The best family-friendly glamping near San Antonio, Texas

San Antonio is a captivating city that also offers a wealth of outdoor attractions and camping opportunities. Brackenridge Park is a serene oasis with green spaces, walking trails, and a zoo. Just beyond the city limits, take a trip to Government Canyon State Natural Area to explore rugged canyons and an extensive network of hiking and biking trails. Group camping options are available within the park, as well. Or travel to Natural Bridge Wildlife Ranch and experience a drive-through safari park on an unforgettable wildlife experience. For those seeking a coastal camping experience, area Hipcamps offers waterfront campsites and opportunities for fishing and hiking around Medina River.

97% (1.9K)

Top-rated campgrounds

At Sparrow Bend River Retreat, the gentle curves of the river meet the curated comforts of a serene escape!

San Antonio is a captivating city that also offers a wealth of outdoor attractions and camping opportunities. Brackenridge Park is a serene oasis with green spaces, walking trails, and a zoo. Just beyond the city limits, take a trip to Government Canyon State Natural Area to explore rugged canyons and an extensive network of hiking and biking trails. Group camping options are available within the park, as well. Or travel to Natural Bridge Wildlife Ranch and experience a drive-through safari park on an unforgettable wildlife experience. For those seeking a coastal camping experience, area Hipcamps offers waterfront campsites and opportunities for fishing and hiking around Medina River.

97% (1.9K)

Top-rated campgrounds

1. Sparrow Bend River Retreat

96%

(1237)

30mi from San Antonio · 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.

2. 3 Dry Wells Ranch

100%

(427)

41mi from San Antonio · 6 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Blanco, TX

We welcome you to come enjoy the beautiful outdoors and dark sky on a scenic 110 acre ranch in the Texas Hill Country. Our family has lived and cared for this unique property since 1976 and we are still here today. We are conveniently located in Blanco, Texas less that 50 miles from either San Antonio or Austin and in the heart of the Texas wine country. Our campsites are next to a spring feed tributary creek which flows year around feeding into the Blanco River just a few miles away or hillside with amazing views of the river valley. You will enjoy the babbling creek, miles of hiking and biking trails, cooling off in the creek, scenic hilltop views, solitude, bold sunrises and sunsets, and a brilliant night sky. We have numerous old growth hardwood trees including Live Oaks, Spanish oaks, Elm, Escarpment Cherry, Black walnut, and Ashe Juniper (cedar) one of which has the largest circumference in Texas. We have a wide selection of native and migratory wildlife that calls this place home including white tail deer, wild turkeys, foxes, bobcats, jack rabbits, road runners, seasonal songbirds and butterflies. We are just minutes away from Blanco State Park and a short drive to Pedernales Falls or Guadalupe River State Park.

3. Sound Ground

96%

(380)

40mi from San Antonio · 14 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Blanco, TX

Sound Ground is a woman-owned operation rooted in land stewardship, community, creative expression, and planet-minded living. Set on 10 acres in central Texas, we currently offer immersive camping opportunities and are working to expand into event hosting, musical collaborations, education, and local agrarian offerings. Built upon an ethos that connects human well-being with the health of our planet, Sound Ground welcomes travelers, outdoor enthusiasts, city-worn individuals, and creative communities who seek a genuine connection with nature and one another. Kasey is Sound Ground's visionary and founder, but the vision has been and always will be powered by the community it serves to support. Join us in soaking up the magic of this space for a night or 3, and feel free to inquire about longer term stays.

4. Boulderdash Cabin & Camping

98%

(607)

30mi from San Antonio · 12 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Bandera, TX

Hi Hip Campers! Spend some time in the beautiful Texas Hill Country at Boulderdash. Located along the serene Medina River, you can enjoy riverfront access and the peace and quiet of the great outdoors. Boulderdash hosts a variety of accommodations for every type of camper. Enjoy a cozy rustic three-bedroom cabin, primitive tent camping, full hookup RV sites, riverfront tent sites, and more! Play in the river,(please check lake levels) unplug, reconnect with friends and family, and enjoy the views of this beautiful country setting! Enjoy feeding the deer and watching the many varieties of birds, foxes, armadillos, squirrels and others! Our place is just 9 miles from Bandera, TX, the "Cowboy Capital of the World," where you can get a taste of the cowboy lifestyle with horseback riding, ranch tours, rodeos, museums, and more! This is one Texas destination you don't want to miss!

5. HomeAway Ranch & Wildlife Preserve

92%

(180)

29mi from San Antonio · 62 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Boerne, TX

We're happily retired partners loving life in this wonderful oasis... And working hard to make it a bit better for our animals and guests, every single day. Mickey's recently retired from 21 years traveling the world with International Joint Special Forces and Vicky's a Cordon Bleu Chef who also recently retired. We are living our dream "retirement" in this gorgeous wooded Texas Hill-Country, caring for and playing with all sorts of fun animals and welcoming lovely people to our ranch/wildlife preserve/nature- resort, personally ensuring everyone has a memorable experience, from customized horseback-riding experiences (everything from trail rides, to horseback riding lessons to weddings and vows-renewals on horseback), to serving as concierge to preparing that special "made to order" fresh country breakfasts, champagne brunches and romantic or fun meals and treats like chocolate covered strawberries for any special occasion, including anniversaries and birthdays.

Stories from the community

J

Josie

2 weeks ago

With pets

1 night at 3 Dry Wells Ranch

What an amazing spot! Truly a blessing of a getaway from the city. Thank you for hosting us and making a place for others to enjoy your property and creation.

b

bill

2 weeks ago

With pets

Weekend Trip to 3 Dry Wells Ranch

Beautiful piece of land, plant life is all indigenous and covered in wildlife, lucky to own such an awesome area in the hills. Very kind hosts, helped us out a lot. Every site we saw was great, clean, nice equipment, such an easy and enjoyable stay.

V

Vladimir

3 weeks ago

Weekend Trip to Sound Ground

Awesome campsites that are cozy! Kasey was an excellent and responsive host. The campsite was exactly what we were looking for with the mix of glamping and camping. We were able to use the campfire and make s’mores while listening to music!

J

Jillian

3 weeks ago

Group trip

Weekend Trip to 3 Dry Wells Ranch

Stars were beautiful, and it was very private yet safe place to stay!!

T

Trent

November 2025

With pets

Weekend Trip to 3 Dry Wells Ranch

We’ve stayed here many times and absolutely love it! Well kept, amazing views and always a good and relaxing time

T

Tobi

October 2025

With pets

3 nights at Sparrow Bend River Retreat

I absolutely loved this camper! Private location, very well stocked, and the little deck with the comfy furniture was perfect first thing in the morning. I have watched deer while sipping coffee, lazed on the couch under the umbrella enjoying a nice breeze, and cooled my feet in the river in the late morning. It was the relaxation I needed with just the right amount of space. Alright TLDR is over so here is the breakdown. Pros: ~VERY WELL STOCKED for the most part (dishes, tea pots, towels, washcloths, even a outside sink for room to wash dishes, ect.) ~ gas stove (just remember to turn it on) ~ fantastic distance from the river ~ beautiful views (especially nighttime for stargazing) ~ Comfy furniture! Legit wanted to nap outside in good breeze. ~ Privacy! I could only see one cabin unless I went to the main camp grounds. ~ Public area's are also well stocked and taken care of Cons: ~Only one pot to cook on. There was a griddle as well but I didn't test it. Absolutely would have grilled outside if there wasn't a burn ban. ~ The path to the restrooms wasn't well lit but you're out in nature get a headlamp. ~ One of the showers uses the hooked latch that kept slipping if the door was bumped. There was twine to help hold it in place but please someone get that fixed with a more secure latch.

M

Madison

October 2025

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Sound Ground

What a beautiful property! Kasey was so nice and showed us around, made sure we had plenty of wood, and made us feel right at home. The stars were bright and the tent was very comfortable! The bed in the tent was so nice and the sleeping pads she offered were great. The walking trail was really pretty in the morning too. It was very quiet and safe, we definitely recommend this site

S

Shaylah

October 2025

Weekend Trip to Sparrow Bend River Retreat

We had such a lovely stay! The campsite had everything we needed — cookware, fridge, clean showers and bathrooms, and beautiful views all around. We arrived late at night during a storm, so a small light or sign would’ve made finding our way easier, and a wagon for our gear was not available as mentioned. Not taking any points off though — it’s a great, family and dog-friendly spot, and we can’t wait to come back for a longer stay with our dog next time!

D

Diane

October 2025

With kids

3 nights at HomeAway Ranch & Wildlife Preserve

This was an awesome experience for our young grandchildren. They learned so much about the animals and loved their first ever horse ride. There was a nice playground, hills and rocks. Things we don’t have at home. I would definitely do it again.

C

Charlotte

October 2025

Weekend Trip to 3 Dry Wells Ranch

Hidden tranquil escape in the hill country with beautiful sunsets

B

Beth

September 2025

Weekend Trip to Sparrow Bend River Retreat

We had a fantastic stay! Beautiful scenery, River was perfect for swimming and fishing. There were others camping but did not feel crowded and was not loud. Clean, responsive, can’t wait to come back!

J

Jose

September 2025

With pets

1 night at 3 Dry Wells Ranch

Absolutely a 💯 getaway camp spot. Plenty of trails and nice views

I

Irolan

September 2025

2 nights at Sparrow Bend River Retreat

We loved staying at the Scamp’s at Sparrow Bend River. Everything went smoothly, and whenever we reached out, Angela was always there to help. The best part was the beauty of the landscape surrounding the property. Highly recommended!

Doug

September 2025

Weekend Trip to Sound Ground

Beautiful landscape and sites. Very attentive to making sure I was comfortable

D

David

July 2025

With kids

Weekend Trip to Sparrow Bend River Retreat

The family and I thoroughly enjoyed our stay on Angela’s land! We stayed in Casa Avecita which was well kept and fully accommodating. There are some nice small town places to eat in the area such as “out of the way cafe” which add to the stay. There are kayaks and tubes available as well as all safety gear for rent which they make easily accessible. I wish I could leave ten stars!!! Thanks again y’all!

D

Darrell

July 2025

With kids

Weekend Trip to Boulderdash Cabin & Camping

I had everything I needed at the apartment cabin. Hiking time, water time, time with the family, time by the fire. And time with Sylvester the cat. Thanks Carol-Anne and Lyn

S

Sarah

June 2025

Weekend Trip to Boulderdash Cabin & Camping

The trailer was adorable and clean. Hosts were very helpful and friendly. Spending time soaking in the river was wonderful.

B

Bonnie

June 2025

With kids

3 nights at HomeAway Ranch & Wildlife Preserve

We had such a great time here! We loved the presence of all the animals and the hosts were wonderful! Highly recommend!!

K

Kay-Lea

June 2025

3 nights at Sparrow Bend River Retreat

We enjoyed staying at Angela’s place so much and loved her vintage camper! The bed was so comfortable and the AC was top tier. If anyone is worried about their height when booking the camper, my boyfriend is 6 feet and he was able to stretch out and sleep comfortably (the side of the bed next to the sink). She provided everything we needed to cook and clean with and it’s a beautiful site from the porch. The bathrooms were clean and we loved the outdoor shower! The river was so pretty and well kept around all the areas. They had picnic tables down there to eat and hang out at. We can’t wait to come stay again and I’m excited to bring my kiddo back for a little getaway.

J

Jack

June 2025

1 night at Sparrow Bend River Retreat

Great experience staying in the Scamp camper. The space is tucked away from the other cabins given the proximity of the other sites. Very adequate amenities inside (cookware, towels and silverware). I would highly recommend it for couples, no more than 2 people can comfortably stay in the space in my opinion. Very responsive and professional customer service and the riverfront felt very private and fun! Definitely staying again sometime soon.

Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

The best family-friendly glamping near San Antonio guide

Where to go

Brackenridge Park

Occupying some of the most historically-rich land in San Antonio, Brackenridge Park offers a wealth of activities. Explore the park's scenic trails—on a hike or a bike. Campers can also immerse themselves in the lush botanical gardens, teeming with vibrant flora and fauna. Nearby sits the famous San Antonio Zoo, home to a diverse range of animal species. Relax by the serene river, enjoy a picnic, or partake in fishing and kayaking. Camping directly on-site is prohibited, but campsites across town make it easy to settle back to a pull-through RV site, cabin, or tent.

Government Canyon State Natural Area

Embark on scenic hiking trails that wind through diverse terrain on a trip to Government Canyon State Natural Area. Discover fascinating geological formations, dense woodlands, and vibrant wildflowers that are native to the area. Then, explore the park's extensive network of biking and equestrian trails, or engage in wildlife viewing and birdwatching. For an adrenaline rush, try geocaching, or take it slower in a guided interpretive program. The natural area also provides 23 walk-in tent campsites as well as two walk-in group tent campsites. However, campgrounds in the area are only open on Friday and Saturdays.

Natural Bridge Wildlife Ranch

Just outside the city lies Natural Bridge Wildlife Ranch, which campers can experience from the comfort of their vehicles (or via guided tours). Explore the vast wildlife area, and encounter a variety of exotic and native animals in their natural habitats. The ranch also provides picnic tables and areas where visitors can relax and eat. Then, drive back to nearby campsites and RV parks with hot showers, compostable toilets, wifi, and potable water.

When to go

In spring, campers can enjoy San Antonio’s pleasant temperatures and blooming wildflowers, making it an ideal time for hiking, biking, and wildlife spotting. Summer brings hot and humid temperatures ranging from 80–100°F. Fall offers milder temperatures in the 70s to 80s. It also marks the fishing season in the area. Winter brings cooler weather, but it's still suitable for hiking and camping with average temperatures around 60°F.