Camping near Austin

State capital, cultural hub, camping hotspot—Austin, Texas has everything going for it. Head out of the city to behold the vistas of Pedernales Falls State Park with its waterfalls and limestone cliffs, or wander into the woods of Lost Pines—an uncommon pine-oak forest—in Bastrop State Park. Other options include heading to the hills for mountain biking around Pace Bend Park’s trails, or setting up camp in your RV at Inks Lake State Park with full hookups and picnic tables. Glamping near Austin is also popular thanks to rustic cabins and yurts. There’s more to Austin than tacos and music festivals, though Hipcampers can enjoy those while camping, too.

95% (5.8K) • 1,225 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds near Austin

Urban Hideout

1. Urban Hideout

100%

(18)

3.7mi from Austin · 1 site · Lodging

Camp in the city! We're 2 miles from the middle of downtown Austin but have been pretending we're not for a long time. Do the city but retreat to a little oasis nestled under a giant Live Oak tree. A lot of care went into our little cabin complete with an outdoor shower under the Oak, everybody's favorite! The cabin features a queen bed and a full bed/couch, a kitchenette and more. An outdoor seating area and composting toilet outhouse rounds out the experience. Come stay with us!

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from

$80

/ night

Cozy Cactus Airstream with Hot Tub

2. Cozy Cactus Airstream with Hot Tub

98%

(20)

4.7mi from Austin · 1 site · Lodging

Newly remodeled vintage Airstream in the big backyard of a Central East Austin home. 3 miles from downtown. The ice cold AC, heat, queen memory foam mattress, conventional plumbing and hot tub allow for the perfect "glamping" experience. Quiet, charming neighborhood, yet close to all the excitement. Shower under the stars in the large, private outdoor shower with a wall of Jasmine. Enjoy our flower gardens from the hot tub. Fast WiFi. Walk to art studios, coffee shops, restaurants, bars, live music venues, theaters, food trucks & hike+bike trails, the neighborhood swimming pool, farmer's markets and urban gardens. 2 queer adults+ 1 small dog live in the main house. This 31ft Airstream sleeps 1 comfortably (Queen mattress), two intimately. Enjoy our complimentary snacks and coffee + tea bar. All the basics are provided to cook a meal: pots, pans, cooking utensils, dishes, induction stove, large convection toaster oven, mini fridge are included.

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Hot Tub

from

$95

/ night

East Austin City RV Spot near River

3. East Austin City RV Spot near River

100%

(23)

5.7mi from Austin · 2 sites · RVs

This RV spot offers the perfect blend of proximity to Austin's vibrant attractions, nature and the comfort of a cozy neighborhood setting. Situated on the side of my house, the site is 95' long. 38' of which is along my house. The width between the house and fence is 18 feet. This should fit any RV with 2 slides and awning being open. The entire lot is fenced in, granting guests(and pets) full use of the pool and yard. Enjoy privacy with no neighbors in the back and an 8' side fence where your RV will be parked. The lot is a city sized lot, less than 1/5 acre, but HipCamp won't let me put in less than 1 acre. Pictures show my white/red retro RV as well as other RV's and how they have fit with and without my RV. Backing in is best for trailers - motorhomes/vans can go forward or back in. You may find maneuvering backwards a bit challenging due to the angle from the street through the front gate and my house overhang. It can be done...it just may take a village! :o) There's plenty of room to tandem park a towed vehicle in front of your RV(fenced in too!), and both 50amp and 30amp electric hookups are located on the back side of my house near the water hookup. (NOTE: Hipcamp will not let me notate in the fields that I have a 50amp AND a 30amp, thus I have 2 sites listed. I have had 2 RV guests stay at same time, but will not book that unless I get the ok from all parties.) LIVE sewer hookup isn't available because my clean-out is in the front of the house. Dumping can be done on the way in/out or with a portable tank.. Nestled in a charming, gentrifying neighborhood, expect the pleasant hum of city sounds (not overly loud) and glimpses of starlit skies. During your stay, I'll be residing in the house with my sociable dog, Toby. We'll be respectful of your privacy but available for any assistance you may need. Toby loves company, including other dogs, and has even been around cats with proper introductions. Feel free to reach out with any questions or to arrange a booking! HOT TUB IS BACK! Just in time for winter! Message me for discounts at 6+ nights and 20+ nights! I am considering ADD-ONS... most common is pet care while you're out enjoying Austin. Other ideas are e-bike/car tours (food, sites, real estate, etc); on-site massages, soubd bath, crafts.

Electrical hookup

Water hookup

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from

$45

/ night

McKinney Falls State Park

4. McKinney Falls State Park

95%

(45)

83 sites · Creedmoor, Texas

Escape to nature, see waterfalls, and explore a historic homestead—all within Austin city limits.

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Toilets

Arkansas Bend Park

5. Arkansas Bend Park

100%

(1)

1 site · Hudson Bend, Texas

Get away from it all at this chilled-out, shady lakeside retreat.

Toilets

Campfires

Potable water

CampEZ in SxSouth AustinTX

6. CampEZ in SxSouth AustinTX

97%

(299)

6.6mi from Austin · 60 sites · Tents

campround/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 and not a living solution. If you "need to camp" due to financial or other reasons, Camp EZ will likely not be a good fit for you. 6 nights maximum stay. 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 quiet and respectful of one another and clean up after themselves "leave no trace" style. Six night maximum stay. Bring a tent and gear needed to be comfortable. 2 private hot outdoor showers, rustic kitchen and 2 charming flush restrooms 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! 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 sweet 4 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 hostel/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 ! 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 and respectful of your neighbors. -Jim O' (Did I mention rustic?)

Campfires

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$25

/ night

Decker Church

7. Decker Church

96%

(23)

8.2mi from Austin · 2 sites · RVs

We have 11 acres right outside of Austin, Tx. Only 20-30 minutes to downtown Austin, we are nestled in an undeveloped area. The historic church has been around since 1902 and we'd love to share our space with you! There's space to walk, enjoy nature, sidewalk to get to a bus stop and the Austin to Manor Trail that connects to many trails in Austin - bicycle friendly. Decker Lane and our entry is large and easy to navigate, easy to park.

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Full hookups

from

$30

/ night

Texas Honey Bee Farm

8. Texas Honey Bee Farm

100%

(40)

11mi from Austin · 9 sites · Tents, RVs

2 acres in the hill country in a small wooded neighborhood. I live in the brick house, have several garages and sheds, etc on property as well. There are also a few honey bee colonies scattered on the property. Open grassy areas as well as tree covered areas. This is a quiet neighborhood and wildlife is abundant. You may hear coyotes and a great horned owl at night. There is a honey bee themed gift shop on site that is regularly open Thu-Sat 10-6 that offers tastings and tours. There is a restroom and small sink area connected to store that is open 24 hrs. There are 2 LONG RV spots up to 45 feet in length BUT, they are back in only and the turn around area is tight if you have a BIG RIG. The 2 camper van sites are (Site 1) 32' and (Site 2) 22'. Ask me if you want to know more! It helps me to approve you more quickly if I know how tall/long your RV is. Especially if you are longer than 24 feet. You can text me info. There is an outdoor shower area near the dark brown tiny house that is a cold water shower only! :) Ask me if you need towels and/or body wash, etc. (I don't mind helping out so you can travel lighter!)

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$25

/ night

Breathe Deeply

9. Breathe Deeply

93%

(14)

12mi from Austin · 3 sites · Lodging

Welcome to Tabla Raza, a tranquil, shaded glamping spot ideal for locals and travelers alike. Nestled in a tree-lined cove between a 15-acre farm and a small meadow, this serene location is often visited by deer in the early morning. Just a short drive from downtown Austin, it's the perfect retreat for friends to relax, play games, grill, and enjoy a cozy fire together. We're 4/20 friendly and welcome all well-behaved pets! NOTE: The heated spa is an added amenity of $30 with a two hour window reservation.

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$90

/ night

Sandy Creek Park

(45)

12mi from Austin · 4 sites · RVs

Austonia sits on a beautiful 32 acre property purchased directly from a family that homesteaded it in the mid 1800s. The proximity to downtown while still feeling the country vibes is what captivated us. We're keeping Austin weird by bringing the world of RV as close to Austin as possible. We have friendly onsite staff, huge concrete pad sites, strong WiFi, 100-amp power, water, and septic, garbage+recyle.  Onsite Laundry Room with Washers and Dryers with an easy app based payment system. Restrooms with large Shower Suites. Fenced 1+ acre Dog Park for pups to play. Our Office also has private phone booths available for guests that need a quiet place to work. We're about 15 minutes from downtown Austin and many event / music / trade venues. 3 miles from Circuit of the Americas track.   More details at austonia.us and please note that event weekends may have higher prices and minimum required stays. We're proud to be a small family owned business. We look forward to hosting you!

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from

$72

/ night

River Forest Haven

15. River Forest Haven

95%

(511)

15mi from Austin · 48 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

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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from

$30

/ night

River Ruff Resort

16. River Ruff Resort

98%

(81)

15mi from Austin · 6 sites · Tents, RVs

Tent camp site close to the river can accommodate up to two tents. Water and electric close by. Outside shower and toilet at the laundry shed at the top of the bank. The river decks are shared with other residents and visitors. Kayaks, paddleboards, and 2 canoes are available for rent. You can fish, swim (at your own risk), grill and chill. You'll see other canoes and kayaks floating the Colorado River. Please ask before hanging hammocks on the deck (depends on other guests using deck).

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Toilets

Full hookups

from

$45

/ night

Texas Music River Ranch Events CTR

17. Texas Music River Ranch Events CTR

90%

(590)

16mi from Austin · 35 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging

The Texas Music River Ranch is 111 acres located in the quaint village of Webberville, Texas, only 20 miles east of downtown Austin. The large oak and pecan trees amid the rolling green hills of this gorgeous ranch land are nestled on the banks of the lazy Colorado River. Swim, kayak, or canoe...but there’s no better way to beat the legendary Texas heat than by grabbing an inner tube and enjoying a calm, steady float along a river known for an abundance of fossils and its wildlife. Bring your own tubes, kayaks and canoes, we are currently replenishing our inventory. Or perhaps you prefer to fish the shady tree-lined banks. Either way, you'll see a variety of birds while you relax on or beside the cool waters of the Colorado River. We're kid and dog friendly (leashes mandatory) and we love musicians. Bring an instrument and join us for an impromptu jam session in our special events room or around the campfire. Cook dinner on our BBQ pit. Firewood is available onsite A few rules... 1. Check in is before sunset. We ask that all Hipcampers wait at gate for staff to guide you to your location for safety reasons. Contact us if you arrive ahead of schedule. 2. No wondering by the upper level cabins (these are private property). Showers are behind these cabins. Please respect staff spaces. 3. If you have an extra vehicle, please park it with your other vehicle. 4. If you have a 3rd extra vehicle, let us know and we will direct you where to park it. 5. Please be courteous of other campers space and road access. 6. All kids are free. If your kids are 17 and under do not add them or it will charge. 7. If you have an impairment please let us know before booking so that we can ensure a space is ready and suitable for you. 8. All dogs must be on leash. Please clean up your dogs Poop. If you have any questions or concerns, contact our Office phone @ (512) 884-4345 Office Hours: Monday-Saturday 9am-9pm, Sunday 11am-6pm We look forward to making your acquaintance and sharing our little piece of Central Texas heaven with you, your family, and your friends.

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from

$25

/ night

Morrison Farm and Stables

18. Morrison Farm and Stables

93%

(74)

16mi from Austin · 53 sites · Tents, RVs

A paradise for nature enthusiasts! With its vast acreage, picturesque ponds, diverse wildlife, and opportunities for camping, fishing, and horseback riding, it offers a perfect escape into the great outdoors. The option to enjoy campfires and provision of food and beverages adds to the allure of the experience. It seems like an ideal destination for those seeking tranquility and adventure in a natural setting.

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from

$28

/ night

The Outpost

19. The Outpost

100%

(10)

17mi from Austin · 2 sites · Lodging

Whether you are looking for adventure or prefer to retreat from the world, The Outpost is the place for you! Nestled in the beautiful Texas Hill Country, this multi-acre property features 2 private tiny cabins, on-site hiking trail, and a huge community fire pit where you can make s'mores, make new friends, or make time to reconnect with nature. Our themed cabins were designed to remind you of the joys of being carefree! With the best views of the Texas hills, The Outpost is the perfect place to host your next vacation or small retreat! Our cabins boast: ☆ Full kitchen with mini stove/oven, and fridge ☆ Propane grill and outdoor dining area ☆ Deck with a private hot tub ☆ Premium hybrid Queen size mattress ☆ Smart 4K TVs with Netflix, Hulu and more! ☆ Super cold AC and cozy heating ☆ On-site hiking trail (1/4 mile loop) and Community fire pit; multiple hammock areas available ☆ Shared laundry area with full size washer and dryer ☆ Easy self check-in There is plenty to explore in the area: Enjoy boating and water sports on Lake Travis. There are plenty of boat ramps & chartered boat companies in the area! If brewery hopping is more your thing, Lago Vista Brewery is 5 miles from the property. Flat Creek and Bent Oak wineries are in nearby Marble Falls, about a 15 min drive. Tons of shopping and dining options are available in Cedar Park, a 15-mile drive from the property. Local grocery stores, pharmacies, restaurants and coffee shops are approximately 5 miles from the property. Lago Vista, Lake Travis, and Point Venture golf courses are all easily accessible & open year round! If you want to explore everything the big city has to offer, Austin is only 35 miles away (about an 50 min drive).

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from

$132

/ night

Longhorn Getaway Campgrounds

20. Longhorn Getaway Campgrounds

97%

(117)

17mi from Austin · 11 sites · Tents, RVs

Come enjoy camping on the farm! Enjoy beautiful hill country views, 20 acres of walking trails, redneck golf course, 18-hole disc golf course, birdwatching, and more! We have 2 longhorns and a mini-donkey who roam the property and are friendly, but please don’t feed them. 7 available campsites with picnic tables and a fire rings, and plenty of trees to hang your hammock! Well water available from the hose next to the shower (solar), Bathroom facilities available, (composting toilet)

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$40

/ night

95% (5.8K) • 1,225 campsites

Top-rated campgrounds near Austin

Urban Hideout

1. Urban Hideout

100%

(18)

3.7mi from Austin · 1 site · Lodging

Toilets

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Wifi

from

$80

/ night

Cozy Cactus Airstream with Hot Tub

2. Cozy Cactus Airstream with Hot Tub

98%

(20)

4.7mi from Austin · 1 site · Lodging

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Hot Tub

from

$95

/ night

East Austin City RV Spot near River

3. East Austin City RV Spot near River

100%

(23)

5.7mi from Austin · 2 sites · RVs

Electrical hookup

Water hookup

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from

$45

/ night

McKinney Falls State Park

4. McKinney Falls State Park

95%

(45)

83 sites · Creedmoor, Texas

Escape to nature, see waterfalls, and explore a historic homestead—all within Austin city limits.

Pets

Electrical hookup

Toilets

Arkansas Bend Park

5. Arkansas Bend Park

100%

(1)

1 site · Hudson Bend, Texas

Get away from it all at this chilled-out, shady lakeside retreat.

Toilets

Campfires

Potable water

CampEZ in SxSouth AustinTX

6. CampEZ in SxSouth AustinTX

97%

(299)

6.6mi from Austin · 60 sites · Tents

Campfires

Toilets

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from

$25

/ night

Decker Church

97%

(117)

17mi from Austin · 11 sites · Tents, RVs

Pets

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$40

/ night

Top camping destinations around Austin

Pedernales Falls State Park

Hidden Falls Adventure Park

44 campgrounds

Colorado Bend State Park

Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community

Anthony

2 weeks ago

Tent

Weekend Trip to CampEZ in SxSouth AustinTX

This camp is honestly just so cool. If you are looking for a sanitized, predictable campground I would not recommend this camp but if youre looking for something unique and awesome I would 100% recommend it. It certainly was a different experience for me but everyone here is awesome to meet and talk to.

King and 2 twin beds, plus table that seats 4. Outhouse is 30 ft from front porch,
and enclosed but open to the sky hot water shower is around behind the bungalow.

Juan

2 weeks ago

Weekend Trip to Happy Horse Camp & RV Getaway

Beautiful getaway and perfect location. You will love the scavenger hunt on property and the hospitality. The cabins are perfect and feel like you’re at home.

Maggie

2 weeks ago

20 ft campervan

Weekend Trip to Texas Honey Bee Farm

Tanya was super friendly, and her place was perfect for our brief stay as we traveled through the area.

David

3 weeks ago

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Camping Near Hamilton Pool

The location was amazing. It’s within walking/running distance of Hamilton Pool. The campsite had everything we needed including water access immediately in the camp. The outdoor shower was an incredible experience. It had the feel of being out in the open wilderness but still somehow private. The owners are super cool and have laid this place out perfect. 10 out of 10 would recommend.

Cameron

December 2025

Tent

4 nights at CampEZ in SxSouth AustinTX

This is such a gem inside the city. A little urban oasis. The layout is big enough that you feel like you have your own space, but you never have to walk for to get to the amenities. Its cozy, charming and feels very welcoming. I would come back to Austin just to stay here.

Sarah

December 2025

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Camping Near Hamilton Pool

Johnnie and Sheri are always extremely hospitable. They will make sure you're happy and that you have an extremely positive camping experience. The sites are all very private and really great. They also have several amenities for primitive camping that you don't always find which are nice to have. I would highly highly recommend this camping area for anyone to looking to stay in dripping springs. Ingo back again and again

Slip on in...enjoy Austin...come to your home away from home! There's no "real" grass on the property. However, the gates in the back can be unlocked to enjoy a long and wide green space. Very large park and the river is less than a mile.

Heather

December 2025

21 ft Class B

2 nights at East Austin City RV Spot near River

Loved the nice level parking. Hookups were easily accessible. Lucy is a very accommodating host and even helped print some documents I needed. Great location for visiting Austin.

Sarah

December 2025

Weekend Trip to Urban Hideout

What a peaceful, cozy, comfortable spot, with the kindest hosts. The cabin was perfectly appointed. I needed a place to rest and recharge and I got exactly that. The outdoor shower was the icing on the cake. Pretty much nothing better than being sheltered by a wise old oak tree as you wash off that road dirt. Highly recommend to anyone who wants to see the more peaceful and humane side of Austin!

Tyler

December 2025

Tent

1 night at Camping Near Hamilton Pool

Great chill space. Owner was great. Definitely recommend if you just wanna camp not too far from town, and the proximity to Hamilton Pool and Reiner’s Ranch is excellent!

Anthony

November 2025

25 ft travel trailer

Weekend Trip to East Austin City RV Spot near River

I had a great stay at this camper spot! The host was incredibly accommodating and made everything super easy and comfortable. The space was clean, quiet, and had everything we needed for a relaxing stay. We really enjoyed the setup and the overall vibe of the place. We’ll definitely be staying here again! Also Pet Friendly :)

Austin

November 2025

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Blue Sage

Great views, great camp sites, and an awesome host.

Zoe

November 2025

Tent

4 nights at CampEZ in SxSouth AustinTX

I didn't end up making it to my scheduled weekend over Thanksgiving and while I enjoy supporting local businesses and would even donate (it was $100-120 for the four days), when I texted the host this, James, about using those 4 days another time and thanked him either way..he didn't have the decency to respond at least saying yay or nay it wasn't doable or it was...just ignored. Either way would have been understandable, but I just donated $100 or so to your local business...real neighborly.....Happy Thanksgiving to you too, Bud.

Viviana

November 2025

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to River Forest Haven

We had an amazing time. The staff is incredibly helpful. We rented a canoe and had the best day at the river as well. We can not wait to return.

Jud

November 2025

2 nights at Happy Horse Camp & RV Getaway

Always a great place to stay!! Will come back again and again…

Sue

November 2025

Tent

6 nights at CampEZ in SxSouth AustinTX

I came for rest and a peaceful atmosphere and that is what I got. Everyone was very nice. It had the things I required: toilet, shower and potable water as well as wi-fi and a kitchen! Nothing to complain about.

Luis

November 2025

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to Blue Sage

Blue Sage was just what we were looking for our adventure. Really neat trail to get to the camping spot we wanted. Lots of room to play and tucked away from the surrounding area. Directions were quite simple to find even in the dark. I will definitely keep this location on my favorites list and will visit again soon.

Allison

November 2025

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to River Forest Haven

Beautiful place to unplug and recharge. Pretty crowded on the weekends, but awesome during the week. Attentive, helpful camp host.

Martine

November 2025

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Camping Near Hamilton Pool

We had a wonderful stay at Sheri and Johnnie’s property. They both came to greet us when we arrived and were incredibly welcoming. They even offered to look after our dog while we visited Hamilton Pool, which was so thoughtful. It was a perfect experience - 10/10, we’ll be back!

Friendly donkeys nearby, sometimes you’d hear them at night

Aayna

November 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Camping Near Hamilton Pool

Sheri and Johnny were extremely kind and hospitable hosts. We enjoyed the privacy of the campsites that were available (couldn’t see any of the other guests unless you went looking)! Very convenient if you’re looking to visit Hamilton pools which is just five minutes away. Also our favorite point was that it’s in an area with little/less light pollution from the city and so we were able to get really nice stargazing views!

Timothy

November 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to River Forest Haven

The campsites are gorgeous and well spaced. Instructions were easy to follow the host was very helpful!

Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

Camping near Austin guide

Where to go

Texas Hill Country

Texas Hill Country may just be the most popular offshoot destination for those looking to escape Austin. Here, campers can spelunk through underground caves and explore thousands of vast caverns—just don a headlamp and watch your step as you descend deeper and deeper into the Earth, surrounded by columns, flowstone, and even skinny tubes of dripping calcite. Afterward, sit back and unwind at one of the dozens of wineries and vineyards in the area. Hipcamps on private lands offer serenity and space, while the walk-in primitive campgrounds at Hill Country State Natural Area allow for a quick getaway from modern life with access to more than 5,000 acres of awe-inspiring canyons, rocky hills, and flowing springs.

Guadalupe River State Park

This Texas park is named for its river for good reason. Go fishing along the four miles of Guadalupe River frontage (with plenty of launching points for tubing and canoeing, too), or hit the 5-mile Guadalupe River State Park Paddling Trail. From the park’s tent camping area set within the 5,000 acres of preserved natural land, head out on one of the dozen hiking trails, many family-friendly and easy to complete in just a couple of hours—not including snack breaks and wildlife spotting, of course.

McKinney Falls State Park

Less than half an hour from downtown Austin, McKinney Falls State Park is home to a couple of (justifiably) popular swimming holes. Chill in the gently flowing waters of Onion Creek at one of two locations: The Upper Falls has deeper water, so families with younger kids will want to stick to the Lower Falls. Water shoes are a good idea, too. McKinney Falls camping spots come with electricity, water hookups, picnic tables, and fire rings. Don’t forget to visit Old Baldy while you’re there—at 103 feet tall and more than 500 years old, it’s one of the oldest bald cypress trees in Texas!

Lake Travis

On an overhead map, Lake Travis looks more like a salamander-shaped river than a lake. This man-made reservoir on the Colorado River was built in 1942 to contain floodwaters, but today, it’s a wildly popular spot for countless outdoor recreation opportunities—from ziplining to scuba diving. For the more daring, Hippie Hollow Park near the eastern end of Lake Travis is the only legal clothing-optional park in Texas, where you can let it all hang out, au naturel.

When to go

For the most comfortable camping experience, stick with the spring and fall months for camping near Austin. During this time, daytime highs are usually in the 70s, and overnight lows rarely dip below the 40s—so you won’t be sweltering on day hikes, and the cool evenings are ideal for campfires and s’mores. With more moderate weather and abundant food, wildlife is most active during spring and fall, too—look for white-tailed deer, armadillos, raccoons, and more. Some campers may want to avoid the crowds, heat, and humidity of summer—temps get well into the 90s in July and August.