Camping near San Marcos, Texas offers access to the clear waters of the Guadalupe River and the limestone formations of the Texas Hill Country. Most campgrounds in this region sit at elevations between 600-900 feet above sea level, providing moderate temperatures in spring and fall with summer highs regularly reaching 95-100°F. Water access is a primary draw for campers, with most sites within a quarter mile of either Canyon Lake or a section of river.
What to do
Floating and tubing: The San Marcos River provides year-round recreation with consistent 72°F temperatures. At Pecan Park Riverside RV Park, campers have "right next to San Marcos river! Really nice only down thing is LOTS OF RULES! $5 per guest even if they aren't staying the night," notes Danarys E.
Fishing opportunities: Canyon Lake offers excellent bass and catfish fishing without requiring a license when fishing within certain parks. At Cranes Mill Park, "Plenty of room on each campsite close to stores clean bathhouse," says Steven R., with multiple reviewers mentioning the fishing despite water level fluctuations.
Music and entertainment: Several campgrounds feature live music during summer months. "The Friday night concert was wonderful. The owners were on the property, present and involved," shares Deirdre R. about Mystic Quarry. Campers often find entertainment options from Thursday through Sunday at riverside venues during peak season.
What campers like
River access points: Many campers choose sites based on water proximity. At Rio Guadalupe Resort & RV Park, "The best part was the river access. It was beautiful! The river access is overlooking a canyon wall, with ducks and deer roaming and a huge yard of grass all the way down to the waters edge. White lights illuminate it at night," reports Becky B.
Natural features: The area's limestone formations and cypress trees create distinctive landscapes. "The river is right there. Great river access and space to sit and watch the tubers go by," explains Heather O., highlighting how Canyon Lake's shorelines offer geological features not found elsewhere in central Texas.
Local dining: The region boasts famous Texas BBQ restaurants. While camping at Lockhart State Park Campground, "Small park close to town and be sure to get some BBQ, lots of choices in town!" recommends Cathy J. The park is just minutes from renowned BBQ establishments.
What you should know
Water level variations: Canyon Lake and river levels fluctuate seasonally affecting swimming and fishing areas. "The water level of Canyon Lake was down so access to the water wasn't real easy. once in the water it was great floating in a tube," notes Barb M. about Cranes Mill Park.
Temperature management: Summer heat requires preparation with temperatures routinely exceeding 95°F from June through September. Multiple campgrounds offer water recreation options to combat the heat, with one reviewer noting, "They also have a nice little swimming pool on site that is great for kiddos to enjoy."
Site spacing: Campground layouts vary significantly with some offering privacy while others place units closer together. "Campers are squished very close together. You can barely open your awning," cautions Katie M. about one location, while other parks feature more generous site dimensions.
Tips for camping with families
Water safety: River depths vary dramatically and supervision is essential. At Camp Huaco Springs, families appreciate the "access to river to relax and cool off," but should note that some water access points require navigating "very rough" roads requiring "a high clearance vehicle."
Kid-friendly activities: Several parks offer dedicated children's facilities beyond just swimming. "This place is a kids heaven. Water park is a parents heaven, see the kids from just about anywhere within the park. i.e. relax parents at the table. Have an adult conversation for once," shares Tyler about their experience at a local family campground.
Timing considerations: Spring and fall weekends provide better temperatures for young campers. "We visited in September and while hot, it was a wonderful time!!!" reports one camper, suggesting that shoulder seasons allow for more comfortable outdoor activities.
Tips from RVers
Site selection: Many parks offer premium riverside RV sites that fill quickly. "Our loop had power and water at the sites. It was pretty quiet due to impending horrible weather," notes Cathy J. about winter camping at Lockhart State Park, highlighting how seasonal timing affects crowding.
Maneuverability: Some older parks have tight roads and low-hanging branches. "Roads are very rough though so make sure you have a high clearance vehicle," advises Michael J. about one campground, while another notes, "Easy pull through sites with very nice grounds."
Hookup considerations: Water, electric, and sewer connections aren't standardized across parks. "The sites are also not super level and our site #2 sloped back," mentions Karl W., suggesting that leveling equipment is necessary at some locations.
