Private sites RV camping in Texas

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

99% (267 reviews)
  1. Texas
99% (267 reviews)

Popular camping styles for Texas

Top-rated campgrounds

The beautiful view of the San Saba River, just a stone's throw away from camp

3. Low Gear Farmstead

99%
(1295)
32 sites ¡ RVs, Tents ¡ Menard, TX
Get into low gear and enjoy the slow pace and peace of our little working farm on the edge of the hill country. Low Gear Farmstead's 75 acres border the lovely San Saba River, providing campers the opportunity to swim, wade, fish and paddle. Farm animals including dairy goats, chickens, and horses inhabit the property, but wildlife such as deer, wild turkey, ringtail, fox and armadillo is also abundant. Bird watchers will be delighted at the diversity of birds, especially in spring. Don't forget to look up at night as our dark skies provide excellent stargazing on clear nights and a very visible Milky Way. We limit the number of campsites and spread them out so that campers may enjoy privacy and seclusion. Campsites are provided with compost toilets and most sites also have a fire ring. 4WD is not required unless we have had heavy rains, otherwise most vehicles, except very low clearance ones, do fine. The nearest town, Menard, is about a 12 minute drive from the property and has a grocery store, gas stations, a couple restaurants, a pub and a bakery. Lovers of history might enjoy visiting the Presidio de San Saba, about 20 minutes from the farm, as well as the historic Pioneers Rest Cemetery in town. Low Gear Farmstead is a safe, welcoming space for queers and POC.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$20
 / night
Remote Lone Mound Ranch

4. Remote Lone Mound Ranch

99%
(452)
8 sites ¡ Lodging, RVs, Tents ¡ Shamrock, TX
Lone Mound Ranch is an idyllic, high plains, year round, working cattle ranch with a varied terrain that provides amazing 30+ mile views from atop the 1/4 mile long mesa to hiking the 3/4 mile long draw that cuts through the rolling hills. We have RV sites with 110 outlets for $10, 30 amp for $30 and 50 amp for $50 up by the highway or campsites available from groves of elm and evergreens to higher, dramatic elevations with inspiring, expansive views. You may want to visit our on-site ranch store for all cuts of our grass-fed beef and more! Cabins and remote camping sites include campfire rings for grilling and outdoor pets are welcome. If traveling with your horses, pens are available along with miles of unpaved, remote, county roads to explore the varied landscapes. You can expect to encounter, both on the ranch and off, white tail, mule deer, turkey, hogs, coyotes, quail, dove, road runners and friendly locals always ready to stop and chat. We love meeting people and welcome new friends to join us doing all things ranch related, from feeding cattle and horses to improving infrastructure. Whether you're looking for souvenirs or wish to really experience the heart of Lone Mound Ranch we offer grass-fed beef by the lb, free range chicken eggs by the dozen, pastured goat milk, cheese, butter and ice cream & in season a variety of organic veggies to smother in butter for the grill! All organic and non-gmo. We also have a local soap maker that uses our goat milk to produce artisan soaps available for sale. We invite you to come as a guest and return as a friends.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$25
 / night
Aerial drone shot of our campsite, which is hidden beneath the shade of the pecan trees at the tip of the "peninsula".

5. River Grove Campground

99%
(372)
4 sites ¡ RVs, Tents ¡ Gonzales, TX
. These are unique camping spots along the Guadalupe River. I didn’t exactly understand how unique until I started getting feedback from my campers. The surrounding scenery will lower your blood pressure and do wonders to let you reconnect with nature. Sit back and close your eyes late in the evening and listen to all the wildlife talking to each other. There is faint traffic noise from 90A about a 1/3 of a mile away but it calms down after 7 or so. Currently no amenities but I am in the plans for some portable bathrooms. Please be prepared to cover all your bathroom and cooking needs. I do have some good clean well water from a faucet on the way into the campgrounds. Campfires are permitted. There is a convenience store (Diamond A) with clean bathrooms and a great bbq just 5 miles to the west on 90A and a Walmart and HEB 10 miles to the east on 90A. (Both Diamond A and Walmart sell fishing licenses if you need one. Dogs are allowed at sites 3 and 4 but not at 1 or 2 where my livestock guardian dogs have access to. No matter the size or temperament of your pets you are always expected to have them under your control at ALL times. I have very small livestock in the area frequently I am almost always on the property and try to have my phone with me while campers are on site, just let me know what you need and I will do what I can to accommodate you. Please Contact me through the Hipcamp app. Tub of mixed firewood ( pecan, hackberry, sycamore and chinaberry $15 Tub of split pecan wood $20 $5 cash discount off total but can also accept Zelle, cashapp, PayPal and Venmo. www.rivergrovefarmtx.com
Pets
Potable water
Campfires
from 
$50
 / night
Secluded, great hill country views

7. Secluded, great hill country views

99%
(50)
4 sites ¡ RVs, Tents ¡ Spring Branch, TX
Come stay at Bird Haus Farms! We offer a secluded RV site with stunning views on several acres, away from our four short-term rentals. While the container pool is no longer available, there's a beautiful swimming hole just a short walk from the site (waiver required). Extra swimmers are $20 each. Bird Haus Farms is centrally located in the Texas Hill Country—just 30 minutes from San Antonio, 25 minutes from New Braunfels and Boerne, and 60 minutes from Fredericksburg. A Walmart and HEB are just across the highway, with Guadalupe State Park only 15 minutes away. We're also a quick 3-minute drive from Guadalupe Canoe Livery for river tubing and kayaking! Chickens, cows, and other guests’ dogs are on the property, so please keep your pets on a leash. We also have two cats and an electric fence—exercise caution. Amenities include: 50-amp electrical hookup Water and sewage hookup Toilet and sink inside a nearby shipping container Campfires allowed (if no fire ban) Reach out with any questions—we hope to see you soon!
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$54
 / night
Laf ranch

8. Laf ranch

99%
(186)
33 sites ¡ Lodging, RVs, Tents ¡ Medina, TX
1100 acres of gorgeous natural land at the headwaters of the Medina River. Crystal clear and clean spring feed water. Fourth-generation family owners. Remote camping. Very private with plenty of varied terrain for hiking swimming, tubing, biking or just hanging out in a hammock enjoying the breeze and peace and quiet. About 2 miles as a crow flies from Lost Maples State Park. You drive through a 13,000-acre ranch to get to us. We are at the end of a dead-end road with one way in and one way out. NO FISHING As our topo map shows we have a wide variety of terrain ranging from steep cliffs with huge views to shady canyons. The river cuts through the middle of the place and is surrounded by four hills that each have their unique characteristics ranging from flat oak-covered to rocky steep ridges. I guarantee you will find beauty all around. We do have a couple of fun areas to try your 4-wheel drive out. Please dont make your own....stay on trails. There are plenty of places to swim. When the Ladder is reserved, you may not swim there. Please be respectful. We have 1.5 miles of both sides of the river so plenty of places to swim. It varies a lot in depth and width over the ranch. Every camp spot has access to all the swimming holes except the ladder when it is booked. The main swimming holes are-- 1. Below the Green Cabin 2. Another my brother likes that has a cypress tree submerged you can sit on he calls the 1000 waterfalls 3. big pond Please note all pictures taken on and of the ranch remain the property of the LAF ranch and are to be used for personal or promotional purposes only. No sales of images allowed. Follow us on Instagram and FB for updates, events and discounts. Discounts to repeat campers. Reach out to me when you are interested in coming. https://www.instagram.com/lafranchtx/ https://www.facebook.com/profile.php?id=61568080263642 If you would like to see a videos from camper see below https://urldefense.com/v3/__https://youtu.be/-cWUlU8l9yI?si=bvq3IBDWp4h_GrdZ__;!!P5FZM7ryyeY!WgQmrFG0RGV_QYIvXYcnQeiuYLpvkktJkpsJD7GwAk6mmI4_e1nNqrnsmUN6tko8QVwiAOJyOA8HymhlLP7b$ https://youtu.be/OydUiRVi8V8 https://m.youtube.com/watch?v=jH09fJLR0dE
Pets
Potable water
Campfires
from 
$85
 / night
Hiker's Escape on 6,000 Acre Ranch

11. Hiker's Escape on 6,000 Acre Ranch

100%
(32)
12 sites ¡ Lodging, RVs, Tents ¡ Uvalde, TX
Nestled in the heart of the Texas Hill Country, our 6,000-acre ranch offers an unforgettable escape into nature. With four privately owned lakes, guests can swim, paddleboard, or kayak (bring your own equipment) in serene waters surrounded by rolling hills. Explore over 30 miles of scenic hiking and riding trails, open seasonally, winding through rugged landscapes and showcasing the beauty of the region. Perfect for adventurers and relaxation seekers alike, our ranch provides a rare opportunity to disconnect and immerse yourself in the vast, untouched wilderness of the Texas Hill Country. PLEASE NOTE: Due to our seasonal hunting operation, certain activities are restricted during specific months to preserve wildlife patterns. Please review the schedule below to ensure your planned activities align with your stay: Jan., Feb., Oct., Nov., and Dec.: Restricted hiking trails availble March – September: All hiking trails open May – August: All overlanding/riding trails open
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$50
 / night
The Tailgate Ranch

12. The Tailgate Ranch

100%
(8)
6 sites ¡ Lodging, RVs, Tents ¡ Walnut Springs, TX
Welcome to Tailgate Ranch, where adventure awaits! At Tailgate Ranch, we offer a unique experience with our full-time Airbnb featuring a ranch house and two vintage campers available for rent. Additionally, we warmly welcome RVs and tent campers to join us on our property. Our amenities include a fully functioning outhouse equipped with two toilets, a sink, and a shower inside, with an additional outdoor shower available for those craving a refreshing outdoor experience. For RV campers, we provide three 30-amp and one 50-amp hookup, as well as access to water for tank refills. Conveniently located just 15 minutes away from attractions like Fossil Rim Wildlife Park and Meridian State Park, as well as being within reach of the scenic Chalk Mountain Loop, adventure is always close by. After a day of exploration, unwind in downtown Walnut Springs, where you'll find a selection of fantastic restaurants and bars, or take a short trip to Glen Rose for even more excitement. Join us at Tailgate Ranch for a memorable stay filled with outdoor exploration and relaxation in the heart of Texas!
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$25
 / night
Coyote Creek Farm

13. Coyote Creek Farm

98%
(272)
9 sites ¡ RVs, Tents ¡ Waco, TX
Established 1996, The farm is situated just minutes from Magnolia-Silos, the Dr. Pepper museum, Baylor University,  the Texas Ranger museum, BSR Waterpark, the Waco Mammoth National Monument (US National Park Service),  and plenty of magnificent restaurants.  There are no power lines over the property so I invite you to bring a kite to fly! You may even see one or two of mine in the sky. The theme of Coyote Creek Farm is tranquility. It is camping without someone crowding into your space. It is freedom from the hectic pace of the city. There is a well maintained Compost Toilet on the property as well! Each individual campsite has a portable potty bucket provided.  Nearly any spot you are on has an amazingly delightful view. You can see the sun rise over the trees or the sun set behind a gently sloping hill. You will have access to all of the 30 acres. There are paths to walk, a stocked tank to fish in, (bass, catfish and blue gill),  and oak and pecan trees to sit under and view the clouds as they drift overhead. The noises you hear will be cattle calling to their little ones, birds singing, and in the evenings, coyotes howling.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$35
 / night
The open field at sunset

14. Memmie’s Farm

99%
(37)
53 sites ¡ Lodging, RVs, Tents ¡ Bandera, TX
Memmie’s Farm is a special 30 acres just outside of Bandera, TX on the Medina River! We hope bring love and energy to this beautiful piece of family property by opening it up to visitors who embrace the outdoors. At the designated tent camping sites, you will find oak groves that provide opportunities for shade. The RV sites are in a picturesque field that provides excellent views of the sunset. The field leads down to incredible cypress trees lining the Medina River. We also have a primitive camping area down by the river that requires you to park in a parking area and walk to your preferred camping spot. If you are looking for solitude and untouched nature, this is the place for you. The comforts of Bandera are conveniently only a 5 minute drive away. We are located less than 2 miles from Bandera City Park! At this time, all sites are completely dry. We do have porta-potties available. RV sites are boondocking only (no water or electric at this time.)
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$10
 / night
Perfect breezy night under the stars

18. FMF Blank Canvas Campground

96%
(36)
3 sites ¡ Lodging, RVs, Tents ¡ Electra, TX
Once a cotton farm this land was purchased to become a working flower farm and respite opportunity for individuals to come enjoy the land as it was created. It is filled with wildlife and wildflowers. There are over 30 acres to sit and just listen to the stillness and gaze at the stars. Take in the beautiful sunsets and just reset, relax and recharge your bodies. There is no electricity or water but we make sure that we offer non potable water and a fire ring for your visit. Pitch your tent at a designated location with a fire ring, firewood and a picnic table. 100% complete privacy. Gaze at the stars all night. A short historical drive to the nearby Wichita Mountains or Oklahoma casinos during the day. Want to glamp? Contact us for our glamping special upgrade that will offer you a double bed, canvas tent fire ring picnic table and ice chest full of cold dinks and/or continental breakfast option.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$30
 / night

Camper favorites in Texas

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

Stories from the community

Available this weekend

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

Private sites RV 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.