20 Best Camping Spots in Texas

Here are the 20 Best Camping Spots in Texas

Want to live it up like a real cowboy in the Lone Star state? The best way to do it is pitching a
tent or driving the RV to a Texas campground. There’s a vast selection of beautiful spots to
choose from. Whether you want to get off the grid or “glamp” 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 needs to head over to Padre Island for camping 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;
there’s no marked sites. As luxurious as this getaway will feel, it’s one of the best spots
for free camping in Texas.

With easy access to both fresh and saltwater, water activities are a must 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 staying on land for wildlife viewing, just
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’re traveling with their drive, hike, walk or boat in 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 during the off season for a private stay, 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 the Bryan Beach, you can experience basking in the sun, boating, fishing,
and relaxing. For those seeking more thrills, head into Freeport for water and jet skiing
down the Old Brazos River. There are also opportunities for offshore fishing, golfing, and
sight-seeing.

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 too 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 for use on-site if your trip is impromptu. Head into town for the
Fun Spot waterslide, Tiki Beach bar and grill, skydiving, mini golf, and much 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. Days here can be spent 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 is sure to accommodate
any group.

Most of the campgrounds are open year-round with both tent and RV sites. North Park,
however, only accommodates tents. Where you stay will just depend on what natural
features, you’re most eager to see. The fun doesn’t end once you’ve stepped off the
campgrounds. Experience helicopter tours, kayaking, canoeing, jet-skiing, hiking, biking,
and plenty more in the Canyon Lake Area. It’s 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 boat, canoes, kayaks, and more from the park so you don’t have to lug
yours from home.

There are nearly 200 campsites to choose from, as well as 22 camping cabins. Many of
these sites are lakeside, or within close access to the water. Several of these loops offer
playgrounds for the kiddos in your travel party. Don’t forget to hit up Kona Ice of the Hill
Country for food, drinks, and frozen treats before you go. Inks Lake State Park is a
beloved spot for camping in Texas.

Texas’ Colorado Bend State Park

Sightseers and nature buffs need to add exploring the unspoiled wilderness of Colorado
Bend State Park to their travel bucket list. Campers can paddle in the Colorado River,
then head into Spicewood Springs for a cool down. On land, test your limits with the 35
miles of hike and bike trails.

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 guide you through the nearby Gorman Falls, as well as deep into
wild caves. When travelling into Bend, check out the Tie Slide Trails and Almamos Wine
Cellars. It’s no surprise travelers love this this spot for Texas state park camping.

Lockhart State Park in Texas

Is your ideal vacay filled with all the chill vibes? Lockhart State Park gives travelers a
break from the business of nearby Austin and San Antonio. 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

There’s nothing better than getting to learn 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 property provides endless water adventures like kayaking,
fishing, paddling, and swimming. On land, enjoy group gatherings, geocaching, nature
watching, hiking, and biking.

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 bind in Texas” on 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. 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’ll have access to electricity, cable, WIFI, and firewood. The
Austin East KOA Holiday is the perfect jumping off point for adventures to exhibits,
theaters, and live music of Austin.

Texas’ COTA Campground

The COTA campground, just 25 minutes outside of Austin, is a sport enthusiasts’ dream
camping spot. It’s right in the center of the Circuit of the Americas sports entertainment
complex. Not only is it home to lots of happy RV campers, 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 Austin, Texas
has to offer.

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 you’ll find Taylor Park Campground. This spot on Granger Lake
offers lakeside camping for families and nature lovers alike. 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 the Hill County of Texas. The 115-acre property, about 30
miles west of Austin, offers 32 refreshing springs during the hot Texas summer. After a
day full 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. Just keep in mind that you must bring 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 of choice, the Vineyards campgrounds and cabins is 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 the activity of Dallas? Reserve a campsite at Willow
Grove Park in Lake Dallas. It’s a relaxing home base to reset after a day of fun in the city.
Take a leisurely 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,
get ready 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. There’s something for every
traveler at Twin Cove, between the Camp Store, playground, and collection of pavilions.
Tent campers should reserve early, because there are only six tent sites on property.

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 story telling.

Texas’ Pollinator Pond

You might be surprised to learn that with just a 30-minute drive outside of Dallas, you’d
be able to 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 own 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 some yoga. You’re guaranteed to find some 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 just about ten minutes
from downtown, you’ve got easy access to all the action. On your down time, take your
furry friend to the ground’s dog park, catch up on some laundry, or just take in the
peace and quiet.

There are about 100 RV spots at this park, just mind that some people are long-term
guests so not every spot is available. However, helpful and accommodating 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 take on a day of fun in the Dallas sun. This location is primal for RV camping
in Texas.

If you don’t have cowboy boots on and your tent packed up by now, what are you still waiting
for? These amazing Texas campgrounds are calling your name! Hopefully, this helped you
narrow down the search for a perfect getaway location. Before heading out on your next
adventure, read up on Crow Survival for some great camping info.