Camping in Texas

The largest state in the Lower 48 features no shortage of places to pitch a tent.

94% (29956 reviews)
94% (29956 reviews)

Popular camping styles for Texas

Top-rated campgrounds

Dos Rios - Hill Country Adventure

1. Dos Rios - Hill Country Adventure

95%
(927)
24 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents · Mason, TX
At the Confluence of the Mighty Llano River and the Majestic James River lies something completely unexpected - an undiscovered gem in the Texas hill country. The Dos Rios. We have over 19.3 acres of hill country beauty to explore. Take a casual dip in the mighty Llano River, or take the plunge off of 20-foot red rock cliffs into deep cool water. Kayak, canoe, swim, visit the Eckart Bat Cave, or take a scenic drive down the gorgeous James River Road (a winding gravel road that goes over several low water crossings on the crystal clear James River). Enjoy the island in front of the property, with its beaches and multiple access points to swimming holes. We also have camping, tiny homes, vintage airstreams, and modern glamping tents available (see other Hipcamp listings). Kayaks and canoes available for epic river trips too! www.dosriosrvpark.com
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$23.80
 / night
Aerial drone shot of our campsite, which is hidden beneath the shade of the pecan trees at the tip of the "peninsula".

3. River Grove Campground

99%
(372)
4 sites · RVs, Tents · 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. (Both Diamond A and Walmart sell fishing licenses if you need one. Dogs are allowed at sites 3 and 4 but not at 1 or 2 where my livestock guardian dogs have access to. 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 in the area frequently 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. Please Contact me through the Hipcamp app. Tub of mixed firewood ( pecan, hackberry, sycamore and chinaberry $15 Tub of split pecan wood $20 $5 cash discount off total but can also accept Zelle, cashapp, PayPal and Venmo. www.rivergrovefarmtx.com
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$50
 / night
Glamping RVs

4. Liberty Hill Hideaway Lake Retreat

100%
(148)
14 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents · Dawson, TX
Lake life at Liberty Hill Hideaway gives you choices that fit your life style. Our main-house accommodations include a queen-size bedroom w/en-suite, a sofa and shared large enclosed balcony, crow's nest, kitchen, dining area, living room and laundry room. If you prefer glamping, enjoy our 2 remodeled vintage RVs, sharing outdoor shower. The grounds are beautiful and fit for campsites w/electricity, and our latest addition, Treetop Porch Tent. Picnic tables and fire pits are placed on each site for our guest’s outdoor enjoyment. This is the perfect place to restore your soul. If you are a free spirit who loves nature, quirky, lakelife, stars, trees, flowers, luscious foliage, pretty much everything about the outdoors and being in a tranquil country setting, this is your vacation and time-out place. Relax in a hammock, play a friendly game of croquet, or stargaze from the Crow’s Nest. Sip on drinks, mushroom coffee, or herbal tea at the patio bar, enjoy a game of pool, join fireside chats, and soak in the sounds of good music shared by fellow free spirits. Choose from tent camping, glamping in restored vintage RVs, or staying in an eclectic suite in the main house with a private bath. Unwind on the shared balcony or head to Navarro Mills Lake for boating and fishing adventures. There're so many things to do when you just relax and get back to nature. Let the day take you away. Lake life is better at Liberty Hill Hideaway lake retreat. Plan your next getaway here!
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$35
 / night
River Forest Haven

5. River Forest Haven

95%
(489)
48 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents · 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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$30
 / night
Boulderdash Cabin & Camping

6. Boulderdash Cabin & Camping

98%
(594)
12 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents · Bandera, TX
Hi Hip Campers! Spend some time in the beautiful Texas Hill Country at Boulderdash. Located along the serene Medina River, you can enjoy riverfront access and the peace and quiet of the great outdoors. Boulderdash hosts a variety of accommodations for every type of camper. Enjoy a cozy rustic three-bedroom cabin, primitive tent camping, full hookup RV sites, riverfront tent sites, and more! Play in the river,(please check lake levels) unplug, reconnect with friends and family, and enjoy the views of this beautiful country setting! Enjoy feeding the deer and watching the many varieties of birds, foxes, armadillos, squirrels and others! Our place is just 9 miles from Bandera, TX, the "Cowboy Capital of the World," where you can get a taste of the cowboy lifestyle with horseback riding, ranch tours, rodeos, museums, and more! This is one Texas destination you don't want to miss!
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$31.50
 / night
The Bus Stop Campground

7. The Bus Stop Campground

99%
(401)
22 sites · RVs, Tents · Terlingua, TX
🌵 Welcome to The at The Bus Stop Campground! 🌄 Your peaceful desert getaway nestled in the heart of West Texas! Our 12-acre campground is surrounded by stunning mountains, offering the perfect base for your next Big Bend adventure. 🏜️✨ 🏕️ What We Offer: We have 10 campsites ready to welcome you! Whether you're rolling in with a Sprinter van, a small RV (14ft or shorter), or just pitching a tent, we’ve got everything you need for a comfy, relaxing stay. 🌙 ✅ Each Campsite Includes: 🔌 Electric hookups 🚰 Running water 🪣 Wash tub (perfect for dishes!) 🍴 Picnic table 🪑 Seating area 🔥 Fire pit (bring the marshmallows!) 📶 Amazing Wi-Fi — yes, even out here in the desert! 🚿 Bathhouse Amenities: Our on-site bathhouse will keep you feeling fresh after a day of adventuring! 🚻 4 private bathrooms 🚿 2 double showers 🚿 Outdoor shower — perfect for rinsing off under the stars 🌌 🌟 Why Stay Here? 🧭 Our location is a gateway to adventure! Here are just a few epic activities nearby: 🌵 Big Bend National Park – Explore stunning landscapes, epic hikes, and endless stargazing. 🐎 Horseback Riding – Ride through the wild, open desert. 🏍️ ATV Tours – Get your adrenaline fix with off-road fun. 🌊 River Rafting – Experience the Rio Grande up close! 🥾 Hiking & Mountain Biking – Endless trails to discover. 🚌 Want to Stay in Our Famous Bus Airbnb? Our converted military bus offers a unique stay with all the comforts of home! Check it out on Airbnb by searching: "The Terlingua Bus Stop" 📋 Other Things to Know: We welcome RVs up to 14ft, Sprinter vans, truck/car camping or tent campers. Pets are welcome! 🐾 Just be sure to keep them leashed. Campfires allowed (as long as there’s no burn ban in effect). 🔥 🏜️ Come for the Adventure, Stay for the Stars! 🌌 Our dark sky campground is perfect for stargazing — bring your camera or just sit back and soak in the magic of the Milky Way. ✨ We can’t wait to welcome you to The Bus Stop Campground!
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$27
 / night
There are plenty of scenic views from our hilltop.

9. Sound Ground

97%
(374)
14 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents · Blanco, TX
Previously Reverse Pioneers Hilltop, we have re-branded as Sound Ground! Sound Ground is rooted in land stewardship, community, creative expression, and planet-minded living. Set on 10 acres in central Texas, we currently offer immersive camping opportunities and are working to expand into event hosting, musical collaborations, education, and local agrarian offerings. Built upon an ethos that connects human well-being with the health of our planet, Sound Ground welcomes travelers, outdoor enthusiasts, city-worn individuals, and creative communities who seek a genuine connection with nature and one another. Kasey Mire is Sound Ground's visionary and founder, but the vision has been and always will be built on community power. Join us in soaking up the magic of this space for a night or 3, and feel free to inquire about longer term stays.
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$21.25
 / night
Seco Ridge Campgrounds

10. Seco Ridge Campgrounds

99%
(1215)
14 sites · Lodging, Tents · Utopia, TX
EXPERIENCE UTOPIA Private, family-friendly campgrounds in the Texas Hill Country. Great views, and just minutes from Garner State Park and Lost Maples State Natural Area. We offer 3 different types of camping experiences, so be sure to check out all of our listings. Message us if you have any questions regarding bookings during the Texas 2'clipse dates: 10/14/23 (annular eclipse) and 4/8/24 (total solar eclipse). We will be in the path of total darkness for both! -PRIMITIVE TENT CAMPING SITES- Want to get back to nature? Our secluded primitive tent camping sites are for you. Includes tent pad, fire ring, access to Community Kitchen & our Shower Haus (aka bathrooms & showers). 14-day maximum per month. -Ridge Site- Maybe you'd like to get back to nature in style? Enjoy our Ridge Site with Cargo Tent - complete with a fire ring, table and chairs, and swings. This site does not include a bed. -THE BUNKHAUS- Looking to get back to nature with all the creature comforts? Check out our Bunkhaus that sleeps 4, including a queen size bed and a set of bunk beds. The Bunkhaus has electricity, A/C and Wifi. ALL OF OUR CAMPING EXPERIENCES INCLUDE ACCESS TO: • Communal Kitchen (sinks, fridge, grills, etc.) • The Shower Haus (flushing toilets, sinks, and hot showers) • The Tree House Play Area AROUND UTOPIA • Experience driving on the 'The Twisted Sisters' (Ranch Roads, 335. 336, and 337). • Garner State Park • Lost Maples State Natural Area • Tubing the Frio River • Sabinal River • Horseback Riding • Sabinal County Museum • Frio Bat Flight • Utopia Community Park - picnic, swim & fish under the enormous cypress trees. • Dine at Lost Maples Café, The Lunchbox, or take the 20 min drive to Mac & Ernie's Roadside Eatery in Tarpley, Tx (featured on Food Network)
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$40
 / night
The beautiful view of the San Saba River, just a stone's throw away from camp

11. Low Gear Farmstead

99%
(1296)
32 sites · RVs, Tents · Menard, TX
Get into low gear and enjoy the slow pace and peace of our little working farm on the edge of the hill country. Low Gear Farmstead's 75 acres border the lovely San Saba River, providing campers the opportunity to swim, wade, fish and paddle. Farm animals including dairy goats, chickens, and horses inhabit the property, but wildlife such as deer, wild turkey, ringtail, fox and armadillo is also abundant. Bird watchers will be delighted at the diversity of birds, especially in spring. Don't forget to look up at night as our dark skies provide excellent stargazing on clear nights and a very visible Milky Way. We limit the number of campsites and spread them out so that campers may enjoy privacy and seclusion. Campsites are provided with compost toilets and most sites also have a fire ring. 4WD is not required unless we have had heavy rains, otherwise most vehicles, except very low clearance ones, do fine. The nearest town, Menard, is about a 12 minute drive from the property and has a grocery store, gas stations, a couple restaurants, a pub and a bakery. Lovers of history might enjoy visiting the Presidio de San Saba, about 20 minutes from the farm, as well as the historic Pioneers Rest Cemetery in town. Low Gear Farmstead is a safe, welcoming space for queers and POC.
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$20
 / night
Remote Lone Mound Ranch

12. Remote Lone Mound Ranch

99%
(455)
8 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents · Shamrock, TX
Lone Mound Ranch is an idyllic, high plains, year round, working cattle ranch with a varied terrain that provides amazing 30+ mile views from atop the 1/4 mile long mesa to hiking the 3/4 mile long draw that cuts through the rolling hills. We have RV sites with 110 outlets for $10, 30 amp for $30 and 50 amp for $50 up by the highway or campsites available from groves of elm and evergreens to higher, dramatic elevations with inspiring, expansive views. You may want to visit our on-site ranch store for all cuts of our grass-fed beef and more! Cabins and remote camping sites include campfire rings for grilling and outdoor pets are welcome. If traveling with your horses, pens are available along with miles of unpaved, remote, county roads to explore the varied landscapes. You can expect to encounter, both on the ranch and off, white tail, mule deer, turkey, hogs, coyotes, quail, dove, road runners and friendly locals always ready to stop and chat. We love meeting people and welcome new friends to join us doing all things ranch related, from feeding cattle and horses to improving infrastructure. Whether you're looking for souvenirs or wish to really experience the heart of Lone Mound Ranch we offer grass-fed beef by the lb, free range chicken eggs by the dozen, pastured goat milk, cheese, butter and ice cream & in season a variety of organic veggies to smother in butter for the grill! All organic and non-gmo. We also have a local soap maker that uses our goat milk to produce artisan soaps available for sale. We invite you to come as a guest and return as a friends.
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$25
 / night
Hiker's Escape on 6,000 Acre Ranch

14. Hiker's Escape on 6,000 Acre Ranch

100%
(34)
12 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents · Uvalde, TX
Nestled in the heart of the Texas Hill Country, our 6,000-acre ranch offers an unforgettable escape into nature. With four privately owned lakes, guests can swim, paddleboard, or kayak (bring your own equipment) in serene waters surrounded by rolling hills. Explore over 30 miles of scenic hiking and riding trails, open seasonally, winding through rugged landscapes and showcasing the beauty of the region. Perfect for adventurers and relaxation seekers alike, our ranch provides a rare opportunity to disconnect and immerse yourself in the vast, untouched wilderness of the Texas Hill Country. PLEASE NOTE: Due to our seasonal hunting operation, certain activities are restricted during specific months to preserve wildlife patterns. Please review the schedule below to ensure your planned activities align with your stay: Jan., Feb., Oct., Nov., and Dec.: Restricted hiking trails availble March – September: All hiking trails open May – August: All overlanding/riding trails open
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$50
 / night
Hollis & her ukulele perform after dark at your campfire from her golf cart stage!

15. Happy Horse Camp & RV Getaway

100%
(903)
15 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents · Cedar Creek, TX
GET AWAY without going FAR AWAY! Feels like the middle of nowhere, but it's only 25 miles to downtown Austin and 15 miles to the charming little town of Bastrop with its eateries, shops and historic buildings. Spend quiet nights in the country listening to the coyotes howl and the owls hoot. Hike the nearby Roughs (trailhead is 2 miles away) or book a river canoe or kayak trip with one of the local outfitters. Bring the family and have a weekend event under the trees and covered shade of our Pony Pavilion! Hollis and her wonderful voice, great stories and powerful ukuleles now offer LIVE MUSIC by your very own campfire, for your private enjoyment. (See the EXTRAS category to book a $20/45 minute/weather-permitting show, or a 1-hour Ukulele lesson, or just get with Hollis when you show up at camp) Enjoy the park trails, the Happy Horse on-site Scavenger Hunt, the delightful maze of campground trails (on your bikes!) and the peace and quiet! Happy Horse Hotel is on 22 acres conveniently located between Austin and Bastrop in the Pope Bend of the Colorado River. LCRA's fabulous McKinney Roughs Nature Park is 2 miles up the road, adjacent to the Hyatt Lost Pines Resort. The camp area is 9 secluded, fenced and wooded acres laced with all-dirt flat biking and walking trails on our property. We encourage you to bring your bicycles along. The bird watching is great!
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$45
 / night
Glamp like a Champ

17. Glamp like a Champ

100%
(30)
3 sites · Lodging · Lone Oak, TX
Make memories on our 106 acre Family ranch/farm offering several “Rooms with a view”. Experience the country lifestyle without all the sacrifices. Recharge, re-energize your mind, body and spirit in this tranquil, private setting. Watch the wildlife including deer, hogs, geese, ducks and an occasional Bald Eagle. The sunsets are truly magnificent, stars are bright (no city lights). Fire pits is provided (wood available for purchase or bring your own) fishing for bass, catfish or perch (catch and release only) Things to consider: 1) Fishing is Catch and Release only 2) Farm animals make noise (roosters crowing, goats bleat, cows moo and coyotes howl. 3) Buy our Almost famous Dill Pickles. Made with farm grown Armenian cucumbers. A real hit with our hipcampers. 4) some farm fresh eggs. Our free range chickens work hard for our hip campers. 5) Our charcuterie boards are legendary (can’t miss) 6) Two State Parks within 30 minutes for additional hiking (Tawakoni State park and Cooper State Park)
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$76.50
 / night
Lake Godstone™ Lodging and Camping

18. Lake Godstone™ Lodging and Camping

99%
(236)
25 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents · Graford, TX
Lake Godstone™, near Graford, Texas, is a thriving destination introduced to the market in 2017. Initially focused on families, church youth groups, and sports teams, it has since become a hub for a wide array of events, such as birthday and graduation parties, family reunions, church camps, and business team-building retreats. The venue boasts extensive facilities and activities, including: Accommodations: A 35-person lodge, a three-bedroom guest home, fully furnished cabins, primitive cabins, group campgrounds, RV and tenting campsites, and primitive tenting sites. Recreational Activities: Three sandy beaches, six partially covered docks with swim ladders and canoe moorings, kayaks, canoes, a rowboat, pedal boats, water lily pads, and a sports field complex featuring a lit basketball court, sand volleyball court, and baseball and soccer practice fields. Nature and Exploration: An observatory with a telescope, four miles of mountain bike and hike trails, two new fishing ponds, wildlife feed and water stations, a bird view house overlooking a beaver pond, an aquaponics greenhouse, and six miles of all-weather roads. Rental Options: UTVs, a golf cart, and a pontoon boat. Amenities: A comfort station with restrooms and showers, picnic tables, charcoal grills, large fire pits, shelters, a tree house shelter, a campground office, and a small store with a kids' sand playground. Lake Godstone's diverse offerings and scenic environment make it an ideal location for any retreat or gathering.
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$67.50
 / night
Magical Lakefront Retreat Property

20. Magical Lakefront Retreat Property

95%
(37)
7 sites · Lodging · Spicewood, TX
Just featured on CBS's show "STAYCATION!" Enchantment and tranquility embody our Whimsical Lakeside Romantic Retreat property nestled in the hill country on Lake Travis, just outside of Austin, TX. This magical space is the perfect backdrop for a variety of special events, including weddings, corporate retreats, yoga and mindfulness retreats, reunions, birthdays, girl's weekends and bachelorette parties, & many other special occasions. 7 total accommodations starring a Luxury Straw Bale Villa, 3 Eco-Cabins, a Cottage, and 2 Unique Safari Tents. Our main house, 'La Casa de Joy,' is a stunning luxury straw bale villa (once featured on HGTV) that is truly the perfect gathering space for a variety of special occasions and memorable events. Originally built by an artist & healer, her creative intention and style is felt throughout the entire property. Living Waters is blessed with an abundance of nature, including deer, birds, butterflies, crickets, hummingbirds, & more. You may wake up to the deer sleeping just outside your accommodation. Indulge you and your group by taking advantage of our on-site private yoga, massage, personal training, and facial services, and kayak, canoe, and stand-up paddle board rentals. We recommend local activities such as a wine tasting at Stone House Vineyard (walking distance), a swim/picnic at Krause Springs spring-fed pool, or an eco-adventure at Cypress Valley Canopy Tours. This unique property is a tranquil and rejuvenating respite in the hill country on Lake Travis, therefore it's not ideal for loud parties. We love animals, but we are a non-pet-accommodating property due to the abundant wildlife present. We look forward to making memories with you....
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$71.10
 / night

Camper favorites in Texas

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

Public campgrounds in Texas

Stories from the community

Star Hosts in Texas

Under $50

Available this weekend

Dog-friendly getaways

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Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field
Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

Camping in Texas guide

Overview

They say everything’s bigger in the Lone Star State, and that includes the variety of options for campers, whether you're looking for an RV park, tent camping, or a primitive camping backcountry adventure. Texas is geographically diverse, with natural treasures ranging from prairies to pine forests to beaches. Its climate is amenable to four-season camping, too. Beat the summer heat on sandy Gulf beaches, or head inland to the arid deserts of Big Bend Country in winter for some of the nation’s darkest skies and best nighttime views. Spring and autumn offer the best weather for wine tasting in Texas Hill Country, hiking the canyons of the Panhandle, or paddling the bald cypress forests of the Texas Pine Curtain.

Further, Texas does an admirable job of managing all that big, large, enormously huge—not to mention scenic—land and ensuring public access for recreation. The state has two national parks (plus another dozen NPS properties), 88 state parks, and four national forests, all ready and waiting for you to enjoy camping and outdoor adventures. Add to that all the vast swaths of private land also available for camping, and we have to admit...size matters. Brag away, Texas!

Big Bend Country

Remote West Texas boasts some of the most pristine landscapes in the state. Explore the hiking trails of Guadalupe Mountains and Big Bend national parks, raft through narrow canyons along the Rio Grande River, go rock climbing in Hueco Tanks State Park near El Paso, or hit the dunes in Monahans Sandhills State Park. The quirky communities of Marfa, Terlingua, and Marathon serve as convenient gateways to desert adventure.

Texas Hill Country

Known for its wineries, whiskey distilleries, swimming holes, and rich German heritage, the rolling hills of this central Texas region extend between Austin and San Antonio, with plenty of small towns to explore along the way. Springtime brings bluebonnets to the roadsides of the region. In fall, head to Lost Maples State Park for some of the state’s best leaf peeping. Soak up panoramic views from Enchanted Rock, venture deep into the Caverns of Sonora or the Cave Without a Name, or take a leisurely float along the Guadalupe River.

Gulf Coast

The Texas Gulf Coast stretches for more than 600 miles along the shores of the Gulf of Mexico and includes the Padre Island National Seashore. Sun seekers will find plenty of sandy beaches with warm Gulf waters (plus opportunities for beach camping), while the natural areas along the coast feature some of the best birdwatching in the nation. Houston, Galveston, South Padre Island, and Corpus Christi are among the most popular areas to stay.

Panhandle

The plains of the Texas Panhandle comprise one of the largest regions in the state. Here you’ll find America’s second-largest canyon within Palo Duro Canyon State Park, as well as the iconic Cadillac Ranch car sculpture along road trip-worthy Route 66.

Pine Curtain

Lakes, forests, and swamps dominate the landscape of the lesser-known Piney Woods of East Texas. Step back in time at Mission Tejas State Park, straddle the state line in Texarkana, pitch a tent among the gargantuan pines of Daingerfield, or make the 835-mile camping trip along the Texas Forest Trail. If you want to get out on the water, it's hard to beat a kayak in Caddo Lake State Park.

Prairies and Lakes

This region sweeps down through the center of the state from the Dallas-Fort Worth area to Waco, Bryan, and College Station (home of Texas A&M University). You don’t have to drive far to find a lakeside campground or on-the-water activity, thanks to the area’s 17 Texas state parks and one national wildlife refuge.

Tent camping in Texas

Traditional tent camping in Texas is perfect for those who want to rough it under the stars. Tent camping sites can be found near national and state parks, national forests, and on private lands. Advantages of tent camping include being more affordable than RV camping and letting you get closer to nature. Car camping is a good fit for those who want the convenience of driving to their campsite without having to hike long distances.

Tent camping in Texas ranges from family resorts packed with on-site activities and amenities to more rustic options with little more than a tent pad, drinking water, and a restroom. Browse tent campsites in Texas carefully to ensure you get the style of camping you prefer.

Texas camping packing list

Your packing list will look different depending on whether you’re tent camping, RVing, or glamping in Texas, as well as your own personal camping style. But no matter what style of camping you’re planning, here are some key items to put at the top of your list. Just be sure to adjust your pack list according to the amenities at your campsite. 

  • Sun protection: Sunscreen, hat, sunglasses, and light, breathable clothing are essential. Bring all these things even if the forecast is for cooler weather, as the sun in Texas is always a potential hazard.
  • Insect repellent: Mosquitos are a scourge all over Texas, so bring insect-repellent spray and perhaps some citronella items for your campsite.
  • Water bottles: Most campsites and parks have a plentiful drinking water supply, but you must bring suitable containers for carrying lots of water with you at all times. Don’t underestimate the risk of dehydration whenever you’re outdoors in Texas, especially if you’ll be venturing off the beaten path.
  • First-aid kit: This is always essential for tent camping, RVing, or glamping in Texas. Bring a mini first-aid kit for your day pack as well. 
  • Binoculars for wildlife spotting and a camera for capturing all the gorgeous scenery.
  • Camping gear may include a tent, climate-appropriate sleeping bag, sleeping pad, camp stove, and backpack, though backpackers will prefer a minimalist approach. So long as you carry plenty of drinking water, you'll be golden. If you’re car camping, RVing, or glamping, some additional items worth bringing camping in Texas include camp chairs, a hammock, a shade canopy and recreational equipment.
  • Food and drinkare easiest to bring when RVing or glamping. Gather ingredients for meals, and know that having refrigerator access changes your shopping list considerably. Some glamping places provide meals, and larger campgrounds may have an on-site cafe or restaurant. Tent campers need to be aware of fire safety rules in Texas along with campground regulations—bring an appropriate camp stove and fuel.

Things to do while camping in Texas

Hiking

The diverse landscapes of Texas make for incredibly varied hiking terrain. Options range from short desert loops with wide-open views for miles to high-elevation mountain hikes. Hikers must always consider the weather forecast, with heat very often a factor. Consult park rangers and pick up paper maps whenever possible, as cell phone service isn’t always reliable away from urban areas.

Boating, fishing, and swimming

Texas boasts a huge variety of waterways, many of which are ideal for swimming, fishing, or boating. Creeks, springs, rivers, lakes, and the Gulf of Mexico beckon campers to cool off and enjoy some time on the water. Some 70 state parks in Texas allow fishing without a license, and some offer tackle loaners and learn-to-fish programs. Canoe, kayak, and paddleboat rentals are often available at popular recreation sites. Be aware of alligator habitats in some regions of Texas, and always consult a ranger or campground host about safe swimming holes.

Photography

Photography enthusiasts have plenty of scenic places to choose from for camping in Texas. Spring is especially photogenic as it’s wildflower season. If night sky photography is of interest, pick one of the state's numerous Dark Sky Parks.

Texas is also excellent for wildlife photography. The state has a remarkable variety of birdlife and iconic creatures like the Texas longhorn, armadillo, and Mexican free-tailed bats famous for flocking in the thousands at twilight.

Horseback riding

Horseback riding is closely associated with Texas culture and is a really fun activity to pursue while camping. Equestrians may ride their own horses on all gravel roads and certain trails at Big Bend National Park and along select trails at numerous state parks. Copper Breaks, Lake Arrowhead, and Palo Duro Canyon state parks are among those that welcome horseback riders. Also, look into guest ranches and dude ranches offering equestrian experiences across Texas.