Tent campsites near Sunset Valley, Texas offer primitive to semi-developed sites within a 30-mile radius of this Austin suburb. The region sits at approximately 800 feet elevation in the eastern Texas Hill Country, characterized by rolling limestone terrain and oak-juniper woodlands. Most camping areas experience hot summers with average highs of 95°F and mild winters where nighttime temperatures can occasionally dip below freezing.
What to do
Kayaking on Lake Travis: Access multiple points for paddling at Turkey Bend Recreation Area, where campsites offer direct water access. "Awesome place to camp! You can camp on the water or in secluded sites surrounded by trees. There are even a handful of sites that are separate and a little more private," notes one camper.
Wildlife photography: Early mornings provide prime opportunities for capturing deer, particularly at Grelle - Lake Travis. "There were lots of deer, really neat to look at. The deer didn't even seem bothered by us," shares a visitor who rated the experience highly.
Wildflower viewing: Spring brings abundant blooms, especially at Shaffer Bend Recreation Area. "Going in the spring time is the best because of all the wildflowers. Trails are easy. Campsites are clean with a fire pit and a grill," explains one camper who warns to "be mindful that Lake Travis is not a constant level lake."
River swimming: Camp Creek Recreation Area provides riverside access with basic facilities. "Free camping along the river. Sites are nicely spaced out. River access for boating," notes a camper who appreciated the seclusion of this spot.
What campers like
Private, wooded sites: Covenant Canyon RV Park offers tent sites with a natural feel. "Ive lived here 7 years and the lots are big and spread out. It's living in the woods! Great manager on site very safe day and night," shares one long-term camper.
Spacious camping areas: Most tent sites in the region provide ample room. At Shaffer Bend Recreation Area, "We set up at site 15 it has an awesome view of the river/lake and it's walking distance down to the waters edge. Great spot to fish for some bass or take a dip in the water."
Natural springs: Unique water features create interesting swimming experiences at some locations. "This was my first time swimming in a spring. As you walk into the lake you will find pockets of cooler water spouting up. Its kinda like stepping into a refrigerator but underwater," reports a Grelle camper.
Easy-access beach areas: Multiple campgrounds feature sandy shorelines. "We were seeking a free campsite for us and our dogs when traveling from San Antonio to Austin, Texas and landed here for one night! It was a 'self check-in' process. We walked down to the Colorado River where the dogs enjoyed swimming."
What you should know
Varied water levels: Lake Travis fluctuates significantly. "When the water level was down, there was not a soul around. I considered it 'My park'. There are a lot of trails, running up and down the hills," explains a camper, highlighting how crowds and accessibility change with water levels.
Limited facilities at primitive sites: Most tent areas have basic amenities. At Camp Creek Recreation Area, "I do think 25 bucks for a place with no running water, no electric, and no actual bathroom is expensive but this park is actually extremely nice and the view is great."
Wildlife encounters: Prepare for Texas wildlife. "There is wildlife. We saw about a 5 ft rattlesnake. Overall a great place!" warns a Shaffer Bend visitor.
Thorny vegetation: Native plants can be troublesome at some locations. "Only negative is the amount of stickers everywhere. Got one right between the toes," cautions a camper who otherwise enjoyed their stay.
Tips for camping with families
Beginner-friendly options: Tejas Park offers accessible camping for first-timers. "My 5 year old wanted to go camping for the first time. This location is close enough to be near civilization, but feels remote to get the primitive camping experience. The sites have a pad to set up your tent, along with fire rings and plenty of shade."
Water recreation: Many sites have direct access to swimming spots. "I brought my family of four here for our first solo camping trip with two littles and we loved it! The drought caused the lake to be pretty dried up so our water front view didn't have much water! That didn't take away from how beautiful the view was."
Bike-friendly trails: Several campgrounds offer cycling opportunities for children. "Hiking, kayaking, tenting, hammocks, mountain biking, horseback riding are all available here. Clean & flat sites, water views, quiet, convenient facilities from every site."
Self-check-in convenience: Most campgrounds have straightforward arrival processes. "First come first serve, pick your spot, fill out the card, put it and 25 bucks in a drop box and good to go. Very easy system," explains a Camp Creek visitor.
Tips from RVers
Limited hookup options: Most sites near Sunset Valley are primitive. At CampEZ in SxSouth Austin, "The campground is difficult to locate because there's only one gate that has the name of it on there so keep that in mind. You will find it. When you go in the gate, there are old campers that have been renovated."
Generator restrictions: Check regulations as many areas limit generator use. "Personally my camping experience was ruined by the generator a couple spots down - constantly on and did not take a break - so it kinda ruined the beauty of the outdoor experience for me."
Pad sizes: Most tent camping sites can accommodate small RVs. "Small RV and tent-dry camping. Relaxing and clean. Very windy, so no bugs! Dogs love running along water's edge and jumping in. Sites 1-13 closer together and more in site of each other but still ok."
