Glamping accommodations near Washington, Texas provide outdoor recreation options within a 45-minute drive of the historic town. The region experiences hot summers with temperatures regularly exceeding 90°F and mild winters, making spring and fall the most comfortable camping seasons. Campgrounds in this area typically sit at elevations between 200-350 feet above sea level, with access to both lake and river activities.
What to do
Waterpark activities: Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park in Waller features extensive water recreation facilities. "The kids absolutely loved the water zone and lazy river—we literally couldn't get them to leave. The staff was super friendly, and everything felt clean and well-maintained," notes one visitor to Yogi Bear's Jellystone Park™ Camp-Resort Waller.
Fishing opportunities: Both rivers and lakes offer abundant fishing spots throughout the region. A camper at Thousand Trails Colorado River mentions, "Right on the Colorado river plus two ponds to fish in. Lots of places to walk or ride your bikes."
Hiking trails: Stephen F. Austin State Park provides multiple short hiking trails through wooded areas. "The trails were beautiful and easy to get through (marked well) with all of us and the staff was helpful and kind enough to let us know which ones were closed. Most of the trails were short (less than a mile)," describes a visitor.
Wildlife viewing: Deer sightings are common at several campgrounds in the area. At Colorado River campground, "Very quiet. Trails to walk and lots of deer," says one reviewer, highlighting the accessible wildlife viewing opportunities.
What campers like
Shaded campsites: Stephen F. Austin State Park offers sites with ample tree cover. "We chose site 72 and it worked really well. Just be aware if your going with a group, the big sites do not have much shade," explains a camper, providing insight into site selection.
Clean facilities: Many glamping locations maintain modern bathroom facilities. At Lake Somerville State Park Birch Creek Unit Campground, one visitor notes, "Well spaced spots. Fairly level pads with table, fire ring, 30/50 amp electrical, water."
Water recreation: Multiple campgrounds offer swimming and boating access. A camper at Lake Bryan mentions, "While the camp spots are few, this area gets extra points for its walking/running/biking trails. The park is open 365 days of the year and is first-come, first-serve on sites."
Family programming: Seasonal activities provide structured entertainment options. "The themed activities and crafts were a huge hit, especially the Halloween fun," remarks a Jellystone visitor, describing the organized events available.
What you should know
Varying site quality: Conditions can differ significantly between sites at the same campground. At Stephen F. Austin State Park Campground, "Very few bathrooms and showers, so if you are going during peak season be aware you could be waiting in line (especially the girls restroom/showers)."
Weather considerations: The region experiences seasonal flooding and mosquito issues. A Colorado River camper warns, "Overall pretty good experience, however the mosquitoes are annoying. We left with so many mosquito bites that it's ridiculous."
Booking requirements: Many sites require reservations, especially during peak seasons. "We were lucky to get one that already had a shelter over the table. There was plenty of room between campsites, we couldn't even see our neighbors," explains a Lake Somerville visitor.
Traffic patterns: Some campgrounds experience higher visitor volumes on weekends. At Thousand Trails Lake Conroe, a camper observes, "Good family place, weekdays are fairly quiet, weekends are very busy."
Tips for camping with families
Theme park amenities: Select campgrounds offer extensive recreational facilities. A visitor to Jellystone Park notes, "We have been to this park twice now, once at a tent site and once at a Yogi on the Lake cabin. Both during Halloween time a year apart. What a FUN place to be!! Our kids loved that we got to go Trick or treating at a campground!"
Kid-friendly trails: Short hiking options accommodate young hikers. "I took a trip here with my husband, our son (3yo), my sister-in-law, her husband, their daughter(1yo), and a total of 4 dogs! We had an absolute blast!" shares a Stephen F. Austin State Park camper about the accessibility of trails for children.
Playground access: Multiple campgrounds feature play equipment for children. At Thousand Trails Lake Conroe, "Great family atmosphere and amenities, well kept and friendly staff. Working on expanding in 2020."
Seasonal activities: Halloween camping offers special programming at some locations. "We camped during the week and it wasn't very crowded. Plenty to do for our little ones. Huge play ground closed for COVID but other things open we're splash pad, water slides, pool, lazy river, fishing, golf cart rental and more," describes a Jellystone Park visitor.
Tips from RVers
Site selection process: Some campgrounds use first-come, first-served systems for specific sites. A Lake Conroe visitor explains, "The campground is huge, and you cannot reserve a specific site. You drive around and pick a site, then call and let them know which one you're in."
Hookup variations: Not all sites offer full hookups at every campground. "We arrived shortly after checkin and had limited selection of sites. The person at checkin did have a good site recommendation. Beware that not all sites have full hookups," warns a Thousand Trails visitor.
Access considerations: Road conditions impact ease of arrival at some locations. At Red Oak Ranch RV Park, "You can camp and/or get married! I happened upon this place as I was driving from Austin to Houston on the 290. Great place to stop if you are tired or just don't want to drive anymore."
Leveling needs: Site terrain varies across the region. A Stephen F. Austin visitor notes, "Full hookups with 30 amps. Semi circle drive thru that fit my 44 ft motorhome and towed Jeep. Deer all over and saw a 6 point buck. Very dark with no lighting."
