The Temple, Texas region sits at an elevation around 700 feet above sea level where the Blackland Prairie meets the limestone hills of Central Texas. Campers should expect hot, humid summers with temperatures regularly exceeding 95°F, while winters are mild with occasional freezing nights. Several creeks and rivers flow through the area, creating diverse habitats for wildlife and water access points at various campgrounds.
What to do
Hiking the Goodwater Loop: The 28-mile trail circling Lake Georgetown provides day hiking and overnight backpacking opportunities near Temple. According to a camper at Tejas Park, "We use this spot to start our runs on the good water loop (traverses Lake Georgetown). From Tejas Park, this is the best section of trail on the loop. During periods of high water, water crossing may be flooded."
Fishing opportunities: Cast a line in local waters for bass, catfish and other species. At Iron Bridge on Belton Lake, one visitor noted it's a "Nice, quiet spot for fishing and walking along the river. Bathrooms and a few picnic tables. Road and parking lot need maintenance."
Creek exploration: Many campgrounds feature seasonal creek access. A camper at Tejas Park explains, "Near the group campsite and through the tree line there is a small creek. Depending on the amount of recent rain or degree of draught the creek is deep enough to go for a wade or a swim. It is also fun to just explore the area around the creek."
What campers like
Tent-only areas: Some campgrounds around Temple specialize in tent camping without RV congestion. One visitor to Russell Park commented, "This is a great little spot. Very secluded for being so close to civilization. Perfect for a weekend camp."
Dark night skies: The rural setting around some Temple campgrounds offers stargazing opportunities. A camper at Paradise Acres shared: "Very quite and loved looking up at the stars!"
Varying levels of seclusion: Campgrounds range from developed to more rustic. A visitor to Iron Bridge described it as "Very secluded and low volume area. I would consider this a rough site. Not for thin skinned people expecting a beautiful oasis... Tons of hiking if you follow the road in and look for the 4x4 paths to the right."
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Policies vary by location. For Russell Park, a camper noted: "At this point, you must have a reservation to camp here."
Facility conditions: Restrooms and amenities vary widely between sites. A Russell Park visitor mentioned: "Men's restroom was decently clean, shower worked well. If you want a spotless bathroom, hike over to the underused day use area."
Season considerations: The Temple area can experience extreme weather. One Owl Creek camper shared fond memories: "I grew going to owl creek, as a kid alot of fond memories good fishing and swimming camping as well, play a game if dominos have a picnic and relax under a shade have a campfire roast marshmallows and wieners."
Safety awareness: Some locations have security concerns. An Iron Bridge visitor warned: "This place has gone down hill. There is a bad element that hangs out here. I would not recommend this place at all. It's sad too, because it was a nice place."
Tips for camping with families
Beginner-friendly options: Several tent camping locations near Temple work well for introducing children to camping. A visitor to Tejas Park shared: "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."
Group site advantages: Some campgrounds offer larger sites for family gatherings. A Tejas Park camper noted: "The group campsite has a pad, but it also has plenty of trees and space to hang hammocks. It is also the more secluded of the campsites."
Campground layout: Understanding site specifics helps plan family camping. A Russell Park visitor warned: "Not every site works for hammock camping, as some lack trees the required distance apart."
Tips from RVers
Limited RV-specific amenities: Most tent camping sites near Temple lack full RV hookups. One Iron Bridge visitor explained the rustic nature: "There is a passable boat ramp, few covered picnic tables and a cornhole 'bathroom' there. No ele or water. Tent/trailer/rv/sleep in car/on the ground, whatever."
Day use alternatives: Some sites better suit day trips than overnight RV stays. One visitor to Stillhouse noted: "What was even more so disturbing was that this site is not a camping site at all and is day use only, open from 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. with camping prohibited."
Camp host interactions: Don't expect formal check-in procedures at all campgrounds. A Tejas Park visitor observed: "There is personnel on site in an RV but they do not come out to greet you nor check you in. You kind of just show up and go to your assigned spot and set up."
