South Llano River State Park sits approximately 35 miles northwest of Telegraph, Texas, near Junction. The park encompasses over 500 acres along the spring-fed South Llano River at an elevation around 1,700 feet. Summer temperatures often exceed 95°F, while winter nights can drop below freezing. Campers should prepare for sudden weather changes common in Texas Hill Country's varied terrain.
What to Do
Paddling excursions: Kayaking the South Llano River provides access to wildlife viewing and swimming holes. "You can kayak to town. Coordinate your own shuttle," notes Emily M. about South Llano River State Park. The park rents tubes for floating sections of the river.
Wildlife observation: Visit the bird blinds at South Llano River State Park for impressive bird watching. "The park, of course has river access to the South Llano River, which is great for short tubing trips as well as what appears to be your favorite for kayaking. But it also has three well stocked bird blinds the attract a wide ranging number of beautiful birds," shares Jim P.
Fall foliage hiking: Experience the changing maple leaves at Lost Maples State Natural Area. "Lost Maples is a great place to see the colors of Fall," according to Skip C. The park requires reservations six months in advance during peak foliage season in November.
What Campers Like
Covered picnic tables: Many camping sites throughout the region feature shaded dining areas. "Several options on campsites here. Sites with water and electricity, walk in sites and primitive hike in sites. All sites that we saw had covered areas that had picnic tables," shares Heather P. about South Llano River State Park.
River swimming: Cool off in the clear waters available at several campgrounds. "Spent a few days relaxing at this campground. Brought paddle boards but didn't use them as the river was so low. But it was beautiful! There are a few swimming holes along the river," reports Maggie C. about South Llano River State Park.
Wildlife encounters: The region offers opportunities to observe deer, wild pigs, and armadillos. At Fort Mason City Park, "We found this place by accident. Lots and lots of deer," notes Amie M. about Fort Mason City Park, where wildlife regularly passes through the campground.
What You Should Know
Limited cellular service: Communication can be difficult at certain parks. "The only drawback, is that its in a complete deadzone for cellular. I had absolutely zero service on my cellphone, antenna TV, or wifi/4g," warns Matt S. about Lost Maples State Natural Area. He recommends downloading offline maps before arriving.
Seasonal water levels: River depths fluctuate throughout the year. "The river at the park was dry due to the drought, the bathrooms and showers were old but clean," notes Michael W. about North Llano River RV Park. Check current conditions before planning water activities.
Camping reservations: Popular glamping locations near Telegraph fill quickly during peak seasons. "We missed the fall leaves color this past fall but there is always this coming fall. The day we were there it was practically empty as it was freezing but there were several hikers," reports Kingrex49 M. about Lost Maples State Natural Area.
Tips for Camping with Families
Kid-friendly water features: Children enjoy the shallow sections of rivers throughout the area. "We stayed here with our family during the late spring and loved it! Our children had a blast swimming in the river. It's shallow enough for littles on some parts and deep enough on the side next to the wall to jump off into the river," explains Alicia E. about Dos Rios RV Park.
Playground access: Some campgrounds offer play equipment for children. "There is a rundown playground in the main park and there is a newer playground in the middle of the baseball fields. We were here for a week with a 3 year old and we stayed mostly on the property," shares Amie M. about Fort Mason City Park.
Educational experiences: Wildlife viewing provides learning opportunities for young campers. "Lots of trees for shade, and it's right beside the river. Each site had a picnic table and a fire pit," notes Molly S. about North Llano River RV Park, where evening wildlife sightings are common.
Tips from RVers
Electrical options: Most glamping sites near Telegraph offer various power hookups. "Easy in and out sites. Many are pullthru. Full hookups, bath house is great. Wonderful views of North Llano River. Very clean and quiet," explains Lisa A. about North Llano River RV Park.
Site leveling challenges: Be prepared to adjust at some locations. "The sites both back in and pull thru need some updated care," notes Michael W. about North Llano River RV Park. Some RVers report bringing extra leveling blocks for uneven terrain.
Clean facilities: Many campgrounds maintain well-serviced restrooms. "The bathroom amenities are very nice, clearly the work of someone whose been around the RV park world and wanted to rise above. The individual/family bathrooms more closely resemble something you'd have in your house than in a campground," reports Shari G. about Tree Cabins RV Resort.
