Is boondocking allowed in Texas?

Yes, boondocking is allowed in Texas on certain public lands and private properties. Boondocking, also known as dry camping or dispersed camping, is when you camp without any hookups or facilities. In Texas , you can find boondocking opportunities on national forests, state parks, and wildlife management areas, as well as on private properties listed on websites like Hipcamp. Some examples of boondocking sites in Texas are: Dispersed camping areas in national forests, such as the Davy Crockett National Forest or the Sam Houston National Forest Wildlife management areas, like the Caddo Lake Wildlife Management Area or the Gus Engeling Wildlife Management Area Private properties allowing dispersed camping, which can be found on websites like Hipcamp. Please remember to practice Leave No Trace principles and always check local regulations and restrictions before boondocking.

Camping in Texas: Best Texas Campgrounds 2023

Q: Is it legal to camp anywhere in Texas?

No, it is not legal to camp anywhere in Texas . Camping is allowed in designated campgrounds, state parks, national parks, and some private lands. You must have permission from the landowner or be in a designated camping area to camp legally. Texas has many beautiful camping locations to choose from, and you can find a variety of options on Hipcamp.

United States
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Texas

95% (21834 reviews)

Popular camping styles for Texas

Dog-friendly getaways

96%

(283)

Top camping destinations

Copperas Cove

575 campgrounds

Hidden Falls Adventure Park

570 campgrounds

Big Bend Ranch State Park

96 campgrounds

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100 campgrounds

12 top campgrounds in Texas

94%

(1195)

Lost Woods

19 sites · RVs, Tents55 acres · San Antonio, Bexar

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, 6, & 12 are the sites you want. Some of our campsites are more secluded than the 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. 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 you will be billed for the cleanup. 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.

99%

(202)

Twisted Oaks

16 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents20 acres · San Marcos, Hays

. Twisted Oaks is located on 20 acres of tree lined Texas Hill Country nestled in the heart of San Marcos. I've been here over 33 years. We have 10-15 campsites all named after the colors in a rainbow. We offer rentals of kayaks, coleman camp stoves, triple burner propane very large, mr buddy propane heaters jackery 1000 watt and bluetti 600 watt solar generators or a tent if this your first time. payment for extras can be cash or Venmo. If you have any special needs please feel free to contact me. thanks and hope to see you soon We sell seasoned oak and juniper hardwood. We are a small microbusiness and would really appreciate if you purchase wood here rather than at a large box store. It is your choice but just so you know you will get twice the wood for maybe half the price. We sell a large wheelbarrow load for $20 or half load for $10. Kindling is gratis. Please check the weather forecast before booking. Texas weather can change on a dime. Also if it is raining in Austin or San Antonio it may be bone dry here. We can not be responsible for the weather or your selection of gear. I prefer winter camping with a nice fire and a cup of coffee. We have invested in clothing and gear to withstand below freezing temps. When campers book we go through a routine to make sure all sites are ready for YOU. There are times were we have had to change or modify our plans to accommodate our "guests" . Changing dates will incur a small fee. Please be fair. Our cancellation policy is strict and it it set as such to protect campers and host alike. We set a high standard for our camp but this is to ensure that all campers will have a great experience. Pay attention to the rules. Using common sense is what we ask. Treat our property as you would have us treat your place...it's really that simple. Hope this does not scare you away. Read the reviews and you will see the common thread is that we are nice helpful folks. See you soon!

El Cosmico

35 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents21 acres · Marfa, Presidio

El Cosmico takes its inspiration from a long American history of hippies, nomads, bohemians and those living a life of self-determination. We believe in tuning in, dropping out and being here now. Vehicles are not allowed onto the grounds, so if you are staying in your car or RV you will post up in our large parking lot with easy access to the grounds. Tent camping is dispersed, so you pick your space within the designated camping areas that are indicated on the property map provided at the front desk. Front desk hours are from 7:30am-11:00pm daily. If you are arriving after 11pm please call ahead for late check-in instructions. Mask are encouraged at this time. Please respect your fellow campers and staff members.

100%

(828)

Camping near Hamilton Pool

8 sites · RVs, Tents20 acres · Dripping Springs, Hays

This is a relaxing spot in the Hill Country to camp and enjoy the surrounding area with nearby swimming, kayaking, rock climbing, bicycle riding, and hiking on and around the Pedernales River, as well as the many restaurants, wineries, and breweries in the area. We have a variety of campsites styles ranging from cozy secluded oak groves to more open spaces for camping under the stars. Rates: $25 PER PERSON, PER NIGHT (minimum of 2 campers). Children age 3 and under are free. If bringing children, please tell us how many and their ages. Nearby Parks for hiking and swimming: HAMILTON POOL PRESERVE (1.9 mi) is open by reservation for hiking and swimming. Visits are for 3 1/2 hour blocks of time. No dogs allowed at Hamilton Pool MILTON REIMERS RANCH COUNTY PARK (2.5 mi) is nearby and is open for hiking, swimming, fishing, rock climbing, and cycling. Dogs on a leash allowed at Reimers. CASH ONLY! $5/per person, no reservation required. We love it there! WEST CAVE OUTDOOR DISCOVERY CENTER (2.6 mi) is open by reservation only for guided tours of the waterfall/cave-no swimming allowed. No dogs allowed at West Cave PEDERNALES FALLS STATE PARK (34 mi) is open by reservation only for day use hiking and swimming. Dogs on a leash allowed ENCHANTED ROCK STATE NATURAL AREA (71 mi) is open by reservation only for day use hiking on weekends and holidays. If we are not under a burn ban, BRING FIREWOOD and/or charcoal because we have fire rings and BBQ cookers at most of the sites. If we are under a burn ban, campfires (even in fire rings) are not allowed, but bring some charcoal because you may still use BBQ Cookers, which we have at each of our sites. You may also use a campstove if you wish to bring one. We have a hot/cold outdoor shower our guests are free to use.

99%

(514)

Coyote Crossing

26 sites · Tents21 acres · Terlingua, Brewster

Located in Southern Most Section of Terlingua Ranch, within eyesight of the Mexican Border, National, and State Parks. Easy to find, just across from Willow Mountain, one of the most photograph natural features in Big Bend. Traveling highway 118 you will see the Entrance at address 53420, just north 1 mile of the outfitters and gas station. Every night the coyotes would cross the road and come for a visit..Thus the name Coyote Crossing.. With dreams of a tiny home and campground, we continue to improve on the land every day and love to share it with others. When arriving at night it will be very dark.. very few lights in use, dark sky's are protected in Big Bend.. so it may be hard to find. but we are directly on the highway on the west side of 118. Trash Dumpster up front for your use. No collecting rocks, cactus or wood to burn... NO TRACE, leave it as you find it..

Goat Pens, Cigar Springs Ranch

50 sites · RVs, Tents640 acres · Terlingua, Brewster

This central location provides an ideal basecamp close to the Terlingua Ghost Town and both Big Bend State and National Parks. The unique geology and topography of the Goat Pens made this a popular movie set and many westerns were filmed here in the 80's and 90's. Come out and enjoy seclusion, peace and quiet, awesome scenery with sunrises and sunsets to die for. All while still being able to easily take advantage of the area's other attractions. The Goat Pens includes an outdoor events venue that hosts concerts, stargazing parties, festivals and weddings. The Goat Pens also has the only drive-in movie theater in the Big Bend area. Send a text or check The Goat Pens Facebook page (@goatpens) for information and dates of events. The Goat Pens of Cigar Springs Ranch is a beautiful part of the ranch. It is well known for its scenery and unique topography. The Goat Pens served as a set location for many westerns filmed during the 1980's and 90's. Remarkable beauty, easy access, centrally located, seclusion, peace and quiet. All add up to an unforgettable vacation experience. **New This Winter** Rachel Wey Ranch Petting Zoo and Pony Rides Please contact us about hours and availibilty Rachel.wey.ranch @faceboook.com-

Good Guad Land Co.

4 sites · RVs, Tents50 acres · Dell City, Culberson

Find extreme solitude and unforgettable views of Guadalupe Peak at this desert escape next to Guadalupe Mountains National Park! This is choose-your-own-adventure camping. The terrain is rugged, and the wind blows some nights. Once you're here, there are zero amenities (other than picnic tables). If this sounds fine — you don't mind roughing it — you'll be sleeping under the stars at the foot of West Texas' tallest mountain range. And who else can say they've done that? Distance to nearby attractions: Guadalupe Mountains National Park Visitor Center, 11 miles; Black River Recreation Area, 42 miles; Carlsbad Caverns National Park Visitor Center, 52 miles Distance from nearby towns: Dell City, 34 miles; Van Horn, 56 miles; Carlsbad, 65 miles; El Paso, 104 miles

94%

(209)

Your New Property

18 sites · RVs, Tents6 acres · Fredericksburg, Gillespie

Beautiful night skies, beautiful property, just 4 miles from downtown Fredericksburg, TX. Plenty of space between sites. Campfires allowed, weather permitting. Dogs allowed as long as they are on leashes.Frederickburg, TX has lots to see and plenty to do. Expect to see horses on the property as well as deer and resident armadillo and jackrabbits. Water, Porta-Potties, and shower are all available.

100%

(32)

It's a Wendelful Life Ranch

75 sites · RVs, Tents489 acres · Llano, Llano

Our ranch was originally part of the enchanted Rock property owned by Mr Moss. It is currently a 6th generation ranch. Original ranch was 1767 acres. The highest elevation is 1600'. You can locate us on Google Earth by searching for Dooley Wahl Rd Llano, Texas. We have secluded camping available. Primitive tent camping, or if you want to go glamping you can bring an RV with a generator and be even more secluded but still have the comfortable amenities of an RV. IF YOU DON'T HAVE AN RV...no worries! Contact outdoorsy.com. you can rent an RV. They will deliver it, set it up and pick it up. Remember to ask for a generator. You don't have to bring wood. We got yuh covered! There is a porta potty at the dig site. We are currently working on getting an outside bathroom and shower area. Bring bikes, dirt bikes, atv or mule. Rock hounds who love to pick up rocks will love this place.Photographers who enjoy taking pictures of nature and wildlife will love this! If you enjoy looking for treasures like Arrowheads and artifacts you can participate in one of our large screen digs. You can pay for large screen digs when you arrive and see how it works! You can fish! We allow Jeep rock crawling. You can Target practice. Hand guns/side arms are permitted. Lots of room for kids to run and play! Let them be kids! Family get away, romantic secluded get away! The skies are limitless! Take home anything mother nature makes. Plants, rocks, feathers and more!During the month of February March and April the ranch provides a safe space with no electric lines in the 1500' long Sandy bottom dry creek. Leaving you with straight Lanes to you kites. Fighting kites and rather large exotic kites. Learn local Texas history! We also offer hog hunting, aoUdad hunting, during deer season we have day hunting available.

97%

(1587)

4R Ranch Winery Campsite

141 sites · RVs, Tents1132 acres · Muenster, Cooke

Where the short-grass prairie drops into the Red River Valley, the 4R Ranch—with its magnificent vistas and rocky terrain—is perfectly suited for growing grapes. Patriarch W.C. Roper encouraged his family of sixth-generation Texans to share the beauty of this extraordinary place with others; and so it was love of this man and love of the land that inspired 4R Ranch Vineyards & Winery. Chinquapin oaks, white-tailed deer, the endangered black-capped vireo, and the occasional Rio Grande turkey inhabit this incredible property. Powered by sun, earth and wind, 4R Ranch Vineyards & Winery calls us all to slow our pace, enjoy the view, and sip a glass of wine in the magnificent Red River Valley.

99%

(280)

Lynn y B's land

28 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents80 acres · Terlingua, Brewster

96%

(805)

Sparrow Bend River Retreat

11 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents8 acres · Pipe Creek, Bandera

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.

Under $50

98%

(1013)

Goat Pens, Cigar Springs Ranch

50 sites · RVs, Tents640 acres · Terlingua, Brewster

This central location provides an ideal basecamp close to the Terlingua Ghost Town and both Big Bend State and National Parks. The unique geology and topography of the Goat Pens made this a popular movie set and many westerns were filmed here in the 80's and 90's. Come out and enjoy seclusion, peace and quiet, awesome scenery with sunrises and sunsets to die for. All while still being able to easily take advantage of the area's other attractions. The Goat Pens includes an outdoor events venue that hosts concerts, stargazing parties, festivals and weddings. The Goat Pens also has the only drive-in movie theater in the Big Bend area. Send a text or check The Goat Pens Facebook page (@goatpens) for information and dates of events. The Goat Pens of Cigar Springs Ranch is a beautiful part of the ranch. It is well known for its scenery and unique topography. The Goat Pens served as a set location for many westerns filmed during the 1980's and 90's. Remarkable beauty, easy access, centrally located, seclusion, peace and quiet. All add up to an unforgettable vacation experience. **New This Winter** Rachel Wey Ranch Petting Zoo and Pony Rides Please contact us about hours and availibilty Rachel.wey.ranch @faceboook.com-

Good Guad Land Co.

4 sites · RVs, Tents50 acres · Dell City, Culberson

Find extreme solitude and unforgettable views of Guadalupe Peak at this desert escape next to Guadalupe Mountains National Park! This is choose-your-own-adventure camping. The terrain is rugged, and the wind blows some nights. Once you're here, there are zero amenities (other than picnic tables). If this sounds fine — you don't mind roughing it — you'll be sleeping under the stars at the foot of West Texas' tallest mountain range. And who else can say they've done that? Distance to nearby attractions: Guadalupe Mountains National Park Visitor Center, 11 miles; Black River Recreation Area, 42 miles; Carlsbad Caverns National Park Visitor Center, 52 miles Distance from nearby towns: Dell City, 34 miles; Van Horn, 56 miles; Carlsbad, 65 miles; El Paso, 104 miles

Lost Woods

19 sites · RVs, Tents55 acres · San Antonio, Bexar

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, 6, & 12 are the sites you want. Some of our campsites are more secluded than the 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. 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 you will be billed for the cleanup. 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.

El Cosmico

35 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents21 acres · Marfa, Presidio

El Cosmico takes its inspiration from a long American history of hippies, nomads, bohemians and those living a life of self-determination. We believe in tuning in, dropping out and being here now. Vehicles are not allowed onto the grounds, so if you are staying in your car or RV you will post up in our large parking lot with easy access to the grounds. Tent camping is dispersed, so you pick your space within the designated camping areas that are indicated on the property map provided at the front desk. Front desk hours are from 7:30am-11:00pm daily. If you are arriving after 11pm please call ahead for late check-in instructions. Mask are encouraged at this time. Please respect your fellow campers and staff members.

Reverse Pioneers Hilltop

3 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents10 acres · Blanco, Blanco

We are Reverse Pioneers, aspiring holistic land stewards with a microgreens business and other farm offerings! Our little homestead operation is just beginning. We offer farm tours and other goods, so check out our Extras and send a message if you'd like to schedule a tour! We hope you enjoy your stay on our beloved hilltop. :)

Available this weekend

93%

(1078)

El Cosmico

35 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents21 acres · Marfa, Presidio

El Cosmico takes its inspiration from a long American history of hippies, nomads, bohemians and those living a life of self-determination. We believe in tuning in, dropping out and being here now. Vehicles are not allowed onto the grounds, so if you are staying in your car or RV you will post up in our large parking lot with easy access to the grounds. Tent camping is dispersed, so you pick your space within the designated camping areas that are indicated on the property map provided at the front desk. Front desk hours are from 7:30am-11:00pm daily. If you are arriving after 11pm please call ahead for late check-in instructions. Mask are encouraged at this time. Please respect your fellow campers and staff members.

94%

(464)

Gypsy Moon Hideaway

16 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents20 acres · Weatherford, Parker

Located at the end of the road. There is over 20 acres. Some cleared and some still in original woods. Trees, grass and deer everywhere. There is over a quarter mile of Brazos riverfront property although you cannot get to the river on all of it due to it being in its natural state. There is a beach at the main camp that provides easy in and out of the water. the water depth varies with the rainfall but is usually between 2-4 feet deep.

100%

(5)

The Midnight Retreat

2 sites · Lodging22 acres · La Grange, Fayette

Perfect for a romantic escape or solo getaway from the city, this Texas vacation rental in the Prairie and Lakes region offers a no-frills destination with modern amenities. You'll be surrounded by oak-filled woods, wildlife, and a star-filled night sky at this efficient 1-bed, 1-bath tiny home on an extremely private 22 acres.

Sparrow Bend River Retreat

11 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents8 acres · Pipe Creek, Bandera

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.

96%

(336)

River Forest Haven

46 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents30 acres · Del Valle, Travis

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.

Nearby parks

Explore the area’s public lands.

96%

(78)

Big Bend Ranch State Park

Caprock Canyons State Park

Quitaque, Texas

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Cedar Hill, Texas

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Eisenhower State Park

Texas

95%

(45)

McKinney Falls State Park

Creedmoor, Texas

88%

(61)

Palo Duro Canyon State Park

Lake Tanglewood, Texas

100%

(13)

Lake Bob Sandlin State Park

Rocky Mound, Texas

99%

(78)

Colorado Bend State Park

Lometa, Texas

100%

(24)

Padre Island National Seashore

Port Mansfield, Texas

Camping in Texas guide

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. 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.

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.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, boondocking is allowed in Texas on certain public lands and private properties. Boondocking, also known as dry camping or dispersed camping, is when you camp without any hookups or facilities. In Texas, you can find boondocking opportunities on national forests, state parks, and wildlife management areas, as well as on private properties listed on websites like Hipcamp.

Some examples of boondocking sites in Texas are:

Dispersed camping areas in national forests, such as the Davy Crockett National Forest or the Sam Houston National Forest
Wildlife management areas, like the Caddo Lake Wildlife Management Area or the Gus Engeling Wildlife Management Area
Private properties allowing dispersed camping, which can be found on websites like Hipcamp.

Please remember to practice Leave No Trace principles and always check local regulations and restrictions before boondocking.

Yes, Texas offers a diverse range of excellent camping opportunities. With its vast size and varied landscapes, there are numerous state parks, national parks, and private campgrounds to choose from. Whether you prefer tent camping, RV camping, or staying in cabins, Texas has something for everyone. Some popular camping destinations in Texas include Big Bend National Park, Guadalupe Mountains National Park, and Palo Duro Canyon State Park. Additionally, you can find camping near major cities like Austin, Dallas, and Houston. To explore some of the camping options in Texas, you can visit Hipcamp.

No, it is not legal to camp anywhere in Texas. Camping is allowed in designated campgrounds, state parks, national parks, and some private lands. You must have permission from the landowner or be in a designated camping area to camp legally. Texas has many beautiful camping locations to choose from, and you can find a variety of options on Hipcamp.

Yes, you can camp in a Texas State Park, but only in designated campgrounds and specific campsites within the park. Texas State Parks offer a variety of camping options, including tent sites, RV sites, and cabins. To learn more about camping in Texas State Parks and to find a suitable campground, visit Hipcamp. Remember to make a reservation in advance, as many parks require it, and always follow park rules and regulations.