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

408 Reviews of 18 San Antonio Campgrounds



Guide to San Antonio

San Antonio, Texas, offers a variety of tent camping options that cater to outdoor enthusiasts looking for adventure and relaxation in nature.

Tent campers should check out Government Canyon State Natural Area

  • This area features well-maintained trails and shaded sites, making it a great spot for those seeking a peaceful camping experience.
  • Campers can enjoy amenities like drinking water, picnic tables, and fire pits, ensuring a comfortable stay.
  • Pets are allowed, so you can bring your furry friends along for the adventure at Government Canyon State Natural Area.

Tent campers like these nearby activities

Tips for tent camping near San Antonio

  • Be prepared for limited dog-friendly trails at Government Canyon State Natural Area, as only a couple of trails allow pets.
  • Bring your own firewood if you plan to have a campfire, as some locations, like Calaveras Lake Park, do not provide it.
  • Consider visiting during the week to avoid crowds, especially at popular spots like Son’s Guadalupe, which can get busy on weekends.

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.