Camping near San Marcos
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97% (5612 reviews)
- San Marcos
97% (5612 reviews)
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12 top campgrounds near San Marcos
99%
(456)
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.
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Twisted Oaks
32 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 35 years. I work on my property and from my property. My shop is away from campsites but is ON the property. If seeing a tractor while you are hiking around offends you somehow this may not be a good choice. I have taken a lot of care and pride in my work on twisted oaks.
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. to reduce impact on our property we limit the vehicles to 1 per site any extra vehicle is $5 smalls $7 trucks. This fee is used to do mulching and road repairs to keep things smooth.
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!
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Secret Blanco River Camping
2 sites · RVs, Tents2 acres · San Marcos, TX
My place is conveniently located in town, but still offers a private feel, as there are no developed homes nearby.
My lot has 140 feet of riverfront, great for kayaking, fishing, swimming, or bird watching. I especially love this property during the fall, spring, or winter because the water during this time is crystal clear.
Paddle or hike about a mile downstream and you will find where the San Marcos River and Blanco river converge. Or start upstream on the San Marcos River and you can paddle straight back to camp! There is no potable water, restrooms, or electricity on site, this is just raw land.
If you are a nature lover like me, you’ll really enjoy the company of the property’s majestic Cypress trees, Cottonwood trees, Pecan trees, Walnut trees, wild blackberry vines, grapevines, and some beautiful birds (hawks, blue heron, crane, cara cara, and more).
My favorite to time camp here is Sept-May. Summertime can get a bit dry and the river slows, but still holds water all year round and still offers a peaceful and private feel.
Note: if you’re driving all the way down to the river, there is one part of the car path that is somewhat steep and narrow. This has never been an issue, but if you are trying to drive back up the hill on a wet day, 4wd is recommended. When it’s dry, most cars/trucks will be fine. If you have any concerns you can park at the top of the hill (about a 400ft walk to the river.)
Contact me if you have any questions, I know the area very well and would be happy to help guide you to some of my favorite nearby spots (swimming holes, restaurants, shopping centers, etc.)
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CampEZ in SxSAustinTX
69 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?)
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$25
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Camping near Hamilton Pool
9 sites · RVs, Tents20 acres · Dripping Springs, TX
This is a relaxing spot in the Hill Country to camp and enjoy the surrounding area with nearby swimming, kayaking, rock climbing, bicycle riding, and hiking on and around the Pedernales River, as well as the many restaurants, wineries, and breweries in the area.
We have a variety of campsites styles ranging from cozy secluded oak groves to more open spaces for camping under the stars.
Rates: $25 PER PERSON, PER NIGHT (minimum of 2 campers).
Children age 3 and under are free. If bringing children, please tell us how many and their ages.
Nearby Parks for hiking and swimming:
HAMILTON POOL PRESERVE (1.9 mi) is open by reservation for hiking and swimming. Visits are for 3 1/2 hour blocks of time. No dogs allowed at Hamilton Pool
MILTON REIMERS RANCH COUNTY PARK (2.5 mi) is nearby and is open for hiking, swimming, fishing, rock climbing, and cycling. Dogs on a leash allowed at Reimers. CASH ONLY! $5/per person, no reservation required. We love it there!
WEST CAVE OUTDOOR DISCOVERY CENTER (2.6 mi) is open by reservation only for guided tours of the waterfall/cave-no swimming allowed. No dogs allowed at West Cave
PEDERNALES FALLS STATE PARK (34 mi) is open by reservation only for day use hiking and swimming. Dogs on a leash allowed
ENCHANTED ROCK STATE NATURAL AREA (71 mi) is open by reservation only for day use hiking on weekends and holidays.
If we are not under a burn ban, BRING FIREWOOD and/or charcoal because we have fire rings and BBQ cookers at most of the sites. If we are under a burn ban, campfires (even in fire rings) are not allowed, but bring some charcoal because you may still use BBQ Cookers, which we have at each of our sites. You may also use a campstove if you wish to bring one.
We have a hot/cold outdoor shower our guests are free to use.
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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.
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Mosaic on the Hill
4 sites · Lodging20 acres · San Marcos, TX
Welcome to Mosaic! A growing collection of boutique cabinas nestled in the heart of the Hill Country. Enveloped by Live Oak and Mesquite, it's hard to believe you're just 12 minutes from Texas State University and downtown San Marcos. We recently completed a fresh remodel and are working hard to incorporate unique landscaping components into the luscious, natural background. We hope the blanket of stars at night and the stillness of the Hill Country leaves you feeling rejuvenated and content.
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Dot's Spots
7 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents12 acres · New Braunfels, TX
On the Hill Country Bluebonnet Trail! 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, at Canyon Lake or Guadalupe River. 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).
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OnlyVans and Smaller RV's
5 sites · RVs, Tents2 acres · Austin, TX
Learn more about this land:
Stay the night in comfort and style in our newly remodeled vintage camper. Get caught up on laundry with access to onsite washer and dryer. Sit down for a meal at our picnic table while using FREE and unlimited wifi! This property is in driving distance from Austin's hotspots, while still maintaining privacy, country vibes, and quiet nights.
Just 12 miles from our location is McKinney Falls State Park. The main draws are the two waterfalls, both the result of Onion Creek flowing over limestone ledges. Cool off with a swim in the swimming holes below or fish from the shores. In between the falls, large boulders are perfect for bouldering. Elsewhere at McKinney, nearly nine miles of hiking trails and biking trails wind their way through Hill Country woods, past an ancient rock shelter and Old Baldy, one of the oldest cypress trees in Texas.
RV's less than 30' are allowed but absolutely must purchase the 20.00 per night electric hook up "Extra".
Pets allowed. Please make sure to pick up after them and keep them on a leash.
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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
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Pedernales RV Park
11 sites · RVs, Tents40 acres · Johnson City, TX
Leave flat and drab RV lots behind and come see our hill country views from sites nestled amid stair stepped hills and oak trees. Our park has topography, character, and shade with teeming wildlife and abundant Tx beauty. If you like wild, pure, peaceful country living, then you are who we made this RV park for. Whether you stay for one night or many, come home to Pedernales RV Park.
We offer pull through sites and spacious big rig pads with 30/50 amp hookups, sewer, complementary Wifi, and garbage service. We love animals and welcome your pets as well.
The park is still under construction with more amenities being added. Sites are very limited at this time.
If you like boondocking and have a 4x4 you may be interested in our remote hill top. Prefect for remote tent camping. There are no utilities in this area.
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$30
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Reverse Pioneers Hilltop
14 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents10 acres · Blanco, TX
We are Reverse Pioneers, aspiring holistic land stewards with a microgreens business and other farm offerings! Our little homestead operation is just beginning. We offer farm tours and other goods, so check out our Extras and send a message if you'd like to schedule a tour! We hope you enjoy your stay on our beloved hilltop. :)
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Available this weekend
Dog-friendly getaways
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Camping near San Marcos guide
Overview
San Marcos sits on I-35 in the Texas Hill County, about 40 minutes southeast of state capital Austin. San Antonio is also pretty convenient to San Marcos. Head about an hour southeast on I-35 to reach it.
The clean, warm San Marcos River provides plenty of options for water recreation right in the city. Head to Rio Vista Park for particularly fun tubing or kayaking. Rio Vista Falls Dam is the area's centerpiece. Shoot the rapids and get extreme with a trip over the falls!
Keep in mind that Texas summers get very hot. You'll be dealing with temperatures in the mid-90s from June to September. Aim for spring if that doesn't sound like a good time to you! From March to May, highs average a more comfortable 80 degrees or so.
Top cities near San Marcos
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