Best Equestrian Camping near Telegraph, TX

The campgrounds near Telegraph, Texas provide limited options for horse owners. North Llano River RV Park in Junction offers RV and tent sites along with cabin rentals, but lacks dedicated horse corrals or equestrian facilities. The park features full hookups, a shower house, and riverside sites with picnic tables and fire pits. Several reviewers note seeing wildlife including deer wandering through the campground. The river access provides a natural water source, though water levels fluctuate seasonally with some visitors reporting dry conditions during drought periods.

Lost Maples State Natural Area Campground in Vanderpool offers primitive camping and hiking trails but does not have specific horse facilities. The park maintains several miles of trails ranging from easy to strenuous with significant elevation changes. The Sabinal River runs through the property providing clear water for cooling off during summer months. Fall brings spectacular foliage viewing opportunities as the maple trees change color, making this a popular seasonal destination. Cell service is nonexistent throughout the park, with limited WiFi available only at the visitor center. Advance reservations are strongly recommended, especially during peak fall color season when sites fill nearly a year in advance.

Best Equestrian Sites Near Telegraph, Texas (3)

    1. North Llano River RV Park

    9 Reviews
    Junction, TX
    14 miles
    Website
    +1 (325) 999-1193

    $40 - $50 / night

    "We were looking for a nice overnight next to the river on short notice and they delivered, and during spring break no less."

    "Last night while eating dinner we saw 3 deer walking through the campsite. They were not bother in the least by our presence."

    2. Lost Maples State Natural Area Campground

    42 Reviews
    Vanderpool, TX
    41 miles
    Website
    +1 (830) 966-3413

    $10 - $20 / night

    "Lost Maples State Natural Area has some beautiful hiking trails and backpacking areas."

    "Close to the river. Nice spaces with covered tables and scattered trees. Hiking, pet friendly. Showers were clean and well kept. No sewer hook up but dump station is right off the road."

    3. Fort Mason City Park

    5 Reviews
    Castell, TX
    50 miles
    Website
    +1 (325) 347-2064

    "There's a small playground too and seems to be a good place to bring your horses!"

    "The park itself is surrounded by baseball fields, golf course, football stadium, rodeo grounds. All convenient in one location. - Grass is always green, check it out, right on the edge of town."

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Equestrian Camping Reviews near Telegraph, TX

56 Reviews of 3 Telegraph Campgrounds


  • Troy W.The Dyrt PRO User
    Apr. 1, 2020

    Lost Maples State Natural Area Campground

    Lost Maples State Natural Area Primitive Campsite H

    Lost Maples State Natural Area has some beautiful hiking trails and backpacking areas. If you need basic supplies you may find some at the general store in the small town nearby the park named Vanderpool. 

    Perhaps the best time of the year to visit is in November when the weather is cool and the fall foliage take place. However, the park is very busy in November, so make a reservation six months in advance. If no campsites are available you may visit for the day and find a private campground nearby to camp.

    There are basically two loops- an East Trail and a West Trail and each covers about 4-5 miles. It is completely possible to hike all the trails(about 12 miles) in a single day, but I prefer to hike and appreciate the natural features that can be found throughout the park.

    This review is for the Primitive Area H on the West Trail.  The campsite is a primitive or dispersed site so there are no amenities. There is no water, no electricity, no restrooms, just natural space. Leave No Trace and Pack In Pack Out principles should be practiced. The camping area is adjacent to the West Trail and close to the West Loop Trail. There is a open field in one area and a tree covered space in another area. So there are options for both tent and hammock backpackers. 

    This park has a number of peaks, creeks and ponds to view. In Texas State Parks fishing is allowed and no fishing license is required. Whether you're visiting to relax, fish or hike this park is enjoyable for all ages.

  • A
    Jul. 5, 2021

    Fort Mason City Park

    Lovely, peaceful, friendly

    This camp ground is quite in the middle of nowhere, but surprisingly cute. One thing that stunned us was the family of deers that seem to visit every evening! That was a lovely surprise for us! The campground hosts are super nice & helpful and we had a good time. There's a small playground too and seems to be a good place to bring your horses!

  • Shirley S.
    Jun. 22, 2019

    Lost Maples State Natural Area Campground

    Love it

    Short trip for weekend stay for us. Close to the river. Nice spaces with covered tables and scattered trees. Hiking, pet friendly. Showers were clean and well kept. No sewer hook up but dump station is right off the road. Plenty of open space to see the Texas skies and right there at the Frio River. One of our go to spots.

  • Troy W.The Dyrt PRO User
    Dec. 11, 2019

    Lost Maples State Natural Area Campground

    Lost Maples + Fall Foliage

    Everyone loves Lost Maples State Natural Area, whether you are a RV camper, car camper, backcountry camper or just visiting for the day and day hiking. There's a little something for everyone. 

    Perhaps the best time of the year to visit Lost Maples is in the Autumn when the fall foliage is occurring - it is often during the first three weeks of November. However, during fall foliage it can be very difficult to reserve a campsite, so I recommend booking a campsite 6 months in advance. Or do what I did and show up on a really cold weekday when no one else is interested in being outside in 25 degree weather and there will be plenty of space to car camp or backcountry camp.

    If you camp at the established drive-up campground there are assigned campsites with space for cars, vans and RVs. At each campsite there is a sunshade shelter, picnic table, lantern pole, water, electricity and campfire pit with a grill. There is also a restroom nearby with sinks, toilets, showers and a water fountain. There is even a little free library where you can take a book to read or leave a book to share. 

    If you camp in the backcountry there are designated and marked zones where you just set up your tent. There are no facilities in the backcountry campsites so leave no trace practices should be applied. Near some of the backcountry campsites there are latrines.

    The park has well maintained hiking trails that will lead you by pastures, through forest, alongside creeks and up some hills. It is possible to hike the 8 to 10 miles of trails in one day, but it is more fun to go slow and enjoy the sights. There is an East Trail Loop and a West Trail Loop and some spur trails. Pick up a map at the Ranger Station and enjoy the trails. Some of the trails have steep rock ascents which are indicated on the park map.

    If you need supplies there is a small store with basics in the nearby town of Vanderpool.

    While you are in the area, you may as well stop by Bandera, Texas known as the cowboy capital of the world. It is a small Texas town and every weekend they celebrate cowboy culture with some performances and events.

  • J
    Jun. 1, 2022

    Lost Maples State Natural Area Campground

    Beautiful state natural area, great hill country hiking

    This is a beautiful park in a great part of the Texas Hill country.  Great hiking trails in this park as well.

  • Nick P.
    Jun. 16, 2017

    Lost Maples State Natural Area Campground

    Primitive camping

    Considering it was summer in central Texas, lost maples was beautiful. Great scenery, tons to look at and discover and several places to enjoy the water. The only thing that wasn't the best was that there wasn't a lot of trail to hike, I made it to the furthest campsite in less than 2 hours.

  • Troy W.The Dyrt PRO User
    Dec. 31, 2019

    Lost Maples State Natural Area Campground

    Lost Maples State Natural Area Primitive Area E

    Lost Maples State Natural Area has some beautiful hiking trails and backpacking areas.

    There are basically two loops - an East Trail and a West Trail and each covers about 4-5 miles. It is completely possible to hike all the trails (about 12 miles) in a single day, but I prefer to hike and appreciate the natural features that can be found throughout the park. 

    This review is for the Primitive Area E on the West Trail. The campsite is a primitive or dispersed site so there are no amenities. There is no water, no electricity, no restrooms, just natural space. Leave No Trace and Pack In Pack Out principles should be practiced. The camping area is adjacent to the East Trail. There is a open field in one area and a tree covered space in another area. So there are options for both tent and hammock backpackers. 

    I'd say that the hike to the campsite and away from the campsite is more scenic than the actual campsite. Perhaps the best time of the year to visit is in November when the weather is cool and the fall foliage take place. The park is very busy in November, so make a reservation very early or go when the weather is extremely cold and no one else wants to be outdoors.

    If you need supplies you may find some basics at the general store in the small town nearby the park named Vanderpool.

  • Mickie B.
    May. 7, 2019

    Lost Maples State Natural Area Campground

    Beautiful fall colors

    The sites are a little close-in, but otherwise perfect. There are so few of them (30 total), so book early- in order to get a fall reservation, I booked nearly a year in advance!

    The fall colors are beautiful (not like Northeast colors, but very nice for Texas :) ) There are picnic areas and a nice 4 mile loop to take in the tree scenery too.

    Sites have covered picnic tables, water spigots, and fire pits.

  • Sam D.
    Aug. 9, 2016

    Lost Maples State Natural Area Campground

    Great for Fall Camping

    I camped here with my wife, dad, and younger brother for 3 days. We used the primitive hiking zones, and really enjoyed them. The trails we encountered were a good mix of more well-maintained routes to main areas, with more adventurous trails going out from their. The part was small enough that you could access any point on any given day, but felt large enough that it took us all three days to see every area. Overall, the park is a great mix of beautiful trees that produce nice fall colors not typically seen in Texas with great views from the canyon walls above. We really enjoyed our time there, and we definitely recommend it as a great camping destination that can accommodate many different levels of hikers and campers.


Guide to Telegraph

Campsites near Telegraph, Texas range from established RV parks to primitive camping areas within state natural areas. Located in the heart of Texas Hill Country, this region experiences hot summers with temperatures often exceeding 95°F and mild winters with occasional freezing temperatures. Water access varies significantly by season, with many rivers and creeks experiencing low water levels during drought periods.

What to do

Hiking varied terrain: The trail system at Lost Maples State Natural Area Campground offers routes from beginner-friendly to challenging. "The camp grounds are simple amazing but the true beauty is in the hiking trails. And the view from the top is spectacular at sunset," notes Anthony M. The park includes two primary trail sections totaling about 12 miles.

Wildlife viewing: The campgrounds near Telegraph provide natural habitats for various wildlife species. At North Llano River RV Park, camper William M. reports, "Last night while eating dinner we saw 3 deer walking through the campsite. They were not bother in the least by our presence." Similar experiences occur at Fort Mason City Park where Chelsea R. mentions "deer everywhere!"

Digital detox: Cell service limitations create opportunities for disconnection. Matt S. reports about Lost Maples: "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." Some visitors view this as a benefit rather than disadvantage when seeking to unplug.

What campers like

Crystal clear water: The Sabinal River at Lost Maples offers cooling opportunities during hot months. "The river is crystal clear and very inviting on a hot summer day," writes Matt S. Water quality remains high even when levels fluctuate seasonally.

Peaceful atmosphere: Many campgrounds maintain quiet environments despite their popularity. At Fort Mason City Park, campers appreciate the tranquility. Andrea notes it as "Lovely, peaceful, friendly," while another reviewer describes it as a "beautiful hidden gem."

Fall foliage viewing: Late autumn transforms Lost Maples into a colorful destination. Skip C. states simply, "Lost Maples is a great place to see the colors of Fall." This seasonal attraction draws visitors specifically for leaf-watching. Mickie B. advises, "in order to get a fall reservation, I booked nearly a year in advance!"

What you should know

Limited horse facilities: Equestrian camping near Telegraph, Texas requires planning as dedicated horse facilities are scarce. While some areas permit horses on certain trails, most campgrounds lack dedicated corrals or stables. For riders seeking horseback-friendly options, advance research is essential as trail access may be restricted.

Reservation requirements: Popular sites fill quickly, especially during peak seasons. According to Troy W., who stayed at Lost Maples, "the park is very busy in November, so make a reservation six months in advance. If no campsites are available you may visit for the day and find a private campground nearby to camp."

Fluctuating water conditions: River and creek levels vary significantly with rainfall patterns. Michael W. noted at North Llano River RV Park: "The river at the park was dry due to the drought." Water-based activities require checking current conditions before arrival.

Primitive camping preparation: Backcountry sites at Lost Maples offer minimal amenities. Troy W. explains: "The campsite is a primitive or dispersed site so there are no amenities. There is no water, no electricity, no restrooms, just natural space. Leave No Trace and Pack In Pack Out principles should be practiced."

Tips for camping with families

Playground access: Fort Mason City Park offers recreational facilities for children. Amie M. describes, "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."

Trail difficulty planning: When hiking with children at Lost Maples, select appropriate routes based on age and ability. The park contains trails ranging from easy walks to strenuous climbs with significant elevation changes. One camper mentions that "the climb on the east trail is difficult fruit those more experienced hikers."

Cooling options: During summer months, access to water provides essential relief from heat. Matt S. recommends Lost Maples for its "crystal clear" river that's "very inviting on a hot summer day."

Tips from RVers

Site selection: At North Llano River RV Park, RVers have multiple options. Jesse D. notes the "Easy, very well designed layout, spacious" setup. Lisa A. adds: "Easy in and out sites. Many are pullthru. Full hookups, bath house is great."

Level sites: Many reviews mention site quality and leveling needs. Russ H. notes "Plenty of room for big RVs" at North Llano River RV Park, while several campers mention the cleanliness of facilities and ease of access for larger rigs.

Service connectivity: For RVers requiring internet access, connectivity varies dramatically between campgrounds. The WiFi at Fort Mason City Park receives positive reviews as "free and amazing," while Lost Maples has virtually no connectivity outside the visitor center.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular equestrian campsite near Telegraph, TX?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular equestrian campground near Telegraph, TX is North Llano River RV Park with a 4.3-star rating from 9 reviews.

What is the best site to find equestrian camping near Telegraph, TX?

TheDyrt.com has all 3 equestrian camping locations near Telegraph, TX, with real photos and reviews from campers.