The best campgrounds in Texas with wildlife watching

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.

96% (24.3K)

Top-rated campgrounds

5. Garner State Park

99%

(71)

357 sites · Leakey, Texas

Stunning scenery, summer dances, and the Frio River make this a popular Texas state park.

Electrical Hookup

Toilets

Campfires

6. Tarantula Ranch Vacation Rentals

2 sites · Lodging · Terlingua, TX

Tarantula Ranch is inside a fenced compound two miles off the nearest paved road. We are in the Chihuhuan desert wilderness. Experience life at the end of the road!! Neighbors are far away so we have some of the darkest skies in the world not to mention peace and quiet with no traffic. We have spectacular mountain views with great sunrise and sunsets. Our terrain is the Chihuhuan desert which has cactus covered rocky mountains with all the desert plants. Although we have privacy we are only about 35 to 40 minutes from the Big Bend National Park and The Big Bend Ranch State Park. Although we are remote we have a very nice swimming pool and restaurant only about ten to fifteen minutes away. We have two cabins we rent out. The big cabin has four rooms and sleeps six. The other cabin is called the small cabin it is one room and sleeps two.

7. Sparrow Bend River Retreat

96%

(1253)

12 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · 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.

8. Coyote Crossing

98%

(689)

20 sites · Tents · Terlingua, TX

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..

9. Paisano Azul Ranch

95%

(1207)

16 sites · Tents, RVs · Study Butte, TX

Paisano Azul Ranch is on 30 acres located by Terlingua Creek. The property is just minutes from the Terlingua Ghost Town and a short 3 mile drive to the Big Bend National park. Come pitch your tent or park your camper amid the peaceful desert hillside with views of plateaus that lead to the Chisos Mountains in Big Bend National Park. There is a fire pit on site for you to toast marshmallows or cozy up near, and you can enjoy a bite to eat at the picnic table provided at each site. The picnic tables are placed beneath shade sails. There are two nice and new desert tan flushing Porta-Potties on-site, as well as showers for guests to use. These come in handy after a long day hiking. We hope you'll enjoy the beautiful open sky sunsets, sunrises, and stargazing as much as we do. We are located just 3 miles from the entrance to Big Bend National Park. There are plenty of opportunities to get out and explore - you can hike, bike, canoe camp; kayak, off-road, swim, go horseback riding, visit hot springs, as well as visit restaurants, galleries, and listen to great music in Terlingua. There is something for everyone to feel free to bring the whole family. DIRECTIONS: Once you are on Road Runner Circle, go past the house on the left with the Christmas lights on. Please continue down the road and follow the road around the curve to the left. The campsites will be on the left and side behind the rock walls. The campsite number that is booked is the campsite you will stay in. Additional details to note: - We now have an above ground pool to keep cool in during the summer! Covered with a shade sail the water stays nice and chilly. ($10 fee/person) - You can stay connected if you'd like to, as cell reception and wifi are both available by the showers. Feel free to unplug during your stay though. - Seeing other campers on your trip at the campsite is very standard, as the sites are far enough apart to feel like they are yours, but they are not private. - Non potable water is provided on-site. The showers and non potable water is located approximately 1/4 mile from campsites 1-7. -We have friendly, quirky miniature goats named Clyde and Stella to visit while up at the showers. Please feel free to reach out with any questions and we look forward to your stay.

10. Hill Country State Natural Area

100%

(9)

66 sites · Bandera, Texas

Ride your horse into the sunset on land practically untouched by modern civilization!

Pets

Toilets

Campfires

11. Caprock Canyons State Park

99%

(34)

127 sites · Quitaque, Texas

Challenging terrain and majestic animals mark this rocky state park in the Texas panhandle.

Pets

Toilets

Campfires

12. Eisenhower State Park

97%

(16)

154 sites · Texas

Land and water adventures await on the shore of one of the US’ largest reservoirs.

Pets

The Best Dam Spot

99%

(729)

7 sites · Tents · 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. Campsite includes: use of kayaks and paddleboards, unlimited river access, picnic table, 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. *Feel free to BYO wagon to haul gear to site! 🔌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 or heaters** *Canopy is recommended for additional shade at site. *Tubes/floats are recommended for below the dam. (floats/tubes not provided). *Campfires are allowed in designated fire rings ONLY. Campers are responsible for monitoring/extinguishing fires. Do not cut any trees/limbs on property. *Metal grate is recommended for cooking on fire ring. *Climbing on the dam structure is strictly prohibited. *ALL campers/guests on the property must arrive BEFORE dark to check-in, 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 for additional guests/friends visiting for the day. $25 per person/ per day. Includes kayak and paddle board use. Please add them to your reservation under "Extras." Limit 2 per site. -Total headcount of adults, children and day passes on property has to match your reservation. Water level above the dam: approx. 10-20ft. Water level below the dam is ankle deep to approx. 10ft. **No lifeguard on duty, swim at your own risk** **Children must be supervised at all times** Lifejackets for all ages are available for use. **NO PETS** **NO GLASS** To book all 4 sites, please reach out for info/pricing. Feel free to message us if you have questions!

Laf ranch

99%

(216)

29 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · 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

Ranch 3232

96%

(136)

31 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Johnson City, TX

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

P² Farm | Scenic River Camping

93%

(145)

7 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Georgetown, TX

*We were highly affected by the flooding in Georgetown, Texas. Please understand that the river may look nothing like pics from before the flood, it has changed in many ways. Use code T8B6LGMW for a 25% discount to support rebuilding Welcome to P² Farm (Psquared), a true Texan gem nestled on 30 acres of idyllic countryside just outside of Georgetown, Texas. Our working horse farm offers an authentic rural experience unlike any other, with stunning sunsets that paint the Texas sky each evening. Our farm is home to a delightful variety of animals, including horses, donkeys, goats, 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 while still being just a few minutes walk away from electricity and running water. 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. Enjoy our newly renovated communal Pavillion which offers access to 4 different kind of grills, a brick pizza oven, a propane firepit table, games, a microwave, coffee maker, and a fridge stocked with drinks to purchase. Well water is available from the sink located near the bathroom. Please remember, for the safety and comfort of our animals and guests, unsupervised interactions with our animals are not permitted. All animal interactions must be scheduled and supervised by our experienced staff. Also please remember that while our farm is a total of 30 acres, only about 1/3 of that is available for open use by campers, the rest house our beautiful horses and other animals. Our farm is situated just a short drive from local attractions. We are 10 miles from the Historic Georgetown Square, 11.2 miles from the serene Blue Hole, and 38 miles from the hustle and bustle of downtown Austin. 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.

37 sites · Tents, RVs · in Guadalupe River State Park

Stories from the community

Camp site is next to an old pioneer rock wall fence and in a grove of mature trees

Sean

5 days ago

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to 3 Dry Wells Ranch

This was our second stay here, and we’re glad we came back. The first trip was about 50% rain, so we wanted to come back and fully enjoy Blasingame Camp. William and the Gray family are super friendly, the property is beautiful and very private, and there’s plenty to keep adults/kids/pup entertained without leaving. Being close to Blanco Square is a big bonus, and the bathroom upgrade since our last visit was much appreciated. Highly recommend — we’ll be back.

Campsite fire ring and cedar stump seats

Loyce

6 days ago

20 ft campervan

With pets

Weekend Trip to 3 Dry Wells Ranch

Absolutely beautiful, large and well-maintained area that includes large fire pit, table and chairs, tent pad, and easterly view of area. Would have been an awesome sunrise if not for foggy morning. Peaceful night under the Texas stars!

The gorgeous, green/blue water of the Llano River is perfect for a quick dip to cool off, or in February, a refreshing way to start the day!

M

Morgan

2 weeks ago

Tent

With pets

3 nights at Dos Rios - Hill Country Adventure

What a gem. Perfectly centered between sunset and moonrise. Perfect place to bake like a lizard on a warm riverside rock.

Park your RV and step into riverside bliss, with exclusive access to the beautiful Medina River just 200 yards away

S

Sam

2 weeks ago

25 ft travel trailer

With pets

Weekend Trip to Sparrow Bend River Retreat

Really enjoyed our weekend here. All the RV hookups worked great and were easily accessible. Good fishing in the Medina!

C

Cody

2 weeks ago

Tent

1 night at Goat Pens, Cigar Springs Ranch

Jeff's place is always a welcome retreat. Situated on a perfect piece of land just outside Big Bend and Terlingua, it is a magnificent getaway for those looking to do Big Bend or Terlingua Ghost Town. This is my third time here, and I always enjoy it. Coyotes howling in the distance, beautiful star views at night, a well kept pit toilet and honor system firewood if you're in a pinch (please, PLEASE do not take advantage of this - the honor system is so rare these days) make it just a magnificent spot to spend a few days. Thanks for another great stay, Jeff!

J

Jennifer

2 weeks ago

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to 5D RANCH

My seven year old made friends with the owners white dog and gave him a huge hug. We went canoeing on the lake but left early because of the rain. We did have a wonderful camp fire and made s'mores the first night. Before we left my little one said this was the best camping trip ever and the best day in his life. This is not our first camping trip, but this place is his favorite place to go camping.

M

Margarita

2 weeks ago

Tent

Group trip

Weekend Trip to 5D RANCH

Nice property very clean. First time visitor. Will return again.

D

David

2 weeks ago

Tent

With kids

3 nights at 5D RANCH

My family and all the friends we have taken to 5D ranch over the years all love it there. Site 23 is perfectly secluded from other sites with a gentle slope throughout, but 2 large tents fit on a reasonably level area. Trees provide excellent shade and wind break. The host family is amazing. We had a great time meeting other campers, and of course the resident dogs - they are very gentle and passive.

Carrie

2 weeks ago

14 ft pop-up camper

3 nights at 5D RANCH

We absolutely loved our stay! Site 24 was perfectly secluded and felt like we were the only ones there. The property is beautiful - we loved exploring all the trails and will definitely return! Julie and Charlie were wonderful hosts - highly recommend.

G

Gavin

2 weeks ago

Tent

Weekend Trip to Sparrow Bend River Retreat

Great location! The river was awesome to fish and the property was pretty clean. Only complaint were dogs barking but it died down after sunset.

Lauren

2 weeks ago

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to 3 Dry Wells Ranch

William’s land was perfect for a friendsgiving camping trip! Felt super safe and private. Really easy to get to - didn’t see anybody besides our group while we were there but were still close enough to town for anything we needed. Nice trails around the property to explore and we appreciated that you can have firewood at the site upon arrival. Would definitely recommend!

K

Katelyn

2 weeks ago

With pets

Weekend Trip to 3 Dry Wells Ranch

Beautiful view and the firepit was so cozy. 10/10 would recommend

E

Ernesto

2 weeks ago

Tent

Weekend Trip to Sparrow Bend River Retreat

My fiance and I stayed in Forest 2, it was our first time camping and we loved it. The spot was secluded and felt quiet, not far from the restrooms either. Deer would occasionally be around the site at night time while we slept, we didn't mind, but recommended to have food stored away properly and have the trash thrown. We also went fishing by the river and saw some nice fish, the water was nice and clear. Overall awesome experience.

M

Marcos

2 weeks ago

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Goat Pens, Cigar Springs Ranch

The perfect place to camp in the Big Bend area. Easy access in and out. It’s isolated enough to enjoy the stars and quiet of BB, but close enough to things to explore. Will definitely be back again.

R

Roxanna

2 weeks ago

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to Goat Pens, Cigar Springs Ranch

We love Goat Pens! This was our third time camping here. There's a ton of space to explore, it's quiet, and the nightime sky is always beautiful regardless of how bright the moon is. Thank you Jeff!!

A

Anika

2 weeks ago

With pets

Weekend Trip to Sound Ground

This was an awesome experience! Super quiet lots of shade. Only 10 minutes from Blanco State Park we got to enjoy a morning fishing :) Cant wait to come back again

S

Sierra

2 weeks ago

Tent

3 nights at Goat Pens, Cigar Springs Ranch

Our first time using hip camp. Jeff was very nice and gave us a nice welcome. Showers aren't always hot, but it's nice after hiking all day either way. Plenty of good flat spots to choose from. We really enjoyed everything.

J

Jacob

2 weeks ago

Tent

Group trip

4 nights at Goat Pens, Cigar Springs Ranch

Beautiful property and Jeff is very friendly!! Would definitely recommend and come back!