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The best camping near Palmetto State Park

Discover the most magical spots to pitch your tent or park your rig on your next Palmetto adventure.

93% (10 reviews)
93% (10 reviews)

Escape to the tropics in Texas and enjoy lush greenery, a lake, and the San Marcos River.  

Popular ways to camp

Community favorites near Palmetto State Park

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

Top-rated campgrounds near Palmetto State Park

99%
(437)

The Best Dam Spot

7 sites ¡ Tents3 acres ¡ Staples, TX
4 dispersed campsites are located on a large gravel bar facing a beautiful private waterfall. Camping is walk-in from the parking lot. No overlanding rigs, RV or car camping allowed at campsites. Camping spot includes: unlimited river access, use of kayaks and paddle boards, a semi-private outdoor shower with hot and cold water, a rinse off shower and a clean outdoor port-a-potty that is regularly sanitized. No personal/composting toilets allowed. Please only use the restroom in the portalet provided. Small campfires are allowed (burn ban permitting). Campers are responsible for bringing their own firewood. *Climbing on the dam structure is strictly prohibited. *The cotton gin (big metal building) is private, for reserved parties only. **No tent air conditioners or electric heaters allowed** (small fans/ electric blankets are permitted) *Please arrive BEFORE dark to check-in. No check-ins after dark. *Children 5 and under are free! (please add children in this age group to your booking in our "Extras"). *Day passes are available for $25 per person/per day. Please add them to your reservation. **ALL campers staying on property MUST check-in upon arrival, sign Release of Liability Consent form and pick-up wristband. *To book the entire property, please reach out to me for info/pricing.
from 
$50
 / night
100%
(226)

Secluded Guadalupe River Spot

4 sites ¡ RVs, Tents12 acres ¡ Gonzales, TX
These are unique camping spots along the Guadalupe River. I didn’t exactly understand how unique until I started getting feedback from my campers. The surrounding scenery will lower your blood pressure and do wonders to let you reconnect with nature. Sit back and close your eyes late in the evening and listen to all the wildlife talking to each other. There is faint traffic noise from 90A about a 1/3 of a mile away but it calms down after 7 or so. Currently no amenities but I am in the plans for some portable bathrooms. Please be prepared to cover all your bathroom and cooking needs. I do have some good clean well water from a faucet on the way into the campgrounds. Campfires are permitted. There is a convenience store (Diamond A) with clean bathrooms and a great bbq just 5 miles to the west on 90A and a Walmart and HEB 10 miles to the east on 90A. No dogs over 20 pounds on sites 1 and 2 but sites 3 and 4 are great areas to bring your high-energy dogs. No matter the size or temperament of your pets you are always expected to have them under your control at ALL times. I have very small livestock on the area on occasion. I am almost always on the property and try to have my phone with me while campers are on site, just let me know what you need and I will do what I can to accommodate you.
from 
$50
 / night
100%
(39)

Secluded Treehouse/AC, Real Privacy

1 site ¡ Lodging5 acres ¡ Lockhart, TX
What makes Robin's Nest Sooo Unique among other treehouses? First, Its a REAL treehouse (not a stilt house near the trees.) A large, private, beautiful, Master Bath suite in the trees with you. (not an outhouse or shared shower connected to someone's house) Natural Swimming Pond w/ canoe, kayaks, fishing poles and more. A large, very private 2 person hot tub next to the fire pit and upper pond. (not chlorinated shared water) ( we don't charge you for the firewood) Quiet clean AC unit, but also tons of windows and breeze in the shade. (you wont find mold in our well maintained ac unit) Several balconies, all private and with views. (sunrise from one deck, sunset from two others) All kinds of lighting and skylights everywhere. A cushioned, heated floor and electric fireplace in the winter. A rope hung, swinging queen day bed. Snacks, camp foods oils and spices, lots of pillows and extra linens. Complete privacy. (if you don't like privacy don't come here) You get the entire Holler, from treehouse to swimming hole all to yourselves. (Well, just you and the wild critters) Digital Detox in the comfort and complete privacy of the whole Holler ! Robin's Nest is a real treehouse sitting atop 7 oaks in the Circle R holler. Our place is usually quiet, shaded and very very private. With wooded walking trails, three ponds in the holler, a canoe, 2 kayaks, firepit, hammocks and so much more. Only a quick jump from Hwy 183, you'll be close to all the amenities of Lockhart, the best BBQ in Texas. You'll have everything you need to enjoy your mini adventure. If you want to really know what the Robin's Nest experience is like, read the reviews. We Hope to see you soon at your escape in the woods of our Holler. One day won't be enough! Here's what a recent guest said: "A beautiful and magical escape Wow! There is not one negative mention I can type out about our adventures at the beautiful and magical Robin’s Nest. Myself and my two young daughters were warmly welcomed by Shellie’s most thoughtful design of her secret hideout amongst the oaks. It was a quick drive from a busy day in Austin where the nature and quiet we’re so needed. Shellie has thought of everything for this amazing getaway. We could have gotten away with not bringing a thing. A quaint treehouse, overlooking a pond, nature all around, two more ponds a short stroll away. Our favorite part, the seclusion. An escape from the busyness and chaos of the world. Being able to cook dinner by the fire, hear the bullfrogs croaking and take a soak in the outdoor tub overlooking the evening. Do yourself a favor and invite the day with a grateful heart while showering in the open air shower. Sun rising, view of robins and chickadees while appreciating the whisper of the oaks all around. At Robins Nest we were explorers. We were artist, we were fisherman. We were silly, we were fun. We lived out every child’s dream, including my own inner child. We were storytellers. We were one with nature. We were dreamers. We disconnected and reconnected to ourselves and each other. I highly recommend this getaway and look forward to a visit once again. For those wanting more of a glamping experience, Shellie thought of that too. There’s outlets everywhere imaginable, hot water, ac, blow dryer, fridge and so on." Malory L.
from 
$255
 / night
96%
(189)

CampEZ in SxSAustinTX

19 sites ¡ Tents2 acres ¡ Austin, TX
Once owned by locally famous (at the time) D.G. Burrow who was a performing Country and Western musician here in Austin TX. Our 'campground/farmette' is about 2 acres (inside the city limits!), on a creek, kind of woodsy, and next to a pretty vast parkland greenbelt. Recent flooding made quite a mess but it's still pleasant here. Several friendly and permanent residents and farm animals. Creek-side private campground hideaway available. This is a CAMPGROUND: NO RV, ROOM, BED, INVOLVED - BRING A TENT AND GEAR FOR COMFORT (check my other listings for an RV stay). This a "want to camp" campground. If you "need to camp" due to financial or other reasons, Camp EZ will likely not be a good fit for you. Not suitable for very young children . Please include your child in your count. Campfires in designated area only with permission (burn ban sometimes). Bring firewood. Community vibe 'round here; everyone is expected to be respectful of one another and clean up after themselves "leave no trace" style. One week maximum stay. Bring a tent and gear needed to be comfortable. 2 private hot outdoor showers, rustic kitchen and 2 charming compost priveys included. Wood fired sauna available. Visitors are expected to clean up after themselves especially in the kitchen, showers, restroom and, of course, your campsite. Trash and recycle containers are around or, better yet, pack it out! Campfires in designated area only with permission (burn ban sometimes). Bring firewood. We are a 2 acre community on a secret and secluded little street 5 miles due South of the capitol of TX and even closer (2.5) to the very hip SoCo area (Continental Club, Jo's Coffee, Guero's Taco Bar, El Mercado and lots more). I have 3 cats, 11 chickens, 2 little donkeys and 6 sweet mini goats here at my little and funky 'farmette' right on Williamson Creek (sometimes flowing and not really swimmable) and next to a huge wooded greenbelt with a quiet and unused nature trail. This is not a KOA or a state park. This is a home campground. It's kind of rustic and we like it that way. You may see a roach, ant or cricket and you may also see a deer, fox or coyote. We are busy and not always able to visit for long. Lots of remodeling and flood related cleanup chaos here but also lots of pretty and secluded nature. Short walk to bus stop and historic Sagebrush HonkyTonk and Austin Bergstrom Airport is 9 easy highway miles away. Rustic outdoor shower/kitchen/privy. BYOTent. No wild or excessive partying here please and please remember: no smoking :) WE NOW HAVE A COVERED PING-PONG PLAYING AREA AND BADMINTON TOO!​ Other details to note: Street parking. Camping is a very short walk from parking lot. We have carts to tote your gear if needed. Sorry, this campground is not set up to be able to park next to your site. We do not supply towels, toiletries, tents or bedding. Camp fire in designated fire pits only with approval. BYO Firewood. NO GENERATORS OR RECORDED MUSIC. Quiet time: 9PM-9AM. Please be mindful of your neighbors. -Jim O' (Did I mention rustic?)
from 
$25
 / night
99%
(221)

Twisted Oaks

31 sites ¡ Lodging, RVs, Tents20 acres ¡ San Marcos, TX
. Twisted Oaks is located on 20 acres of tree lined Texas Hill Country nestled in the heart of San Marcos. I've been here over 33 years. We have 10-15 campsites all named after the colors in a rainbow. We offer rentals of kayaks, coleman camp stoves, triple burner propane very large, mr buddy propane heaters jackery 1000 watt and bluetti 600 watt solar generators or a tent if this your first time. payment for extras can be cash or Venmo. If you have any special needs please feel free to contact me. thanks and hope to see you soon We sell seasoned oak and juniper hardwood. We are a small microbusiness and would really appreciate if you purchase wood here rather than at a large box store. It is your choice but just so you know you will get twice the wood for maybe half the price. We sell a large wheelbarrow load for $20 or half load for $10. Kindling is gratis. Please check the weather forecast before booking. Texas weather can change on a dime. Also if it is raining in Austin or San Antonio it may be bone dry here. We can not be responsible for the weather or your selection of gear. I prefer winter camping with a nice fire and a cup of coffee. We have invested in clothing and gear to withstand below freezing temps. When campers book we go through a routine to make sure all sites are ready for YOU. There are times were we have had to change or modify our plans to accommodate our "guests" . Changing dates will incur a small fee. Please be fair. Our cancellation policy is strict and it it set as such to protect campers and host alike. We set a high standard for our camp but this is to ensure that all campers will have a great experience. Pay attention to the rules. Using common sense is what we ask. Treat our property as you would have us treat your place...it's really that simple. Hope this does not scare you away. Read the reviews and you will see the common thread is that we are nice helpful folks. See you soon!
from 
$12
 / night
95%
(249)

Off Grid Immersion Camp

9 sites ¡ Lodging, Tents85 acres ¡ Dale, TX
****Recent Update**** Due to new adjacent properties developments, and new neighbors moving in nearby, there are occasional neighboring barking, music and gunshots that can be heard from the distance, which is pretty common out in the countryside here. *************************************************************************************** There is currently a group of 10 people who spend the majority of our time living and striving to create community on these 85 beautiful acres of land. Our goals are to establish a thriving community, grow most of our own food, build tiny houses to rent or sell, create sustainability and be as self sufficient as possible, salvage material for builds, host events and retreats, teach classes, and more. Please feel free to ask questions and share any interest you may have in what we are doing here. Our property is a densely forested 85 acres with a walk-able 2 miles around the perimeter of the property and many trails and hidden nooks to explore throughout the heart of this beautiful escape back to our natural roots. We are in the process of mapping out the trails- which we plan to make available soon! For now those of you with a sense of adventure and desire to explore will certainly be satisfied. We have a full acre size pond and a kayak that you can feel free to use. There is a communal area around the pond that we will be adding to in the near future- you may run into some of our community members or other campers there from time to time, we invite you to socialize, bring a chair, perhaps a beverage or snack and get to know each other and us as well if we cross paths! You will observe and encounter wildlife in abundance including a variety of birds, wild hogs, opossums, armadillo, moles, spiders, scorpions, butterflies, praying mantis, walking sticks, snakes- keep an eye out for rattlesnakes and copperheads, deer, many insects, and more. Please be cautious and treat these creatures' home with respect for them as well as yourselves. Our property is also home to some lovely cows, chickens, a few dogs, and several cats- they (other than the cows who do what they please) generally remain in areas away from our camp sites though they may still decide to stop by to say hello! We have many spaces available for camping throughout the property. These are primitive campsites on raw land so you will need to provide your own tent, water, food, and operate with a leave no trace mentality when camping here. There are areas that can accommodate large groups of campers as well as very secluded nooks if you are looking for a private retreat into nature. There is plenty of fallen wood available for firewood and a fire pit will be prepared for you before arrival!
from 
$25
 / night
97%
(351)

River Forest Haven

46 sites ¡ Lodging, RVs, Tents30 acres ¡ Del Valle, TX
River Forest Haven is a unique space that seeks to bring you closer to nature. We do not artificially light the camp and we strive to leave as much of the property in its natural state as we can. This provides a unique experience that is not your typical campground as we keep all of our campsites tucked under lush natural canopies. Car and tent camping works great! For most sites, you can easily drive up to your spot. Arrive, take a look around and settle into your site. We are always happy to deliver any of our items from our general store- just message us on HipCamp and we will come by. With nearly half a mile of Colorado riverfront to swim, fish, toob, paddle-board, kayak, and canoe*, along with 30 acres to hike and explore, River Forest Haven is also a quick 20-minute drive from downtown Austin.THINGS OF NOTE: ⁃ cell phone service is mostly non-existent ⁃ firewood can be brought or bought, but not collected.
from 
$40
 / night
100%
(53)

Tipis on the Guadalupe

10 sites ¡ Lodging1 acre ¡ New Braunfels, TX
Over an acre of land off of beautiful River Road in New Braunfels, our Tipi resort is an oasis of relaxation, escape from the hustle, and Glamping!  Everything is on site for you to have a great getaway...cozy Tipi cabins, well-appointed private bath house, Guadalupe river frontage, hammocks, BBQ grills, and picnic space, all under a canopy of trees!  We even have tube rentals and cool merch for purchase on site!  Come see us...
from 
$199
 / night
100%
(168)

Dot's Spots

7 sites ¡ Lodging, RVs, Tents12 acres ¡ New Braunfels, TX
In the path of the eclipse! Great space for stargazing, peaceful getaways, and enjoying wildlife. Spectacular sunrises and sunsets. Songbird and wildlife protected habitat. Night sky friendly business. Fabulous space for artist retreats/workshops and available for larger gatherings. This property has deer that roam through and pollinators like butterflies and hummingbirds. It is conveniently located near Canyon Lake. Very close to Wimberley, Gruene, San Marcos, Blanco, New Braunfels. Only 45-minute drive from Austin or San Antonio. Kayaking and canoeing on the nearby Guadalupe and Blanco Rivers. Boating on Canyon Lake. Fishing and Flyfishing haven. Bring your own gear or rentals can be arranged. Many wineries and breweries nearby. Several Music Venues close by, including Gruene Hall, Whitewater Amphitheater, and Devil's Backbone Tavern. Spring fed swimming holes, Jacobs Well and Blue Hole are very close (and may require a reservation). Hamilton Pool is also within driving distance (and also requires a reservation).
from 
$45
 / night
99%
(237)

Ardor Wood Farm

4 sites ¡ Lodging, Tents67 acres ¡ Red Rock, TX
Our values: We Value REPLENISHMENT. We want you to be in NATURE and feel replenished. We Value All Species Living Together in Nature Restoratively. We strive: to CULTIVATE ... thriving biodiverse habitats, because we lived here to LEARN ... from the regenerative nature of flora and fauna to SHARE ... the responsibility to care for one another to GROW ... our deep appreciation for the beauty of this Earth
from 
$40
 / night
100%
(1)

Mystic Quarry

96 sites ¡ Lodging, RVs, Tents10 acres ¡ Canyon Lake, TX
Welcome to Mystic Quarry, a Modern RV Resort offering Cabins, Glamping, and Camping, located near the Guadalupe River and Canyon Lake, in the heart of the Texas Hill Country. Mystic Quarry Resort is a campground designed for all types of travelers, whether you are a local family from Austin looking to escape the city, or a retiree seeking a winter retreat, or just looking for a place to relax in nature after a busy week. Our accommodations range from tiny houses, tipis, glamping tents, and cabins to RV sites and tent sites. You may spend your time with us in quiet respite under the trees, lounging by the pool, tubing the Guadalupe River, catching a show at the Whitewater Amphitheater, or exploring the greater Canyon Lake area!
from 
$39
 / night
97%
(71)

Owl Hollow at San Marcos

8 sites ¡ Tents5 acres ¡ San Marcos, TX
Whether you want to get reacquainted at Owl Hollow with your better half, reconnect with nature, stargaze, or simply enjoy the tranquility, these 5 acres are covered with cedar and oak. **Park your vehicle in the front designated area in reverse, explore and pitch your tent ⛺️ in your favorite spot. **One vehicle per campsite, there is an extra fee per extra vehicle(s) whether you're traveling solo, with family, friends or your partner, make yourself at home in one of the designated Hipcamp areas. **We provide a communal fire pit/grill area, and you can also bring your own grill. Remember to bring your own grilling utensils. (If Hays County does not have a burn ban in place, feel free to use the fire pit). **We offer a communal restroom with a hot shower and flushing toilet. There is a sink outside the bathroom to wash your dishes (please use eco-friendly dishwashing liquid), or to fetch water for coffee. This is well water and believe us, it is cool, refreshing and great tasting! **You can also walk, jog or ride your bike down the street thru the winding hill all the way to the cul-de-sac. Owl Hollow is in the middle of Texas Hill Country, you make the choice how relaxing or busy you want to be during your stay with us. **One of your many choices is to go swimming or float the Lazy San Marcos River at Rio Vista Park which is 7.6 miles. Owl Hollow is conveniently located: 40 miles from Austin TX, while San Antonio is 55 miles away. Texas State University is 7 miles near. Hiking nearby at Purgatory Creek Natural Area and Spring Lake Preserve. **On Saturdays between 8:30-12:30 there's the farmers market downtown at the Plaza. ***Owl Hollow Hipcamp is just a few minutes drive from open-air shopping, the outlets, entertainment, local eateries and activities. ***Owl Hollow’s policy is: LEAVE OWL HOLLOW AS YOU FOUND IT OR BETTER! (TAKE WHAT YOU'VE BROUGHT: trash, cigarette butts, bottle tops, bottles, cans with you!) We’ve pruned the landscape a bit and cleared some areas, but we think we’ve left plenty of wildness for you to reconnect with nature and nurture your soul. Create your dream trip for a weekend, holiday trip or during the week and visit us at Owl Hollow Hipcamp. ***We would love to host you. PLEASE LEAVE OWL HOLLOW THE WAY YOU FOUND IT or BETTER! We are a pet eco friendly camp, you need to PICK UP YOUR PETS POOP. No trash bins/pack it and take it with you. Thank you, hope to see y'owl soon, Oscar and Mary Lou
from 
$40
 / night

The best camping near Palmetto State Park guide

Overview

About

You’ll be forgiven for thinking you’ve been transported to a tropical jungle at this small gem of a park in Central Texas, named for the dwarf palmetto trees found throughout. Several easy trails allow even families with kids to explore the swampy landscape with lush tropical plants, wildlife, and historic buildings constructed by the Civilian Conservation Corps. The winding San Marcos River and the 4-acre Oxbow Lake offer options for water play, including swimming, tubing, paddling, boating, and fishing. The Palmetto Campground offers 37 sites with fire rings, picnic tables, and some sites with water and/or electric hookups, plus a cabin and group site.

Tips for snagging a campsite

  1. Plan to make peak-season reservations as soon as possible, especially with so few sites available. The cabin and campsites can be reserved up to five months in advance while the group camp can be reserved up to 12 months in advance. 
  2. If you don’t have a reservation, arrive at the park first thing in the morning to grab unreserved sites that might be available for walk-ups.
  3. If your plans are flexible, visit during the week or non-holiday periods. 

When to go

Peak season is from March to November, when the park will be at its most crowded. Expect hot and humid weather in summer, when a dip in the river or lake will be the most refreshing. Visit in spring or fall to see migratory birds. Be sure to check the weather before confirming plans, as rain storms can cause the San Marcos River to flood.

Know before you go

  • The park rents kayaks, standup paddleboards, and bikes.
  • Several facilities are wheelchair-accessible, including the pavilion, cabin, and the group camping site.
  • Fishing licenses are not required if fishing from shore, but are required if fishing from a boat.
  • Bring binoculars for birdwatching. The park is part of the Great Texas Coastal Birding Trail, with more than 240 species.
  • Closed toe shoes are a good idea, as snakes, including venomous rattlesnakes, can be found in the park.
  • Fires are permitted in fire rings only. Bring your own firewood or purchase from the camp store, as gathering firewood in the park is prohibited.
  • Pets are allowed in the park but not inside any buildings, including the camping cabin.

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