Best Equestrian Camping in Texas

Nothing thrills the heart of a true explorer like the stunning diversity of outdoor adventure that awaits in the state of Texas! From the beauty of the Gulf Coast to the High Plains, Texas offers terrain that varies between mountains, woodlands, rolling hills, semi-arid plains and high desert. With more than 78 state parks and numerous wildlife areas, historic sites and natural attractions, Texas truly has something for everyone.

Insiders know that camping in Texas is much more than just hanging out around the campfire. In a state that boasts everything is bigger, natural features as well as wildlife areas are vast and rich, begging the weary traveler to indulge in all the sights and experiences this type of diversity provides. The variety of parks, campgrounds and backcountry offers the full range of adventure for those looking to ‘rough it’ all the way to those who choose to enjoy nature with a few more comforts.

South Central Texas is a prime area of the state to explore. Known far and wide as the Hill Country, it is so named for its rolling hills and woodlands. Famous for its excellent wineries, historic small towns and natural beauty, the Hill Country also boasts a unique offering for campers known as Enchanted Rock State Park.

Enchanted Rock is a large pink granite dome that rises 425 feet above the surrounding terrain and is the largest granite monadock in the United States. Indians, Spaniards and early settlers all had stories of magical, spiritual or unexplained happenings around the rock which gave the feature its name. These days, one of the most intriguing sights is at night, after a rain. The wet dome seems to glitter in the moonlight and while regarded as a simple play of light on the granite, the effect adds to both the mystery and enchantment of the area.

Another intriguing site in the Hill Country is Jacob’s Well, a short 78 miles southeast from Enchanted Rock State Park. Fed by a natural artesian spring, Jacob’s Well consists of a large pool connected to a vast underground cavern system that sprawls more than 4300 feet. The spring is connected to the Trinity Aquifer and emits thousands of gallons of water each day where visitors can enjoy the cool 68 degree water. Jacob’s Well is a popular and welcome retreat from the famous Texas heat!

Texas is the second largest state and for some, camping in Texas can, and does, turn into a life-long pursuit. With so many hidden gems, and areas to explore, it could take decades to experience it all. The Dyrt has you covered though! For the secret hideaways and must-see adventures in Texas, check back often to see the latest insider tips and places to explore!

Best Equestrian Sites in Texas (161)

    1. Pedernales Falls State Park Campground

    86 Reviews
    Johnson City, TX
    Website
    +1 (830) 868-7304

    $10 - $100 / night

    "a crown jewel of the Texas Parks system. Hiking, horse riding, swimming, floating. At one with nature. Bird watching."

    "This was some of the best TEXAS camping we've done. We found a really nice spot that was on the cliffside and had an incredible view of the hill country. It was isolated enough from other campsites."

    2. Dinosaur Valley State Park — Dinosaur Valley State Park

    60 Reviews
    Glen Rose, TX
    Website
    +1 (254) 897-4588

    $18 - $70 / night

    "Every camp spot has its own water source and electricity hookup, makes a huge difference at the hot Texas summer days and perfect for spending the nights not in a complete dark in case you’re using only"

    "This Texas state parks is one of favorites. I have been quite a few times since I was a kid and it never gets old. It is just inside of Glen Rose, Texas, located along the Paluxy river."

    3. Cedar Hill State Park Campground

    61 Reviews
    Cedar Hill, TX
    Website
    +1 (972) 291-3900

    $10 - $30 / night

    "Lake is nearby, and fishing permits in Tx are cheap and easy to grab online. Fairly quiet, but the sites themselves are private a shaded for the most part."

    "Although a small park, the design is thoughtful and you don't feel like you are so close to the huge DFW area. "

    4. Fortress Cliff Primitive — Palo Duro Canyon State Park

    49 Reviews
    Canyon, TX
    Website
    +1 (806) 488-2227

    $16 - $60 / night

    "The hiking trails are well maintained and are very enjoyable to walk along. The campsites are nicely spaced and have big picnic tables."

    "This is a pretty big state Park located in the Panhandle of Texas. It is sometimes referred to as a mini Grand Canyon.

    There are plenty of trails for horseback riding, mountain biking, and hiking."

    5. Brazos Bend State Park Campground

    47 Reviews
    Thompsons, TX
    Website
    +1 (979) 553-5101

    $12 - $75 / night

    "A quick, 45 minute drive southwest will get you out of the concrete jungle that is the sprawling Space City metropolis and into one of the lushest, greenest parts of Texas."

    "Hikes and wildlife are good too, lots of easy trails along water for the kids, cool ponds, great little observation tour to climb."

    6. Lost Maples State Natural Area

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

    $10 / night

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

    "Close to the river. Nice spaces with covered tables and scattered trees. Hiking, pet friendly. Showers were clean and well kept. No sewer hook up but dump station is right off the road."

    7. Honey Flat Camping Area — Caprock Canyons State Park

    40 Reviews
    Quitaque, TX
    Website
    +1 (806) 455-1492

    $14 - $22 / night

    "* Burn Ban in Effect - No firewood or charcoal - Only Propane

    • Night sky is awesome
    • If you are expecting shade…forget it
    • Bison roam free and they are bigger than you
    • Horse flies are everywhere"

    "We tent camped here in august, 2018 and had the entire tent campsite lakeside to ourselves. The bathrooms were great, clean, hot water, all good things."

    8. Isle du Bois Campsites — Ray Roberts Lake State Park

    35 Reviews
    Aubrey, TX
    Website

    "Roberts Lake State Park has two main campgrounds, the Isle du Bois unit and Johnson unit. These are what I would call twins. They are very similar in layout, scenery and activities."

    "Bring your horses for a equestrian trail as well. Great beach for some sand castles and swimming. And don't forget to hit the Dam store and get the dam special. Good burgers there."

    9. Hackberry Campground — Palo Duro Canyon State Park

    35 Reviews
    Canyon, TX
    Website

    "For most people, it is a long drive to this park. The Palo Euro Canyon State Park is located in the Texas Panhandle. From Central Texas it is a 8-9 hour drive. The long drive is worth it."

    "We had some major trails running directly behind our specific site which made late nights and early morning walkabouts so easy!"

    10. Sea Rim State Park Campground

    37 Reviews
    Sabine Pass, TX
    Website
    +1 (409) 971-2559

    $20 - $120 / night

    "One of my Texas relatives mentioned this area to me in regards to my birdwatching. Decided I had to make the trip as I do love birds and the water."

    "We managed to kill most of the ones that followed us inside and then we watched as our tent was covered from the outside in a thin layer of them."

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Showing results 1-10 of 161 campgrounds

Equestrian Camping Reviews in Texas

1439 Reviews of 161 Texas Campgrounds



Guide to Texas

Horse camping in Texas offers a unique opportunity to explore the state's beautiful landscapes while enjoying the companionship of your equine friends. With a variety of campgrounds equipped with horse-friendly amenities, equestrians can find the perfect spot to set up camp.

Tips for equestrian camping in Texas

  • When visiting Pedernales Falls State Park Campground, be sure to check the availability of horse trails and plan your rides accordingly.
  • At Dinosaur Valley State Park, keep an eye out for designated horse trails that allow you to explore the park's unique dinosaur tracks.
  • Always bring enough water and supplies for both you and your horse, especially when camping at remote sites like Big Bend Ranch State Park, where amenities may be limited.

Campers appreciate these amenities for horses

Most campgrounds have horse-focused amenities like trails and water access