Tent camping near Uvalde, Texas centers around the scenic Nueces and Frio River systems, with most campgrounds situated within the Hill Country terrain at elevations ranging from 900-1,200 feet. The limestone geology creates clear, spring-fed waterways with relatively consistent water temperatures year-round, even during Texas summer heat. Winter camping offers more privacy but requires preparation for overnight temperatures that can drop below freezing.
What to do
Hiking the diverse trails: Garner State Park offers extensive trail systems with varying difficulty levels across limestone hills. As Harry H. notes, "Some of the trails are pretty long and steep, great views," making it ideal for day hikers looking for elevation changes and scenic vistas.
Wildlife observation: The Camping Spot provides excellent wildlife viewing opportunities within a natural Texas setting. Charles M. explains, "She has a truly unique piece of property for primitive camping chocked so full of wildlife we could hear the deer breathing next to our tent as the sun was coming up!"
River activities: Concan Adventure Trails serves as an excellent base for water activities during warmer months. Visitor Eloy V. shared that he "had a blast here" and is "definitely bringing the kids/family" for return visits, indicating the site's appeal for water recreation enthusiasts.
What campers like
Off-season solitude: Winter visits to Rio Frio — Garner State Park offer a completely different experience than busy summer months. One reviewer reports, "We enjoyed the empty but quiet park last winter. It was cold but the long walks warm us up. There was a little leaf colors."
Natural shade coverage: The combination of mature trees at many sites provides crucial shade during hot months. A camper at The Camping Spot noted "ample shade underneath some of the biggest oak trees in the area," which significantly impacts comfort during warmer seasons.
Dark night skies: The relative distance from urban centers creates exceptional stargazing opportunities. One camper described The Camping Spot as a place "where it feels like you can see the far side of the moon at night," highlighting the minimal light pollution in the area.
What you should know
Limited connectivity: Cell service and internet access are minimal to non-existent at most campgrounds. A visitor to Concan Adventure Trails emphasized how staff were "so helpful and friendly," which becomes particularly important when you can't simply look up information online.
Summer crowding: Peak season (May-September) brings significant crowds, especially on weekends. A Rio Frio camper noted the area gets "reserved up fairly quickly" and advised booking "a week in advance." Another camper described it as "too packed for my taste, but it's a popular spot."
Rugged access roads: Many primitive sites require vehicles with clearance. A camper warned: "I wouldn't recommend driving a car out there, you're going to need some clearance getting through rugged dirt roads," highlighting the importance of appropriate transportation.
Tips for camping with families
Bathroom proximity: When selecting tent sites with children, prioritize proximity to facilities. A camper at Seco Ridge Campground appreciates that "all sites have access to hot showers, bathrooms and a communal kitchen," making family logistics more manageable.
Book weekday visits: For a more relaxed family experience, avoid weekends when possible. One camper observed, "if you can get there during the week, it's as quiet and tranquil as you can dream up. Weekends naturally have a bit more 'traffic.'"
Pack all supplies: Nearest grocery stores and supplies are often 20+ minutes away. A visitor cautions, "Not for the unprepared, town is not close!" emphasizing the importance of bringing everything needed for your family's stay.
Tips from RVers
Limited hookup options: Many tent-focused campgrounds near Uvalde offer minimal RV amenities. A visitor at Rio Frio observed most "camp sites aren't ideally placed, but the beautiful water and Hill Country landscape make up for it," suggesting compromises may be necessary.
Entertainment alternatives: The lack of connectivity means bringing alternatives for downtime. One RVer at Rio Frio — Garner State Park advised, "There is absolutely no Wi-Fi signal. No TV signal, no telephone signal... bring books and a lot of DVD's" for entertainment during non-outdoor activity times.
