Camping in Texas with wildlife watching
The largest state in the Lower 48 features no shortage of places to pitch a tent.
96% (22437 reviews)
- Texas
96% (22437 reviews)
Popular camping styles for Texas
Under $50
Star Hosts in Texas
12 top campgrounds in Texas with wildlife watching
96%
(891)
Sparrow Bend River Retreat
11 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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$61
/ night
94%
(513)
Gypsy Moon Hideaway
13 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents20 acres · Weatherford, TX
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.
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$28
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97%
(1688)
4R Ranch Winery Campsite
141 sites · RVs, Tents1132 acres · Muenster, TX
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.
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$6.50
/ night
96%
(288)
this is Paradise on Lake Texoma
27 sites · Lodging, Tents100 acres · Pottsboro, TX
Paradise on Lake Texoma (formerly Paradise Cove) is a beautiful, secluded commercial campground located in the "Big Mineral Arm'' of Lake Texoma. Built in the 80's by the Corps of Engineers, Paradise has been a mainstay of the lake for many years. Recently, the current management team are working to grow Paradise into something special. With a huge focus on community and culture, Paradise has tons of space for people to come together and enjoy the company and also areas to wander off and find a quiet lakeside spot to relax. You'll also be able to catch one of the best breathtaking sunsets on the lake!
The wildlife we have on the property is amazing! I have deer that sleep in my front yard, opossums, 600 bird species, and my favorite… the armadillos!
We offer Kayaking on the property for a fee. We have a beautiful Hammock Garden free for guests to kick back and relax. Texoma Water Taxi is a text away to give guests a ride anywhere on the lake including restaurants. Rock-N A Ranch is roughly 20 minutes away and offers horseback riding.
The Cabins and Campsites are within walking distance from each other but far enough away to create that illusion of privacy. We do have a neighborhood close by but you can’t see or hear them due to the woods.
In my travels, I try to bring back something I’ve seen or learned to help improve the guest experience and environment. You’ll notice little touches of Asia, Mexico, and even Hill Country Texas! We pride ourselves on our excellent customer service and treat every guest like family.
We’re always a text away! You’ll see us out and about on our golf carts. If you ever need anything just holler (:
Check-in time is at 3 pm. Our staff works really hard to make sure everything is perfect for your stay and we can’t guarantee it will be if you arrive before then. Parking, we work really hard to keep our property beautiful. Be sure to park in parking areas only.
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$25
/ night
99%
(464)
The Best Dam Spot
7 sites · Tents3 acres · Staples, TX
4 dispersed campsites are located on a large gravel bar facing a beautiful private waterfall. Camping is walk-in from the parking lot. No overlanding rigs, RV or car camping allowed at campsites.
Camping spot includes: unlimited river access, use of kayaks and paddle boards, a semi-private outdoor shower with hot and cold water, a rinse off shower and a clean outdoor port-a-potty that is regularly sanitized.
No personal/composting toilets allowed. Please only use the restroom in the portalet provided.
Small campfires are allowed (burn ban permitting). Campers are responsible for bringing their own firewood.
*Climbing on the dam structure is strictly prohibited.
*The cotton gin (big metal building) is private, for reserved parties only.
**No tent air conditioners or electric heaters allowed**
(small fans/ electric blankets are permitted)
*Please arrive BEFORE dark to check-in. No check-ins after dark.
*Children 5 and under are free! (please add children in this age group to your booking in our "Extras").
*Day passes are available for $25 per person/per day. Please add them to your reservation.
**ALL campers staying on property MUST check-in upon arrival, sign Release of Liability Consent form and pick-up wristband.
*To book the entire property, please reach out to me for info/pricing.
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$50
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100%
(885)
Camping near Hamilton Pool
9 sites · RVs, Tents20 acres · Dripping Springs, TX
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.
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$50
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99%
(2571)
5D RANCH
25 sites · RVs, Tents400 acres · Navasota, TX
Welcome to 5D Ranch in Navasota, TX. We’re located 60 miles North of Houston and just 2.5 hours from Austin. We have over 14 miles of trails, 2 fishing ponds, 4 boats that are free to use, and great views of the night sky. With 24 unique campsites, we’re sure to have one that fits your needs! We also can provide rentals of camping essentials, a S'mores package and we offer a meet the ponies session that can be scheduled upon your arrival. We can’t wait to host you! Don't forget to ask us about our farm fresh eggs!
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$30
/ night
98%
(1124)
Goat Pens, Cigar Springs Ranch
50 sites · RVs, Tents640 acres · Terlingua, TX
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-
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$40
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100%
(10)
McDonald Farm
14 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. We offer the river use as an add on for camping or as a day pass for non overnight campers.
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!
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$10
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99%
(470)
Pecans on the Paluxy - River Views
5 sites · RVs, Tents5 acres · Glen Rose, TX
Pitch your tent or boondock your RV on the Paluxy River under giant pecan trees. Enjoy the scenic view of our beautiful river. Our private property is located near the historic square of glen rose but feels like you are miles away in the country. Have fun kayaking, swimming, fishing, or just sit back and enjoy the views. We have 5 different spacious sites to choose from. Most have a tree break area in-between for privacy. Or rent all 5 and have the entire property to yourself.
Updated river photos will be posted on our Facebook page, or message me for updates. Unfortunately, I'm not able to control the river. It goes up and down depending on rain and temperatures. The river gets pretty low during July and August. Wheeler Branch Reservoir(only a few miles from camp) is a great spot to swim and fish when the river water levels are lower. Very small lake that is good for swimming and kayaking with a dock, clear waters.
We have 5 different sites. All of them overlook the Paluxy River, have rock fire pits, seating areas, patios, and stairs down to riverbed. You will have access to one of the most beautiful parts of the Paluxy River.
During drought conditions and high temperatures I always recommend keeping your head above water and avoiding stagnant areas in the river.
In order to reserve a spot you must be 21 or over. This is not a extremely remote place where you can party and go crazy. We want everyone to be able to sit back, relax and enjoy the views.
Site Big Pecan: This is the farthest site upriver and has one of the largest pecan trees I've ever seen. The trees provide great shade cover during the summer. This site has an awesome rock patio seating area with 2 wooden Adirondack chairs overlooking the river with stairs to provide easy access down into the water. It also has a rock firepit with 2 wooden Adirondack chairs on a rock patio. Also includes a kids sand box, and a picnic table with shade umbrella, and numerous extras available to rent.
Site 1 Limestone ledge: Firepit seating area overlooking the river with 4 Adirondack chairs and a shade umbrella, separate rock patio closer to the water overlooking the river with 2 wooden rocking chairs, stairs down to riverbed, huge pecan trees, kids play set with sand box, 1 picnic table, shade umbrella, and a 10' x 10' raised tent deck platform overlooking the river.
Site 2: Firepit seating area overlooking limestone riverbed with 3 Adirondack chairs, picnic table with a shade umbrella, 10' x 10' raised tent / deck platform, stairs down to riverbed and shallow area of the river for kids to play. Awesome view of the river with trees / shrubs on each side for privacy.
Site 3: Firepit seating area overlooking the riverbed, 2 wooden Adirondack chairs, 2 picnic tables, 1 shade umbrella, 2 sets of rock stairs to the riverbed, shallow area of the river for kids to play. Awesome view of the river with trees / shrubs on each side for privacy.
Site 4 Farthest site downstream. Nice rock patio overlooking the river with two wooden rocking chairs. Easy access for RVs and trailers. Rock stairs to the river for easy access. Fire pit with rock patio around it with 4 wooden Adirondack chairs. Picnic table with shade umbrella. Kids sand box. Shallow areas for kids to play in the river. Deeper fishing hole about 100 feet down river. Great area to sit in the river with a lawn chair. Awesome view of the river with trees / shrubs on each side for privacy.
A lot of people buy two sites for more privacy and room for larger groups. For example, many purchase Big Pecan and site 1 together. Or sites 2 and 3.
kayaks, wood, outdoor games, frisbee golf baskets and disc, grill and utensils, propane firepit, and other extras available for rent. Please select those during checkout
Tips:
Bring river shoes, nose plugs, swimming essentials. Parts of the river can be very slippery. Bring life jackets, especially for children.
Bring the essentials for any camping trip including: sunscreen, bug spray, anti-itch meds, etc. Chairs and sunshades to sit in the river are always popular.
The Paluxy river ranges from just a few inches deep to 5 feet deep in our camping area. There are more swimming holes a little deeper up and downstream.
No restroom or water - pack in, pack out. Bring your own potty and water. If you are not familiar with dry camping do some research. There are all types of methods for restrooms, heating, cooling, etc. available now to make it enjoyable.
Dogs are allowed on leash. Please do not allow your dog to roam freely if they are aggressive in nature. Clean up after them.
Activities Nearby: Dinosaur Valley State Park (Hiking, Biking, Swimming) - 4.5 miles Fossil Rim Wildlife Center (Drive through the park) - 3.9 miles Historic Glen Rose Square (Eat, shop) - .5 miles Big Rocks Park (Free, Kids love to crawl on the huge boulders and wade in the river) - 1.3 miles Oakdale Park (Swimming pool, playground) - 1.4 miles Paluxy Heritage Park / River Walk (Free, Pretty walk, Connects to Big Rocks dam)- 1.2 miles Somervell County Museum (Free, donation) - .7 miles Wheeler Branch Reservoir - (small lake, good kayak fishing, clear)Expo Center (Rodeos, dog shows, different events depending on schedule)
Places to eat:*Hammonds BBQ - 2 miles*Sexton Feed Mill Grill/Bar (River View) - .7 miles Los Primos Mexican Food/Bar - 1.7 miles*Mama Mia Mexican Cuisine -*Riverhouse Grill (Lil more upscale) - .4 miles*The Green Pickle (Hamburgers) - .7 milesLa Vita Italian Food - .7 miles*Big Cup Eatery (Breakfast, Dinner) - .9 miles* Storiebook Cafe (Sandwiches, wraps)- .8 miles Beehive Cafe - (hamburgers, Mexican food)Simple Simons (Pizza, calzones) -Snyder's Tavern Bar - .5 miles Blackies Bar/Grill - .7 miles Bull Lion Ranch Winery - .7 miles*Shoo-Fly Soda Shop (Ice-cream, pies) - .7 miles*Loco Coyote Grill/Bar (BBQ) - 8.8 miles Crave Bakery (coffee, pastries) - .8 miles*Grounded Coffee Shop (Coffee, salad bar)Debbie’s Restaurant (Breakfast) -Tiger Corner (Pastries, Sandwiches) -Subway -Sugar Biscuits (Lil Everything) -Teriyaki Chinese Food -Sunshine Doughnuts - *Rough Creek Lodge (upscale reservations, lunch $25, Dinner $125) - 15 miles*Overlook Cafe Fossil Rim (Free by bypassing main entrance, hamburgers, awesome view, petting zoo, gift shop) - 4 miles 7-Eleven Laredo Taco -Tacote (breakfast burritos, lunch)
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$49
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94%
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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
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95%
(768)
Dos Rios
20 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, a tiny home and a fully renovated vintage airstream available (see other Hipcamp listings). We also rent kayaks and canoes!
www.dosriosrvpark.com
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$34
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Dog-friendly getaways
Available this weekend
Nearby parks
Explore the area’s public lands.
Camping in Texas with wildlife watching guide
Overview
Welcome to Hipcamp, your go-to website for finding the perfect camping experience. With over 7,600 options in Texas for wildlife watching, you're sure to find the ideal spot to immerse yourself in nature. Whether you're a seasoned wildlife enthusiast or just starting out, there's something for everyone. Check out top campsites like 5D RANCH with 822 reviews, Goat Pens, Cigar Springs Ranch, and Camping near Hamilton Pool. With popular amenities such as toilets, campfires, and pet-friendly locations, you'll have all the comforts you need. So pack your gear and get ready to explore the beautiful wildlife of Texas. Prices range from as low as $5 to an average of $50 per night.
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