https://denisevajdak.com

  • Crystal C.The Dyrt PRO User
    Apr. 30, 2019

    Boulderdash Cabin & RV Park

    Ranger Review: Primus Trail Backpacking Stove At Boulderdash Cabin & RV

    Texas is such a large state finding great campgrounds can quickly get a little overwhelming. There are so many amazing outdoor spaces and camping options that unless you really have something specific in mind you can get caught up comparing sites trying to determine which is the perfect fit for you.  

    This has always been the case for me in my home state and I feel as though I have missed many great locations as a result. One hidden gem I hadn’t yet discovered was Boulderdash Cabin And RV on Lake Medina just outside of Bandera.

    I was pleased to have this one brought to my attention and after booking through The Dyrt’s new online booking system I packed up my car in anticipation of a great trip down south. My original day to visit was met by some of the unpredictable Texas weathers, torrential downpour lasting 2 two days. I say that to say this, the campground owner and hosts were fully understanding of the predicament of me being a tent camper and unable to fully be able to enjoy the location in such conditions.  As a result they allowed me to push my reservation, something many campgrounds would not be so accommodating to do. 

    This set the tone for my trip and was echoed throughout my stay, amazing and kind customer service!

    CLICK HERE For Full Video Review

    Campground Review:

    Finally arriving at my site mid afternoon after a long drive, I was ready to get out and explore but also relax. I was greeted by the campground hosts upon my arrival with such a pleasant and welcoming reception. They showed me to my site, gave me a short tour of the small camp and told me a bit about the area so I could fully enjoy the amenities and know what to expect for a nights stay at the location.

    Amongst the highlights were the lake where you can fish, kayak, take in the sun or have a great moment around the fire ring, the nightly deer feeding just alongside the entry road and an additional patio for sunning or enjoying a peaceful retreat.

    The camp itself is very small, but with that comes a lot of charm. They did mention that there is currently underway an expansion possibly on the waterfront for additional tent camping options to expand the single tent site now available.  For those visiting in an RV there are several spaces available currently with substantial parking area for larger units in addition to the lake cabin featuring 3 bedrooms and an ample porch for outdoor entertaining. 

    The charm of the campground is definitely in the details from painted rocks around the patio area, the campground mascots hanging out at key places for interaction, the unique bathhouse created from a small horse trailer and equipped with rustic finishings and the deer corn and bird seed left for each camper so they can interact more with their surroundings. This is a place which uniquely unveils itself the more you explore.

    I had seen photos of the location but did not fully know what to expect, and boy was I surprised at how different my visit was than other reviewers from the site. When I arrived the lake was almost to the top of the camp border retainer wall, unlike other photos which I had seen when there was little to no water to explore.  Apparently the earlier in the season the more water usually you will find because later in the season the water is used for irrigation in surrounding areas and it becomes very low. Spring and early summer is the ideal time for lake related activities while late summer and fall are more about the discovery you can find along the banks and bed of the lake, which is more like hiking in my opinion.

    Tips:

    • Book in advance, especially if tent camping due to limited space. The Dyrt booking system is a perfect way to do this because it is extremely user friendly and allows you to communicate with the owner directly after your booking is confirmed if you have questions or any changes which need to be made before your reservation. 
    • GPS can be a bit tricky on the lake roads. While getting to the general proximity works well, the division of roads can be hit or miss with some GPS systems.  I use an Iphone and it had me take an extra block just to get to ultimately the same location I could have been a couple of minutes earlier had it have told me just to go straight.
    • Take advantage of the patio down the hill by the water. There is a full picnic table, 4 loungers and a fire ring with benches in this area. You can drive down or walk down, set up and have a great meal right by the water. 
    • Don’t forget to ask about kayaks! There are 2 kayaks available for rent, you need only ask in advance to reserve them for your usage.

    For More Information About Fishing At Lake Medina CLICK HERE

    For More Information About Bandera CLICK HERE

    Product Review:

    As a Ranger for the Dyrt, in addition to having access to great campgrounds, I also am given the opportunity to try and review products and gear best suited for my active camping lifestyle. For my trip to Baulderdash I was able to prepare all my meals using the Primus Power Trail Backpacking Stove With Piezo.

    I was a little worried I wouldn’t have the stove before my trip with only a couple of weeks between booking and estimated camping date, however from order to delivery there was less than a week’s time, arriving well before I departed for my trip. To be honest I didn’t want to try it out or anything until I arrived at my campsite so I could get a true feel for the size, the function and overall experience since this was my first Primus item.

    **First Impression: **

    The size seemed a good fit for what I was looking for.  I have used a camping stove previously and knew I wanted something similar in size but also something which would address all my previous concerns with the other brand. 

    What Were My Previous Brand Concerns?:

    • Uneven Heating
    • Wind 
    • Heating Time
    • Starting
    • Balancing

    With all these concerns, I decided to play it safe and make sure I had the instructions with me just in case. (Available in multiple languages) And while I did read them, I really didn’t have to because the stove was very user friendly when I actually started assembling it. (I would suggest a new user who has never used a backpacking stove to give it a quick once over)

    I opted for this stove because of its 4 stove balancing points. My previous stove had only 3 and many times it made it difficult to balance when my surface was not entirely even or if my food was slightly shifted in my pan. The 4 points are pulled upward from their fold and locked into place tightly, giving another layer of security to me when using the stove and checking off one of my concerns.

    The stove attaches to your propane bottle by screwing it onto the top.  With this you want to have a firm hold because if it is not screwed on tight enough it will not start. You will quickly know if it isn’t on tight enough when you twist the piezo because you will not hear the gas flowing. I learned this on the second use when I was making my breakfast and I thought I had broken it by not putting it in my bag the same way it had been previously. Gave me a little panic, only to discover it was operator error not stove damage.

    Having the piezo and igniter fully eliminated my frustrations which came from starting and lighting the previous stove, which I always felt was a bit dangerous because you would have to ignite it right at the source of the gas and many times it would intensely flair up. The Primus keeps you at a safe distance from the actual starting of the flame so check off another concern!

    To cook on the stove I opted to really test its heating ability. I did so using chilled water, wanting to see just how long it actually would take to bring it to a rolling boil for use on a variety of common camping needs.  Less than 10 minutes and my water was rolling and steaming maxing out temps high enough for pretty much anything I could ever need from creating an egg omelet in a sandwich bag, hydrating a meal, boiling water safe consumption or making piping hot water thermos for keeping warm in my tent on a cold night. 

    In my opinion, the timing was very good. In addition, though there was a bit of wind it seemed to continue burning consistently instead of all of the flames shifting to a single side.  While I didn’t test the overall even cooking because I had only boiled water I can only assume from the other results that this also would be addressed and answered by the balancing and also even flame.

    I hydrated a dehydrated meal for dinner, anyone who has done this before knows if the water isn’t warm enough it will not cook through and you will be eating pure crunchy starch. That meal turned out great! In the morning, I made my protein packed oatmeal with dehydrated fruits and a coffee.  Layering the fruits on the bottom to allow them the most access to hydrating following with oats and protein powder I was able to with the Primus create a breakfast quality mirroring that of what I could have made with a full kitchen at home requiring a stove, chopping block and coffee maker, all with a single burner.

    Tips:

    • Try the Primus pots to cook with on the stove. Designed by Primus the materials are durable and have a non-stick element to them that is unmatched in my opinion. Not to mention by using these you are guaranteed an even cook because they are designed with the perfect dimensions for the cook surface and when using you will not have to worry about your pot or pan being sized to large on your surface and becoming tipsy.
    • Store items together. If you do choose to use the Primus pots and pans, you can easily store your Power Trail Backpacking Stove within its pouch and inside the pots and pans to reduce your footprint in you bag or when storing your items when not traveling. Think of those nesting dolls and how they stow one inside another, this is basically the same thing.

    For Full Product Review Video CLICK HERE

  • Crystal C.The Dyrt PRO User
    Apr. 30, 2019

    Guadalupe River RV Park and Campgrounds

    A Perfect Camp To Put In A Tube For A Good Float

    There is no better late spring to early summer activity than getting good float down one of the rivers of Texas.  While there are plenty of put in spots, many do not have access to a campground which offers as many options as the Guadalupe River State Park.  

    Under the supervision of the Texas State Park system the facilities for both day use and overnight stay are well maintained. Currently undergoing an overhaul which will offer new restrooms in one of the camping loops, they are constantly striving to better accommodate guests and provide a fun and relaxed get away for a day, week or weekend.  

    Taking a trip through the camping loops I noticed each were well shaded and positioned in a way that the sun could trickle through the leaves to provide warmth on a cool morning but not so much that it would make the sweltering summer days more intense.  Large parking spaces could easily accommodate two vehicles at each camp and amenities ranged depending on the location of the site you choose.  

    In the improved camping loops, sites came standard with electricity and water connections, with posts being positioned at the front of the site.  You would need to provide your own hose or cord to source this toward the rear of the site if desired. Camping sites each provide a large picnic table and lantern hook in addition to a tent pad which is constructed and elevated slighting from the ground around.

    In addition, to the loop camp sites, there is another section designed for tent campers wanting to walk in.  While this area is well maintained, it is subject to closures with rains unlike the other areas.  When I visited, the recent downpour had forced closure of all trails and also this campsite as a part of the conservation effort for keeping the natural lands.  While I do appreciate this as a person who wants to protect our spaces so we can continue to enjoy them for years to come, I could easily see how it could also disappoint a camper who is having change their location to an improved site.

    Throughout the park there are a series of trails for hiking, biking and even horseback riding.  A full map is provided at the front gate and can come in handy if you are wanting to find more than just the river trail while at camp.  But something also to consider when looking at this map is the trail system located across the road from what most consider to be the park.  This section is less populated with hikers and provides some of the most interesting hiking you will find at Guadalupe River State Park.

    But let’s get down to what everyone really wants to hear about … THE RIVER!  

    The river can be a source of a lot of fun and also traffic.  Being open for day use as well as for those staying at the park, the area provides a cool retreat to dive into the cool waters of the Guadalupe River. There are picnic tables lining the shoreline, some off the river and in shaded areas while others are in full sun.  There is a no alcohol policy which is enforced on busy days, so warning if you are a person looking to float and drink, this might not be the right place to put in.

    A trail runs alongside the riverfront providing great views of the river’s path.  A nature center and amphitheater are located across the parking lot from the river highlighting educational materials for the entire family but with exhibits geared toward the kiddos. In this area currently there are only port a potty restrooms.

    Tips:

    • If you are planning on floating, make sure to read the guidelines by the parking lot.  Remember the river is not a loop so where you put in is not where you will end up.
    • Book In Advance!  This park is very popular and quickly fills up on weekend, if you are planning a trip make sure you book well in advance to ensure you will have a site.
    • Check the Weather!  The river’s flow is directly effected by the amount of rainfall. If you are planning a trip pull up the weather to make sure it will not make for unsafe conditions.
  • Amanda + Will
    Jun. 17, 2020

    Guadalupe River RV Park and Campgrounds

    River Park Fun

    Will and I wanted to get away after being stuck in the house for months and finally camping opened back up in Texas! We wanted to check out San Antonio as well and this offered both the peace + quiet of a campground plus not being too far from downtown San Antonio. We were lucky enough to get a spot (I’ve heard that this is a difficult place to get a camping spot so book in advance!!). The first day we got to the park and set up camp we were lucky enough to get a spot close to the river. They are doing construction on some of the other sites so space really is limited if you want to camp here. We pitched our tent at a nice shaded spot and made our way to San Antonio. We came back to the campground around 12am and used an entry code to get in as the gate was closed (which is nice if you are looking for a secure spot to camp!) The next day we packed up and headed into the park. We only had a one night stay but it was perfect. You have to be packed up by 12pm but you are allowed to stay in the park until closing at 10pm. We took our raft down to the river and floated for the afternoon. The visitors section of the river was a little crowded. I can’t imagine what this park is like when it is in full swing/not limiting its guests. Other than that it was clean and the campsites were really nice, they had raised gravel patios for tents. The only thing we didn’t really like was that they weren’t drive up sites so we had to hail our gear to the site.

  • d
    Nov. 1, 2021

    Westbound RV Park

    Beautiful, but incomplete

    Wonderful grounds, owner was very helpful. However, no showers, no public restrooms, no picnic table, and no fire ring or grill. Apparently they never were there, or haven't been there in quite a while, despite being advertised as such on The Dyrt. Owner was nice to offer refund after this was discovered.


Guide to San Antonio

Tent campsites near San Antonio, Texas operate primarily during spring and fall due to summer temperatures that regularly exceed 95°F from June through September. Most primitive camping options close during extreme heat or when wildfire risk is high. Tent camping opportunities span from riverfront sites at the Guadalupe River to limestone canyon settings in Government Canyon, with elevations ranging from 600 to 1,100 feet above sea level.

What to do

Dinosaur track hunting: At Government Canyon State Natural Area, explore fossilized dinosaur footprints in the creekbed. A visitor noted, "There are some dino tracks to check out in the backcountry along with an old stone house. Supposedly there are some hidden caves off trail but I haven't found them."

Kayaking and paddleboarding: Son's Island offers water recreation on Lake Placid with equipment rentals available on-site. Each glamping reservation includes "its own private dock, lots of comfortable seating, electricity, water, BBQ pit, picnic table and hammock."

Night hiking: The Guadalupe River corridor provides excellent firefly viewing during spring months. At Wagon Ford Walk-In Area, campers recommend "taking a walk during the night down to the river, it was like a light show of lightning bugs."

Swimming access: Most campsites near San Antonio provide river or lake access, though water levels fluctuate seasonally. The Rio Cibolo area offers swimming holes that remain accessible even during drought conditions, with tent sites positioned within a short walk of swimming areas.

What campers like

Natural privacy: Tent sites at Government Canyon feature vegetation buffers between camping areas. One camper shared, "We camped at site 14 and it's nice and shady and away from others," highlighting the separation between sites that many San Antonio area campgrounds provide.

Overnight glamping options: For those seeking tent camping alternatives, Son's Geronimo offers climate-controlled accommodations with "AC, WiFi, full kitchen, fire pits, hammocks" while maintaining access to outdoor activities. Their setup includes "2 queen beds and 2 twin beds" making it suitable for larger groups.

River sounds: Many tent campers specifically mention the calming effect of water. At Wagon Ford Walk-In Area, sites feature the "relaxing sound of rushing water" with "primitive tent pads in small culdesac right next to the river."

Accessible trails: Most camping areas connect to trail systems with varying difficulty levels. Government Canyon has "front country trails, back country trails and trails that are only open at certain times of the year," allowing campers to select routes appropriate for their skill level.

What you should know

Trail closures after rain: Government Canyon regularly closes trails during wet conditions. As one visitor explained, "Beware of trail closures when it rains. Show up early on the weekend when it's nice out otherwise all of San Antonio will be lined up to get in."

Reservation requirements: Most tent sites within 50 miles of San Antonio require advance booking through Texas Parks & Wildlife or recreation.gov. North Park at Canyon Lake, operated by the Army Corps of Engineers, only allows camping "from March 1 to October 31."

Limited dog access: Pet policies vary significantly between campgrounds. Government Canyon has "only 2 trails that were dog friendly" according to one visitor who noted, "Lytle's Loop and Savannah are the only two trails for dogs and they need to be on leash at all times."

Storage requirements: Food storage regulations exist at most sites due to wildlife concerns. Government Canyon provides "a storage cupboard" at each campsite specifically designed for securing food items away from wildlife.

Tips for camping with families

Mid-week visits: Weekend crowding affects most sites within an hour of San Antonio. For Government Canyon, rangers "limit the amount of visitors during busy times, so it is best to arrive early - before 10am."

Educational programming: Several campgrounds offer ranger-led activities suitable for children. Government Canyon features "ranger hikes leading from the center" with programs that explain local ecology and conservation efforts.

Swimming safety: Water levels in the Guadalupe River can change rapidly. At Helton Nature Park, 43 tent sites provide "a very calming experience" with supervised swimming areas appropriate for children.

Heat preparation: Summer temperatures require extra precautions. Government Canyon reminds visitors that "in the summer time, make sure you bring enough water with you. Rangers sometimes patrol the trails to help people, but you are on your own for the most part."

Tips from RVers

Generator restrictions: Most tent camping areas near San Antonio prohibit generators, including Government Canyon where camping is limited to "only Friday and Saturday night, with the park open Friday through Monday."

Alternative cooking methods: Due to frequent burn bans, propane stoves are essential. At Jacobs Creek, fires are typically not permitted so RVers recommend bringing "electric cooking options if staying at sites with hookups."

Water conservation: Most campgrounds provide limited water access. Canyon Lake's North Park is described as "small but clean, friendly, core of engineers campground! So no sewage but you can dump black water when you leave!"

Frequently Asked Questions

Where are the best tent camping sites near San Antonio?

Government Canyon State Natural Area offers excellent tent camping just outside San Antonio. The park features walk-in tent sites that provide shade and privacy, with site #14 being particularly nice. The area has extensive hiking trails, including paths to dinosaur tracks and an old stone house. Note that the park limits visitors during busy times, so arrive before 10am, and camping is only available Friday and Saturday nights. Another great option is Bankersmith, TX, which offers a picturesque drive via Old San Antonio Road with beautiful wildflowers along the way.

Is tent camping available along the San Antonio River?

Direct tent camping on the San Antonio River within the city is limited, but several options exist on nearby rivers. Don's Fish Camp offers riverside tent camping with water access, though availability can be limited. For more reliable river camping, Son's River Ranch provides tent sites along waterways connected to the greater San Antonio watershed. While not on the San Antonio River proper, Son's Rio Cibolo offers drive-in tent camping along a tributary system with reservable sites, providing a similar riverside experience within easy reach of San Antonio.

What are the most popular campgrounds around San Antonio for tent camping?

Wagon Ford Walk-In Area — Guadalupe River State Park is a popular tent camping destination near San Antonio. Though the sites aren't particularly private (some are near the trail), they offer spectacular firefly displays at night and easy access to the river. Facilities include bathrooms nearby, and the sites are a manageable distance from the parking area. Son's Guadalupe is another popular option for tent campers seeking riverside camping with more amenities. The park's popularity stems from its balance of natural beauty and accessibility from San Antonio.

What is the best time of year for tent camping in the San Antonio area?

The best time for tent camping around San Antonio is late fall through early spring (October to April). Summer months (June-August) bring intense heat and humidity that can make tent camping uncomfortable without proper shade and cooling. Spring (March-May) offers pleasant temperatures and wildflower displays, though occasional thunderstorms occur. Fall (September-November) provides mild temperatures and less crowded conditions at places like Helton Nature Park. Winter camping at Calaveras Lake Park can be excellent with mild daytime temperatures, though nights can occasionally drop below freezing, so pack accordingly.