Dispersed camping options near Sunset Valley, Texas concentrate in the Lake Georgetown area where primitive sites can be accessed via the San Gabriel River Trail system. Hikers and boaters use these free camping locations situated approximately 30 miles north of Sunset Valley in the Texas Hill Country. The area features limestone formations characteristic of the Edwards Plateau, with elevations ranging between 700-900 feet and seasonal temperature fluctuations that can reach over 100°F in summer months.
What to do
Water recreation access: Lake Georgetown provides swimming and fishing opportunities for campers willing to hike in. "Water and views were beautiful, and it was a nice place to rest after the 6 miles in," notes one Sawyer Park Primitive Campsites visitor who camped near the shoreline.
Trail hiking: The complete San Gabriel River Trail offers a 26.2-mile loop around Lake Georgetown. The terrain varies between forests and open grasslands with some small hill climbs. Campers can tackle sections or attempt the full loop as a multi-day backpacking trip.
Nature observation: The area supports diverse wildlife including white-tailed deer, armadillos, and numerous bird species. Spring brings wildflower displays with bluebonnets and Indian paintbrush dotting the landscape between March and May.
What campers like
Convenient water entry points: Some campsites offer direct lake access for swimming or filtering water. A camper at Walnut Springs Primitive Campground mentioned, "Large open area; four fire pits, four lamp hangers, four picnic tables, trees closer to the trail and grassy areas closer to the water."
Relative accessibility: Certain campsites require less hiking than others. "Can be biked in from Camp Tejas four miles away or can hiking from Russell Park 2 miles away," notes one Walnut Springs visitor, making it "possibly the easiest campground on the Goodwater Trail to get to."
Weekday solitude: The trail system sees variable traffic patterns. Campers report peaceful weekday experiences when you might "not see a single person" according to a San Gabriel River Trail user, contrasting with busier weekend periods.
What you should know
Complete self-sufficiency required: These primitive sites have no facilities. "This is primitive (dispersed) camping. Pack in some water and bring a water filter to obtain more," advises one San Gabriel River Trail camper.
Trail conditions: Weather impacts hiking difficulty. "Rain started pretty heavily and our rain fly was unwilling to cooperate so we got a bit wet. The hike back in the rain was fine. A couple slippery spots but very doable," reported a Sawyer Park camper.
Navigation challenges: Trail markings can be confusing at junctions. "We ended up not following our AllTrails after a fork in the road heading towards the campsite," noted one hiker who unintentionally camped in an unofficial spot.
Variable shade coverage: Approximately 40% of the trail has tree coverage while 60% remains exposed to sun. Summer hikers should plan accordingly with sun protection and sufficient water.
Tips for camping with families
Distance planning: Select campsites based on hiking abilities. Walnut Springs requires only a 2-mile hike from Russell Park, making it more accessible for children than the 5-mile trek to Sawyer Park.
Water safety: Lake Georgetown's shoreline can drop off quickly in places. Supervise children near water at all times and be aware that no lifeguards patrol these remote areas.
Weather preparedness: Central Texas storms can develop rapidly. One Walnut Springs camper experienced "our stay during a thunderstorm under the big trees," suggesting families bring appropriate rain gear year-round.
Tips from RVers
Parking limitations: No RV camping exists at primitive sites, but several developed campgrounds around Lake Georgetown offer RV access near trail entry points.
Day-use options: RVers staying at developed campgrounds can use the primitive areas as day-trip destinations, hiking out and back within the same day.
Security concerns: When leaving vehicles at trailheads, remove valuables and leave a note. "It is good to advise one of the park attendants that you will be hiking or place a note inside your car that you are hiking," suggests a seasoned camper.
