Family-friendly camping near Austin

Escape the city to soak in the emerald rivers and waterfalls just outside Austin city limits.

98% (2958 reviews)

United States
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Texas
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Austin

98% (2958 reviews)

Popular camping styles for Austin

Camper favorites near Austin

Stories from the community

2 nights at Dot's Spots

Great property and Dorothy waa great! Would recommend it to anyone looking for a more secluded feel.

2 nights at Dot's Spots

The place is beautiful and Dot is a great host. We were camping during a 3 days long rainstorm. When our car got stuck on the way out, Dot kindly offered us to stay in the dome until the storm was over and the tow truck could help us. We'll come ba k again, hopefully to a drier experience.

1 night at McDonald Farm

Absolutely a gorgeous property and the hosts were amazing. They’ve got a good selection of simple campsites and a primitive area. We’ll be coming back for sure!

1 night at The Best Dam Spot

Amazing place with an amazing hostess! The water is incredibly beautiful and the spot feels very secluded and comfortable even though you are a short trip to city conveniences if you need anything.

Weekend Trip to McDonald Farm

We loved camping the primitive site by the river. The trail to get there was short and clear, the views were beautiful. Getting in to the river was easy and they have a ladder you can enter. There were conveniently chairs and fire pits and charcoal grills available. We enjoyed exploring the river but couldn’t float as the river was extremely low and shallow. Water was hot due to it being summer but it was still fun! Host was very polite and helpful!!

Rachel

2 weeks ago

Weekend Trip to River Forest Haven

WHAT A TREASURE! We love the campground and have had many beautiful memries. Time stamps to hold onto for life. The owner is a delight and very helpful. It's a place I love to go in my mind when I feel stressed ❤️

Weekend Trip to P² Farm | Scenic River Camping

The private, non commercialized open space makes this spot unique! It was ideal for my grand babies first camp out experience. First time in a river too, so the low flow was perfect to splash around and explore. Better directions and entrance signage would be helpful though.

Weekend Trip to P² Farm | Scenic River Camping

This is my second time coming to this property but my first time at the mother tree. It was perfect and serene. Thank you again Makayla and family!

Weekend Trip to Hill Country Escape

Great spot with everything you need. Scenic views and a covered patio, chairs, and table. Will book again next time I’m driving through.

Angelo

2 weeks ago

Weekend Trip to Secluded Treehouse/AC, Real Privacy

I surprised my partner with a weekend at Robin's Nest for his birthday, and it could not have been a better gift; he loved it. We brought our 3 pups, who loved every second of running around exploring the woods. We spent the entire time completely disconnected from the outside world (no cell service) and just relaxing and enjoying the type of privacy we very rarely get to enjoy living in the city. We were able to hear the highway which provided a feeling of safety, knowing we weren't actually in some desolate place, but aside from that, it was 100% private and we couldn't hear anything or anyone else other than nature. Can't wait to go back!

Weekend Trip to The Best Dam Spot

Been here more then a handful of time. Its my go to family spot. Always beautiful and always welcome. The host is very kind and accommodating.

Weekend Trip to The Best Dam Spot

What a great site! First of all, Laura was the nicest. We forgot our tent poles and she was able to help us find a tent to borrow instead of sleeping on the ground. Secondly, the site is even more beautiful than in the pictures, which I was shocked by, because the pictures were so pretty that I felt sure they must be photoshopped (nope, the water is actually that blue!!). Evidently this river is one of the cleanest in the nation, and the dam is safe to swim around. There are a couple swings hanging over the water and plenty of grassy space around. The sites are pretty flat with no big rocks and, even though we camped within three feet of the river, not swampy. The outdoor shower was clean, pressurized, and heat-adjustable. The potable water was readily available, as were outlets for device charging, and most of the site had great cell service. Look out for anthills when walking (they bite!) for sure, but otherwise no outstanding bugs. Maybe the (very cute) ducks waddling along the shore take care of them :) There were paddle boards, kayaks, a volleyball net, and a trampoline for use. The entire property is well-maintained and welcoming. I would for sure stay here again.

1 night at P² Farm | Scenic River Camping

I loved the land! Super clean, quiet, and beautiful. The owner took my 2 friends and I out to his fields to see his horses and animals. We learned about the wildlife, and also enjoyed the river next to our camping site. Overall 10/10 experience, will 100% be going back!

1 night at The Best Dam Spot

I am very satisfied with my stay here! It really is the best dam spot! My 6 year old son and I went on our first ever tent camping experience. I did so much looking around, as a women, trying to find something that felt secluded, but was in a safe environment seeing as this was my first time and I had my young child with me. Upon arrival, we were greeted and shown around our camping options. Now honestly, I thought the place was much bigger...however, it was perfect! The location is perfect. It is about 23 minutes away from everything you may want to do. Its close to a road, but not a busy road...and you wouldn't know it! We had electricity from around 9PM- 6:30 AM (roughly). The treck back up the hill with the cart is a workout, but not impossible! They provide a couple wagons. We got to enjoy the kayaks. We saw a snake infront of our tent in the water, some turtles, fish, the ducks loved to visit and when we arrived and were setting up...people walked by on horses. Just down the river there is a trail riding place. That was cool! They did provide shampoo etc, but we brought our own. My only "complaint" would be that I wish the grass was a little shorter around the bathroom area...but we survived. Hah. My son and I are so looking forward to being back! I think this will be our new go to get away. Don't forget your extension cord! I am so happy that I chose this place. My son and I made some amazing memories after a tough few months of personal changes. We loved it!

Weekend Trip to P² Farm | Scenic River Camping

We absolutely loved our time under the mother tree! It had the perfect amount of shade. Was just a short stroll to the River. We loved getting to meet Sheepy and meet both Jason and Micaela. The host was very welcoming and we can’t wait to come back! The zipper on our tent broke and they offered us hooks to fix it.

Weekend Trip to P² Farm | Scenic River Camping

Liked the spot I got only down fall was it's full of rocks above and under so it was hard to drive the tent stakes down but other then that there was nice views and access to the water and some places to explore

Weekend Trip to The Best Dam Spot

Another quick weekend getaway in the books at THE BEST DAMN SPOT ..this place has truly become my favorite place to setup camp .. the host Laura is super accommodating and at the same time respectful of our privacy... water has both shallow and deep areas so its the best of both worlds! and not to mention the fishing is fantastic!! I've camped in alot of places but these place has earned THE BEST DAMN SPOT for camping in my books..

3 nights at Colorado RiverBend Retreat #CRBR

Great fishing. Responsive host. Firepit. Clean bathrooms. Good water pressure

Weekend Trip to The Best Dam Spot

We had the best damn time at The Best Damn Spot! The sites were spread apart and our site was very private equipped with a fire ring and table. The sites are a short walk from the parking lot, but there are big wagons provided to help you transport your items. The river access is beautiful and secluded. It felt like we had the whole river to ourselves! The shared porta potty was the ONLY con, however I still recommend camping here. We will definitely be back!

Weekend Trip to Longhorn Getaway Campgrounds

This camping spot was exactly what we were looking for—quiet, peaceful, and surrounded by nature. It was the perfect escape from the noise and stress of everyday life. The atmosphere was calm, with only the sounds of birds. A truly relaxing experience—we’ll definitely be back!

9 top campgrounds near Austin

99%

(679)

The Best Dam Spot

7 sites · Tents3 acres · Staples, TX

4 dispersed tent campsites are located on a large gravel bar facing a beautiful private waterfall. Camping is pack-in, pack-out from the parking lot (approx. 50yds). No overlanding rigs, pop-ups, RVs or rooftop car camping. Vehicles are not allowed at campsites. No pets. When booking, select any of the 4 sites. Sites are first come, first serve. Camping spot includes: unlimited river access, use of kayaks and paddle boards, picnic table, a semi-private communal outdoor shower with hot and cold water and a clean outdoor port-a-potty that is regularly sanitized. No composting and/or personal toilets allowed. Please only use the restroom in the portalet provided. *Electricity is available from dusk to dawn. A 50ft-100ft extension cord is required for electrical access to your site from dusk to dawn (extension cords not provided). *Portable small generators/ Power banks are recommended for electricity at site during the day. **No tent A/C’s** -small fan is recommended. *Canopy/umbrella is recommended for additional shade at site. *Tubes/floats are recommended for below the dam. (floats/tubes not provided). *Campfires are allowed in designated fire rings only. Campers are responsible for bringing their own firewood. *Climbing on the dam structure is strictly prohibited. *Feel free to BYO wagon to haul gear to site! *Please arrive BEFORE dark to check-in. *No check-ins after dark. *ALL campers/guests on the property MUST check-in upon arrival, sign a Release of Liability Waiver AND pick-up wristband. *All children ages 5+ MUST be included in your reservation under "Children." *Day passes are available for $25 per person/per day. Includes kayak and paddle board use. Please add them to your reservation under "Extras." Limit 2 per site. -Total headcount of adults and children on property has to match your reservation. Water level above the dam: approx. 10-20ft. Water level below the dam is ankle deep to approx. 10ft. **No lifeguard on duty, swim at your own risk** **Children must be supervised at all times** Lifejackets for all ages are available for use. **NO PETS** **NO GLASS** To book all 4 sites, please reach out for info/pricing. Feel free to message us if you have questions!

95%

(483)

River Forest Haven

48 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.

92%

(117)

P² Farm | Scenic River Camping

5 sites · RVs, Tents30 acres · Georgetown, TX

*We were highly affected by the flooding in Georgetown, Texas. Our access point to the river has been wiped away. If you plan to book with us over the next few weeks, please be advised that you may not be able to access the river. Please be advised that we are working hard to clear the brush and debris left behind from this flood. The Mother Tree, RV site, and Pasture Mingle site are still available for booking. Our riverbank site is shut down for the time being.* Use code T8B6LGMW for a 25% discount to support rebuilding Welcome to P² Farm (Psquared), a true Texan gem nestled on 30 acres of idyllic countryside just outside of Georgetown, Texas. Our working horse farm offers an authentic rural experience unlike any other, with stunning sunsets that paint the Texas sky each evening. Our farm is home to a delightful variety of animals, including horses, donkeys, goats, pigs and our friendly farm cats and dogs. Our camping sites offer the chance to really dive into nature with access to beautiful trees and the san gabriel river. Camp right underneath our beautiful "Mother Tree" which captures the attention of all of our campers and trail ride participants. Book a trail ride or animal experience during your stay to get the full working farm experience. Restroom facilities with flushable toilets are conveniently located on the property. Well water is available from the sink located near the bathroom. Please remember, for the safety and comfort of our animals and guests, unsupervised interactions with our animals are not permitted. All animal interactions must be scheduled and supervised by our experienced staff. Also please remember that while our farm is a total of 30 acres, only about 1/3 of that is available for open use by campers, the rest house our beautiful horses and other animals. Our farm is situated just a short drive from local attractions. We are 10 miles from the Historic Georgetown Square, 11.2 miles from the serene Blue Hole, and 38 miles from the hustle and bustle of downtown Austin. At Psquared Farm, we aim to offer you a tranquil and authentic farm stay amidst our horse-centric environment. Pack your tent and get ready for a unique Texan adventure framed by the beauty of nature and the peaceful rhythm of farm life.

100%

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Happy Horse Camp & RV Getaway

15 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents22 acres · 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!

97%

(374)

Sound Ground

14 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents10 acres · 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.

99%

(250)

Colorado RiverBend Retreat #CRBR

6 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents12 acres · Smithville, TX

This 12.4 acres of wildlife on the Colorado River is full of so much natural beauty! We're Located In Smithville Tx Home Of Hope Floats! 5 mins from downtown! Plenty of stores if needed! Roundtop And Lagrange Tx home of the antique shows (15-25 mins) Sherwood Forest Fair (25mins) Beautiful Historic Bastrop (12mins) 🚨PSA Please Be Advised🚨 NO EVS ALLOWED ACCESS TO OUR POWER!!! There Is A Pet FeeCap Add In Extras Tab! PetCap: Shack=1 Terrys=1 Camp=2 Checkin is AFTER 3/4 BUT BEFORE 8p We're Asleep By 8p As We Rise By 3:30a Every Morning! If you've ordered extras please be sure 2 checkin inside the window 2 receive them! Otherwise you will have 2 request them the following morning. This Is The Country Where Folks Do Hunt/Shoot!! Although Your Completely Safe, You MAY Or May NOT Hear Gun Shots!! If You Have A FurBaby That Is Panicked/ Stressed From Fireworks Popping/Or Gunfire (AS I DO) It MayB Best 2 Leave Them Home,, 2 Prevent Any Uncomfortable Anxieties That May Occur IF there happens 2 be gun shots. PLEASE NOTE (TP) CAN B PURCHASED BUT IS NO LONGER PROVIDED AS WELL AS TOWEL BUNDLES. 🚨 We Can Not Control Mother Nature Guys!🚨 If There Has Been Excessive/Continuous Rainfall Travis Co. WILL Open The Gates On Us Little Guys Down River! (which makes 4 the BEST fishing BTW #MonsterCats) But This Will Inevitably Flush The River Stirring Up The Sandy Bottom. When that happens the Beautiful SandBar Is NonExistant As The Rising waters Cover it. Hipcamp now offers a weather insurance that you may want 2 add 2 your booking just Incase Mother Nature decides 2 smack us around PLEASE BE MINDFUL THE PRIVATE DOCK IS THE RIVERRAT SHACK BNB GUESTS' RIVER ACCESS! Please B respectful/courteous 2 All Guests/ campsite's/individual spaces! 📢 PSA Reading The Shower Instructions Is Best Done B4 Entering The Shower!! Always turn the hot on 1st do not add any cold until it's All The Way HOT 🥵 *We No Longer Have Cows Grazing! 🚨 RVs must be added in extras tab and ONLY allowed @ Site3 w/ Permissions 📣Attention Campervan's 📣 A Campervan is a type of RV; RVs Are Only Allowed @ Campsite 3 As To Not Block The River Views From Other Camper's. If You Have A Campervan; Want 2 Be @ A Bank Site. You'll Need 2 Get Permissions Frm The Host 1st, B4 Booking!! 🙏

97%

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Wildflower Getaway

10 sites · RVs, Tents10 acres · San Marcos, TX

Escape to the Texas hill country and experience the charm of farm life on 10 acres at Wildflower Getaway! Nestled just outside of Austin, in San Marcos, TX, our property offers a unique experience with hiking trails surrounded by nature and friendly farm animals. There is also a cowboy pool with a shade sail. We have goats, horses, chickens, ducks, and more. In September we will have a llama named Oreo Mochi. There is an outhouse for washing hands and a compost toilet. There are water and electric connections only. 50 amp RV connections. If you need 30 amp you will need a converter. You can pitch a tent. There are rock firepits set up around the property and plenty of firewood. Eventually we will be adding an outdoor shower for camping guests. It is 15-18 minutes to downtown San Antonio. About 15 minutes to tube rentals to float the river in San Marcos. The San Marcos outlet malls are a shower trip. An approximate 30 minute trip to Wimberly, TX wineries. There are wildflowers all over the property; especially in the spring time. We have seen deer grazing on the property and some travelers have found fossils and arrowheads (no guarantees of course). A tent can be provided upon your request ahead of time. We look forward to hosting you. We want you to create lasting memories by connecting with yourself and loved ones.

95%

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Ranch 3232

31 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents9 acres · Johnson City, TX

Ranch 3232 offers unique Texas Hill Country lodging with cabin rentals, air-conditioned glamping tents, RV sites, camping sites, and even a gypsy wagon—situated 1.5 miles from Pedernales Falls State Park and midway between Dripping Springs and Johnson City. We are Dog Friendly and Family Friendly with Amenities that include fire pits, a community kitchen, picnic tables, bath house, laundry facilities, and a perfect ridge for stunning sunsets. Journey down the Hill Country Wine Trail and experience the activities and attractions nearby: Pedernales Falls State Park Lyndon B. Johnson Nat’l Historical Park Hamilton Pool Preserve Blanco State Park Exotic Resort Zoo Texas Hill Country Olive Co. Johnson City Science Mill Twisted X Brewing Company Deep Eddy Vodka Distillery Texas Hills Vineyard Bell Springs Winery Treaty Oak Distilling Ranch Texas Hill Country Olive Co. 12 Fox Brewing Beerburg Brewing

98%

(86)

McDonald Farm

11 sites · RVs, Tents78 acres · Georgetown, TX

We are now offering daytime river access to the San Gabriel River! This is a secluded, hike to spot for fishing, swimming, grilling, picnicing, and hanging out during the day. Access to our river site is included in your camping fee, or we offer day passes for non-campers! There is no overnight camping on the San Gabriel River. All camping is at the main farm area and campers are able to come and go from the river site as they please. McDonald Farm sits in the historic farming community of Jonah, TX between Georgetown and Taylor on scenic Highway 29. McDonald Farm is named after the patriarch of the family, J.H. Mcdonald, who first acquired the property in 1911. The farm sits on the bank of the San Gabriel River and features a lush canopy of huge pecan trees, sprawling corn fields, prairie, and forest. We are a working farm! We primarily grow corn, but we also have livestock on the property. During daytime hours, you will likely see a variety of farm chores being completed. We are only 7 miles from the Georgetown, TX historical district and square. Some say it’s the most beautiful town square in all of Texas. Enjoy shopping, dining, and festivals! We are 13 miles from Granger Lake, which offers boating and bass fishing opportunities. Highway 29 and the many quaint and scenic country roads that intersect it is popular with cyclists wanting to go for longer rides and enjoy the sights of central Texas and the many historical farms in the area. There is excellent bird-watching and wildlife-viewing opportunities on the property. We frequently see white-tailed deer, as well as other wildlife and many species of birds. There is road noise. Highway 29 can be busy at times, despite being a two-lane road. We also have neighbors, so we request quiet hours after 10 pm Sunday - Thursday and midnight Friday and Saturday. Ask us about pasture-raised eggs, naturally-raised produce, and baked goods!

Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

Family-friendly camping near Austin guide

Overview

If you're looking to go camping near Austin, Texas, Boulderdash Cabin & Camping (362 reviews), Lost Woods (380 reviews), and Happy Horse Camp & RV Getaway (321 reviews) offer the perfect mix of family-friendly fun and outdoor adventure. With an average price per night of $45 and options as low as $30, you'll be able to find a campsite that fits your budget. Enjoy popular amenities like campfires, pet-friendly spaces, and trash disposal. And if you're up for some action, popular activities include snow sports, climbing, and off-roading. Start planning your camping getaway today!