The best camping near Pace Bend Park

Soaring cliffs, sandy beaches, and rocky coves line the shores of Lake Travis in Pace Bend Park, while inland, miles of trails afford options for hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding. Launch your boat or kayak from the public boat ramps, enjoy fishing or cliff jumping around the lakeside, then cool off in the swimming areas at Mudd Cove, Kate's Cove, and Gracy Cove. Campers have plenty of choices, with more than 400 primitive campsites dotted around the coast, including some right on the beach. Twenty more “improved campsites” are found at Levi Cove, with electric hook-ups, showers, and restrooms. 

• Best for RVs: Levi Cove improved campsites
• Best for Lakeside Views: Kate and Johnson Cove Campground
• Best for boating and fishing: Tatum Cove 

1. Primitive campsites are first-come, first-served, and popular spots can fill up quickly during holidays and summer weekends. Secure your spot by checking in on arrival—the entrance station opens at 7am.
2. You can reserve improved campsites through the Travis County Parks website or directly at the park office. Book at least six weeks in advance for summer weekends.
3. If arriving after 10pm you can still access the primitive campsites—patrols will be made in the morning, though, so head to the entrance station to pay your fee first thing

Pace Bend Park is open year-round, but peak season is summer, when popular spots can get crowded, especially on weekends. A late spring or early fall visit is the ideal compromise, when it’s still warm enough for swimming and water sports. Alternatively, visit in April when fields of bluebonnets bloom along the lakeside.

• Pace Bend Park is located in the Highland Lakes region, about 30 miles northwest of Austin or about a 50-minute drive away along Highway 71. Access to the campsites is via a six-mile, paved road that loops around the coast. Boat access can be found at Collier Cove on the west side of the lake, and Tatum Cove on the east side. 
• There are day-use entry fees for the park in addition to camping fees. Bring enough cash, as cards are not accepted at the entrance station. 
• Primitive campsite facilities include picnic tables, barbecue grills, and fire rings, while pit toilets dot the park. These sites have no electricity or running water, so bring everything you need with you. Improved campsites have water, electric hook-ups, showers, and restrooms. 
• Campsites on the east and north sides are accessible for wheelchairs and provide easy access to the lake.