The best campgrounds near Menard, Texas with swimming

In Menard, Texas, campers who want swimming spots have over 120 options, with prices starting at $25 a night and averaging $53. You’ll find sites along clear creeks, shady river bends, and tucked behind limestone bluffs. Showers, pet-friendly policies, and toilets are common, so you won’t have to rough it. Fishing and wildlife-watching are easy add-ons—bring binoculars, not just a swimsuit. Locals recommend Low Gear Farmstead (655 reviews) for its laid-back vibe, Dos Rios - Hill Country Adventure (428 reviews) for riverside access, and Hill Terrace (98 reviews) for quiet, open skies. Most sites put you within steps of the water, so you can cool off after a morning hike or cast a line before breakfast. Book ahead, especially in summer—spots with the best swimming fill up fast.

98% (1.3K)

Top-rated campgrounds

In Menard, Texas, campers who want swimming spots have over 120 options, with prices starting at $25 a night and averaging $53. You’ll find sites along clear creeks, shady river bends, and tucked behind limestone bluffs. Showers, pet-friendly policies, and toilets are common, so you won’t have to rough it. Fishing and wildlife-watching are easy add-ons—bring binoculars, not just a swimsuit. Locals recommend Low Gear Farmstead (655 reviews) for its laid-back vibe, Dos Rios - Hill Country Adventure (428 reviews) for riverside access, and Hill Terrace (98 reviews) for quiet, open skies. Most sites put you within steps of the water, so you can cool off after a morning hike or cast a line before breakfast. Book ahead, especially in summer—spots with the best swimming fill up fast.

98% (1.3K)

Top-rated campgrounds

1. Dos Rios - Hill Country Adventure

95%

(967)

37mi from Menard · 24 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · 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, tiny homes, vintage airstreams, and modern glamping tents available (see other Hipcamp listings). Kayaks and canoes available for epic river trips too!

2. Low Gear Farmstead

99%

(1318)

8.8mi from Menard · 32 sites · Tents, RVs · 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.

3. Phrog and Munkey Camping

99%

(121)

15mi from Menard · 25 sites · Tents, RVs · Menard, TX

We are in the progress of turning the property into a retreat for artists and outdoor enthusiasts.  We acquired the property in August 2018 and we began the improvements with the house.  When we get the house complete we will begin building cabins, campsites and workshops.  Come enjoy the quiet space.Learn more about this land:Our land is at the edge of the Texas Hill Country with wide open space for tents. The camping is primitive and quiet.  We have the pretty skies and beautiful views.  

4. South Llano River State Park

93%

(20)

69 sites · Junction, Texas

Float the day away on the river or get your cardio on hilly trails you share with charming wildlife.

Pets

Toilets

Campfires

5. Hill Terrace

100%

(133)

37mi from Menard · 8 sites · Lodging · Junction, TX

The site sits near the junction of Bailey Creek and the South Llano River. The land is managed for bird watching and plant diversity and boast and astonishing variety of plant species. The Painted Bunting and the Black-throated Sparrow almost always available for view here. Hill Terrace Cabins One and Three began their existence as Depression era Girls Scout cabins. Humans have been on the site and estimated 7,000 years now and there is strong sense of peace and continuity in the land and waters here. An historical marker on site relates a famous shoot-out between The Texas Rangers and the infamous Potter gang. The wells are shallow, spring fed, and sweet with limestone, so bring your favorite tea or coffee. And a hat! The river is flowing well, but burn bans may be in effect.

6. Lost Silver Mine RV Park

1.4mi from Menard · 26 sites · Menard, TX

Nestled in the unique Texas Forts Trail Region, Lost Silver Mine RV Park offers an exceptional blend of history and outdoor adventure, making it a perfect getaway for nature enthusiasts and history buffs alike. This area is rich in heritage, featuring the historic sites of Ft. McKavett and the Presidio de San Saba, where visitors can trace the paths of Spanish explorers, missionaries, and legendary Texas figures like Jim Bowie. For those seeking outdoor excitement, the region is renowned for its excellent hunting opportunities. You can pursue whitetail deer, axis deer, turkey, wild boar, fox, bobcat, and even mountain lion. Additionally, the pristine San Saba River, located just a mile from the park, invites fishing enthusiasts to test their skills in its clear waters. Just minutes away from Lost Silver Mine RV Park, the Presidio de San Saba offers a fascinating glimpse into local history, while the nearby county golf course provides a relaxing evening of golfing amidst the tranquil sounds of the river. If golf isn’t your game, the Menard County Historical Museum is a must-visit, showcasing the rich local heritage and enhancing your appreciation for the Presidio. Whether you have questions about nearby attractions, shops, or activities, our team is here to assist you.

Public campgrounds near Menard

The river was low, but really beautiful. Plenty for us to get in and cool ourselves off the entire weekend.

95%

(10)

South Llano River Campground

33mi from Menard · 64 sites · Tents, RVs · in South Llano River State Park

90%

(10)

South Llano River Hike In Campground

34mi from Menard · 5 sites · in South Llano River State Park

Stories from the community

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.

D

Daniel

2 weeks ago

5 ft pop-up camper

With kids

Weekend Trip to Dos Rios - Hill Country Adventure

We just finished up our overlanding trailer and wanted to find a spot a few hrs away from home to test it out. While Texas really doesn’t have a whole lot of public land, we thought an RV park would be perfect for the first trip. Our neighbors recommended Mason Tx to us and this park came up and looked perfect! Well sure enough it was!! We were immediately greeted upon entry and the gentleman was incredibly nice and helpful! Got to our site (4) and it was beautiful!! Nice and quiet with a gorgeous view! We even had the same helpful lady who answered our phone call, come out and check on us to make sure we were all set before the super cold front came in! 10/10, will definitely be coming back!!

M

Molli

3 weeks ago

Tent

2 nights at Low Gear Farmstead

Incredible people and land. So grateful this is where I chose to camp.

S

Samuel

3 weeks ago

Tent

3 nights at Low Gear Farmstead

Very impressed with this campground. Went on the guided bird walk and learned so much about bird calls, how and where to spot them, and some interesting facts. The hosts are kind beyond words, highly communicative, and knowledgeable of their landscape. Their pup will come by to say hello and sometimes sleep by your campsite! If you want to stay up late to stargaze, listen to the river run, and have a great time then this is the hipcamp for you.

B

Bryce

3 weeks ago

With pets

1 night at Dos Rios - Hill Country Adventure

Everything was very well setup and the area around has plenty to explore. It was perfect to take our kid and pooch for stargazing and some peaceful nights. Well be back!

I

Izabeau

3 weeks ago

With kids

Weekend Trip to Dos Rios - Hill Country Adventure

I had the best time with my little family in our very first camping trip here. Everything was well kept the most beautiful views and scenic river. The evem owners checked on us and asked if we needed anything and I had rembered that our kids cot stayed behind and could use an extra one which they graciously brought by for kiddos. We loved the community feeling, yet still with had privacy and the convenient amenities. We will be back again 100%

A couple of visiting hounds enjoying the San Saba River in late winter.

J

Jason

November 2025

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to Low Gear Farmstead

Went here post the flood but it’s very apparent that this is a beautiful place. The orchards are amazing and the night sky is top tier. Would recommend the lower orchard site 100%

D

Danielle

November 2025

13 ft campervan

Weekend Trip to Dos Rios - Hill Country Adventure

My husband and I both enjoyed our stay at site 2! The host was friendly and the campground was overall clean. There was a beautiful view of the river that provided a great place to see sunrise and sunset. The river was accessible, but by a hill so I would keep that in mind if you have difficulty with steep inclines. Clear, cool and clean waters! Little to no light pollution allowing for an incredible view of the stars at night. It is by a county road so there was some road noise but not frequent. We will definitely be back in the future!

M

Matthew

November 2025

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to Phrog and Munkey Camping

Very beautiful view. The night sky was amazing! Could see the Milky Way. My kids loved it. The hosts were so kind and took the time to let the kids feed their goats. Great experience!

m

michelle

November 2025

2 nights at Dos Rios - Hill Country Adventure

Cute campground, set up well, close proximity to the river.

G

Ghost

November 2025

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to Phrog and Munkey Camping

Great camping spot. Wonderful people. The site is well maintained

T

Tim

November 2025

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to Low Gear Farmstead

Love this spot. Usually empty, quiet, well maintained. Just a nice relaxing place to have a fire away from the city.

Kenny & Carrie

October 2025

24 ft campervan

1 night at Dos Rios - Hill Country Adventure

Fantastic campgrounds with lots of options. Nice hosts, beautiful river views and a well laid out infrastructure. We will be back!

h

houston

October 2025

Tent

With pets

2 nights at Dos Rios - Hill Country Adventure

Very nice place had a burn band so I don't get to make a fire

S

Shawn

October 2025

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to Low Gear Farmstead

Beautiful and quiet land with easy access to the river. Logan was very responsive and accommodating!

Justin

October 2025

Tent

Weekend Trip to Dos Rios - Hill Country Adventure

fun times out in the hill country with friends. cool river

B

Bineesh

October 2025

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Dos Rios - Hill Country Adventure

Had an awesome time at Site 2 - Dos Rios Camping with our big group. Perfect setup for families and friends. Colin was super helpful and accommodating with all our requests and changes. Would definitely come back and recommend to others!

Stefunni

October 2025

With pets

Weekend Trip to Dos Rios - Hill Country Adventure

Wow! Loved the drive to sites. So easy to locate your site and the views are incredible! I specifically booked for the stars and it did NOT DISAPPOINT! Felt like we were under the milky way! Plan to come back to stay at all the different sites and bring a crew too!

Sheila

October 2025

16 ft car

With pets

1 night at Low Gear Farmstead

We loved our night here. We went swimming in the river, it was the perfect temperature. Bjorn the dog hung out with us all night and got along great with our dog, he was fantastic we were so sad leaving him in the morning. Nice and shady area, felt very private!