The best lakeside camping near Athens

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Looking for the perfect camping experience near Athens, Texas? Look no further than Hipcamp! With over 500 options available in the area, you'll be sure to find the ideal campsite for your lake-loving heart. Whether you're into wind sports, exploring historic sites, or simply taking a dip in the water, there's something for everyone. Top campsites like Llama Land Ranch (360 reviews), Lakefront Paradise on Lake Lavon (127 reviews), and The Morris Manor and Retreat (122 reviews) have been highly recommended by fellow campers. With amenities like toilets, pet-friendly spaces, and potable water, you'll have everything you need for a comfortable stay. Plus, with prices starting as low as $10 per night and an average price of $50 per night, you can enjoy the great outdoors without breaking the bank. So pack your bags, grab your gear, and get ready for an unforgettable camping adventure!

93% (864)

Top-rated campgrounds

  Charming Hummingbird Tree house

2. Texas Safari Camp

99%
(115)
34mi from Athens · 54 sites · Tents, Lodging · Kaufman, TX
Welcome to Texas Safari Camp Come escape to a heavily wooded 31 acre pristine wildlife habitat. Only one hour east of Dallas but it feels like another world. At the end of a one lane rock road- this is a very secluded property. It is perfect for tent camping groups and individuals, has a very positive vibe and is more peaceful than most state parks. It adjoins a 950 acre wildlife park with 1200 exotic animals. Many can be seen from the road or you can pay to drive through and feed the animals. Your host is Randall Oliver. He has been organizing group campouts for years and enjoys hosting, bringing people together and inspiring a love of nature, camping and paddling. Everyone is welcome and campers are treated like family. He can teach your kids to kayak and build a camp fire. You can fish for largemouth bass, cat, crappy and bluegill in the two ponds and swim, paddle kayaks and paddle boards, hike the jungle trail and socialize around the campfires. There are no designated campsites. You can camp anywhere except between the green building and the front pond. No vehicles are allowed back on the property. Off road wagons are provided to help haul your gear. Front pond camping areas are 30-100 yards from parking area. The rear pond is more secluded but farther from the parking and outhouse. There are four fire pits around the front pond and one next to the rear pond. The tiny handcrafted Hummingbird Tree House is perched on an elevated deck overlooking the front pond. and features a queen bed, a bed in the loft for two small kids, electricity, lights, fan, hummingbird stained glass windows, screened operable windows and a screened, operable porthole window in the kids loft. The deck has lights, tables and chairs and outdoor table and chairs and a thatch covered umbrella. There is no heat or AC in the tree house. You must bring your own sleeping bags, blankets and pillows. No food, smoking or pets allowed in the tree house. There is a rustic outhouse with a modern composting toilet, sink, faucet, lights, soap, etc. and a nearby cold water outdoor shower (no privacy), sink, counter and faucet. Use of firepit and grill, kayaks and paddleboards, rod & reels, hammocks, swinging chair and tire swing is included. Firewood can be purchased $1 per stick
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$25
 / night
A Little Piece of Paradise

6. A Little Piece of Paradise

94%
(78)
37mi from Athens · 85 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Terrell, TX
A Little Piece of Infinity Paradise Come escape to our rustic country retreat — a peaceful place where you can breathe fresh air, listen to the birds sing, and enjoy nature at its finest. Whether you love fishing, hiking through the trees, or simply relaxing outdoors, there’s something here for everyone. Many guests who arrive are truly amazed by the beauty of the house. They often say that photos don’t do it justice because the place is even more stunning in person. The property includes a main house and a cozy cabin, with a swimming pool nestled between them, right next to a small lake. If you book for 3 nights or more, the pool will be exclusively yours during your stay. The cabin can also be rented separately if you need additional space. One of the special features of the main house is a charming atrium inside, where you’ll find a beautiful tree, a relaxing fountain, and some tables perfect for sitting down in the morning to enjoy a peaceful cup of coffee surrounded by nature. Main House Layout: First Floor: There are two bedrooms with king-sized beds. One of these rooms also has a sofa bed. There's also a TV room with another sofa bed. Additionally, two folding beds are available on this floor. Second Floor: There is one bedroom with a queen-sized bed and a pop-up trundle bed (equivalent to two full-size beds). In the living room, there's another sofa bed. The house is set up to comfortably accommodate three couples, each with two children. There’s a gas barbecue grill and outdoor dining tables — perfect for a small family celebration or a quiet evening meal. Some of the most cherished moments at Infinity Paradise happen at night — sitting outside on the deck in the lakeside kiosk (kioske del lago), watching the stars light up the sky or enjoying the glow of a full moon reflected on the water. And in the early morning, nothing beats a peaceful walk while listening to the birds sing — a perfect way to start the day. We're located just outside the city limits, only 15 minutes from Walmart and other conveniences, so you're never far from anything you might need. The land is filled with trees and wildlife. We have friendly, domesticated deer on-site, and you may also spot wild hogs. There’s a seasonal creek, several fishing ponds, and plenty of space for ATV
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$38
 / night
17 acre shared lake

10. Daffodil Hill Homestead

98%
(110)
49mi from Athens · 5 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Hawkins, TX
Our homestead is a few acres in East Texas, near Hawkins. The land has been untouched for about 30 years, maybe last used for cattle grazing. We're keeping the property as natural as possible, we live here off-grid and off-pipe. There’s a 17 acre lake that we share with neighbors. It’s full of bass, bluegill, crappie and catfish, we encourage catch and keep fishing since the lake could use a little fishing pressure. We also have a beaver pond, and resident beaver. Some of the wildlife we see regularly: fireflies, turtles, cardinals, bluejays, hummingbirds, kite birds, frogs, opossums, armadillos, beaver, river otter, road runners and rabbits. These plants live here too: Beautyberry, Dewberry, Pokeberry, Sparkleberry, Dogfennel, Dogwood, Yaupon Holly, Holly, Wax Myrtle, Sassafras , Lyreleaf Sage, Carolina Crane’s bill, Coral Honeysuckle, Western White Honeysuckle, Smooth Cat’s Ear, Daisy Fleabane, Prairie Onion, Mullein, Summer Grape, Water Lily. The entire water lily plant is edible, did you know? Swim, hang out, cool down on the small swimming dock. Canoe and kayak included! Based on shared availability, we have 1 two person canoe, and 3 kayaks for use on our lake free of charge. There are smaller size adult life jackets and oars/paddles. Bring your own life jackets for kids. Brookshire's in Hawkins less than 4 miles away if you need supplies. LGBTQ+ friendly.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$48
 / night
B2 Ranch Lake Cabin

15. B2 Ranch Lake Cabin

97%
(19)
49mi from Athens · 1 site · Lodging · Buffalo, TX
B2 Ranch is a 1600 + acre working cattle ranch in Freestone County TX that consists of pastures, rangeland, woods and wetlands. Our goal is to sustainably run our beef cattle business in a way that is always seeking to enhance and improve the land as a whole. We sell pastured, grassfed veal and beef. For more information go to b2ranch.com.Learn more about this land:B2 Ranch is a 1600 + acre working cattle ranch in Freestone County TX that consists of pastures, rangeland, woods and wetlands. It is located about 1.5 hours south of Dallas and 2 hours north of Houston. As a guest at B2 ranch you will have the opportunity to explore, hike, bike, kayak, canoe, fish, observe wildlife, or just relax. Also, the lake cabin is the only guest accommodation on the ranch, making it a true get away.The lake cabin at B2 Ranch is a 1 bedroom, 1 bathroom cabin overlooking a 3 acre spring fed lake. The newly furnished cabin includes a king size bed, a pullout sofa, refrigerator with small freezer, microwave, tv with dvd player (no cable or satellite), and coffee maker with coffee. Linens, towels, soap, shampoo and conditioner are also included. A fire pit with cooking grill is located just outside the cabin as well as a charcoal grill. It does not include a stove or oven.As part of your stay at B2 Ranch, you have access to 2 kayaks, a canoe and flat bottom boat along with paddles and life jackets. The lakes on the ranch are stocked with bass and open for fishing.When staying at B2 Ranch you are free to explore and roam the ranch. There are miles of roads and trails where you can see an abundance of wildlife. Guests have access to the 1600+ acre ranch for most of the year. From October through December guests' access may be limited to 200 acres that is immediately around the lake and cabin. Please message us for more information.
Potable water
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$145
 / night
JDs Lakefront Lot

17. JDs Lakefront Lot

24mi from Athens · 2 sites · Tents, RVs · Kerens, TX
Welcome to Richland Chambers Lake a fishing and boating, paradise with wonderful sunset views and a great quality of life to escape the city just over an hour from the metroplex also near Houston, Austin, Waco and Other, Texas places. This listing is for an RV lot rental. This is for lot 35 which has a concrete pad, electric water and sewer connections. It is waterfront so you have direct access for fishing or swimming right from your lot. This is the Penninsula Point subdivision, which has beautiful scenery. There is a swimming pool and community center as well as the laundry areas and a playground, which is usable by all guests There is also a community pier where one could launch their own boat. you do need to bring your own RV to enjoy this property . We would provide you with a certificate to gain admittance to the facility. You would have to fill out some paperwork before entering as far as identification. There is a limit of a one month rental due to the regulations of Richland Chambers Lake.
Pets
Potable water
Trash
from 
$36
 / night

Looking for the perfect camping experience near Athens, Texas? Look no further than Hipcamp! With over 500 options available in the area, you'll be sure to find the ideal campsite for your lake-loving heart. Whether you're into wind sports, exploring historic sites, or simply taking a dip in the water, there's something for everyone. Top campsites like Llama Land Ranch (360 reviews), Lakefront Paradise on Lake Lavon (127 reviews), and The Morris Manor and Retreat (122 reviews) have been highly recommended by fellow campers. With amenities like toilets, pet-friendly spaces, and potable water, you'll have everything you need for a comfortable stay. Plus, with prices starting as low as $10 per night and an average price of $50 per night, you can enjoy the great outdoors without breaking the bank. So pack your bags, grab your gear, and get ready for an unforgettable camping adventure!

93% (864)

Top-rated campgrounds

  Charming Hummingbird Tree house

2. Texas Safari Camp

99%
(115)
34mi from Athens · 54 sites · Tents, Lodging · Kaufman, TX
Welcome to Texas Safari Camp Come escape to a heavily wooded 31 acre pristine wildlife habitat. Only one hour east of Dallas but it feels like another world. At the end of a one lane rock road- this is a very secluded property. It is perfect for tent camping groups and individuals, has a very positive vibe and is more peaceful than most state parks. It adjoins a 950 acre wildlife park with 1200 exotic animals. Many can be seen from the road or you can pay to drive through and feed the animals. Your host is Randall Oliver. He has been organizing group campouts for years and enjoys hosting, bringing people together and inspiring a love of nature, camping and paddling. Everyone is welcome and campers are treated like family. He can teach your kids to kayak and build a camp fire. You can fish for largemouth bass, cat, crappy and bluegill in the two ponds and swim, paddle kayaks and paddle boards, hike the jungle trail and socialize around the campfires. There are no designated campsites. You can camp anywhere except between the green building and the front pond. No vehicles are allowed back on the property. Off road wagons are provided to help haul your gear. Front pond camping areas are 30-100 yards from parking area. The rear pond is more secluded but farther from the parking and outhouse. There are four fire pits around the front pond and one next to the rear pond. The tiny handcrafted Hummingbird Tree House is perched on an elevated deck overlooking the front pond. and features a queen bed, a bed in the loft for two small kids, electricity, lights, fan, hummingbird stained glass windows, screened operable windows and a screened, operable porthole window in the kids loft. The deck has lights, tables and chairs and outdoor table and chairs and a thatch covered umbrella. There is no heat or AC in the tree house. You must bring your own sleeping bags, blankets and pillows. No food, smoking or pets allowed in the tree house. There is a rustic outhouse with a modern composting toilet, sink, faucet, lights, soap, etc. and a nearby cold water outdoor shower (no privacy), sink, counter and faucet. Use of firepit and grill, kayaks and paddleboards, rod & reels, hammocks, swinging chair and tire swing is included. Firewood can be purchased $1 per stick
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$25
 / night
A Little Piece of Paradise

6. A Little Piece of Paradise

94%
(78)
37mi from Athens · 85 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Terrell, TX
A Little Piece of Infinity Paradise Come escape to our rustic country retreat — a peaceful place where you can breathe fresh air, listen to the birds sing, and enjoy nature at its finest. Whether you love fishing, hiking through the trees, or simply relaxing outdoors, there’s something here for everyone. Many guests who arrive are truly amazed by the beauty of the house. They often say that photos don’t do it justice because the place is even more stunning in person. The property includes a main house and a cozy cabin, with a swimming pool nestled between them, right next to a small lake. If you book for 3 nights or more, the pool will be exclusively yours during your stay. The cabin can also be rented separately if you need additional space. One of the special features of the main house is a charming atrium inside, where you’ll find a beautiful tree, a relaxing fountain, and some tables perfect for sitting down in the morning to enjoy a peaceful cup of coffee surrounded by nature. Main House Layout: First Floor: There are two bedrooms with king-sized beds. One of these rooms also has a sofa bed. There's also a TV room with another sofa bed. Additionally, two folding beds are available on this floor. Second Floor: There is one bedroom with a queen-sized bed and a pop-up trundle bed (equivalent to two full-size beds). In the living room, there's another sofa bed. The house is set up to comfortably accommodate three couples, each with two children. There’s a gas barbecue grill and outdoor dining tables — perfect for a small family celebration or a quiet evening meal. Some of the most cherished moments at Infinity Paradise happen at night — sitting outside on the deck in the lakeside kiosk (kioske del lago), watching the stars light up the sky or enjoying the glow of a full moon reflected on the water. And in the early morning, nothing beats a peaceful walk while listening to the birds sing — a perfect way to start the day. We're located just outside the city limits, only 15 minutes from Walmart and other conveniences, so you're never far from anything you might need. The land is filled with trees and wildlife. We have friendly, domesticated deer on-site, and you may also spot wild hogs. There’s a seasonal creek, several fishing ponds, and plenty of space for ATV
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$38
 / night
17 acre shared lake

10. Daffodil Hill Homestead

98%
(110)
49mi from Athens · 5 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Hawkins, TX
Our homestead is a few acres in East Texas, near Hawkins. The land has been untouched for about 30 years, maybe last used for cattle grazing. We're keeping the property as natural as possible, we live here off-grid and off-pipe. There’s a 17 acre lake that we share with neighbors. It’s full of bass, bluegill, crappie and catfish, we encourage catch and keep fishing since the lake could use a little fishing pressure. We also have a beaver pond, and resident beaver. Some of the wildlife we see regularly: fireflies, turtles, cardinals, bluejays, hummingbirds, kite birds, frogs, opossums, armadillos, beaver, river otter, road runners and rabbits. These plants live here too: Beautyberry, Dewberry, Pokeberry, Sparkleberry, Dogfennel, Dogwood, Yaupon Holly, Holly, Wax Myrtle, Sassafras , Lyreleaf Sage, Carolina Crane’s bill, Coral Honeysuckle, Western White Honeysuckle, Smooth Cat’s Ear, Daisy Fleabane, Prairie Onion, Mullein, Summer Grape, Water Lily. The entire water lily plant is edible, did you know? Swim, hang out, cool down on the small swimming dock. Canoe and kayak included! Based on shared availability, we have 1 two person canoe, and 3 kayaks for use on our lake free of charge. There are smaller size adult life jackets and oars/paddles. Bring your own life jackets for kids. Brookshire's in Hawkins less than 4 miles away if you need supplies. LGBTQ+ friendly.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$48
 / night
B2 Ranch Lake Cabin

15. B2 Ranch Lake Cabin

97%
(19)
49mi from Athens · 1 site · Lodging · Buffalo, TX
B2 Ranch is a 1600 + acre working cattle ranch in Freestone County TX that consists of pastures, rangeland, woods and wetlands. Our goal is to sustainably run our beef cattle business in a way that is always seeking to enhance and improve the land as a whole. We sell pastured, grassfed veal and beef. For more information go to b2ranch.com.Learn more about this land:B2 Ranch is a 1600 + acre working cattle ranch in Freestone County TX that consists of pastures, rangeland, woods and wetlands. It is located about 1.5 hours south of Dallas and 2 hours north of Houston. As a guest at B2 ranch you will have the opportunity to explore, hike, bike, kayak, canoe, fish, observe wildlife, or just relax. Also, the lake cabin is the only guest accommodation on the ranch, making it a true get away.The lake cabin at B2 Ranch is a 1 bedroom, 1 bathroom cabin overlooking a 3 acre spring fed lake. The newly furnished cabin includes a king size bed, a pullout sofa, refrigerator with small freezer, microwave, tv with dvd player (no cable or satellite), and coffee maker with coffee. Linens, towels, soap, shampoo and conditioner are also included. A fire pit with cooking grill is located just outside the cabin as well as a charcoal grill. It does not include a stove or oven.As part of your stay at B2 Ranch, you have access to 2 kayaks, a canoe and flat bottom boat along with paddles and life jackets. The lakes on the ranch are stocked with bass and open for fishing.When staying at B2 Ranch you are free to explore and roam the ranch. There are miles of roads and trails where you can see an abundance of wildlife. Guests have access to the 1600+ acre ranch for most of the year. From October through December guests' access may be limited to 200 acres that is immediately around the lake and cabin. Please message us for more information.
Potable water
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$145
 / night
JDs Lakefront Lot

17. JDs Lakefront Lot

24mi from Athens · 2 sites · Tents, RVs · Kerens, TX
Welcome to Richland Chambers Lake a fishing and boating, paradise with wonderful sunset views and a great quality of life to escape the city just over an hour from the metroplex also near Houston, Austin, Waco and Other, Texas places. This listing is for an RV lot rental. This is for lot 35 which has a concrete pad, electric water and sewer connections. It is waterfront so you have direct access for fishing or swimming right from your lot. This is the Penninsula Point subdivision, which has beautiful scenery. There is a swimming pool and community center as well as the laundry areas and a playground, which is usable by all guests There is also a community pier where one could launch their own boat. you do need to bring your own RV to enjoy this property . We would provide you with a certificate to gain admittance to the facility. You would have to fill out some paperwork before entering as far as identification. There is a limit of a one month rental due to the regulations of Richland Chambers Lake.
Pets
Potable water
Trash
from 
$36
 / night

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