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 (241)

    1. Huntsville State Park Campground

    71 Reviews
    268 Photos
    303 Saves
    Huntsville, Texas

    It took 20 years of development, including weathering a flood and a World War, but in 1956 the community of Huntsville, Texas, finally got their own state park. Located just 10 miles south of town, in the Sam Houston National Forest, this 2,000-acre park of pine and hardwood forest is situated around man-made Lake Raven. Today, locals and visitors alike flock to Huntsville State Park for its hiking trails, water recreation and prolific wildlife. With so many outdoor activities to choose from, a good first stop is the park’s Nature Center. Here you can get information about the local flora and fauna, including the more than 250 species of birds, plus a variety of mammals and alligators, that make the park their home.

    Campers at Huntsville State Park have access to 160 tent and RV campsites in three camp areas near the shore of Lake Raven: Prairie Branch, Raven Hill and Coloneh. Full- and partial-hookup RV sites are available, and can accommodate vehicles/trailers up to 60 feet. All sites are equipped with picnic tables, grills, and lantern posts, and drinking water faucets are shared between sites; some sites are ADA accessible. Each camp area provides flush restrooms, showers, playgrounds, picnic areas near the lake, fishing piers, and boat launches. There is a dump station located in the Raven Hill camp area. The park also has two camping cabins for rent. Campsite rates range from $15–$25/night, plus park entrance fee; cabins are $60/night, plus entrance fee.

    When you’re ready to play on the water, head down to the lakeshore where you can take a dip in the designated swim area, rent a canoe or kayak (or put in your own) for paddling around the lake, or cast a line for crappie, perch and largemouth bass. A shop near the Prairie Branch day-use area has groceries, ice, fishing supplies and beverages. If you’re up for some roaming or wildlife watching, pick up a trail map and birding guide and go explore more than 20 miles of multiuse paths and nature walks. From the park’s bird blind, you can scan for a variety of songbirds and waterfowl. The park also offers ranger-led nature programs, and there are Junior Ranger activities for the kids.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Phone Service
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access

    $15 - $500 / night

    2. Davis Mountains State Park Campground

    52 Reviews
    210 Photos
    225 Saves
    Fort Davis, Texas
    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Reservable
    • ADA Access
    • Tents

    $15 - $25 / night

    3. Fortress Cliff Primitive — Palo Duro Canyon State Park

    48 Reviews
    184 Photos
    81 Saves
    Canyon, Texas

    These tent-only campsites are in the Cactus or Fortress Cliff areas. Water is in the campground, but not at each site. Restrooms with showers are 1/2 - 2 miles away. Picnic table Fire ring Water nearby Shade shelter These are drive-up sites, you do not have to backpack to them. Tent camping only. No pop-up campers, travel trailers, or motor homes are allowed in this area. Map: https://tpwd.texas.gov/publications/pwdpubs/media/park_maps/pwd_mp_p4506_007g.pdf

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • ADA Access
    • Tents
    • Group
    • Equestrian

    $16 / night

    4. 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

    5. Colorado Bend State Park Campground

    32 Reviews
    124 Photos
    428 Saves
    Bend, Texas

    Colorado Bend State Park is one of central Texas’s most popular destinations. Two hours northwest of Austin, this park offers cave tours, river recreation, and over 35 miles of hike and bike trails. Visit in the off-season and enjoy a break from the intense Texas heat or take a dip in the cool, clear waters of Spicewood Springs for a refresher on warmer days. Texas’s tallest waterfall, Gorman Falls, is the prime attraction for visitors of Colorado Bend State Park. This 70-foot marvel can be reached from a moderate 3-mile hike where you can enjoy cool mist from the spring-fed waters upon your arrival. There are 15 drive in campsites at Colorado Bend where you can park RVs up to 30 feet, though the rest require some extra work to reach. 28 walk-in campsites can be found in the main campground, as can two primitive group campsites near the river. Looking for even more rugged seclusion? Hike to the Backcountry Windmill area where you will find designated backcountry sites just a mile from the trailhead. Every camper will find what they need at Colorado Bend State Park.

    • Pets
    • Fires
    • Electric Hookups
    • Reservable
    • Tents
    • Standard (Tent/RV)

    6. Moss Lake Area — Enchanted Rock State Natural Area

    28 Reviews
    114 Photos
    23 Saves
    Willow City, Texas
    • Pets
    • Phone Service
    • Tents
    • Toilets

    $14 - $24 / night

    7. Walnut Springs Area — Enchanted Rock State Natural Area

    24 Reviews
    64 Photos
    23 Saves
    Willow City, Texas

    Moss Lake (eight sites) and Walnut Springs (12 sites) are a 1 to 3 mile hike over rugged terrain. We charge an excess vehicle fee of $6 per car, per night, for each vehicle over two per campsite. No ash-producing fires are permitted in this area. You may use containerized fuel stoves that can be turned off for cooking. Minors (under 17) who are not camping with a sponsored group must provide a written consent form to stay overnight. No hammocks allowed in primitive camping areas.

    Magical, Mystical, Enchanted Climb the ancient dome for amazing Hill Country views.

    The massive pink granite dome rising above Central Texas has drawn people for thousands of years. But there’s more at Enchanted Rock State Natural Area than just the dome. The scenery, rock formations and legends are magical, too!

    Things to Do You can hike, backpack, camp, rock climb, picnic, bird, study nature, geocache and stargaze. (You cannot swim here or ride bikes on the trails.)

    Hiking Explore nearly 11 miles of hiking trails. Take a virtual tour with our Interactive Trails Map.

    All trails close 30 minutes after sunset, except the Loop Trail. The Summit Trail may close in wet weather. Check our trail status here or visit our Facebook page or Twitter feed. Rock Climbing Rock climbers must check in at park headquarters. You can pick up route maps there and read the climbing rules. Read through our Climbing Information before you come.

    Pets To protect this Natural Area, pets are only allowed in the designated day-use picnic areas, the campgrounds, and on the Loop Trail (pets are not allowed on any other trail). Don't leave pets unattended, including in vehicles and at campsites, and keep them on a leash no longer than six feet at all times.

    Shopping Our park store carries some gift items. You can buy wood for campfires at the park. Please bring your own drinking water, as it is in short supply due to the ongoing drought.

    Get involved Enchanted Rock needs your help! We will match your abilities to our many needs. You might guide a group to the summit, lead a tour of the loop trail, provide information to park visitors, or help maintain park facilities. Visit our Volunteer page to learn more.

    Join or donate to the Friends of Enchanted Rock.

    Outfitters and guide services The following guides lead rock climbing tours at Enchanted Rock:

    Austin Ascents, austinascents@gmail.com Outpost Wilderness Adventure, info@owa.com Rock-About Climbing Adventures, Adam@Rock-About.com Texas Climbing Adventures, info@texasclimbingadventures.com Ranger Programs Enjoy a star party or a nature hike led by a park ranger, or contact the park for special tours for your group.

    Check our Events page for upcoming programs. Become a Junior Ranger! Pick up a Junior Ranger Activity Guide and borrow an explorer pack. Email us to schedule a school or youth group tour. Connect with us on Facebook, Instagram and Twitter. Area Attractions Visit Fredericksburg for a taste of German culture in the Texas Hill Country. There you can shop, dine, visit museums and find outdoor activities. Stop by Llano, known as the “Deer Capital of Texas,” for museums, music and more.

    President Lyndon B. Johnson was born near Johnson City. Learn about this colorful Texan at the Lyndon B. Johnson National Historical Park. Tour the Texas White House and Johnson’s boyhood home. The Lyndon B. Johnson State Park and Historic Site and the Sauer-Beckmann living history farm are nearby.

    Drive the Peach Loop, one of TPWD’s Great Texas Wildlife Trails. It will lead you to some of the best wildlife observation points in this area.

    • Pets
    • Tents
    • Toilets

    $10 / night

    8. Magnolia Beach

    21 Reviews
    59 Photos
    245 Saves
    Austwell, Texas

    Be aware of the tides and high tide line when choosing a beach campsite. Strong winds or storms can significantly elevate tides and create hazardous conditions along the Gulf Coast.

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

    9. North Area Primitive Site — Colorado Bend State Park

    17 Reviews
    123 Photos
    41 Saves
    Bend, Texas

    Sites #1-29 are only for tents, and are along the riverbank. You must carry your gear about 50 yards. Water is in the area, but not at each site. Picnic table Fire ring Water nearby Lantern post Restrooms nearby

    • Pets
    • Phone Service
    • Tents
    • Trash
    • Drinking Water
    • Toilets

    $13 - $23 / night

    10. Government Canyon State Natural Area

    16 Reviews
    43 Photos
    91 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

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Recent Tent Reviews in Texas

6701 Reviews of 241 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