Merkin P.
Scout
ScoutStork RV Park
Great Family Owned RV Park
Stork RV Park is very quiet, clean, and well maintained. The on-site property managers are efficient, friendly, and helpful.
Discover the Best Camping Spots in Texas State Parks
Texas state parks offer a comprehensive network of camping options spanning diverse landscapes from the coastal shores to desert mountains. Pedernales Falls State Park and Inks Lake State Park are among the highest-rated campgrounds, featuring accommodations for tents, RVs, and even cabin rentals. Most Texas state park campgrounds provide electric hookups, water connections, and fire rings, with many offering premium amenities like showers and sanitary dump stations. The extensive camping infrastructure throughout Texas includes over 3,400 campgrounds and campsites that cater to both weekend getaways and extended stays, making Texas a premier camping destination with diverse options for every type of outdoor recreation.
Reservations are strongly recommended for Texas state parks, particularly during spring wildflower season and fall when temperatures moderate. A visitor commented, "Campgrounds like Inks Lake State Park offer year-round access with comfortable facilities, though summer heat can make camping challenging without proper preparation." Many campgrounds feature 30-amp and 50-amp electrical connections for RVs while maintaining tent-friendly areas. During summer months, temperatures frequently exceed 100°F in western regions, while coastal and eastern areas experience high humidity. Winter camping is generally mild in southern portions of the state but can bring freezing conditions to the Panhandle and western mountains.
State park campgrounds consistently receive higher ratings than many private RV parks according to visitor reviews. Big Bend National Park's Chisos Basin Campground ranks among the most scenic destinations with its dramatic mountain views, though fires are not permitted. Davis Mountains State Park offers year-round camping opportunities with impressive dark sky conditions for stargazing. Several reviewers mention the spaciousness of sites, with one noting "camp sites were very spacious and spread apart" at lakeside locations. The Texas Parks and Wildlife Department maintains most public campgrounds, with reservation windows typically opening 5 months in advance. From Gulf Coast beach camping to Hill Country riverside spots, Texas campgrounds offer remarkably diverse settings for outdoor adventures. Private campgrounds near urban centers like Austin and Houston provide convenient access but often lack the natural setting that makes state park camping so appealing.
Campground Showdown in Texas
Compare 2 top campgrounds at a time to find your favorite!
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Round 1 of 5
Best Camping Sites in Texas (2,843)
1. Inks Lake State Park Campground
98 ReviewsBuchanan Dam, TXWebsite+1 (512) 793-2223$16 - $55 / night
"An hour and a half away from Austin, we found Inks Lake to be a quiet and relaxing camp area away from the hustle and bustle of the city. There are several sites set up across the state park."
"It was a small drive from our camp to the devil's waterhole. It was a slippery climb in and out but a beautiful swim with people cliff jumping nearby and a view of some falls."
2. Pedernales Falls State Park Campground
85 ReviewsJohnson City, TXWebsite+1 (830) 868-7304$10 - $100 / night
"This was some of the best TEXAS camping we've done. We found a really nice spot that was on the cliffside and had an incredible view of the hill country. It was isolated enough from other campsites."
"This park, for many people in the hill country of Texas, is the quintessential park to visit."
3. McKinney Falls State Park Campground
84 ReviewsSunset Valley, TXWebsite+1 (512) 243-1643$20 - $86 / night
"This state park is a little outside of Austin near the airport."
"We were not really interested in seeing Austin, but the limestone rock formations were amazing and the variety of trails made sure there was something for everyone."
4. Chisos Basin Campground (Big Bend, Tx) — Big Bend National Park
74 ReviewsTerlingua, TX+1 (432) 477-1121$16 / night
"Chisos Basin is a busy, fully hooked-up ground with easy access to hiking, stirring scenery, etc. if you're out in West Texas, make sure to visit BBNP and stay in this ground if you're car camping or RVing"
"It was on the edge of the camp ground and tucked around a corner. Some of the other sites did look a little close to each other which was why I gave 4 stars and not 5. Most (if not all??)"
5. Huntsville State Park Campground
69 ReviewsHuntsville, TXWebsite+1 (936) 295-5644$15 - $60 / night
"Located on the west edge of the east Texas piney woods, this state park features excellent RV and tent camping facilities, and a beautiful network of heavily forested trails."
"The sites are spacious as in most Texas state parks, and there are many shaded sites. The waterfront sites are tiered. The upper tier is where you park your rig. "
6. Tyler State Park Campground
59 ReviewsLindale, TXWebsite+1 (903) 597-5338$18 - $60 / night
"He was very unenthusiastic about camping in Texas. Well Tyler State Park made him change his mind! He LOVED the large trees, said it was the closest he'd felt to home in quite some time."
"This is my favorite state park in Texas! Lots of options for all kinds of campers."
7. Dinosaur Valley State Park Campground
59 ReviewsGlen Rose, TXWebsite+1 (254) 897-4588$18 - $70 / night
"Spacious walk-out site. Real hot in July (as expected for Texas). Fire ring and lantern like available. Overall lovely site at a great park."
"This Texas state parks is one of favorites. I have been quite a few times since I was a kid and it never gets old. It is just inside of Glen Rose, Texas, located along the Paluxy river."
8. Davis Mountains State Park Campground
58 ReviewsFort Davis, TXWebsite+1 (432) 426-3337$10 - $25 / night
"The stars at night are big and bright, deep in the heart of Texas!” "
"First off, drive in one route, then leave another way. Lots to see. (Keep an eye out for wild bores! Almost hit two on drive in) I entered from the north in Kent on TR-118 S."
9. Cedar Hill State Park Campground
65 ReviewsCedar Hill, TXWebsite+1 (972) 291-3900$25 - $30 / night
"Lake is nearby, and fishing permits in Tx are cheap and easy to grab online. Fairly quiet, but the sites themselves are private a shaded for the most part."
"Although a small park, the design is thoughtful and you don't feel like you are so close to the huge DFW area. "
10. Brazos Bend State Park Campground
48 ReviewsThompsons, TXWebsite+1 (979) 553-5101$12 - $75 / night
"A quick, 45 minute drive southwest will get you out of the concrete jungle that is the sprawling Space City metropolis and into one of the lushest, greenest parts of Texas."
"Before we stopped at the Brazos park we went from Pottsville Arkansas to the beaches in Texas .Started out in Houston and seen the San Jacinto Monument , The Washburn Tunnel, Aquaworld in down town Houston"
Recent Camping Photos in Texas
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Recent Reviews in Texas
8822 Reviews of 2843 Texas Campgrounds
jason F.
GuideAmarillo KOA
Rude, overpriced and over charged! Male want to fight.
Absolutely disgusting experience. Came in late. Get into additional bad items below, but most importantly was extremely RUDE and DISRESPECTFUL owner lady. Ironically, this happened last year as well and I completely forgot until this happened again AND WORSE (read below). All of it unprovoked. So much so I did lose my temper some and that takes a bit. Wasn’t allowed to finish packing my truck or even take a crap before being told would be charged extra because we were ON PROPERTY (we vacated the spot 11:05) and next check isn’t until 1p and there is ZERO work to be done. She lied, said cleaning crew was waiting to get into bathroom when I was pooping (5 minutes less) and watched from across street while finishing to secure my truck and no cleaning staff got close to bathroom. While being rude, claimed I was holding the space but after I checked and the space wasn’t even reserved yet. ON MEMORIAL DAY WEEKEND they were not fully booked (she lied and said they were). She also kept saying something about “if we allowed everyone to stay”….bitch, yes, what we paid for. and no, not everyone going to crowd your place. Place is dead. Of all the times I’ve been, rarely see anyone using anything. Well, know I know why….they run them off before they can be used. No hotel, campground, etc. ever hassled us over this. I mean, had I been treated well, allowed to stay, this review would have been a lot different. I was going to get some coffee, snacks, stickers. Same I do at every camp that has it. Nope, instead she treated my friend and myself rudely…and not even the best part.
Plus, YOU KNEW we came in late after the storms. Your lots FLOODS, cannot walk around much. FIX YOUR DRAINAGE.
Best part: being threaten and approached in a threatening manner when I was leaving. Was in the vehicle and a bulkish man walked toward us in a threatening manner. Proceded to say if I didn’t leave (again, literally leaving) says he’ll have me arrested if I do not leave. First, approaching someone in a threatening manner is simple ASSAULT. Cannot do that in Texas. I’m not armed, but that is a bad idea in Texas! Second, cannot be arrested for being on a property for which was a paid guest. Yes, can be told to leave, but even refusing cannot be arrest-able charge. Only one instructed by police and given a no trespass order (which can only be given if refusal to leave once police arrive).
Corporate will be contact but little will be done as they are a franchise. But will investigate business and owners more thoroughly as I suspect there is way more unlawful and poor behavior since this was so unprovoked…TWICE.
Kimah L.ScoutLyndon B. Johnson National Grassland Dispersed Camping
Ups and downs
Its beautiful. The bathrooms were closed, due to being out of order. The camp sites and view were fantastic. Management reimbursed me for our stay due to the bathrooms.
- JJanice S.
TravelerFirefly Resort
Under New Management - great place!
Firefly Fly Resort is under new management and has made tremendous improvements to the property. The new Phase 3 has opened and has a new clubhouse and a new adult pool (Memorial to Labor Day adults only-the rest of the year open to all), large hot soaking tub, there’s also a second pool at the original clubhouse that has a shallow family section and adult section, new pickleball courts and a new 9-hole putting course, and a new walking path. We stayed at site#361 which we booked on Airbnb directly with the owner, and enjoyed the covered pergola with hill country views! The site had a huge outdoor TV, propane fireplace, comfortable cushioned chairs, a granite prep/serving counter, gas grill and dining table. We watched the sunrise from the site every morning! A perfect stay! The new official website is - www.fireflyhillcountry.com or call 830-999-2694 or email reservations@staytexas.com Or to book site 361 directly with the owner on Airbnb https://www.airbnb.com/rooms/1689166622240134560?unique_share_id=af8278b9-b966-4e0f-aa22-45578fec4799&viralityEntryPoint=1&s=76
Chelsea N.ScoutRoyal Palms RV Resort
Your Rv and cabin park
I thank you, park for Harvey's and cabins. It is beautiful, it's amazing and me and my family are really looking forward to spending some time was you guys. One of all his property with hot y'all's beautiful amenities and land and scenery, and things just so much for the opportunity to be somewhere. So beautiful thank you!
- Vanessa F.Traveler
El Campo Lost Lagoon
Fun Vacation
A nice little getaway, filled with fishing, crawfish on Friday nights, & swimming as well. The only thing I wasn't a fan of was having to pay extra for some activity center crafts. The bar had great alcoholic beverages, & the campground was clean & tidy.
Andy M.GuideLake Colorado City State Park Campground
Cool Colorado Lake State Park.
Got in Thursday before Memorial weekend and there were just a few campers. So that was very nice. Good weather after a short rain. It cooled it down to a comfortable temperature. The campground is very well maintained. Had a nice little trail to hike right behind the t.t
- jason F.Guide
Love's RV Hookup-Dalhart TX 836
Rates WAY too high.
Clean enough sites, but $56+tax and fees and you still pay $10 for a shower and it’s JUST CONCRETE. Love’s needs to do better on price.
I actually did NOT stay, picked another site nearby.
- DDavid S.Scout
Sunshine Oaks RV Park
Wasn’t sure at fiest but it’s pretty nice!
The staff is very friendly and the spots are kept up! The shower/ bathrooms are very nice and modern. I would stay here again.
Guide to Texas
Camping in Texas offers a unique blend of natural beauty and outdoor adventure. From serene lakes to sandy beaches, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.
What to do
- Fishing and Boating: Many campgrounds, like Lake Brownwood State Park Campground, are perfect for fishing and boating. One camper mentioned, “The lake has a nice grassy shaded swimming area. We saw plenty of people fishing.”
- Hiking: Explore the trails at COE Hords Creek Lake Lakeside Park. A visitor noted, “There are deer roaming every morning and evening,” making it a great spot for wildlife watching.
- Beach Camping: For a different vibe, check out Edwin King Atwood Park. One happy camper said, “We spent 5 amazing nights here on the beach, and can’t really beat camping right on the sand.”
What campers like
- Clean Facilities: Campers appreciate well-maintained restrooms and showers. A review from Lake Brownwood State Park Campground stated, “Rest room, shower is very clean.”
- Friendly Staff: Many visitors rave about the helpfulness of the staff. One camper at Edwin King Atwood Park shared, “Sweet gatekeepers. Clean bathrooms. Always filled with info about your stay without even asking.”
- Spacious Sites: Campers enjoy the roomy sites at places like COE Hords Creek Lake Lakeside Park. A reviewer mentioned, “The site was roomy with lots of shade trees.”
What you should know
- Limited Amenities: Some campgrounds, like Sowell Creek at Proctor Lake, have fewer amenities. A camper noted, “You will need to pack everything in to this site and bring your water, food, and toilet.”
- Wildlife Encounters: Be prepared for wildlife. One visitor at COE Hords Creek Lake Lakeside Park said, “There are deer roaming every morning and evening.”
- Weather Considerations: Texas weather can be unpredictable. A camper at Edwin King Atwood Park advised, “The sun and wind can be unforgiving along this beach.”
Tips for camping with families
- Choose Family-Friendly Campgrounds: Look for places with amenities for kids, like playgrounds. One camper mentioned, “There was a nice, covered playground in the Lakeside Park campground.”
- Plan for Activities: Bring along games and outdoor gear. A family at Lake Brownwood State Park Campground enjoyed the “medium length hiking trails with lots of deer, feral hogs, snakes, skunks, raccoons, armadillo and more to see.”
- Pack Snacks: Keep everyone fueled up. A camper at Sowell Creek at Proctor Lake noted, “The lake views are amazing. It’s quiet and calm.”
Tips from RVers
- Check Site Sizes: Make sure your RV fits the site. A reviewer at Sowell Creek at Proctor Lake mentioned, “Sites 1-7 are full hookups and BRF except site 2 (low hanging tree).”
- Be Prepared for Soft Sand: If you’re heading to the beach, a camper at Edwin King Atwood Park warned, “Some areas had very soft sand. We got stuck coming in.”
- Bring Extra Supplies: Stock up on essentials. A visitor at COE Hords Creek Lake Lakeside Park said, “There was a strict fire ban when we were there.”
Camping in Texas can be a fantastic experience with the right preparation and knowledge. Enjoy the great outdoors!
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the best tent camping locations in Texas for families?
What are the best tent camping locations in Texas for families?
Tyler State Park Campground is perfect for families with its variety of lakefront sites and large shade trees that create a comfortable camping environment. The park's towering pines provide a refreshing forest feel that even impresses visitors from cooler climates. For families seeking a different experience, Berry Springs Park & Preserve offers a convenient location just north of Georgetown, about a mile off Interstate 35. This county park features spacious grounds with plenty of open space for kids to play, while still being easily accessible for families traveling between Dallas and Austin.
When is the best season for camping in different regions of Texas?
When is the best season for camping in different regions of Texas?
Texas camping seasons vary significantly by region due to the state's diverse climate patterns. In East Texas, where Steele Creek Park Campground is located, spring (March-May) and fall (September-November) offer pleasant temperatures and lower humidity. Central Texas, home to Inks Lake State Park, is ideal for camping from October through April, avoiding the intense summer heat. The Panhandle region around McDowell Campground has milder summers than South Texas but can experience cold winters with occasional snow. West Texas and Big Bend areas are best visited in late fall through early spring, as summer temperatures regularly exceed 100°F.
What amenities can I expect at popular Texas campgrounds?
What amenities can I expect at popular Texas campgrounds?
Texas campgrounds offer a wide range of amenities to enhance your camping experience. Indian Mounds Recreation Area in East Texas provides RV and tent campsites with fire rings, picnic tables, and potable water. The campground offers beautiful lake views within a forested setting. Meanwhile, McKinney Falls State Park Campground near Austin features accessible waterfalls within the park boundaries. Many state parks offer electrical hookups, shower facilities, and flush toilets. Private RV parks often provide additional amenities like Wi-Fi, laundry facilities, swimming pools, and community spaces for gatherings.
Which Texas state parks offer the most scenic camping experiences?
Which Texas state parks offer the most scenic camping experiences?
Caprock Canyons State Park offers some of Texas' most breathtaking landscapes, with its primitive North Prong campsites providing an immersive natural experience. The park features stunning canyon views, roaming bison herds, and brilliant night skies perfect for stargazing. For water lovers, Pace Bend Park on Lake Travis delivers scenic cliff-lined shorelines ideal for swimming and cliff jumping. The park's peninsula setting provides extensive water views and beautiful sunset vistas. Other scenic options include the mountain vistas at Davis Mountains State Park and the ancient dinosaur tracks alongside the Paluxy River at Dinosaur Valley State Park.
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