The best camping near Gatesville with wildlife watching

·
94% (854)

Top-rated campgrounds

Texas sunsets can't be beat!

2. Kamp Peace

89%
(18)
28mi from Gatesville · 12 sites · Tents, RVs · Belton, TX
Learn more about this land: Kamp Peace is a camp ground and venue in the woods where the ponds attract life, the breeze whistles in the trees, ponds and creeks carve the earth, and love whispers down the wooded trails. Star gaze in the open field to catch meteors and shooting stars nightly. **Book a fire-side Therapeutic Massage session or private concert for your special night out!** We have a few campsites with different features, all of which are big enough for multiple tents. When booking, check them out for best match. If you are new to camping, have an RV, or camper, van, etc the STAR VIEW Site has what you need. It's a big open flat space with a huge fire pit and the best shooting star view on the grounds. This site has Power and lights from the main Stage and is closest to the water spigot. PECAN GROVE is a huge campsite in the shade of the pecan trees, beside the pond. There is a 10x10 deck and table to use. There is also a native sweat lodge built that only requires blankets to cover it. This site is closest to the outhouse. If you like to be further away from the hustle and bustle and appreciate more primitive camping, try the CEDAR CREEK Site at the back of the property. This site is near the (seasonal) bubbling creek, under the shade of the Juniper trees. There is a 10x 6ft shade tent with table and optional extension cord for use. (Request power upon booking)   If you like a little more action in your campouts we do occasional music events on site. Ask about those dates when booking. We have a water hose for potable water on property and an open air private outhouse in the trees. We have a strict trash Pack in/pack out all trash and pet waste policy. Leave sites better then you found them and don't cut down anything that is growing. No burn bans if you use the rocked pits and put the fire out before you leave/sleep. Leave your mark by adding something useful or decorative to your campsite. Whatever your camping desires, we can accommodate! **Booking these appts at site booking give us ample time to schedule **
Pets
Campfires
Potable water
from 
$40
 / night
Step into a fully insulated permanent tent with AC & heat, raised 6 ft above the ground, nestled in an exotic animal refuge. This unique retreat lets you unplug, unwind, and immerse yourself in peaceful nature —all without sacrificing comfort!

3. Hill Country Glamping Photo Safari

97%
(110)
32mi from Gatesville · 3 sites · Lodging · Kempner, TX
Lost Horizon Texas is an exclusive wildlife-oriented glamping retreat in the Texas hill country. The ranch is home to 18 species of free-roaming exotic animals and a healthy population of native Texas fauna. Guests also enjoy private access to some of the best fly fishing and water quality on the Lampasas River. With just two suites, Lost Horizon Texas maintains a private, exclusive, and off-the-beaten-path feel. Each accommodation is perched upon its private secluded valley plateau with exceptional tree-top views 450ft away and hidden from the other. Comfort, peace, and connection with land were carefully considered in the design of both "The Hideout" and "The Satao". You feel this place and will never forget it. Each one includes everything you would expect, a kitchen, an adjacent dedicated private photo blind a safe distance from the watering hole and feeder in the valley below, a rock fire pit & grill, comfortable outdoor chairs, and a large custom soaking tub. Each suite also boasts something unique adding to the sense of being somewhere very special. insta: @losthorizontx 5 private acres within a 1700-acre exotic wildlife sanctuary and dispersed community
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from 
$140
 / night
Coyote Creek Farm

7. Coyote Creek Farm

98%
(276)
43mi from Gatesville · 9 sites · Tents, RVs · 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
Electrical Hookup
Toilets
from 
$35
 / night
Site 1, we brought a tent for our kids

12. Sky View

97%
(35)
32mi from Gatesville · 2 sites · RVs · Kempner, TX
Learn more about this land:Welcome to Sky View. A remote RV campsite with a view. This is a primitive and secluded camp site within an exotic animal preserve and cattle ranch with nearby private access to the Lampasas River through a beautiful oak and pecan grove with two sheltered picnic pavilions. Sky View covers 6.8  acres of isolated and wooded hillside acres of a 1700 acre private ranch in Texas hill country. Immerse yourself with classic central Texas and exotic wildlife from around the world. Bring your RV/camper to this expansive site surrounded by juniper, elm, madrone oak and pecan trees. Bring your camping stove or cook over an open fire at the rock fire ring. Don’t forget the stars are bright and big at night - especially at Sky View! Abundant exotic and native wildlife roams freely. Go to sleep to the songs of coyotes and wake to the fervent birds and deer.- This is an RV/Camper site only, NO tent camping allowed unless you bring an RV.- Private access to the Lampasas River with picnic pavilions- Quiet and secluded- 18 different species of free roaming exotic wildlife and 30 head of cattle- Fly fishing - Kayaking - Hiking - Bird and wildlife watching- Drive around the ranch and see what animals are out and about- 30 minutes from H-E-B Plus in Copperas Cove - 20 minutes to local restaurants- 2 miles from the front gate to the 5 Hills Cowboy Church in Kempner.  Sunday service is at 10:30 AM.🚫 Hunting & discharging firearms are prohibited 🚫Cancelation policy: If you cancel at least 3 days before your check in day and time, you’ll receive a full refund (minus Hipcamp fees). If you cancel within the 3 days before check in, there will be no refund.
Pets
from 
$34
 / night
Our Happy Place- GSD Ranch!

15. 🐮Tiny Town at GSD Ranch🐣 Unique

100%
(4)
39mi from Gatesville · 10 sites · Lodging · Hico, TX
Escape the city and discover the charm of Tiny Town at GSD Ranch, where a unique rental experience awaits. Our rentals sleep 2 to 7 people depending on size and setup. Choose from six cozy cabin/tiny homes or park your RV at one of our eight spots, and you may bring your horse along to book a stay at our Horse Motel. Situated on Hwy 281, Just about 3 miles (South) from downtown Hico and 20 miles from Hamilton. This is more than just a stay—it's an adventure by Vacation Your Way! Immerse yourself in farm life by visiting our friendly animals, including cows, sheep, mini-donkeys, and mini-goats. Gather around the community fire pit for stargazing like you've never seen before, and enjoy the peaceful ambiance of the countryside or relax in a hammock and play a round of horse shoes! Vacation Your Way created Tiny Town to provide quick get-a-ways (estimated 1.5 hour drive) from DFW and other big cities around Texas so y’all can enjoy the ranch life at our unique vacation rentals. If you are traveling with extended family or friends, please contact your host so that we can book your groups nearby each other. It's the perfect way to travel with others, you each have your own private space but your guests are nearby. Tiny homes and cabins are spread apart on our many acres. Glen Rose's DinoWorld and Fossil Rim are about a 30 min drive! ( Ask us about our second Tiny Town that is a lake experience in Eastland, TX–Lake Eastland!)
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from 
$105
 / night
Whereabouts

17. Whereabouts

100%
(1)
35mi from Gatesville · 26 sites · Tents · Belton, TX
Experience the best of both worlds just east of IH-35, where you can immerse yourself in nature while being only 10 minutes away from either Belton or Salado. Our expansive 25 acres of flat pasture are surrounded by a forest of oak and cedar trees, creating the perfect setting for outdoor adventures. Pitch a tent or hang a hammock amidst the natural beauty of our property, where you can enjoy the serenity of the great outdoors. With wildlife trails leading to a dammed-off arroyo and a windmill, there's plenty to explore and discover. Bring along a metal detector and see what treasures you can unearth as you wander through our scenic landscape. From April 2nd to 12th, we're delighted to offer onsite amenities including a dumpster and two portable toilets, ensuring your comfort during the Total Solar Eclipse event. With an excellent view of the southwest sky and almost 4 minutes of 100% totality, you'll have the perfect vantage point to witness this celestial spectacle. Escape the hustle and bustle of city life and reconnect with nature at our picturesque retreat. Whether you're a nature enthusiast, an avid explorer, or simply seeking a tranquil escape, our property offers the ideal setting for your outdoor getaway. Join us for an unforgettable experience surrounded by the beauty of the Texas countryside.
Pets
Campfires
Toilets
from 
$7
 / night
M2 Non-Profit Horse Rescue

18. M2 Non-Profit Horse Rescue

100%
(2)
37mi from Gatesville · 2 sites · Tents, RVs · Lorena, TX
Welcome Hip Camper’s Welcome to M2 Ranch. We are a small working equine therapy and training operation housing a Non-Profit 501©(3) serving Veterans and their families. Welcome Llama’s 8/2025 Come watch the horses rescued from the wild and gentled to be used for therapy and rehabilitation. We house Mustangs from the Bureau of Land Management and work closely with their conservation efforts. We currently house guests 7 days a week and welcome the traveler. Come and stay with us for a night or a week. We have flexible arrival and departure times for travelers. We are located 20 minutes outside Waco, in a beautiful ranch community surrounded by cattle ranches and thousands of acres of beautiful TX pastures. Magnolia Silos, Baylor University, and historic downtown Waco are all a 20-minute drive. What we offer: RV hookups, with 50-amp power, Wi-Fi, and access to the property. ($50 a night donation). RV must have a self-contained restroom. We offer private horseback lessons, trail rides for the individual, and an on-site meet and greet with the horses. (Fees apply) Pets are welcome on leash only. We welcome you to the central Texas area. 100% of your donation goes directly toward the nonprofit 501©(3)’s horse feed fund. *Please look us up on Facebook, Harvest Hosts, BoonDocker’s Welcome, and on our website: https://www.mustang2ndchancefoundation.org
Pets
Electrical Hookup
Water Hookup
from 
$50
 / night
94% (854)

Top-rated campgrounds

Texas sunsets can't be beat!

2. Kamp Peace

89%
(18)
28mi from Gatesville · 12 sites · Tents, RVs · Belton, TX
Learn more about this land: Kamp Peace is a camp ground and venue in the woods where the ponds attract life, the breeze whistles in the trees, ponds and creeks carve the earth, and love whispers down the wooded trails. Star gaze in the open field to catch meteors and shooting stars nightly. **Book a fire-side Therapeutic Massage session or private concert for your special night out!** We have a few campsites with different features, all of which are big enough for multiple tents. When booking, check them out for best match. If you are new to camping, have an RV, or camper, van, etc the STAR VIEW Site has what you need. It's a big open flat space with a huge fire pit and the best shooting star view on the grounds. This site has Power and lights from the main Stage and is closest to the water spigot. PECAN GROVE is a huge campsite in the shade of the pecan trees, beside the pond. There is a 10x10 deck and table to use. There is also a native sweat lodge built that only requires blankets to cover it. This site is closest to the outhouse. If you like to be further away from the hustle and bustle and appreciate more primitive camping, try the CEDAR CREEK Site at the back of the property. This site is near the (seasonal) bubbling creek, under the shade of the Juniper trees. There is a 10x 6ft shade tent with table and optional extension cord for use. (Request power upon booking)   If you like a little more action in your campouts we do occasional music events on site. Ask about those dates when booking. We have a water hose for potable water on property and an open air private outhouse in the trees. We have a strict trash Pack in/pack out all trash and pet waste policy. Leave sites better then you found them and don't cut down anything that is growing. No burn bans if you use the rocked pits and put the fire out before you leave/sleep. Leave your mark by adding something useful or decorative to your campsite. Whatever your camping desires, we can accommodate! **Booking these appts at site booking give us ample time to schedule **
Pets
Campfires
Potable water
from 
$40
 / night
Step into a fully insulated permanent tent with AC & heat, raised 6 ft above the ground, nestled in an exotic animal refuge. This unique retreat lets you unplug, unwind, and immerse yourself in peaceful nature —all without sacrificing comfort!

3. Hill Country Glamping Photo Safari

97%
(110)
32mi from Gatesville · 3 sites · Lodging · Kempner, TX
Lost Horizon Texas is an exclusive wildlife-oriented glamping retreat in the Texas hill country. The ranch is home to 18 species of free-roaming exotic animals and a healthy population of native Texas fauna. Guests also enjoy private access to some of the best fly fishing and water quality on the Lampasas River. With just two suites, Lost Horizon Texas maintains a private, exclusive, and off-the-beaten-path feel. Each accommodation is perched upon its private secluded valley plateau with exceptional tree-top views 450ft away and hidden from the other. Comfort, peace, and connection with land were carefully considered in the design of both "The Hideout" and "The Satao". You feel this place and will never forget it. Each one includes everything you would expect, a kitchen, an adjacent dedicated private photo blind a safe distance from the watering hole and feeder in the valley below, a rock fire pit & grill, comfortable outdoor chairs, and a large custom soaking tub. Each suite also boasts something unique adding to the sense of being somewhere very special. insta: @losthorizontx 5 private acres within a 1700-acre exotic wildlife sanctuary and dispersed community
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from 
$140
 / night
Coyote Creek Farm

7. Coyote Creek Farm

98%
(276)
43mi from Gatesville · 9 sites · Tents, RVs · 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
Electrical Hookup
Toilets
from 
$35
 / night
Site 1, we brought a tent for our kids

12. Sky View

97%
(35)
32mi from Gatesville · 2 sites · RVs · Kempner, TX
Learn more about this land:Welcome to Sky View. A remote RV campsite with a view. This is a primitive and secluded camp site within an exotic animal preserve and cattle ranch with nearby private access to the Lampasas River through a beautiful oak and pecan grove with two sheltered picnic pavilions. Sky View covers 6.8  acres of isolated and wooded hillside acres of a 1700 acre private ranch in Texas hill country. Immerse yourself with classic central Texas and exotic wildlife from around the world. Bring your RV/camper to this expansive site surrounded by juniper, elm, madrone oak and pecan trees. Bring your camping stove or cook over an open fire at the rock fire ring. Don’t forget the stars are bright and big at night - especially at Sky View! Abundant exotic and native wildlife roams freely. Go to sleep to the songs of coyotes and wake to the fervent birds and deer.- This is an RV/Camper site only, NO tent camping allowed unless you bring an RV.- Private access to the Lampasas River with picnic pavilions- Quiet and secluded- 18 different species of free roaming exotic wildlife and 30 head of cattle- Fly fishing - Kayaking - Hiking - Bird and wildlife watching- Drive around the ranch and see what animals are out and about- 30 minutes from H-E-B Plus in Copperas Cove - 20 minutes to local restaurants- 2 miles from the front gate to the 5 Hills Cowboy Church in Kempner.  Sunday service is at 10:30 AM.🚫 Hunting & discharging firearms are prohibited 🚫Cancelation policy: If you cancel at least 3 days before your check in day and time, you’ll receive a full refund (minus Hipcamp fees). If you cancel within the 3 days before check in, there will be no refund.
Pets
from 
$34
 / night
Our Happy Place- GSD Ranch!

15. 🐮Tiny Town at GSD Ranch🐣 Unique

100%
(4)
39mi from Gatesville · 10 sites · Lodging · Hico, TX
Escape the city and discover the charm of Tiny Town at GSD Ranch, where a unique rental experience awaits. Our rentals sleep 2 to 7 people depending on size and setup. Choose from six cozy cabin/tiny homes or park your RV at one of our eight spots, and you may bring your horse along to book a stay at our Horse Motel. Situated on Hwy 281, Just about 3 miles (South) from downtown Hico and 20 miles from Hamilton. This is more than just a stay—it's an adventure by Vacation Your Way! Immerse yourself in farm life by visiting our friendly animals, including cows, sheep, mini-donkeys, and mini-goats. Gather around the community fire pit for stargazing like you've never seen before, and enjoy the peaceful ambiance of the countryside or relax in a hammock and play a round of horse shoes! Vacation Your Way created Tiny Town to provide quick get-a-ways (estimated 1.5 hour drive) from DFW and other big cities around Texas so y’all can enjoy the ranch life at our unique vacation rentals. If you are traveling with extended family or friends, please contact your host so that we can book your groups nearby each other. It's the perfect way to travel with others, you each have your own private space but your guests are nearby. Tiny homes and cabins are spread apart on our many acres. Glen Rose's DinoWorld and Fossil Rim are about a 30 min drive! ( Ask us about our second Tiny Town that is a lake experience in Eastland, TX–Lake Eastland!)
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from 
$105
 / night
Whereabouts

17. Whereabouts

100%
(1)
35mi from Gatesville · 26 sites · Tents · Belton, TX
Experience the best of both worlds just east of IH-35, where you can immerse yourself in nature while being only 10 minutes away from either Belton or Salado. Our expansive 25 acres of flat pasture are surrounded by a forest of oak and cedar trees, creating the perfect setting for outdoor adventures. Pitch a tent or hang a hammock amidst the natural beauty of our property, where you can enjoy the serenity of the great outdoors. With wildlife trails leading to a dammed-off arroyo and a windmill, there's plenty to explore and discover. Bring along a metal detector and see what treasures you can unearth as you wander through our scenic landscape. From April 2nd to 12th, we're delighted to offer onsite amenities including a dumpster and two portable toilets, ensuring your comfort during the Total Solar Eclipse event. With an excellent view of the southwest sky and almost 4 minutes of 100% totality, you'll have the perfect vantage point to witness this celestial spectacle. Escape the hustle and bustle of city life and reconnect with nature at our picturesque retreat. Whether you're a nature enthusiast, an avid explorer, or simply seeking a tranquil escape, our property offers the ideal setting for your outdoor getaway. Join us for an unforgettable experience surrounded by the beauty of the Texas countryside.
Pets
Campfires
Toilets
from 
$7
 / night
M2 Non-Profit Horse Rescue

18. M2 Non-Profit Horse Rescue

100%
(2)
37mi from Gatesville · 2 sites · Tents, RVs · Lorena, TX
Welcome Hip Camper’s Welcome to M2 Ranch. We are a small working equine therapy and training operation housing a Non-Profit 501©(3) serving Veterans and their families. Welcome Llama’s 8/2025 Come watch the horses rescued from the wild and gentled to be used for therapy and rehabilitation. We house Mustangs from the Bureau of Land Management and work closely with their conservation efforts. We currently house guests 7 days a week and welcome the traveler. Come and stay with us for a night or a week. We have flexible arrival and departure times for travelers. We are located 20 minutes outside Waco, in a beautiful ranch community surrounded by cattle ranches and thousands of acres of beautiful TX pastures. Magnolia Silos, Baylor University, and historic downtown Waco are all a 20-minute drive. What we offer: RV hookups, with 50-amp power, Wi-Fi, and access to the property. ($50 a night donation). RV must have a self-contained restroom. We offer private horseback lessons, trail rides for the individual, and an on-site meet and greet with the horses. (Fees apply) Pets are welcome on leash only. We welcome you to the central Texas area. 100% of your donation goes directly toward the nonprofit 501©(3)’s horse feed fund. *Please look us up on Facebook, Harvest Hosts, BoonDocker’s Welcome, and on our website: https://www.mustang2ndchancefoundation.org
Pets
Electrical Hookup
Water Hookup
from 
$50
 / night

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Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field
Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field