South Llano River State Park Campground and nearby camping options near Telegraph, Texas offer access to natural features including rivers, trails, and wildlife viewing across elevations ranging from 1,700 to 2,000 feet. Tent camping, RV sites, and cabin accommodations are available within a 45-minute drive of Telegraph. The area experiences hot summers with temperatures often exceeding 95°F and mild winters that can occasionally drop below freezing overnight.
What to do
River activities: South Llano River provides multiple recreational options for visitors and their dogs. "Rent a tube at the headquarters and float the river. Get out and hike back to the start. Never gets old on a hot day to sit in the spring fed waters. You can kayak to town. Coordinate your own shuttle," advises Emily M. at South Llano River State Park Campground.
Birding and wildlife observation: The park maintains specialized viewing areas for wildlife enthusiasts. "This 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," notes Jim P. about his experience at South Llano River State Park.
Walking trails: Multiple trail options accommodate different skill levels. "There is a really nice trail along the river that was wheel chair accessible for the most part - watch out for the armadillo holes! There are a few swimming holes along the river and no fishing license required if fishing along the bank within park boundaries," shares Maggie C. from Tree Cabins RV Resort.
What campers like
Peaceful atmosphere: Many campers appreciate the quiet environment at campgrounds in the area. "Very quiet and pretty place. We arrived after close of business and dark. The camp sites are clearly marked. In the morning try e park staff were super friendly. Would definitely stay here again," mentions Michael C. about his stay at South Llano River State Park.
Stargazing opportunities: The region offers excellent night sky viewing. "Quiet park with great dark sky gazing. We spent two nights here. Lots of great hiking trails. We were in space 57 which was at the very end of the loop of the park and there were several Axis deer that ran by our campsite in the evenings," reports Lisa M. about her experience at South Llano River State Park.
Wildlife encounters: The area hosts diverse wildlife populations visible throughout the day. "We really enjoyed this campground. This campground is green, has trees, and sites are spread out, Lots of wild life, we saw deer, birds, bugs, armadillo's and javelinas. The crickets we're very loud at night," describes Stephen M. from his stay at Pecan Valley RV Park.
What you should know
Cell service limitations: Connectivity can be spotty in certain areas. "This might have been our favorite state park in the Hill Country of Texas, offering the perfect combination of good campsites, great hiking and biking trails, and opportunities to enjoy wildlife. It did not have good Verizon phone service, which is not necessarily a bad thing," notes Shari G. about South Llano River State Park.
Weather variations: Temperature fluctuations require preparation. "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!" shares Mickie B. about her experience at Lost Maples State Natural Area Campground.
Park rules: Some campgrounds enforce noise restrictions. "So the campsites are are pretty cool, the bathrooms are good and the river is fun to float! But the Park Rangers there are grumpy and not friendly at all! Even the ladies at the check in are grumpy and very rude," cautions Ruth P. about staff enforcement of quiet hours at South Llano River State Park.
Tips for camping with families
Kid-friendly water activities: River access points offer safe swimming areas. "This is a real cozy, well taken care of site with a very accommodating staff. Each spot has a grill and fire pit with plenty of parking space, there's clean spacious showers/bathroom and kayak rentals for the water access on site," recommends Cory D. from North Llano River RV Park.
Bring wildlife guides: Animal spotting creates educational opportunities. "My family and I just returned from our trip this last weekend and I must say that it was a laid back relaxing and fun experience. Deer were present at all times not skittish at all, there are feeders on the property that keep them close all day long," explains Jeremy D. about his stay at Pecan Valley RV Park.
Pack extra water: Ensure sufficient hydration for trails and activities. "Lots of backcountry hiking. Not the most exciting terrain, but it gets the heart going to do the hills. Bring plenty of water with you back there," advises Emily M. about hiking at South Llano River State Park Campground.
Tips from RVers
Spacious sites available: Several campgrounds accommodate larger rigs. "This is a nice open campground perfect for an overnight stay in Junction, very easy access of I-10. Pull through sites with full hookups. Able to reserve in advance and accommodated a late check in after 9p. Clean grounds and well kept bathrooms," notes Jeff T. about 10/83 RV Park.
Level parking areas: Well-maintained sites make setup easier. "Right off of I10. Friendly staff. Asphalt road and sites. Level sites. Several are big rig friendly and most are pull through. No need to disconnect toad. Lots of space between sites," describes Bill B. about his experience at Pecan Valley RV Park.
Utilities and hookups: Reliable connections are available at most established campgrounds. "Easy access from Route 10. The hosts are warm, friendly, and helpful. Beautiful surroundings as we were nestled between pecan groves and the Llano river," shares Dona W. about Pecan Valley RV Park.
