Best Tent Camping near Vanderpool, TX

Looking for the best options for tent camping near Vanderpool? Find the best tent camping sites near Vanderpool. Whether you're looking for a quiet, dispersed site or an established camgpround with amenities, The Dyrt makes it easy to find the perfect place to pitch your tent.

Best Tent Sites Near Vanderpool, Texas (6)

    Barbara R.'s photo of tent camping at Rio Frio — Garner State Park near Concan, TX
    Camper-submitted photo at Rio Frio — Garner State Park near Concan, TX
    Camper-submitted photo at Rio Frio — Garner State Park near Concan, TX
    Camper-submitted photo at Rio Frio — Garner State Park near Concan, TX
    Camper-submitted photo at Rio Frio — Garner State Park near Concan, TX
    Camper-submitted photo at Rio Frio — Garner State Park near Concan, TX

    1. Rio Frio — Garner State Park

    36 Reviews
    143 Photos
    28 Saves
    Concan, Texas

    These water and electric (20/30/50 amp) sites are located in the Rio Frio camping areas. Site lengths and widths vary. Picnic table Outdoor grill Fire ring Water hookup Lantern post 20/30/50-amp electric hookup Restrooms with showers nearby

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    • Tents

    $26 / night

    Camper-submitted photo at Seco Ridge Campground near Vanderpool, TX

    2. Seco Ridge Campground

    1 Review
    6 Saves
    Vanderpool, Texas

    EXPERIENCE UTOPIA

    Private, family-friendly campgrounds in the Texas Hill Country. Great views, and just minutes from Garner State Park and Lost Maples State Natural Area. We offer 3 different types of camping experiences, so be sure to check out all of our listings. For bookings during the Texas 2'clipse dates: 10/14/23 (annular eclipse) and 4/8/23 (total solar eclipse) please call us for reservations at this time: 830-328-1059. We will be in the path of total darkness for both. Thanks!

    -PRIMITIVE TENT CAMPING SITES-

    Want to get back to nature?

    Our secluded primitive tent camping sites are for you. Includes tent pad, fire ring, access to Community Kitchen & our Shower Haus (aka bathrooms & showers). 14 day maximum per month.

    -CARGO GLAMPING TENT-

    Maybe you'd like to get back to nature in style?

    Enjoy our Cargo Glamping Tent - complete with king size bed, fire ring, and swings.

    -THE BUNKHAUS-

    Looking to get back to nature with all the creature comforts? Check out our Bunkhaus that sleeps 4, includes a queen size bed and a set of bunk beds. The Bunkhaus has electricity,

    A/C and Wifi.

    ALL OF OUR CAMPING EXPERIENCES INCLUDE ACCESS TO:

    • Communal Kitchen (sinks, fridge, grills, etc.)

    • The Shower Haus (flushing toilets, sinks, and hot showers)

    • The Tree House Play Area

    AROUND UTOPIA

    • Experience driving on the 'The Twisted Sisters' (Ranch Roads, 335. 336, and 337).

    • Garner State Park

    • Lost Maples State Natural Area

    • Tubing the Frio River

    • Sabinal River

    • Horseback Riding

    • Sabinal County Museum

    • Frio Bat Flight

    • Utopia Community Park - picnic, swim & fish under the enormous cypress trees.

    • Dine at Lost Maples Cafe, The Lunchbox, or take the 20 min drive to Mac & Ernie's Roadside Eatery in Tarpley, Tx (featured on Food Network)

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • Tents
    • Cabins

    $30 - $100 / night

    Camper-submitted photo at White Bluff Big Rock near Bandera, TX
    Camper-submitted photo at White Bluff Big Rock near Bandera, TX
    Camper-submitted photo at White Bluff Big Rock near Bandera, TX
    Camper-submitted photo at White Bluff Big Rock near Bandera, TX
    Camper-submitted photo at White Bluff Big Rock near Bandera, TX
    Camper-submitted photo at White Bluff Big Rock near Bandera, TX

    3. White Bluff Big Rock

    1 Review
    19 Photos
    71 Saves
    Bandera, Texas
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Reservable
    • Tents
    • Group
    • Dispersed

    $120 - $160 / night

    Eloy V.'s photo of tent camping at Concan Adventure Trails near Concan, TX
    Camper-submitted photo at Concan Adventure Trails near Concan, TX
    Camper-submitted photo at Concan Adventure Trails near Concan, TX
    Camper-submitted photo at Concan Adventure Trails near Concan, TX

    4. Concan Adventure Trails

    1 Review
    4 Photos
    2 Saves
    Concan, Texas

    In addition to off-roading, Concan Adventure Trails is home to a variety of attractions including hiking trails, primitive camping sites, stargazing and photography. All vehicles must be insured, registered street legal and operators must have a valid drivers license. We are a private ranch and require reservations. Book your visit today!

    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • Tents
    • Dispersed
    • Trash
    Brian V.'s photo of tent camping at Government Canyon State Natural Area near Helotes, TX
    Camper-submitted photo at Government Canyon State Natural Area near Helotes, TX
    Camper-submitted photo at Government Canyon State Natural Area near Helotes, TX
    Camper-submitted photo at Government Canyon State Natural Area near Helotes, TX
    Camper-submitted photo at Government Canyon State Natural Area near Helotes, TX
    Camper-submitted photo at Government Canyon State Natural Area near Helotes, TX

    5. Government Canyon State Natural Area

    15 Reviews
    43 Photos
    90 Saves
    Helotes, Texas

    On the north side of San Antonio lies a 12,000-acre wil­der­ness that protects the city’s drinking water. You’ll find your own “Recharge Zone” in this vast urban refuge.

    Government Canyon State Natural Area offers more than 40 miles of trails. You can also camp, attend a program or guided hike, geocache, picnic, take nature photos and look for birds and other wildlife. Your kids will connect with “natural fun” at our playscape and Discovery Trail.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    • Tents

    $18 / night

    Charles M.'s photo of tent camping at The Camping Spot near Uvalde, TX
    Camper-submitted photo at The Camping Spot near Uvalde, TX
    Camper-submitted photo at The Camping Spot near Uvalde, TX
    Camper-submitted photo at The Camping Spot near Uvalde, TX
    Camper-submitted photo at The Camping Spot near Uvalde, TX
    Camper-submitted photo at The Camping Spot near Uvalde, TX

    6. The Camping Spot

    2 Reviews
    10 Photos
    16 Saves
    Uvalde, Texas
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    • Tents

    $40 - $100 / night

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Showing results 1-6 of 6 campgrounds

Recent Tent Reviews near Vanderpool, Texas

293 Reviews of 6 Vanderpool Campgrounds


  • DThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Kerrville KOA
    Apr. 17, 2022

    Kerrville KOA

    unsafe for tent campers

    Modern and clean, tent sites level and new electric and water connections. However the layout for tent campers is problematical. The tent sites are directly on the street, so it’s like camping in someone’s front yard, without a fence. The whole situation made me very uneasy, so I brought things into our tent that normally I would have left in our SUV.

    We are early risers, so usually I walk my wife to the facilities just to be safe. For some reason I let her walk alone to the ‘rec room’ since I saw another couple in there. She drinks coffee and I don’t so it seemed she could grab some while I started to break down the campsite. However when she got there, the couple was gone and she found herself alone with someone who didn’t belong there (anyone can just walk in off the street). He started by asking if she was traveling alone. Just then another camper came in and my wife felt better, the trespassing individual left. However he waited for my wife at the corner of the building (it was still barely light). He then threatened and insulted her. Fortunately, she was carrying a bright camping lantern and she turned it on and shined it in his face, which took him aback, and then she ran back to our tent. After taking a deep breath, we went looking for him, and of course he was gone. (He came back later in the morning to terrorize someone who worked in the office, we found out later).

    We have lived for more than sixty years in the heart of NYC and my wife has never, ever, felt as endangered as she did in our overnight in this campground. If you are a woman tent camping alone or a couple with a woman, I would never camp here unless they get the tent sites behind some kind of perimeter and figure out how to keep intruders from entering.

  • H
    Camper-submitted photo from Texas Hill Country Resort
    Sep. 16, 2020

    Texas Hill Country Resort

    Relaxing amenities

    The main focus of the resort is the cabins, so the tent camping area is nice and quiet. Clean bathrooms, a nice pool area and hot showers were available to the tent areas. Now if the drought could fill the two ponds, this would be a really great getaway.

  • Leesa
    Camper-submitted photo from HTR TX Hill Country
    Oct. 19, 2020

    HTR TX Hill Country

    Tent camping right on the water

    We arrived after hours and without reservations on a Thursday evening in early October. We were able to secure a spot through the bartender at Wild Ass Hey Barn, which is on site and the location of the bathroom/showers. We were the only tent campers and were told to just set up on the grass by the river. Locals staying in RVs in the main area helped us find our way. It was a fantastic setting right next to the river. The regular tent sites are lined up along the river and had water. They were pretty close to each other, but right on the water in a tent only area. RV sites are farther inland and separate from the tent sites. Bathroom was basic, but clean.

  • Skye A.
    Camper-submitted photo from Neal's Lodge
    May. 17, 2018

    Neal's Lodge

    Primitive camping with excellent fun!

    This is one of the oldest campgrounds around. It has tent camping and cabins. They have concerts in the summer as well as a restaurant. They offer toobing shuttles and rent tubes as well. I love this place! Going again this year. Tents and cabins fill up quickly so reservations are a good idea.

  • julia W.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from HTR TX Hill Country
    Sep. 30, 2024

    HTR TX Hill Country

    Great place

    I tent camped for several days here. The staff are helpful, bathrooms are super clean with soap, decent water pressure and everything is so well kept. I was thoroughly impressed and will be back to try the other sites. I stayed at turtle falls. It was so peaceful listening to the water all night.

  • TThe Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Kerrville-Schreiner Park
    Mar. 30, 2024

    Kerrville-Schreiner Park

    Great tent camping

    The tent sites are huge and spread apart. Picnic tables and fire rings at each site. Flush toilets and showers. A highway run through the camp so there is some noise from that, mainly during the day. Town is 2 miles away.

  • Red S.
    Camper-submitted photo from Hill Country State Natural Area
    Feb. 8, 2025

    Hill Country State Natural Area

    I didn't stay there

    I was planning on staying there, but it is basically an equestrian state park. You can camp there, but there's not electrical and water hook ups. It's mostly tent camping. The staff was very friendly. I went to visit there just to see what it was about. If you're a hiker, there's hiking trails, so you'll enjoy that.

  • A
    Camper-submitted photo from Nueces River RV and Cabin Resort
    Sep. 28, 2020

    Nueces River RV and Cabin Resort

    Quite, clean & well layed out

    A very nice & well kept camp ground. This place has wonderful amenities for campers of all types. They have tent sites close to the water with electric, water, picnic tables and grills at what looks like every tent site. There are multiple gate ways leading into the beautiful Nueces river bed where you can explore, fish and swim in the crystal clear cool water. The cabins are beautiful, clean and thoughtfully placed. There are well placed and easy to pull through RV sites that look like they'll fit even the biggest rigs.They also have a driving range for golfers, a very nice pool area with splash pad, separate mens and womens bath houses/bathrooms, pavilions and even a laundry mat! There are also multiple play areas, volley ball court, basketball courts, and thoughtfully placed hanging porch swing type swings to sit and enjoy the views in. All very clean and well kept. I thoroughly enjoyed my tent stay and plan on coming back on a regular basis. Love this place.

  • rrincon78
    Camper-submitted photo from Kerrville-Schreiner Park
    Oct. 27, 2020

    Kerrville-Schreiner Park

    Great Alternative to State Parks

    I was pleasantly surprised to find tent sites available within 3 days of my visit (October 23-25, 2020). We stayed at one of their tent sites (#66) and pitched 2 tents for two families. Site had a hose bib, fire ring, and a new wooden picnic bench. Plenty of trees and other cover located at the site. Our site was across the street from the restroom/showers. The restroom and showers were older but kept clean. The trails at this park offer easy paths for families to enjoy along with mountain bikers. The camp host Lita was very nice and was available to purchase bundles of fire wood for $5 if needed. Overall, I was very pleased with this city park. The reasons for not giving it a full five stars is the outdated restrooms, an occasional Cessna flying over about 2-3 times a day, and the (what seemed frequent) emergency vehicles blaring their sirens. Note: although we only saw one armadillo, there was evidence of other wildlife in the park.

  • Jacob  W.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Kerrville-Schreiner Park
    Aug. 4, 2020

    Kerrville-Schreiner Park

    A hill country river and forest

    We tent camped here circa spring break 2012. We arrived around midnight and I think the host welcomed us. Regardless we got a good site on the east side of the highway and easily set up the tent with the car lights. We enjoyed the park hiking the forest on the west side. I braved the cold water of the river, swimming across and back with onlookers and my wife admiring my courage (or foolishness) from the bank. I laid on the rocks in the sun to dry off and warm up. We tested a Methodist church in our dirty camping clothes and received a warm welcome.

  • Paige R.
    Camper-submitted photo from Boulderdash Cabin & RV Park
    Jun. 12, 2018

    Boulderdash Cabin & RV Park

    Boulderdash tent camping

    this was a great location for spending some time on the medina river and close to medina lake. we camped in the tent camping area above the cabin. it's a bit of a steep walk from the campsite to the river, but not bad. we were able to carry our kayake with no problem. we were also able to use part of the grassy lawn next to the cabin which is closer to the river. only downside was a lot of dogs barking all night long. but if the time of year is right you will see fireflies and lots of deer. overall we enjoyed it a lot.

  • Autumn F.
    Camper-submitted photo from Rio Frio — Garner State Park
    Jul. 9, 2017

    Rio Frio — Garner State Park

    Camping on the Frio

    We have tent camped at Garer 8 times over the last 3 or 4 years. We have stayed in both the new part and the original part of the park. The original campground has huge, beautiful oaks, and is close to the camp store and Pavillion. That being said, we actually prefer to camp in the new sites, because you can easily get a spot that is right off the river by just a quick walk, and the bathrooms are newer. Bathrooms are equipped with 3 showers and 3 toilets and 2 sinks. There are lots of trails to hike/bike, and the park is very well maintained. One of our favorite places during the summer.

  • Kera P.
    Camper-submitted photo from Castroville Regional Park
    Nov. 10, 2020

    Castroville Regional Park

    Clean, quiet, feels of nature

    RV and tent camping areas. We dispersed-camped due to after sunset arrival. Park is clean and well used during the day, but the whole place got quiet at 7 pm. A cop patrolled the perimeter twice, once right at sunset then again 2 hours later. There were wildlife sounds all night long, i.e. coyotes yipping and owls hooting. The bathrooms are simple, but clean with flush toilets. The showers are currently shut off. Plenty of picnic tables and trash cans. In the morning expect joggers and dog walkers right at sunrise. There’s plenty to see and do if you stay for a while, the river is alongside the park and there are hilly walking trails.

  • Karen  B.
    Camper-submitted photo from Rio Frio — Garner State Park
    Dec. 29, 2019

    Rio Frio — Garner State Park

    Beautiful landscape and gorgeous river

    The park has sone beautiful hiking along the Frio river. We stayed in the sites with full hookup which seam to be newer with new restrooms not open at the time so we had a short walk to the visitor center bathroom which was minimal and not as clean as I would like. The sites with just water and electric were much shadier and beautiful. They also have tent camping, some with shelters. I believe cabins are also available. Checkin process was a little slow even though we had reservations, I suggest to them they should have a separate fast lane for those with reservations. The camp store and gift shop were very nice and well stocked with essentials. Fire wood was about $6 for a large bundle. Garner grill was not open.

  • Tiffany M.
    Camper-submitted photo from Neal's Lodge
    Oct. 11, 2018

    Neal's Lodge

    FUN TIME

    Neal's Lodges has primitive camp grounds, so you will not have water or electricity hookups. They also provide cabins, but who could resist getting to sleep in a tent right on the water.

    This is a great camping spot, we had tent site 3 and it was right on the water. We had a huge camping area. There was a big slide for adults and kids as well as beautiful big jumping rocks. They also had golf cart rentals for 24 hr periods which definitely came in handy. We were close to the restrooms which is great when you have kids. They had a store with all the supplies you forget or run out of, as well as a restaurant. They had a dance hall with a snack bar and offered excursions with the ranch animals.

  • Devin M.
    Camper-submitted photo from Kerrville-Schreiner Park
    Jun. 1, 2017

    Kerrville-Schreiner Park

    Don't be fooled...

    Don't be fooled, this city park originated as a State park and has all the amenities!

    We stayed in the Fox Run Loop towards the back of the park away from the highway and it was nice and quiet. The showers and restrooms were decent, again reflecting other Texas SP facilities.

    The trails varied in terrain and were well maintained as were the rest of the grounds. We didn't check out the river side of the park, however this June we are returning to and will be on the river side and will provide an update afterwards.

    UPDATE:

    Just got back from a weekend trip on the river side. Like the other reviews stated, it was a bit louder being so close to the highway. Additionally, there are street lamps by the ranger station that illuminate the tent sites which were annoying. It was nice however to be within short walking distance of the river, but if I were to go again, I'd stay on the other side of the park like my first time.

  • Jeff & Steff’s Excellent Adventure
    Camper-submitted photo from Thousand Trails Medina Lake
    Mar. 24, 2022

    Thousand Trails Medina Lake

    Great park with large sites!

    Medina Lake Thousand Trails RV Park is an awesome campground with large sites and lot of nature! There are trees and shade and it is along Medina Lake shores. The lake was dried up during our stay, but it was still beautiful views all around. They have 30 & 50 amp hook-up sites. Not all have sewer connections, but there is a dump station on site. There are tent sites, also. There are lots of amenities such as a huge pool, playgrounds, dog runs, restrooms, laundry, trails, boat launch, community center, games, basketball, pickle ball, mini golf, and so much more! Fun for the whole family. This campground does have a lot of deer around. We really enjoyed this park and the smell of nature here.

    For videos on this campground and others, check out our YouTube channel: Jeff & Steff’s Excellent Adventure

  • S
    Camper-submitted photo from BECS Store & RV Park
    Oct. 13, 2021

    BECS Store & RV Park

    Awesome

    The BEST hidden secret for camping in Texas. I mean wonderful camping privacy. Can’t beat the friendly Christian atmosphere

  • Crystal C.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Boulderdash Cabin & RV Park
    Apr. 30, 2019

    Boulderdash Cabin & RV Park

    Ranger Review: Primus Trail Backpacking Stove At Boulderdash Cabin & RV

    Texas is such a large state finding great campgrounds can quickly get a little overwhelming. There are so many amazing outdoor spaces and camping options that unless you really have something specific in mind you can get caught up comparing sites trying to determine which is the perfect fit for you.  

    This has always been the case for me in my home state and I feel as though I have missed many great locations as a result. One hidden gem I hadn’t yet discovered was Boulderdash Cabin And RV on Lake Medina just outside of Bandera.

    I was pleased to have this one brought to my attention and after booking through The Dyrt’s new online booking system I packed up my car in anticipation of a great trip down south. My original day to visit was met by some of the unpredictable Texas weathers, torrential downpour lasting 2 two days. I say that to say this, the campground owner and hosts were fully understanding of the predicament of me being a tent camper and unable to fully be able to enjoy the location in such conditions.  As a result they allowed me to push my reservation, something many campgrounds would not be so accommodating to do. 

    This set the tone for my trip and was echoed throughout my stay, amazing and kind customer service!

    CLICK HERE For Full Video Review

    Campground Review:

    Finally arriving at my site mid afternoon after a long drive, I was ready to get out and explore but also relax. I was greeted by the campground hosts upon my arrival with such a pleasant and welcoming reception. They showed me to my site, gave me a short tour of the small camp and told me a bit about the area so I could fully enjoy the amenities and know what to expect for a nights stay at the location.

    Amongst the highlights were the lake where you can fish, kayak, take in the sun or have a great moment around the fire ring, the nightly deer feeding just alongside the entry road and an additional patio for sunning or enjoying a peaceful retreat.

    The camp itself is very small, but with that comes a lot of charm. They did mention that there is currently underway an expansion possibly on the waterfront for additional tent camping options to expand the single tent site now available.  For those visiting in an RV there are several spaces available currently with substantial parking area for larger units in addition to the lake cabin featuring 3 bedrooms and an ample porch for outdoor entertaining. 

    The charm of the campground is definitely in the details from painted rocks around the patio area, the campground mascots hanging out at key places for interaction, the unique bathhouse created from a small horse trailer and equipped with rustic finishings and the deer corn and bird seed left for each camper so they can interact more with their surroundings. This is a place which uniquely unveils itself the more you explore.

    I had seen photos of the location but did not fully know what to expect, and boy was I surprised at how different my visit was than other reviewers from the site. When I arrived the lake was almost to the top of the camp border retainer wall, unlike other photos which I had seen when there was little to no water to explore.  Apparently the earlier in the season the more water usually you will find because later in the season the water is used for irrigation in surrounding areas and it becomes very low. Spring and early summer is the ideal time for lake related activities while late summer and fall are more about the discovery you can find along the banks and bed of the lake, which is more like hiking in my opinion.

    Tips:

    • Book in advance, especially if tent camping due to limited space. The Dyrt booking system is a perfect way to do this because it is extremely user friendly and allows you to communicate with the owner directly after your booking is confirmed if you have questions or any changes which need to be made before your reservation. 
    • GPS can be a bit tricky on the lake roads. While getting to the general proximity works well, the division of roads can be hit or miss with some GPS systems.  I use an Iphone and it had me take an extra block just to get to ultimately the same location I could have been a couple of minutes earlier had it have told me just to go straight.
    • Take advantage of the patio down the hill by the water. There is a full picnic table, 4 loungers and a fire ring with benches in this area. You can drive down or walk down, set up and have a great meal right by the water. 
    • Don’t forget to ask about kayaks! There are 2 kayaks available for rent, you need only ask in advance to reserve them for your usage.

    For More Information About Fishing At Lake Medina CLICK HERE

    For More Information About Bandera CLICK HERE

    Product Review:

    As a Ranger for the Dyrt, in addition to having access to great campgrounds, I also am given the opportunity to try and review products and gear best suited for my active camping lifestyle. For my trip to Baulderdash I was able to prepare all my meals using the Primus Power Trail Backpacking Stove With Piezo.

    I was a little worried I wouldn’t have the stove before my trip with only a couple of weeks between booking and estimated camping date, however from order to delivery there was less than a week’s time, arriving well before I departed for my trip. To be honest I didn’t want to try it out or anything until I arrived at my campsite so I could get a true feel for the size, the function and overall experience since this was my first Primus item.

    **First Impression: **

    The size seemed a good fit for what I was looking for.  I have used a camping stove previously and knew I wanted something similar in size but also something which would address all my previous concerns with the other brand. 

    What Were My Previous Brand Concerns?:

    • Uneven Heating
    • Wind 
    • Heating Time
    • Starting
    • Balancing

    With all these concerns, I decided to play it safe and make sure I had the instructions with me just in case. (Available in multiple languages) And while I did read them, I really didn’t have to because the stove was very user friendly when I actually started assembling it. (I would suggest a new user who has never used a backpacking stove to give it a quick once over)

    I opted for this stove because of its 4 stove balancing points. My previous stove had only 3 and many times it made it difficult to balance when my surface was not entirely even or if my food was slightly shifted in my pan. The 4 points are pulled upward from their fold and locked into place tightly, giving another layer of security to me when using the stove and checking off one of my concerns.

    The stove attaches to your propane bottle by screwing it onto the top.  With this you want to have a firm hold because if it is not screwed on tight enough it will not start. You will quickly know if it isn’t on tight enough when you twist the piezo because you will not hear the gas flowing. I learned this on the second use when I was making my breakfast and I thought I had broken it by not putting it in my bag the same way it had been previously. Gave me a little panic, only to discover it was operator error not stove damage.

    Having the piezo and igniter fully eliminated my frustrations which came from starting and lighting the previous stove, which I always felt was a bit dangerous because you would have to ignite it right at the source of the gas and many times it would intensely flair up. The Primus keeps you at a safe distance from the actual starting of the flame so check off another concern!

    To cook on the stove I opted to really test its heating ability. I did so using chilled water, wanting to see just how long it actually would take to bring it to a rolling boil for use on a variety of common camping needs.  Less than 10 minutes and my water was rolling and steaming maxing out temps high enough for pretty much anything I could ever need from creating an egg omelet in a sandwich bag, hydrating a meal, boiling water safe consumption or making piping hot water thermos for keeping warm in my tent on a cold night. 

    In my opinion, the timing was very good. In addition, though there was a bit of wind it seemed to continue burning consistently instead of all of the flames shifting to a single side.  While I didn’t test the overall even cooking because I had only boiled water I can only assume from the other results that this also would be addressed and answered by the balancing and also even flame.

    I hydrated a dehydrated meal for dinner, anyone who has done this before knows if the water isn’t warm enough it will not cook through and you will be eating pure crunchy starch. That meal turned out great! In the morning, I made my protein packed oatmeal with dehydrated fruits and a coffee.  Layering the fruits on the bottom to allow them the most access to hydrating following with oats and protein powder I was able to with the Primus create a breakfast quality mirroring that of what I could have made with a full kitchen at home requiring a stove, chopping block and coffee maker, all with a single burner.

    Tips:

    • Try the Primus pots to cook with on the stove. Designed by Primus the materials are durable and have a non-stick element to them that is unmatched in my opinion. Not to mention by using these you are guaranteed an even cook because they are designed with the perfect dimensions for the cook surface and when using you will not have to worry about your pot or pan being sized to large on your surface and becoming tipsy.
    • Store items together. If you do choose to use the Primus pots and pans, you can easily store your Power Trail Backpacking Stove within its pouch and inside the pots and pans to reduce your footprint in you bag or when storing your items when not traveling. Think of those nesting dolls and how they stow one inside another, this is basically the same thing.

    For Full Product Review Video CLICK HERE

  • Troy W.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Lost Maples State Natural Area
    Apr. 1, 2020

    Lost Maples State Natural Area

    Lost Maples State Natural Area Primitive Campsite H

    Lost Maples State Natural Area has some beautiful hiking trails and backpacking areas. If you need basic supplies you may find some at the general store in the small town nearby the park named Vanderpool. 

    Perhaps the best time of the year to visit is in November when the weather is cool and the fall foliage take place. However, the park is very busy in November, so make a reservation six months in advance. If no campsites are available you may visit for the day and find a private campground nearby to camp.

    There are basically two loops- an East Trail and a West Trail and each covers about 4-5 miles. It is completely possible to hike all the trails(about 12 miles) in a single day, but I prefer to hike and appreciate the natural features that can be found throughout the park.

    This review is for the Primitive Area H on the West Trail.  The campsite is a primitive or dispersed site so there are no amenities. There is no water, no electricity, no restrooms, just natural space. Leave No Trace and Pack In Pack Out principles should be practiced. The camping area is adjacent to the West Trail and close to the West Loop Trail. There is a open field in one area and a tree covered space in another area. So there are options for both tent and hammock backpackers. 

    This park has a number of peaks, creeks and ponds to view. In Texas State Parks fishing is allowed and no fishing license is required. Whether you're visiting to relax, fish or hike this park is enjoyable for all ages.

  • Troy W.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Lost Maples State Natural Area
    Dec. 31, 2019

    Lost Maples State Natural Area

    Lost Maples State Natural Area Primitive Area E

    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. It is completely possible to hike all the trails (about 12 miles) in a single day, but I prefer to hike and appreciate the natural features that can be found throughout the park. 

    This review is for the Primitive Area E on the West Trail. The campsite is a primitive or dispersed site so there are no amenities. There is no water, no electricity, no restrooms, just natural space. Leave No Trace and Pack In Pack Out principles should be practiced. The camping area is adjacent to the East Trail. There is a open field in one area and a tree covered space in another area. So there are options for both tent and hammock backpackers. 

    I'd say that the hike to the campsite and away from the campsite is more scenic than the actual campsite. Perhaps the best time of the year to visit is in November when the weather is cool and the fall foliage take place. The park is very busy in November, so make a reservation very early or go when the weather is extremely cold and no one else wants to be outdoors.

    If you need supplies you may find some basics at the general store in the small town nearby the park named Vanderpool.

  • Troy W.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Lost Maples State Natural Area
    Dec. 11, 2019

    Lost Maples State Natural Area

    Lost Maples + Fall Foliage

    Everyone loves Lost Maples State Natural Area, whether you are a RV camper, car camper, backcountry camper or just visiting for the day and day hiking. There's a little something for everyone. 

    Perhaps the best time of the year to visit Lost Maples is in the Autumn when the fall foliage is occurring - it is often during the first three weeks of November. However, during fall foliage it can be very difficult to reserve a campsite, so I recommend booking a campsite 6 months in advance. Or do what I did and show up on a really cold weekday when no one else is interested in being outside in 25 degree weather and there will be plenty of space to car camp or backcountry camp.

    If you camp at the established drive-up campground there are assigned campsites with space for cars, vans and RVs. At each campsite there is a sunshade shelter, picnic table, lantern pole, water, electricity and campfire pit with a grill. There is also a restroom nearby with sinks, toilets, showers and a water fountain. There is even a little free library where you can take a book to read or leave a book to share. 

    If you camp in the backcountry there are designated and marked zones where you just set up your tent. There are no facilities in the backcountry campsites so leave no trace practices should be applied. Near some of the backcountry campsites there are latrines.

    The park has well maintained hiking trails that will lead you by pastures, through forest, alongside creeks and up some hills. It is possible to hike the 8 to 10 miles of trails in one day, but it is more fun to go slow and enjoy the sights. There is an East Trail Loop and a West Trail Loop and some spur trails. Pick up a map at the Ranger Station and enjoy the trails. Some of the trails have steep rock ascents which are indicated on the park map.

    If you need supplies there is a small store with basics in the nearby town of Vanderpool.

    While you are in the area, you may as well stop by Bandera, Texas known as the cowboy capital of the world. It is a small Texas town and every weekend they celebrate cowboy culture with some performances and events.

  • Troy W.The Dyrt PRO User
    Camper-submitted photo from Lost Maples State Natural Area
    Apr. 1, 2020

    Lost Maples State Natural Area

    Lost Maples State Natural Area Primitive Campsite A

    Lost Maples State Natural Area has some beautiful hiking trails and backpacking areas. If you need supplies you may find some basics at the general store in the small town nearby the park named Vanderpool. 

    There are basically two loops- an East Trail and a West Trail and each covers about 4-5 miles. It is completely possible to hike all the trails(about 12 miles) in a single day, but I prefer to hike and appreciate the natural features that can be found throughout the park. 

    This review is for the Primitive Area A on the West Trail. I'd say that the hike to the campsite and away from the campsite is more scenic than the actual campsite. The campsite is a primitive or dispersed site so there are no amenities. There is no water, no electricity, no restrooms, just natural space. There is a latrine near the campsite. Leave No Trace and Pack In Pack Out principles should be practiced. There are openings amongst the brush for tents or a number of closely spaced trees for hammock backpackers. 

    Perhaps the best time of the year to visit is in November when the weather is cool and the fall foliage take place. However, the park is very busy in November, so make a reservation at least six months in advance. It is possible to just visit the park to day hike the trails as well, but even then a reservation is advisable.

    If no campsites are available you may camp at a nearby private campground and visit for the day.

  • S
    Camper-submitted photo from HTR TX Hill Country
    Aug. 23, 2019

    HTR TX Hill Country

    Awesome

    It is August in Texas, very hot, we have to have shade and water to camp. This has it all. Our site had lovely cottonwood trees and right on the small branch of the river. Walk across small rapids and crystal clear water to another side of the park with access to the main river for canoeing, kayaking, you name it.
    There are several small walking trails. Three separate sections... rv full service, rv water/elec., tents. All lovely. Don’t like river water... check out the pool ❤️. Also lots of birds! All the sights and sounds of Texas camping. We watched the ducks fly in every evening, along with a lovely blue heron. Turtles have their own little island. We watched the bats swarm the evening sky eating their fill. Then we were visited by lightning bugs. The frogs will sing to you all night. Suggest a prime spot... slightly more but larger and lots of room to spread out! Lovely people, very attentive, very very clean! We will return!

  • Analia F.
    Camper-submitted photo from Texas Hill Country Resort
    Oct. 18, 2018

    Texas Hill Country Resort

    Glamping!

    Sometimes it is nice to stay in cabins instead of a tent or RV. Normally when my family and I go we will stay in a tent or take our RV, depending on how long we are going to stay. These cabins are super cute, and have great names for them. One of them is named " The George Straight." I love little special touches like this. There is a swimming pool on site which was nice to keep us cool in the Texas summer heat. Although the pool was pretty busy with kids! We didn't mind this since the lake was only a few hundred yards away. In the morning we had coffee at the small table in the cabin and could see the beautiful lake through the window. Also, seeing the white tail deer walking around the campground was incredible, too. Nothing like being able to see wildlife like this! Lots of chipmunks/squirrels as well that are definitely used to humans being around. There are shaded areas with picnic tables on site as well as grills for BBQ. They also have a café on site that serves meals during the weekends. We enjoyed having this as an option, although we brought plenty of food for our cabin to munch on. We did some hiking nearby which was a lot of fun, and had views of the entire lake. We also played in the lake, BBQ and enjoyed some people watching. Overall, we look forward to the next time we can come again!

  • T
    Camper-submitted photo from Lost Maples State Natural Area
    Jun. 15, 2018

    Lost Maples State Natural Area

    Awesome place for a Girls Trip AND fall foliage!

    Went here on a short backpacking trip with about 10 other ladies and primitive camped about a mile or into the area. It was a GREAT area for all of our tents and a great area for commrodity! We had a blast and will return! The hike out to the primitive camping area was moderate and fairly flat. You do cross a creek bed so be prepared to get wet if the flow is good. Plenty of flat spaces for tents and plenty of space away from your neighbors. Star gazing was good!


Guide to Vanderpool

Vanderpool, Texas, offers a fantastic escape for tent campers looking to immerse themselves in nature. With a variety of campgrounds nearby, outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy beautiful landscapes and a range of amenities.

Tent campers appreciate these amenities

Some prices for tent camping range from $20 to $40

  • Camping at White Bluff Big Rock offers a private experience with affordable rates, ideal for those seeking tranquility.
  • Concan Adventure Trails is known for its reasonable pricing and family-friendly atmosphere, making it a great choice for weekend getaways.
  • The rates at The Camping Spot are competitive, providing a unique camping experience close to the Nueces River.

Local attractions and activities

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Which is the most popular tent campsite near Vanderpool, TX?

    According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular tent campground near Vanderpool, TX is Rio Frio — Garner State Park with a 4.5-star rating from 36 reviews.

  • What is the best site to find tent camping near Vanderpool, TX?

    TheDyrt.com has all 6 tent camping locations near Vanderpool, TX, with real photos and reviews from campers.