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Last Updated on October 3, 2024 by Paul Clayton
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20 Best Camping Spots in Texas
Texas, the second largest state in the U.S., is renowned for its vast and diverse landscapes, making it an ideal destination for outdoor enthusiasts. The camping spots in this state cater to every taste and preference.
- Scenic landscapes and natural features for exploration.
- Availability of camping facilities and varied campsite options.
- Access to outdoor activities such as hiking, swimming, or boating.
- Diverse flora and fauna for wildlife observation and appreciation.
- A serene environment conducive to relaxation and rejuvenation.
- Opportunities for adventure and recreation suitable for all ages.
Here are the 20 Best Camping Spots in Texas
Want to live like a real cowboy in the Lone Star state? The best way to do it is to pitch a tent or drive the RV to a Texas campground. There is a vast selection of beautiful spots to choose from.
Whether you want to get off the grid or “glamping” close to the city, these 20 Texas campgrounds are guaranteed to satisfy every type of camper.
Beach Camping in Texas
Texas’ North Beach Campground
Every nature lover must head to Padre Island to camp at North Beach. This scenic campground runs along the Gulf of Mexico, providing waterfront views and the sound of waves as you drift to sleep.
RV and tent users choose where to set up camp; no marked sites exist. As luxurious as this getaway will feel, it’s one of the best spots for free camping in Texas.
With easy access to fresh and saltwater, water activities are necessary when visiting. After enjoying some beach relaxation time, head out to Padre Island for opportunities to catch a wide array of fish species.
If you prefer to stay on land for wildlife viewing, all you need to do is look up! The surrounding area is known as the “birdieist city in America.”
Magnolia Beach in Texas
Want a campground that’ll drown out the hustle and bustle of everyday life? Magnolia Beach, along the Gulf Coast in Port Lavaca, is the perfect place to unwind.
It’s easy to get there, no matter how you travel, with their drive, hike, walk, or boat sites. Bring your pets and all your buddies for free beach camping. Texas doesn’t get much better than this!
Tent and RV campers can choose a dispersed site wherever they please, as sites aren’t marked at Magnolia Beach.
You don’t have to spend this trip feeling dehydrated or smelly; enjoy the ground’s drinking water, showers, and restrooms. Visitors say it’s a great place to go for a private stay during the off-season since they’re open year-round.
Texas’ Bryan Beach
If you’re craving a campground with a truly authentic feel, Bryan Beach in Freeport is the way to go. Enjoy camping on the three miles of natural beach with stunning water.
Just make sure to stop in Freeport for all those last-minute necessities; when they say the beach is in its natural state, they’re not kidding.
With access to Bryan Beach, you can bask in the sun, boat, fish, or relax. For those seeking more thrills, head to Freeport for water and jet skiing down the Old Brazos River.
There are also opportunities for offshore fishing, golfing, and sightseeing.
Texas’ Crystal Beach and Bolivar Peninsula Camping
Anyone looking for a lot of beach to explore will love camping on the 27 miles of Crystal Beach and Bolivar Peninsula. Drive the beach to score the best view before setting up camp.
Spend all day roaming the waters and wind down at night with some smores at the campfire.
If you’re not keen on roaming the beach for a campsite, head to Bolivar Peninsula RV Park, with pull-through and back-in sites on an inland lake.
They even offer fully equipped travel trailers on-site if your trip is impromptu. Head into town for the Fun Spot waterslide, Tiki Beach bar and grill, skydiving, mini golf, and more.
Canyon Lake Campgrounds in Texas
Want to be surrounded by wildlife and lakeside views while camping? Canyon Lake, Texas, campgrounds are a must-visit. Spend days here indulging in some water sports or stopping to spot a deer, fox, or Cardinal.
With three different campgrounds (Cranes Mill Park, North Park, and Potters Creek Park), this spot will accommodate any group.
Most of the campgrounds are open year-round and offer tent and RV sites. North Park, however, only accommodates tents. Where you stay will depend on what natural features you’re most eager to see.
The fun doesn’t end once you’ve stepped off the campgrounds. In the Canyon Lake Area, you can experience helicopter tours, kayaking, canoeing, jet-skiing, hiking, biking, and plenty more. No wonder this spot is one of the best camping places in Texas.
Camping in Texas State Parks
Texas’ Inks Lake State Park
Inks Lake State Park in Texas is the perfect weekend getaway for those in Texas any time of year. On land, enjoy backpacking, geocaching, volleyball, and picnicking in the park.
Water enthusiasts can spend days swimming, boating, fishing, skiing, and scuba diving. Even rent paddle boats, canoes, kayaks, and more from the park so you don’t have to lug yours from home.
There are nearly 200 campsites and 22 camping cabins to choose from. Many of these sites are lakeside or within close access to the water. Several of these loops offer playgrounds for the kids in your travel party.
Remember to stop by Kona Ice of the Hill Country before you go for food, drinks, and frozen treats. Inks Lake State Park is a beloved camping spot in Texas.
Texas’ Colorado Bend State Park
Sightseers and nature buffs should add exploring the unspoiled wilderness of Colorado Bend State Park to their travel bucket list. Campers can paddle in the Colorado River and then head into Spicewood Springs for a cool down.
On land, test your limits with the 35 miles of hike and bike trails.
You can pitch a tent at one of the walk-in or primitive hike-in sites or haul the RV to one of the drive-ups. Camping groups are also welcome at certain sites.
This back-to-nature camping adventure will take you through the nearby Gorman Falls and deep into wild caves.
Check out the Tie Slide Trails and Almamos Wine Cellars when traveling into Bend. It’s no surprise travelers love this spot for Texas State Park camping.
Lockhart State Park in Texas
Is your ideal vacation filled with all the chill vibes? Lockhart State Park gives travelers a break from nearby Austin and San Antonio businesses.
Begin the morning on their historic golf course, have an afternoon fishing session in Clear Fork Creek, and fall asleep under the peaceful Texas stars at the end of the day. You can also stop by the park store for souvenirs and camping necessities.
Make Texas state parks camping reservations at a site with drinking water and electricity available to campers. Be sure to download the trail map before you book your stay so you know what’s nearby to explore.
Beyond the park’s grounds, you’ll find the “Barbecue Capital of Texas,” along with shopping and other nature activities.
Texas’ Bonham State Park
Nothing is better than learning about a campground’s colorful history while visiting. Bonham State Park, northeast of Dallas, is a small park filled with natural beauty.
The 65-acre lake on the property provides endless water adventures, such as kayaking, fishing, paddling, and swimming. Enjoy group gatherings, geocaching, nature watching, hiking, and biking on land.
Choose from one of the park’s 20 campsites, ranging from full hookups to tent sites with water and electricity. If you’ve got the whole crew with you, book the group camp, a collection of six sites accommodating up to 50 people.
History buffs will love venturing into Bonham and exploring the Sam Rayburn House, the Fannin County Museum of
History, and lots of antique stores.
Davis Mountains State Park in Texas
If you’ve never explored the mountains of West Texas, we highly recommend camping in Davis Mountains State Park. This unique and remote destination offers adventures for every traveler.
Athletes can hike, backpack, and mountain bike, while relaxation seekers can take a scenic drive through the mountains. Animal lovers must check out the “best little bird blind in Texas” on the property.
Stay at one of the many campsites, or ditch the tent and bunker down at Indian Lodge. This historic motel has 39 rooms, a restaurant, and a swimming pool.
End this getaway full of fun with a stop in Fort Davis for the McDonald Observatory, Davis Mountains Preserve, and more.
Campgrounds Near Austin, Texas
Austin East KOA Holiday
Want a vacation that gives you the best of both worlds? Spend a day touring the city and unwind under the stars at the Austin East KOA Holiday.
The whole family will love swimming in the summer pool, playing cornhole and golf, fishing, and building castles in the sandbox. Please don’t keep your furry friend at home for this vacation; they’ll have fun at the dog park.
RV and tent campers are welcome to reserve sites on this campground. Or, if you’re feeling extra fancy, stay in one of the KOA cabins.
Whether you’re “roughing it” or keeping it cool in the AC, you can access electricity, cable, WIFI, and firewood. The Austin East KOA Holiday is the perfect jumping-off point for adventures in exhibits, theaters, and live music in Austin.
Texas’ COTA Campground
The COTA campground, just 25 minutes outside Austin, is a sports enthusiast’s dream camping spot. It’s in the center of the Circuit of the Americas sports entertainment complex.
Not only is it home to many happy RV campers, but it’s also hosted Bruno Mars, Drake, Willie Nelson, and countless Texas athletes. Head to the campground’s observation tower for a primal view of all the racing excitement.
Ready to get the adrenaline pumping? Join the action in the COTA karting track, where racers of all ages and skill levels can compete on the 15-turn raceway.
Those still eager for more can soar above the karting track and get an excellent view of the Circuit of Americas. COTA Campground is one of the most unique places for camping in Austin, Texas.
Texas’ McKinney Falls State Park
Can’t get enough of Texas’ beautiful state parks? McKinney Falls State Park offers an exquisite camping experience right in Austin.
You’ll love listening to nearby Onion Creek as you wind through the trails of Hill Country woods. Hikers, mountain bikers, geocachers, and picnic goers will find their happy place here.
During your travels, you
may even stumble upon the remains of an early Texas homestead and an old rock shelter.
McKinney Falls State Parks offers all the amenities guests could need: 81 campsites with drinking water and electricity, plus six newly remodeled cabins.
The little ones in your travel party may even enjoy joining the park rangers for one of their daily excursions. With only 13 miles between you and the state capitol, nearby Austin activities are calling your name.
Taylor Park Campground in Texas
Perhaps being right in Austin isn’t exactly your cup of tea. Travel about 45 minutes to Williamson County and find Taylor Park Campground. This spot on Granger Lake offers lakeside camping for families and nature lovers.
From April to September, you can enjoy days full of hiking, hunting, boating, and wildlife viewing. The Comanche Bluff Trail is especially popular since it loops around the campground and carries on in both directions along the southern side of the lake.
Visitors have 48 sites available, all with water, electric hookup, and nearby showers and restrooms for comfort. Not to mention, kid campers will love the playground.
The designated wildlife areas bordering Granger Lake, including Pecan Grove, San Gabriel, and Sore Finger, make this one of the best camping spots in Texas.
Texas’ Krause Springs
Anyone who feels more like a mermaid or merman than an actual human needs to check out Krause Springs in Hill County, Texas. The 115-acre property, about 30 miles west of Austin, offers 32 refreshing springs during the hot Texas summer.
After a day of swimming, unwind with a stroll through the Butterfly Gardens. It’s the best place for exploring springs because they never close due to drought, like other nearby natural pools.
From mid-February to early November, campers can hook up an RV or pitch a tent on one of these 24 camping sites in Texas.
There is a small fee to camp unless you’re bringing a kiddo under four. Remember that you must get the RV if you want to reserve a site ahead of time.
Places to Camp Around Dallas, Texas
The Vineyards Campgrounds and Cabins in Texas
If wine is your beverage, the Vineyards campgrounds and cabins are your perfect getaway destination.
Head to the campground on the shore of Grapevine Lake, just 30 minutes outside of Dallas for a peaceful setting, lakefront views, and accommodating staff. Explore the water in a rented kayak or hike the private nature
trail.
When choosing a campsite, look at the bronze, silver, and gold options to guarantee your spot is ideal. “Glampers” can book one of the 14 cabins. Once you’ve reserved a site, leave the worries behind because everything you could need is in the Camp Store.
Not to mention the weekly ice cream and coffee trucks that stop by that make this one
of the best places for camping near Dallas, Texas.
Texas’ Willow Grove Park
Want something a bit closer to Dallas’s activity? Reserve a campsite at Willow Grove Park in Lake Dallas. It’s a relaxing home base to reset after a fun day in the city. Stroll down the mile-long trail, fish off the pier, or take the kids to the playground.
There are 15 primitive camp areas, guaranteeing some quiet and intimate Texas camping sites. Stay updated on the happenings of Dallas even during your off time with the park’s free WIFI.
When you’re ready to roll up the sleeping bags and pack up camp, prepare for museums, restaurants, shopping, and nightlife in the city.
Texas’ Twin Coves Campground
If Grapevine Lake was calling your name, here’s another campground for you. Twin Coves is located on 243 acres on the north shore of Grapevine Lake in Flower Mound. It’s just 40 minutes outside of Dallas.
Along with the stunning water views, savor days of volleyball, disc golf, kayaking, and exploring nature trails.
Between the camp store, playground, and pavilion collection, Twin Cove has something for every traveler. Tent campers should reserve early because the property has only six tent sites.
RV and cabin lodgers can also book their stay online. There are 19 furnished cabins, making it one of the best spots for camping cabins in Texas. Wherever you’re staying, access the nearby lake overlook area for campfires, smores, and fireside storytelling.
Texas’ Pollinator Pond
You might be surprised to learn that with just a 30-minute drive outside of Dallas, you could camp right on a secluded farm. Perched on the side of a bluff, this property provides an eight-acre sanctuary.
The host, Lee, and his Cocker Spaniels, Rylee, and Lola Bear, will be the perfect tour guides during your stay. If they’re available and ready to eat, Lee also allows guests to pick their fruits and veggies or purchase honey and
eggs.
There are only five campsites on Pollinator Pond, so staying here is an intimate experience. It’s a great place to unwind, connect with nature, or even roll out the mat and practice yoga. You’re guaranteed to find inner peace at this beautiful spot for tent camping in Texas.
Good Luck RV Park in Dallas
Want to save your money for drinks, delicious eats, and souvenirs when traveling around Dallas? Good Luck RV Park has got you covered.
Located about ten minutes from downtown, you can access all the action. In your downtime, take your furry friend to the ground’s dog park, catch up on some laundry, or take in the
peace.
There are about 100 RV spots at this park. However, some people are long-term guests, so not every spot is available. However, helpful staff will be able to assist you along the way.
After a good night’s rest at Good Luck RV Park, you’ll be ready to enjoy a day of fun in the Dallas sun. This location is primal for RV camping in Texas.
Is it Legal to Camp Anywhere in Texas?
The straightforward answer to this question is no. According to state laws, one cannot simply set up a tent anywhere in Texas. To camp legally, you must either have explicit permission from the landowner or be in a designated camping area.
This rule ensures respect for private property rights and the safety of campers. Disregarding this law can lead to fines or potential legal issues. So, next time you plan a camping trip in Texas, ensure you have the correct permissions or choose a recognized camping area.
Can I Camp for Free in Texas?
While Texas offers numerous spots for free camping in its public lands and national forests, it’s important to note that not all lands are open for this activity.
A significant portion of the land in Texas is privately owned by individuals or businesses, thus camping in such areas without explicit permission constitutes trespassing.
Therefore, while you can enjoy the freedom of camping at no cost in designated areas, it is paramount to respect private properties and adhere to the regulations set forth by the state.
Summary
In conclusion, camping spots in Texas offer an ideal blend of scenic beauty, adventure, and tranquility that caters to all campers. The state has varied landscapes and natural features that provide many exploration opportunities.
These camping spots, from mountains and forests to rivers and coastal areas, are a testament to the state’s diverse topography. Another noteworthy aspect is the availability of camping facilities and options.
Whether one prefers a basic campsite or a more equipped one with amenities, Texas caters to every preference, making it a popular choice for novice and experienced campers.
In addition to camping, these spots provide access to several outdoor activities, such as hiking, swimming, and boating, which enhances the overall camping experience.
Wildlife enthusiasts can enjoy Texas’s diverse flora and fauna while observing and appreciating its unique wildlife.
The serene environment these camping spots offer is conducive to relaxation and rejuvenation; away from the hustle-bustle of city life, one can enjoy the tranquil sounds of nature.
Regardless of age, there are opportunities for adventure and recreation that ensure a memorable camping experience for all.
Overall, the camping spots in Texas provide an unmatched blend of nature, adventure, relaxation, and recreation that will provide a fulfilling and memorable camping experience.
If you haven’t put on cowboy boots and packed up your tent by now, what are you still waiting for? These amazing Texas campgrounds are calling your name!
Hopefully, this helped you narrow the search for a perfect getaway location. Before heading out on your next adventure, read up on Crow Survival for some excellent camping info.
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