Best Tent 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 Tent Sites in Texas (238)

    1. Huntsville State Park Campground

    69 Reviews
    Huntsville, TX
    Website
    +1 (936) 295-5644

    $15 - $60 / night

    "The check-in process is a bit troublesome if you're picky about getting a good tent site- you can't reserve specific sites ahead of time."

    "Huntsville State Park has over 20 miles of trails to explore along with a pretty great lake to fish, paddle or swim. Fish for crappie, perch, catfish, or bass."

    2. Davis Mountains State Park Campground

    53 Reviews
    Fort Davis, TX
    Website
    +1 (432) 426-3337

    $10 - $170 / night

    "Attractive, well maintained large sites, good privacy if no hook ups needed. Site 81 was my favorite. Water, picnic table, fire ring. I’d give it a 5 star review but no cell service, or WiFi."

    "Lovely wide open spaces in a valley."

    3. Fortress Cliff Primitive — Palo Duro Canyon State Park

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

    $16 - $60 / night

    "FORTRESS CLIFF Rating: 3.5 as not a lot of visual privacy from adjacent sites."

    "Some of the other camping areas seemed less spacious and private, but we really liked our site in the tent-only Cactus Campground. It had a shade shelter, a picnic table, and a dirt tent pad."

    4. Rio Frio — Garner State Park

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

    $15 - $26 / night

    "This site was 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)."

    "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)."

    5. Colorado Bend State Park Campground

    31 Reviews
    Bend, TX
    Website
    +1 (325) 628-3240

    $13 - $75 / night

    "This park has a variety of campsites available- hike in, walk in, and RV. Hike in sites are approximately a mile from parking and are primitive."

    "This park is definitely a great primitive Park to go to. The only bathrooms here are out houses. be prepared because there's no service or Internet no water no hookups. Totally primitive."

    6. Moss Lake Area — Enchanted Rock State Natural Area

    28 Reviews
    Willow City, TX
    Website
    +1 (830) 685-3636

    $14 - $20 / night

    "Once you walk about 20 feet, you’ll be in complete darkness without a light."

    "You'll be walking on solid granite. During the summer the temperatures rise sharply and there is limited shade to rest under on the summit."

    7. Walnut Springs Area — Enchanted Rock State Natural Area

    24 Reviews
    Willow City, TX
    Website
    +1 (830) 685-3636

    $14 / night

    "Drove 3.5hrs from Dickinson, TX with more than enough time to hike out to our camp site, set up and catch an unbelievable sunset from one of the scenic lookouts."

    "Tent camping is all they offer here I believe. I went on solo weekend camp out and really enjoyed it. The grounds are nice. You are not allowed to hang anything from trees which is a bummer."

    8. Magnolia Beach

    23 Reviews
    Austwell, TX
    Website

    "A mix of folks RV, car, tent camping! Some folks are definitely here for a long time."

    "We were there in mid November so too chilly to swim but still mid 70s so beautiful weather for fishing and hanging out. We caught a huge flounder for dinner."

    9. North Area Primitive Site — Colorado Bend State Park

    19 Reviews
    Bend, TX
    Website
    +1 (800) 792-1112

    $13 - $23 / night

    "There are rivers, streams, water holes, trees, caves and plenty of hike and bike trails to explore. 

    This park offers drive-up, walk-in, hike-in primitive and group campsites. "

    "The walk-in campsites are beautiful. They are well spaced and quite close to the river. The have lattern post, a picnic bench and a fire ring."

    10. Government Canyon State Natural Area

    15 Reviews
    Helotes, TX
    Website
    +1 (210) 688-9055

    $18 / night

    "Government Canyon State Natural Area is conveniently located near San Antonio, TX. Many visitors visit from San Antonio for the day or for the weekend."

    "The campsites are all walk in, but not a great distance. Camp sites vary in size, but all have fire rings, a place to hang trash, and a storage cupboard."

Show More
Showing results 1-10 of 238 campgrounds

Tent Camping Reviews in Texas

6697 Reviews of 238 Texas Campgrounds



Guide to Texas

Tent camping in Texas offers a diverse range of experiences, from serene lakeside retreats to rugged mountain adventures. Whether you're seeking a peaceful getaway or an action-packed trip, the Lone Star State has something for every outdoor enthusiast.

Explore Scenic Trails and Natural Wonders

Family-Friendly Activities and Amenities

  • Huntsville State Park Campground is perfect for families, offering fishing, biking, and hiking opportunities along with well-maintained facilities.
  • At Tejas Park, families can enjoy a mix of hiking trails and water activities, making it an ideal spot for a fun-filled camping trip.
  • Shaffer Bend Recreation Area provides a sandy beach area for swimming and fishing, along with spacious campsites for family gatherings.

Unique Camping Experiences and Features