Tent camping in the Shiner region offers access to several riverside and forest locations within 30-45 miles of town. Sites range from primitive walk-in locations to developed campgrounds with basic amenities. Most tent sites in this region are set along the Colorado and San Marcos rivers, providing natural settings for water activities during the warmer months from March through October when temperatures typically range from 60-95°F.
What to do
Water sports on the San Marcos River: At Son's Blue River Camp, visitors can take advantage of tubing and kayaking opportunities. "We loved tubing and kayaking the San Marcos River! It's a great getaway!" notes camper Karin R. The camp offers tube and kayak rentals with shuttle service back to the campground.
Swimming and lake activities: The small lake at Lost Pines Camping provides a calm swimming area away from river currents. According to Craig S., "The lake is wonderful for swimming or just sitting lakeside." The forest setting offers shade during summer months when temperatures regularly exceed 90°F.
Paddleboarding and creek exploration: Multiple creeks and slow-moving sections of river provide paddleboarding opportunities for campers. Son's Geronimo features creek frontage where guests can "kayak, paddle board, swim, fish and more," according to visitor reviews. Water levels are typically highest in spring and after summer rain events.
What campers like
Private bathroom facilities: Campers at Colorado RiverBend Retreat appreciate the clean, convenient facilities. "The bathroom/shower is so close! There is also a large sink - perfect for washing dishes," notes Laura D. The proximity of facilities to tent sites allows for convenient access without long walks.
Riverfront camping: Direct access to water is a significant draw for tent campers in the region. "Excellent river access" is highlighted in reviews of Plum Park on the Colorado, which offers walk-in tent sites near the water. The riverside locations provide fishing opportunities directly from campsites.
Forested sites and shade: The canopy coverage at forest campgrounds provides relief from Texas heat. Craig S. describes Lost Pines Camping as a "Beautiful forest, very peaceful. Great place to sleep." The pine forest setting differs from the open riverside sites found at other locations near Shiner.
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Most campgrounds in the area require advance booking, particularly during summer weekends and holidays. Colorado RiverBend Retreat has only 3 total sites, making early reservations essential during peak season.
Glamping alternatives: For those seeking more comfort, Son's River Ranch offers glamping options as alternatives to traditional tent camping. "Our glamping cabin was nice, it was well worth the money to not to have to set up a tent and do all that work," reports Karin R.
Limited site availability: Many campgrounds have small footprints with few designated tent sites. Colorado RiverBend Retreat has just 3 sites total, while Lost Pines Camping offers only 2 tent sites. This limited inventory means weekends often book completely several weeks in advance during spring and fall seasons.
Tips for camping with families
Air-conditioned alternatives: During hot summer months when tent camping may be uncomfortable, consider the climate-controlled options. "We stayed in one of their air-conditioned glamping cabins. It was very nice and clean and the AC stayed very cold," notes Karin R. about Son's Geronimo.
Multiple recreation options: Families benefit from campgrounds with diverse activities. "They also have lots of amenities: 2 pools, 2 hot tubs, volleyball court, basketball court, game room, horseshoe pits and more," reports a reviewer about Son's Geronimo. These facilities provide alternatives when river conditions are unfavorable.
Space for multiple tents: Families requiring space for several tents should seek larger sites. At Colorado RiverBend Retreat, "You can park at the site - we set up two tents with space to spare," according to Laura D. Site dimensions are important to confirm when making reservations for family groups.
Tips from RVers
Cabana rentals: Day-use facilities complement camping experiences. "We rented a cabana for the day too and it was fun to hang out and relax by the river and BBQ," notes a visitor to Son's River Ranch. These facilities provide shade and comfort during peak daytime heat.
Wristband services: Some locations offer all-inclusive activity passes. "They have a wristband you can buy for the day that is good for unlimited kayaking and tubing," according to reviews. These passes typically range from $15-25 per person and include equipment rental and shuttle service.
Kitchen access: For longer stays, consider sites with kitchen facilities. "Our glamping cabin was nice... and the kitchenette had everything we needed to cook and make meals," reports a camper at Son's River Ranch. Access to cooking facilities reduces the need for extensive meal preparation equipment.
