Best Dog-Friendly Camping near San Felipe, TX
Stephen F. Austin State Park Campground welcomes pets throughout its diverse camping areas, with spacious sites in both tent and RV sections. The park features full hookup pull-through sites alongside tent-only areas where dogs can accompany their owners. Several trails within the park are accessible with leashed pets, allowing campers to explore the Spanish moss-draped oak trees while their dogs enjoy the outdoor experience. Wildlife sightings are common throughout the camping areas, with many visitors spotting deer wandering through the campsites in morning and evening hours. The large group areas can accommodate multiple families and their pets, though fire ants occasionally appear around some campsites.
Trails at Stephen F. Austin State Park provide excellent pet exercise opportunities with mostly flat, well-marked paths suitable for dogs of all sizes. The trails are generally short, making them perfect for quick pet outings between camping activities. Many of the paths offer shade from the Texas sun, creating comfortable walking conditions even during warmer months. Visitors should perform tick checks after hiking with pets, as ticks are prevalent in the area. The nearby Brazos River offers additional outdoor recreation, though pet owners should supervise their animals near the water. Summer temperatures can be particularly challenging for pets, so extra water and shade breaks are essential during hot weather visits. The nearby town of Katy provides access to pet supplies and veterinary services about 20 minutes from the park.