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Stillhouse Park is a day use area that has two reservable group pavilions along the shore of Stillhouse Hollow Lake in central Texas. With activities such as picnicking, swimming, basketball and fishing, the park is popular for family gatherings and other large group events. Stillhouse Hollow Lake was created by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers with the construction of Stillhouse Hollow Dam in 1968. The 6,430-acre lake is located 16 miles upstream of the confluence of the Lampasas and Leon Rivers, which flow into the Little River.
With 58 miles of shoreline, Stillhouse Hollow Lake is an often uncrowded haven for boaters and fishermen. Those who do not have motor boats, canoes or kayaks can rent them nearby. A variety of land-based activities are also offered, such as volleyball, basketball and horseshoes. Birding is a favorite pastime for many visitors. Hawks, great blue herons, ducks, geese, many species of songbirds, bobwhite quail, Rio Grande turkey and even an occasional bald eagle visit the lake area, yielding year-round opportunities for bird sightings.
The lake's only marina and fuel dock are located within the park. There are two reservable group pavilions, Island View and Tear Drop, which can each hold up to 120 visitors. There are also nearly 40 individual picnic sites around the beach area, as well as a swimming beach popular with families.
Aside from the park and two nearby campgrounds, very little of the lakeshore is developed. It has rocky beaches and sandy bluffs along the edges, and much of it is forested. Stillhouse Park has grassy, open areas interspersed with trees. The lake has noticeably clear and deep water inhabited by largemouth bass, smallmouth bass and channel catfish. A man-made wetland was constructed on the south shore of the lake, providing an additional 10 acres of wildlife habitat in the lake area.
The nearby Village of Salado offers golf, art galleries and shopping, among other activities. Chalk Ridge Falls Environmental Learning Center is below the Stillhouse Hollow Lake Dam. The center has about five miles of hiking trails, including a one-mile nature trail along the Lampasas River, a spring-fed creek, a waterfall, bridges and several wildlife viewing points. Stillhouse Hollow Lake is located near the Fort Hood Army Base, which has several points of interest for the military buff.
$120 / night
Whether you’re a camping enthusiast or just looking for some peace and quiet for a night, Hackberry Hills has the best to offer. Enjoy a night sleeping under the stars, rocking in a hammock or nestled in a tent. Fall asleep to the sound of the cicadas and coyotes and wake up to a beautiful sunrise and the rooster crowing. Cast a line for bass or catfish, paddle the canoe, hunt for wild berries, or simple enjoy the view. Minutes away from Baylor, Magnolia, and everything else Waco has to offer. You’re guaranteed to leave rested and relaxed.
$30 - $40 / night
$25 - $47 / night
100 acre private camping land with camp site that has a view of the water. Stocked pond with fish and tons of wildlife on the property. Plenty of room to hike and explore. You are able to bring a vehicle right up to campsite. Actively managed to increase and preserve wild life activity. Great place for small or large parties to enjoy an all natural camping experience. Pets are welcome.
Pitch a tent at the far corner of the property to enjoy the natural pond. Just follow the mowed trail to the end. There is a fire pit we use with bricks. Feel free to collect fallen limbs and make a fire where you see responsibly safe. The trail does get muddy after a rain , we will do our best to fill holes that get too deep
$20 - $50 / night
15 Acres just 45min north of College Station, TX and 45min South of Temple, TX right off HWY 6
Enjoy a campfire, tent camping, hammocks, and peace and quiet in a secluded ranch. Only sounds you'll hear is a distant train on a still night, the occasianal coyote, and the sparks from a roaring camp fire.
2 beautiful ponds with fishing and a mix of both wooded and open areas.
Currently off-grid camping only with port-a-toilet. No water/electric. Cell service available for most carriers.
Closest grocery store 19 min drive in Hearne, TX. Only 10 min from cozy town of Calvert, TX Includes gas stations, restraunts, bars w/game room (billiards, darts, tvs)
$5 - $20 / night
Temples Lake Park is a day-use facility with over 60 picnic sites and one reservable group area on the southern shore of Belton Lake. The lake provides some of the best fishing and boating in Central Texas and the park offers amenities for large groups of up to 80 people, such as flush toilets, showers, a playground, a swim beach and two two-lane boat ramps. Belton Lake was created by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers with the construction of Belton Dam in 1954. The 12,300-acre lake is located on the Leon River, just upstream of the confluence of the Leon River and the Little River.
Temples Lake Park is a destination for boaters and anglers. Popular fish species include hybrid striped bass, largemouth bass, white bass, catfish and sunfish. Visitors can also make use of a swimming beach, volleyball and basketball courts and a playground in the facility.
The park has one group shelter called Temple's Pavilion that must be reserved. There are also 62 picnic sites that do not need reservations. The park has excellent water access and convenient amenities, including flush toilets, drinking water and showers.
The facility is directly on the shores of Belton lake with mostly open sunny spaces, occasionally dotted with trees. Deer, turkey and other small game are commonly seen, and a man-made wetland on the opposite side of the lake was constructed to provide an additional 25 acres of wildlife habitat in the lake area.
Belton Lake is located adjacent to the Fort Hood Army Base, which has several points of interest for the military buff. The mural painted on the spillway wall of Belton Dam depicts the history of the Bell County area.
For facility specific information, please call (254) 742-3050.
$40 - $70 / night
Traveler
This Is a great area to camp near Waco without having to travel far. Just 5 minutes outside the Waco City limits, these grounds have a lot of hook up spots without feeling too crowded. Its also a great place to tent camp, or use one of a few cabins that are available. Nearly every camp site is a stones throw from the water. Great Swimming and fishing. There are a number of places to pull your boat up to shore. There is a play ground, but its only near a few sites and quite a distance from most sites. But for older kids with bikes, it's a fun ride. There are deer and rabbits and birds and squirrels. Its a nice little spot that is laid out to feel big.
Traveler
We tent camped in a primitive spot #47. Overall the spot was nice but not very level making the best placement of our large tent a bit of a challenge. Vault toilets were clean and had hand sanitizer. The nature and hiking in this park was our favorite part. Even rented a canoe and paddled across the lake to the river. Park staff were friendly and helpful. Some primitive tent sites are right on the edge of the lake and after a big rain were very swampy. I believe all sites had partial shade and some have more privacy than others. We did spot some full hook up sites in the RV section that have good space for a tent set up and we may try that next time cause we definitely will be back.
Legend
What a great park full of history! Mother Neff has a lot to offer and is just about 30 miles from Waco, TX that is known for all the Magnolia stuff! The park headquarters have a lot of information so you can figure out your trip and hit all the main attractions in one decent hike! The cave is an amazing part of history and is definitely a must-see!
Leon river runs through this park, although we are currently in a drought so it is as dry as a bone. The Tonkawa tribe lived along the river in the 1800's and many artifacts have been found along with the awesome cave they used. You can also see the wash pond and parts of the original park in the 1930's. There are lots of trees which make for some great trails and lots of shade. Plus the facilities are brand new and so nice.
The trails are quite short and you could go through the whole park in a day but it is well worth the drive to see and feel the history around you. The do have some really nice RV sites, but the tent camping is very limited and closed currently along with the cabins because of flooding. The park has been destroyed many times from the Leon River flooding and is still in the process of being cleaned up.
Also if you take a 7 mile drive down the road to The Grove, TX, you will find another beautiful piece of history. The Grove a tiny, tiny little ghost town that was established in the 1860's! If you love seeing old buildings it is definitely worth the quick drive and take some awesome pics! Some of the original buildings are still there.
I took a trip here with my son and my grandmother and it was such a fun experience. All of the main attractions were able to be seen from the main trail so my grandma was able to keep up and see the park she has memories of as a kid. She said it is much more fancy now than it was in the 60's!
Scout
Great COE campground on Lake Whitney with well spaced sites for trailers and tent camping. Includes a large section for equestrian campers that includes paddocks for your horse as well as trails to ride on. There are both 30 and 50 amp spots as well as tent camping sites. A boat launch, shallow swimming areas and 2 playgrounds round out this fantastic, family friendly campground!
Traveler
Clean and quiet. I probably wouldn’t stop here again tent camping in the winter. Random windstorm 30mph no way really to block it. I felt like it was more of an RV park. Plenty of deer and pretty view of the lake. Clean restrooms.
Traveler
This is a gorgeous place to camp. We did tent camping this pass week. Our camp site was right by the water an absolutely gorgeous view to wake up to. I will definitely come back. The only draw back was the winds, they were so strong they shattered our tent poles. So i would recommend to definitely check the weather before selecting a date.
TravelerThe hidden gem of Lake Whitney. Tent sites are tucked in the back of the park away from foot traffic and most vehicles. Lake front sites are perfectly located with access to the lake but not too far from hard stand bathrooms and showers. We will definitely be coming back again.
Traveler
Stayed in a screened shelter right in the lake because it was supposed to rain. The trails were nice and there were some good views. Some are definitely appropriate for beginners like me. We definitely will go back for tent camping. Note that the "lake" is very small - no motor boats. Folks were enjoying bank fishing and kayaking. The Rangers seemed omni-present. We enjoyed our stay.
GuideThis campground is nice and clean. The lake is small but has fish in it. Our tent site was kind of close to the road and there was a weird dude driving a suburban around all day and night. Plenty of trees to hammock camp. I would stop here again. They sell wood on site(pay with CC)
TravelerTent camped at site 60 which was great! Right off the water and super close (but not too close) to the restrooms. Weather for us was rough with high winds the first day but the next two were beautiful! Lots of wildlife, as we were pulling into the park we saw lots of deer..and throughout our stay we were visited by some Canadian Geese. The fire circle comes with a grill but it’s pretty small, and this specific site isn’t very level but we found a spot for our tent. Definitely coming back!
ScoutThe reason I'm leaving three stars is because we have small kids and tent camp. There was sand spurs all over the ground. I had to try to shovel out most before putting the tent out. It didn't matter, every 2 minutes the kids where crying or I was pulling one out of the dogs paw or my leg. They didn't seem as bad around other parts of the park. However, spot 48 and the tent areas around there were terrible. Other then dealing with sand spurs the entire time, the view and lake was nice!
GuideWe tent camped at a sheltered cabin - cabin had two tables, water, and electric, plus a fan! Lots of easy water access. Showers and restrooms were available but definitely would advise these are "natural" bathrooms. Park staff very friendly. Sheltered cabins not super close to one another so helped with privacy and making you feel like you aren't crowded. No hiking trails though but is close to Mammoth if you want to spend a day there. About 3 hours from San Antonio. Wifi and cell service
Guide
This camp ground was great. We tent camped by the water in section 3 and had the whole site to our self. The lake was nice to canoe on and had a beautiful view of the sunset.
The bathrooms were to far to walk so we had to drive to them ever time and there were no showers so this was a negative.
If you stay on the water just plan for the wind it was blowing the whole time and really hard at some points. Also there is no shade by the water so bring a shade tent.
Last thing this is a open camp ground and we had several people late at night ride by and shine there lights in our tent.
GuideMy wife, dog, and I headed here for an impromptu overnight. We did not know what to expect, though. We were tent camping, and the campground is pretty small and quite. We loved the place. We got one of the Shinnery Ridge West "primitive" sites which means no water faucet nearby, but it was right on the lake and had a nice picnic table and grill. We had plenty of room and the site could have held two tents.
We hiked two trails: the Shinnery Ridge trail made about a 2 mile loop from our campsite. The first quarter mile or so was paved like a sidewalk to be ADA accessible. It then went up a ridgeline and looped back down. There weren't any great views, but there were lots of rabbits.
The Bosque hiking trail looped the entire lake in about 2.5 miles. You get to see areas of the lake filled with lilly pads and walk across the dam. On the far side of the lake from our site was the swimming area & boat ramp, and we were able to get more water to drink as we went by.
The swimming area was pretty good. It isn't sandy, but the lake isn't very rocky and it gently slopes down to allow you to wade out and splash and play. You can rent kayaks and SUPs by the hour here. The lake seemed sheltered enough to make these great options, but we did not take advantage on this trip.
GuideTexas Parks & Wildlife (TPW) goes BIG with this sweet little park! In 2015, a new Visitors Center and 20-site campground were built among the remnants of the old CCC structures. Little reminders of CCC construction were visible just feet from my campsite (#17)… a portion of an old wall and BBQ pits. The campsite itself was wonderful! Plenty of spacing between neighboring sites. Freshly raked gravel, four large benches/chunks of quarried limestone, a picnic table, fire pit, pole with two hooks for hanging trash or gear, water, and electric. No specific tent site— since the whole area was level. Just a short walk along a path from my campsite to the restroom/shower facilities, which were very clean. Womens’ side had two sinks, three bathroom stalls- with one being ADA accessible, and two shower stalls, one of which was ADA accessible. The restroom had a large outdoor sink area, a little library, bike rack, and informational bulletin board. Only a few miles of hiking trails within the park, but beautifully maintained, with walking access to trail system from the campground. If you’re driving a taller/bigger vehicle, you’ll want to consider using those trail access points, rather than driving back to the small trailhead parking lots. The road leading back to the TH parking areas has an 8 ft height limit. Hiking highlights are an old CCC viewing tower, a CCC picnic table, a cave, and old washing pond. Camp hosts were cordial, and Park/Visitors Center staff were helpful and efficient with check in process. I received a call from the Park staff earlier in the morning on the day of my arrival, to let me know the entrance road from the south into the park was closed, so I’d have to access from the north, and also to let me know a county-wide burn ban was in effect, so no campfires during my stay in March 2022.
Legend
This campground is the closest, of the lake campgrounds, to Waco. After a fun day at Magnolia Farms and DT Waco we found this campground on, the Dyrt, of course. We stopped at Walmart on the way and arrived just in time to jump in the lake. It was refreshing after a long hot day and we got to watch the sunset as we floated in the water. You have to reserve a spot on recreation.gov if you arrive after 6 PM. The reticent off duty camp host notified me that I couldn’t stay unless I made the reservation online. If you are in an RV there are a lot of lake view sights w great shade and some w canopies over the tables. We stayed at a “tent” ($16) site in our minivan. I’m still not sure where the water is for the tent ⛺️ people because I snuck over to one of the open RV sites to get water. There is a decent bathroom with toilet and shower which can’t be beat for $16.
GuideThis campground is right on the shores of Lake Waco and we had a site with a view of the water. Lot's of space between sites and covered picnic area. The best part was its proximity to the city of Waco. We were able to go into town to pick up provisions, do a little sightseeing, and then escape to the remoteness of the lake. Would definitely return to this one!
Traveler
We stayed two nights while passing through Waco. Friendly people. Very clean, spacious sites.
LegendThis is a little park on a corner of lake Waco next to the Twin Bridges. This park has everything you need, but nothing more. If you are looking at doing the whole Waco things and not spending to much time at your campsite, here is the place to do it. It is only 12 to 24 dollars a night and you can reserve your site online beforehand.
The park has all major amenities with clean bathrooms and showers. There is a boat ramp and a dock for fishing but don't expect much. Be aware about half the park has trees, the other side doesn't. So if your looking for shade make sure you view the sites online to see what you are getting. The park is dog friendly and the sites aren't too close together which makes for a nice stay.
If you are looking to swim, Twin Bridges park across the lake has a man-made beach and a huge playscape for kids. Also Waco is home to Magnolia so take a 15 minute drive into town and check it out.
It is a great place i terms of convenience. You are right in the middle of all of Waco's attractions and there is an HEB and Walmart near. Also the best pizza in the world is a local joint called Papa Rollo's which is located in Hewitt about 10 minutes away.This park is a great place to call home for a few nights!
GuideWe setup right next to the Lake Waco, we enjoyed a light breeze coming off the lake most of the time. We arrived after the gate house closed but before the gates closed. Sites look level but we needed to reposition a couple times to get everything thing level and maximize the view. All sites come with covered picnic table and fire ring. Not many trees so shade is hard to find. Was a great place to stay and is close to Waco. Only negative was the bathhouse needed some attention. But overall this is a good place to stay
Scout
If you want a quiet place that’s not at a busy and crammed RV park, this is the spot! Close to everything Waco.
Scout
Great spot with easy in and out from the interstate. HUGE pull through spaces with picnic tables. Convenient to Waco. Will definitely stay again when in town.
Guide
We are a small family with dogs and camp primarily on weekends. The road to the campsite is full of potholes. Once there, the campsite was quiet and comfortable. No hiking nearby but nice views of the lake and a marina full of interesting houseboats; some boats in the morning are loud out on the lake. Not too many obvious long term people, neat campsites. Plenty of people fishing. We stayed in A68 but I think the sites at the end would be better so far as lake views. Bathrooms could be cleaner. Some fire ants but it’s Texas. Saw plenty of wildlife (raccoon, skunks, deer, toad, waterbirds). Short drive to Waco and the Mammoth National Monument (which has RV parking).
Legend
Excellent campground. Very clean. Hard stand shelters over picnic tables. Beautiful views of Waco lake. We were there after season so the neighboring resort was closed. Lots of trails to walk.
Legend
Lake Waco may not be the cleanest or prettiest lake, but when it comes to fishing, you can bring in a good amount of catfish and have a fish-fry to make up for it! I love the peacefulness of Speegleville park. It isn't a very big park, so the site space is limited but that just makes for a quieter stay. This park is catered to RV's and fisherman. Every site is an RV site with a few screened cabins at the end of the lot.
There are a total of 4 boat ramps so this is the perfect place to bring your flat bottom and go fishing! The bathrooms are very clean and the park rangers are very helpful if you have any questions about what is near or things to do. There is also a great floating restaurant next door at the Lake Waco Marina.
This is not the place to go swimming, but it is great for fishing, hiking some short trails, or bird watching. Just be aware there isn't a lot of shade around the sites and in the summer it get really toasty! There is not a store here but there is a gas station/ dollar general 8 miles down the road or you could take a quick drive into Waco for HEB or Walmart.
I know there is a lot of talk about the Magnolia stuff in Waco, so if your coming for that don't forget to check out the Fixer Upper boat next door in the Marina. If you are looking for swimming for the kids check out Twin Bridges park about 5 miles away.
This little gem is back off some country roads so it may be difficult to find, but GPS is helpful. Speegleville park is just a great place to get away. You are far enough from any major roads and sometimes it is nice to just listen to the crickets and birds with no distractions.
Don't forget your fishing poles and minnows!
LegendLake Waco may not be the cleanest or prettiest lake, but when it comes to fishing, you can bring in a good amount of catfish and have a fish-fry to make up for it! I love the peacefulness of Speegleville park. It isn't a very big park, so the site space is limited but that just makes for a quieter stay. This park is catered to RV's and fisherman. Every site is an RV site with a few screened cabins at the end of the lot.
There are a total of 4 boat ramps so this is the perfect place to bring your flat bottom and go fishing! The bathrooms are very clean and the park rangers are very helpful if you have any questions about what is near or things to do. There is also a great floating restaurant next door at the Lake Waco Marina.
This is not the place to go swimming, but it is great for fishing, hiking some short trails, or bird watching. Just be aware there isn't a lot of shade around the sites and in the summer it get really toasty! There is not a store here but there is a gas station/ dollar general 8 miles down the road or you could take a quick drive into Waco for HEB or Walmart.
I know there is a lot of talk about the Magnolia stuff in Waco, so if your coming for that don't forget to check out the Fixer Upper boat next door in the Marina. If you are looking for swimming for the kids check out Twin Bridges park about 5 miles away.
This little gem is back off some country roads so it may be difficult to find, but GPS is helpful. Speegleville park is just a great place to get away. You are far enough from any major roads and sometimes it is nice to just listen to the crickets and birds with no distractions.
Don't forget your fishing poles and minnows!
LegendRight on Waco lake, the picnic tables were set on concrete pads with solid shelter covers. Many trails to ride and walk on. There is a marina with food facilities nearby, however was closed for the season.
Tent camping near Waco, Texas, offers a variety of scenic spots where nature lovers can enjoy the great outdoors. With options ranging from private to public campgrounds, there's something for everyone looking to pitch a tent and unwind.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which is the most popular tent campsite near Waco, TX?
According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular tent campground near Waco, TX is Iron Bridge with a 2-star rating from 4 reviews.
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TheDyrt.com has all 11 tent camping locations near Waco, TX, with real photos and reviews from campers.
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