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Best Campgrounds near Vanderpool, TX

382 Reviews

Campgrounds surrounding Vanderpool, Texas range from primitive hike-in sites to full-service RV parks with cabin options. Lost Maples State Natural Area offers both established campgrounds with water and electric hookups and remote primitive campsites along hiking trails. Several miles south, Garner State Park provides multiple campground areas including Rio Frio, Live Oak, Pecan Grove, and Oakmont, catering to both tent and RV campers with varying amenities and proximity to natural features.

The Texas Hill Country climate affects camping conditions year-round, with fall being the most popular season for visitors seeking colorful foliage displays. "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," noted one camper about Lost Maples. Reservation planning is essential, particularly for autumn visits when some campers report booking nearly a year in advance. Many campgrounds have limited or no cell service, with one visitor mentioning Lost Maples as "a complete deadzone for cellular" where they had "absolutely zero service on cellphone, antenna TV, or wifi/4g." Winter brings cooler temperatures while summer heat makes water access important for comfort.

Several public and private campgrounds in the area feature river access, with the Sabinal River running through Lost Maples and the Frio River near Garner State Park campgrounds. Visitors consistently rate water proximity as a highlight. The landscape includes rocky trails with elevation changes, making some hikes moderately challenging. A review described Lost Maples hiking as having "portions on the map that are marked steep are very accurate. There are loose rocks in the steep areas, so I'd suggest hiking with boots that have good ankle support/protection." Campground capacity varies significantly, with Lost Maples RV and Camping offering 25 sites while the state parks have multiple camping areas with different layouts. Reviews frequently mention the tradeoff between privacy and amenities, with primitive sites offering solitude while established campgrounds provide conveniences like showers, picnic tables, and hookups.

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Best Camping Sites Near Vanderpool, Texas (118)

    1. Lost Maples State Natural Area Campground

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

    $10 - $20 / night

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

    "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."

    2. Rio Frio — Garner State Park

    36 Reviews
    Concan, TX
    16 miles
    Website
    +1 (830) 232-6132

    $15 - $26 / night

    "Garner state park has been one of my most favorite campgrounds in south texas."

    "This site was located 2 sites away from a wide road to the river. We took our kayak down this path on wheels (would’ve been a hassle without the kayak carrier)."

    3. Live Oak — Garner State Park

    15 Reviews
    Concan, TX
    15 miles
    Website
    +1 (830) 232-6132

    $26 / night

    "A challenge to get into the park (hour and a half wait) and a challenge to hike the trails. Some of the steepest trails in Texas, but they are worth the views!"

    "It's quiet, spacious sites and if you get on the outside loop on the river then you have river access."

    4. Lost Maples RV and Camping

    5 Reviews
    Vanderpool, TX
    1 mile
    Website
    +1 (830) 966-3912

    $10 - $170 / night

    "A walking distance from the campsite is an amazing trail that takes you through a small section of maple trees. Those maple trees were said to have made it from the ice age!"

    "Hiking trails."

    5. Pecan Grove — Garner State Park

    10 Reviews
    Concan, TX
    16 miles
    Website
    +1 (830) 232-6132

    $20 - $35 / night

    "It was a huge spot and was within walking distance to.....everywhere!! We had a dried creek bed behind our site that led to the river and my kids loved it."

    "Great hiking trails. Must see in Texas."

    6. Oakmont — Garner State Park

    8 Reviews
    Concan, TX
    15 miles
    Website
    +1 (830) 232-6132

    $26 - $150 / night

    "Bring your dancing boots, because they play amazing Texas county."

    "We were in walking distance of the park store and the river. The hiking here is fantastic. Must of the hikes include elevation changes and rocky ground, so I would call them moderately difficult."

    7. Parkview Riverside RV Park

    7 Reviews
    Concan, TX
    15 miles
    Website
    +1 (830) 232-4006

    "Let's start off with the positives:

    • Awesome friendly staff.
    • Old Pickleball court to practice on.
    • The Rio Frio...you can't beat it.
    • Friendly staff.
    • Quiet on the weekdays.
    • Dog friendly"

    "There are two river access points fairly close to each other. One is a dirt ramp and the other is a steep set of metal stairs."

    8. Shady Meadows — Garner State Park

    7 Reviews
    Concan, TX
    16 miles
    Website
    +1 (830) 232-6132

    $22 - $35 / night

    "The park was clean, people were friendly, and the area I camped at wasn't in Garner (the sites right across the river) but it was still a great spot next to the river."

    "I like that it is in “Old Garner”, so it is close to more of the trails, the main swimming area, the store, etc. but it is far enough away to be free of the noise and other activities that go with Old"

    9. River Crossing — Garner State Park

    6 Reviews
    Concan, TX
    15 miles
    Website
    +1 (830) 232-6132

    $22 - $30 / night

    "Had to drive to Park Headquarters to get Wi-Fi and that was spotty. Park store had plenty to offer but as you can imagine prices were a much inflated."

    "There are plenty of stores, a food truck, kayak and paddleboat rentals, mini golf, a laundromat, and great challenging hiking trails."

    10. Persimmon Hill — Garner State Park

    5 Reviews
    Concan, TX
    15 miles
    Website
    +1 (830) 232-6132

    $15 / night

    "At the pavilion around 830pm on the weekends they have a dance. A hike up Old Baldy is a must. It’s a workout but the views are well worth it. The RV sites are mostly level."

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Recent Camping Photos near Vanderpool, TX

136 Photos of 118 Vanderpool Campgrounds

Recent Reviews near Vanderpool, TX

382 Reviews of 118 Vanderpool Campgrounds

  • jThe Dyrt PRO User
    Oct. 11, 2025

    Guadalupe River Rentals RV Campground

    Concrete slabs

    There are approximately 4 sites across the street from the river. They’re concrete slabs. No vegetation. Couldn’t find anyone to try to reserve with then realized they’re just concrete slabs so we left.

  • Maegen N.
    Sep. 29, 2025

    Old River Road RV Resort

    Reasonable prices friendly staff

    Clean and very well maintained park on the Guadalupe River. Sites are spacious and beautiful trees have been planted everywhere. This park has amenities for the whole family. Two pools, including a heated indoor pool and hot tub. Two play grounds and one of them is covered and located next to a jump pad. The bathrooms were always clean and even have private showers. They also have very nice cabins for those who don’t have r.vs. The staff are some of the friendliest and are very helpful. They go above and beyond for their guests. We cannot wait to return for our next camping trip.

  • Sheila C.
    Sep. 28, 2025

    Old River Road RV Resort

    Beautiful and very clean

    This is a beautiful park next to the Guadalupe River. They have river access for swimming and fishing as well as 2 swimming pools. One out door pool with a splash pad for the little ones. Then they have an indoor pool and hot tub that is heated. They also have a great playground for kids as well as a covered basketball court. The basketball court also has a net that can be used for tennis or pickle ball. We have visited this park several times and always have a great experience!

  • JThe Dyrt PRO User
    Jul. 20, 2025

    Kerrville KOA

    Stayed on short notice, friendly staff

    Stayed on short notice just a few days before the flooding in Kerrville on the 4th of July. Arrived when it was dark and left before the shop was open. Worked for us and similar to other KOA's. Unsure if this location was impacted by the flooding

  • MThe Dyrt PRO User
    Apr. 25, 2025

    Kerrville-Schreiner Park

    Large city-run RV park, safe

    Large city-run park that straddles hwy. This site had water, 30 amp service, no sewer but dump near by the restrooms. Restrooms were run down, but clean enough, very hot shower water. LOTS of trees, birds, sites mostly level. Quiet. As noted, by other review, it is large and you'll need to take a map with you if you leave and return at night. There is a gate code to get back in, after hours. Some reviews noted a lot of road noise from hwy, but we were not anywhere near hwy, so NO noise. However, the south side of park is directly below airport approach and landing and pvt. jets and general aviation aircraft could be noisy and quite low over campground.

  • Z Y.The Dyrt PRO User
    Apr. 25, 2025

    River Trail Cottages & RV Park

    Peaceful river side grounds

    Loved our stay at River Trail Cottages& RV Park! Great spot near downtown, peaceful by the Guadalupe River. Big lawn, fire pits, grills—perfect for a picnic!

  • Ashley H.The Dyrt PRO User
    Apr. 21, 2025

    Old River Road RV Resort

    Clean, spacious and enjoyable RV Resort

    Very enjoyable campsite. We stayed for a month in March/April. The resort offered nightly activities like dinners and live music during their winter months which was enjoyable for us. Spacious sites. Plenty of options for big rigs. Very clean facilities. We ride motorcycles so really enjoyed the location on the edge of Kerville. We plan on coming back again!

  • James P.The Dyrt PRO User
    Mar. 17, 2025

    Buckhorn Lake Resort

    Nice

    Easy on/off interstate. Fast check in. Level sites.

Guide to Vanderpool

Camping near Vanderpool, Texas, offers a mix of beautiful scenery and outdoor activities. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or an adventure-filled getaway, this area has something for everyone.

What to do:

  • Hiking: Explore the stunning trails at Lost Maples State Natural Area. One visitor said, "The park is a must during autumn. The leaves change color and great weather. Wonderful hiking trails."
  • Swimming: Enjoy the refreshing waters at Rio Frio — Garner State Park. A camper mentioned, "The balance of sun and shade is perfect!" making it a great spot for a swim.
  • Fishing: Cast a line at Thousand Trails Medina Lake. One reviewer shared, "There are several places where you can throw down a tent so just bring your imagination," highlighting the area's fishing opportunities.

What campers like:

  • Scenic Views: Campers rave about the beautiful landscapes. One visitor at Kerrville-Schreiner Park said, "Great park near the Guadalupe River, amenities were as nice or better than most TX State Parks."
  • Wildlife: Many enjoy the local wildlife. A camper at Thousand Trails Medina Lake noted, "The deer are everywhere and so friendly," making for a delightful experience.
  • Family-Friendly Activities: Families appreciate the amenities at Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park™ Guadalupe River. One parent shared, "We’ve camped here 3 summers in a row because there is nothing like it," emphasizing the fun activities available for kids.

What you should know:

  • Crowded Campgrounds: Some areas can get busy, especially during peak seasons. A visitor at Lost Maples State Natural Area mentioned, "The campground was primarily tent campers mostly because a large scout troop was taking up a good third of the campground."
  • Limited Cell Service: Be prepared for spotty cell service in many campgrounds. A camper at Rio Frio — Garner State Park noted, "There is no cell service unless you have hiked up to the top of the ridge."
  • Reservations Recommended: It’s a good idea to book your spot ahead of time. One camper at Kerrville-Schreiner Park advised, "I’d recommend reserving in advance just in case."

Tips for camping with families:

  • Choose Family-Friendly Parks: Look for campgrounds with activities for kids, like Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park™ Guadalupe River. A visitor said, "Tons to do to keep them busy & entertained."
  • Pack Snacks and Drinks: Having food on hand can make outings easier. One parent at Thousand Trails Medina Lake mentioned, "There are lots of amenities such as a huge pool, playgrounds, dog runs, restrooms, laundry, trails, boat launch."
  • Plan for Activities: Make sure to have a list of activities to keep everyone engaged. A camper at Pecan Grove — Garner State Park said, "Lots of things to do, so you're never bored."

Tips from RVers:

  • Check Site Sizes: Make sure your RV fits the site. A visitor at Kerrville-Schreiner Park noted, "Most sites you pull in parallel to the road which is nice."
  • Look for Full Hookups: Many RVers prefer campgrounds with full hookups. One camper at Buckhorn Lake Resort mentioned, "Long pull through sites."
  • Be Prepared for Noise: Some campgrounds can be noisy, especially during busy times. A visitor at By the River RV Park said, "Can get loud at night but otherwise very nice place."

Camping near Vanderpool, Texas, offers a unique blend of nature and community. With plenty of activities and beautiful spots, it’s a great destination for families and outdoor enthusiasts alike.

Frequently Asked Questions

Which is the most popular campground near Vanderpool, TX?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Vanderpool, TX is Lost Maples State Natural Area Campground with a 4.5-star rating from 42 reviews.

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