Camping in Texas

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

94% (29698 reviews)
94% (29698 reviews)

Popular camping styles for Texas

Community favorites in Texas

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

Public campgrounds in Texas

Stories from the community

Available this weekend

Under $50

12 top campgrounds in Texas

99%
(635)

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. *Feel free to BYO watertoys (kayaks, SUPs, etc.). 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. *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 6+ 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. -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 property for events, please reach out for info/pricing. Feel free to message us if you have questions!
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$50
 / night
91%
(93)

P² Farm | Scenic River Camping

5 sites · RVs, Tents30 acres · Georgetown, TX
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. Portable fire ring is provided. 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.
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$30
 / night
96%
(1135)

Sparrow Bend River Retreat

12 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents8 acres · Pipe Creek, TX
Sparrow Bend River Retreat is a beautiful 8 acre multi-site vacation rental property with camping, RV sites and 2 vacation homes.With a private 300yard stretch of the crystal-clear, spring fed MEDINA RIVER your party will spend the day exploring its majestic cliffs and coves, paddling/floating the river (tubes and kayaks for rent), splashing in the shallows, playing yard games on the lawn or sunbathing on a massive bolder.Enjoy a delicious and memorable dinner in Lakehills (15min), Bandera (20min) or Boerne (25min). Or stay in and grill out over the fire, or at the provided grill.Camp sites each have a customized picnic table for you convenience.Spend you evening sharing laughs around the provided firepit as you take in the dazzling canopy of stars. (Firewood available for sale)Our family has always dreamed of hosting a place for families and friends to come enjoy nature however we would have never dreamed of finding a property as unique and beautiful as this. A lake when the water is high, a beautiful river when the waters low. All crowned by a majestic limestone bluff, complete with boulders, coves and endless room for adventures.This land was once a part of a wagon trail along the river and, if you're lucky, you can still find arrowheads along the paths.The property is gated with a high privacy fence along the neighboring borders for security.
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$54.40
 / night
95%
(900)

Dos Rios - Hill Country Adventure

24 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents19 acres · 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
97%
(86)

Wild 2 Wonderful Ranch

15 sites · RVs, Tents56 acres · Mansfield, TX
Book now and receive a Free Bundle of Firewood ( upon request ) Our Open Prairie Area is perfect for viewing Starry Night Skies, Wild 2 Wonderful Ranch has 4 generations, Living on Ranch, We are right outside Mansfield Texas city limits. We are hard at work reclaiming the land to make it a park like setting. You are 2 miles from old Downtown Mansfield. ( Several quaint shops and restaurants ) There are large open areas and also forest areas. Sit outside and watch the stars and the wildlife, enjoy the peace and quiet of the country with city and stores close by Our camping areas are large and accommodate large groups or small ones THE EXPRESSIONS OF WILD 2 WONDERFUL: As the morning crests the Texas horizon, imagine waking up the serene beauty of a pastural oasis just a stones throw away from urban convenience. here, just beyond the bustling city limits of Mansfield, Texas, awaits an RV camping haven for nature enthusiasts and city explorers alike. Spanning across a reclaimed expanse that exudes a park-like tranquility, our rich verdant landscape offers spacious camping areas ideal for both intimate and sizable RV groups. Whether you're looking to bask in the majesty of star-studded night skies or to witness the gentle parade of local wildlife, the merger of rustic charm with unrestrained freedom is sure to enrich you RV camping experience. Located 2 miles from the historic heart of downtown Mansfield, Campers can indulge in the local charm of quaint shops and inviting restaurant. Meanwhile, adventure seekers and families will revel in the proximity to a wealth of the region's lush flora and innovative water features. Our RV camping retreat offers a balance rarely found a nexus where pastural beauty meets urban excitement, leaving you with an escape that caters to peace-seekers and thrill-seekers alike. Set up camp where generations have sown the seed of hospitality and embraced the blend of nature's touch with the convenience of city amenities at your fingertips. Joe Pool Lake is within 10 miles Texas Ranger Stadium (Globe life field) 21 miles AT&T Stadium ( Dallas Cowboys stadium) 21 miles Traders Village Flea Market 16 miles Hawaiian Falls water park 6.8 miles Six Flags over Texas 20 miles Six Flags Hurricane Harbor 22 miles Downtown Dallas Historic District 37 miles Ft Worth Stock Yards 25 miles Parks Mall at Arlington 16 miles State Hwy 287 3.5 miles State Hwy 360 5.9 miles Interstate 20 16 miles Mans Best Field Dog park. 1.8 miles Ft worth Botanical Gardens 26 miles Ft worth Water Gardens 23 miles
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$12
 / night
94%
(1400)

Lost Woods

43 sites · RVs, Tents55 acres · San Antonio, TX
Welcome to our little piece of paradise! 55 acres of woods hidden near town. A network of trails criss-cross the creek and wind throughout the property under a peaceful canopy of large beautiful trees. Don't be surprised if you run into deer, squirrels, or roadrunners! Our property is home to a wide variety of hill-country wildlife. - Each of our campsites are private and surrounded by forest. - Each site has a fire ring for campfires - Our trees are our most precious natural resource and set this campground apart! Please don't do anything to harm them. - Port-o-john is available on site. - All of our campsites are primitive. No electric or water here. - When you camp with us you are welcome to explore and play on the entire property! We have 55 acres of trails and woods to explore! Please bring your bikes, trail shoes, or whatever helps you have fun in the wild! - Hammocks welcome! We have so many trees! All of our sites are hammock-friendly. - When you check-in, just text us, your host will help you find your campsite. - Some sites are drive-in where your vehicle can park right next to the fire. Others are walk-in and require a short hike of 100' or less from your parking space. You can indicate your preference during booking or at check-in. If you want to drive right into your site, Campsites 2, 3, 6, and 12 are the sites you want. Some of our campsites are more secluded than others and offer extreme privacy in the most beautiful settings we have to offer. If you're looking for a wilder campsite surrounded by huge old trees and all the peace the woods have to offer, just request Campsites 4, 5, 7, or 8. Each of these sites requires a walk of at least 50' from your vehicle to the fire ring. Site 13 is only for backpackers or people willing to hike about 500 yards to the campsite over rough terrain. There is no way to drive to it or even get close except on foot. But it is spectacular and beautiful! Only three sites can accommodate a smaller trailer or camper. Site 1, Site 2, and site 6. Please notify me in your booking if you intend to bring a camper and I can accommodate you. We practice leave-no-trace as much as possible. So please pack out anything you pack in. You are responsible for removing all trash. If any garbage is left behind in your site you will be billed for the cleanup. We have a dumpster located near the front gate. Please use it and put all your trash in there. Heads-up! We have a small farm on the property. Dogs are always welcome and we LOVE our furry friends! For their safety and the safety of our livestock please keep them leashed while on property.
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$50
 / night
100%
(89)

The Charmadillo: Glamping Resort

29 sites · Lodging, Tents44 acres · Center Point, TX
A getaway tucked deep into 44 magical acres of rolling hills. 10 minutes outside of Center Point, Texas. Tucked into the top of a beautiful valley, where hills rule supreme! While on the property spend your time enjoying the rugged trails, bird watching, dark night skies, and the quiet. Don't forget to take advantage of our communal amenities including stock tank pools, sauna and outdoor shower! Currently we have 7 A-frame cabins and RV to rent as well as dispersed camping sites! If you're interested in booking the whole property for your group shoot us a message! *We ask that guests clean up after themselves in the communal spaces during their stay. Allowing all guests to have access to a clean and welcoming space!* SHOWER HOUSE -4 private stalls: Shower + Toilet + Vanity *Dr.Bronner’s body wash will be provided in each shower KITCHEN: -Equipment: 4 burner range + convection oven + refrigerator + freezer + toaster + kettle + pour over cones -Tools: pots and pans + bakeware + measuring tools +cooking utensils + colander + can opener + wine opener -Pantry: olive oil + butter + salt + pepper -Breakfast: Birch Benders pancake mix (gluten free available) + syrup + oatmeal STOCK TANK POOLS -2 8 foot stock tank pools open 24/7 (not heated) -Get your soak on and take in the views! SAUNA + OUTDOOR SHOWER -Sauna hours will be listed in checkin details. THE DEN** A communal indoor space with Wifi, tables and couches. You can also find games as well as books on plant ID and history of the area. (Found in the first bay of the garage) THE DUGOUT** A covered open air space appointed with twinkle lights and picnic tables. Intended for shaded outdoor hang space. We ask that tent campers cook there if they choose to use their own camp stoves. (Found in the open bay of the garage) The Charmadillo is a great base to explore the area! About an hour from Lost Maples, Garner State Park and Enchanted Rock. About 35 minutes to Hill Country State Natural Area. Various access points to the Guadalupe river via Center Point and Kerrville. With the addition of wineries, honkytonks, and charming bars and restaurants throughout the region.
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$35
 / night

Star Hosts in Texas

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.