The best safari tents near San Marcos

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San Marcos sits on I-35 in the Texas Hill County, about 40 minutes southeast of state capital Austin. San Antonio is also pretty convenient to San Marcos. Head about an hour southeast on I-35 to reach it.

The clean, warm San Marcos River provides plenty of options for water recreation right in the city. Head to Rio Vista Park for particularly fun tubing or kayaking. Rio Vista Falls Dam is the area's centerpiece. Shoot the rapids and get extreme with a trip over the falls!

Keep in mind that Texas summers get very hot. You'll be dealing with temperatures in the mid-90s from June to September. Aim for spring if that doesn't sound like a good time to you! From March to May, highs average a more comfortable 80 degrees or so.

94% (99)

Top-rated campgrounds

Magical Lakefront Retreat Property

3. Magical Lakefront Retreat Property

95%
(42)
39mi from San Marcos · 7 sites · Lodging · Spicewood, TX
Just featured on CBS's show "STAYCATION!" Enchantment and tranquility embody our Whimsical Lakeside Romantic Retreat property nestled in the hill country on Lake Travis, just outside of Austin, TX. This magical space is the perfect backdrop for a variety of special events, including weddings, corporate retreats, yoga and mindfulness retreats, reunions, birthdays, girl's weekends and bachelorette parties, & many other special occasions. 7 total accommodations starring a Luxury Straw Bale Villa, 3 Eco-Cabins, a Cottage, and 2 Unique Safari Tents. Our main house, 'La Casa de Joy,' is a stunning luxury straw bale villa (once featured on HGTV) that is truly the perfect gathering space for a variety of special occasions and memorable events. Originally built by an artist & healer, her creative intention and style is felt throughout the entire property. Living Waters is blessed with an abundance of nature, including deer, birds, butterflies, crickets, hummingbirds, & more. You may wake up to the deer sleeping just outside your accommodation. Indulge you and your group by taking advantage of our on-site private yoga, massage, personal training, and facial services, and kayak, canoe, and stand-up paddle board rentals. We recommend local activities such as a wine tasting at Stone House Vineyard (walking distance), a swim/picnic at Krause Springs spring-fed pool, or an eco-adventure at Cypress Valley Canopy Tours. This unique property is a tranquil and rejuvenating respite in the hill country on Lake Travis, therefore it's not ideal for loud parties. We love animals, but we are a non-pet-accommodating property due to the abundant wildlife present. We look forward to making memories with you....
Potable water
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$72
 / night
Rancho Moonrise

5. Rancho Moonrise

40mi from San Marcos · 23 sites · Tents, Lodging · Manor, TX
Welcome to our 34-acre ranch just outside of vibrant Austin, Texas! Experience the authentic charm of Texas living as you wake up to the sprawling Texan sky and sip your morning coffee while watching our cows graze peacefully. Our ranch offers a range of amenities designed to make your stay memorable and enjoyable. Take a refreshing dip in our inviting pool, unwind with a drink at our bar, or relax in our cozy lounge area. Whether you're seeking relaxation or excitement, there's something for everyone to enjoy on our ranch. We welcome families and pets, so feel free to bring your loved ones along for the adventure. Create lasting memories as you explore our expansive property and take in the beauty of the Texas countryside. Escape the hustle and bustle of city life and immerse yourself in the tranquility of our ranch. Whether you're lounging by the pool, exploring the grounds, or simply enjoying the company of friends and family, our ranch offers the perfect retreat for a memorable Texas getaway. We look forward to hosting you and sharing the beauty of our ranch with you.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$40
 / night
12 Fires Winery and Vineyard

6. 12 Fires Winery and Vineyard

100%
(9)
42mi from San Marcos · 5 sites · Lodging · Johnson City, TX
What better way to experience the Texas Hill Country than glamping at one of its premier wineries? 12 Fires Winery, surrounded by lush trees and an outdoor cozy feel, now offers glamping tents for families, couples, and friends. These pet-friendly tents offer the ideal place to sit back, relax and enjoy some of our authentic locally produced Texas wines. Located just five miles from Johnson City and 25 miles from Fredericksburg, these unique tents offer the perfect base for exploring the area. Guests have access to enjoy our beautiful grounds and winery. We have an outdoor terrace where we frequently have live music events and where guests can enjoy a glass of wine. Please join us on a vineyard tour and check out our new tasting room. COMPLIMENTARY WINE TASTING: Your reservation comes with a complimentary wine tasting from the owners of 12 Fires! You will receive a tasting of six different 12 Fires wines of your choice and can learn about the founding of our Winery. You have a choice between white, rose, red, sparkling, and dessert wine! We kindly request that if you are bringing pets along, they are kept on leashes for the comfort and safety of all our guests. The Tasting Room can be used as a friendly workspace for laptop users Welcome to our enchanting retreat, where nature meets simplicity, and we strive to provide a charming experience that allows you to disconnect and rejuvenate. COLD WINTER CONDITIONS: In the tents we do provide an extra space heater and extra blankets for extreme cold temperatures. Please be aware however that these are glamping tents and provide a certain amount of insulation. Please pack accordingly
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$136
 / night
Cameron Ranch Glamping - GLAT

7. Cameron Ranch Glamping - GLAT

44mi from San Marcos · 8 sites · Lodging · Bastrop, TX
Cameron Ranch Glamping at GLAT Austin Cameron Ranch Glamping at GLAT Austin is where luxury meets the lake. Nestled within North Shore Park on beautiful Lake Bastrop, this waterfront retreat was designed for travelers who crave nature but don’t want to give up comfort. Just an hour from Austin, it’s the perfect blend of peaceful escape and easy convenience — ideal for couples, small families, or friends looking to unplug and reconnect. Our lakefront glamping cabins and safari tents are thoughtfully designed with stylish décor, plush bedding, climate control, and private patios complete with grills and fire pits. Whether you’re sipping coffee at sunrise or stargazing by the fire, every stay feels like your own private slice of lakeside paradise. The premium cabins feature indoor bathrooms and hotel-quality finishes, while our budget-friendly tents offer a cozy, no-frills way to experience the outdoors without sacrificing comfort. Guests enjoy full access to everything the LCRA park offers — hiking and biking trails, kayak and paddleboard rentals, fishing piers, and a fully stocked camp store open daily. It’s a true Texas lake experience with a modern twist. You might spot deer grazing nearby, kids splashing along the shore, or glowing lanterns reflecting off the water at night. Cameron Ranch Glamping is known for its signature design and attention to detail, blending rustic charm with boutique-style comfort. Each stay reflects our passion for outdoor hospitality and our mission to make Texas glamping more accessible, beautiful, and unforgettable. Whether you’re celebrating an anniversary, planning a weekend getaway, or simply need to reset, GLAT Austin invites you to slow down, breathe deeply, and enjoy lake life at its finest. Discover why guests call it “the most relaxing escape near Austin.” Cameron Ranch Glamping at GLAT Austin isn’t just a place to stay — it’s a place to experience, unwind, and remember.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$144
 / night

San Marcos sits on I-35 in the Texas Hill County, about 40 minutes southeast of state capital Austin. San Antonio is also pretty convenient to San Marcos. Head about an hour southeast on I-35 to reach it.

The clean, warm San Marcos River provides plenty of options for water recreation right in the city. Head to Rio Vista Park for particularly fun tubing or kayaking. Rio Vista Falls Dam is the area's centerpiece. Shoot the rapids and get extreme with a trip over the falls!

Keep in mind that Texas summers get very hot. You'll be dealing with temperatures in the mid-90s from June to September. Aim for spring if that doesn't sound like a good time to you! From March to May, highs average a more comfortable 80 degrees or so.

94% (99)

Top-rated campgrounds

Magical Lakefront Retreat Property

3. Magical Lakefront Retreat Property

95%
(42)
39mi from San Marcos · 7 sites · Lodging · Spicewood, TX
Just featured on CBS's show "STAYCATION!" Enchantment and tranquility embody our Whimsical Lakeside Romantic Retreat property nestled in the hill country on Lake Travis, just outside of Austin, TX. This magical space is the perfect backdrop for a variety of special events, including weddings, corporate retreats, yoga and mindfulness retreats, reunions, birthdays, girl's weekends and bachelorette parties, & many other special occasions. 7 total accommodations starring a Luxury Straw Bale Villa, 3 Eco-Cabins, a Cottage, and 2 Unique Safari Tents. Our main house, 'La Casa de Joy,' is a stunning luxury straw bale villa (once featured on HGTV) that is truly the perfect gathering space for a variety of special occasions and memorable events. Originally built by an artist & healer, her creative intention and style is felt throughout the entire property. Living Waters is blessed with an abundance of nature, including deer, birds, butterflies, crickets, hummingbirds, & more. You may wake up to the deer sleeping just outside your accommodation. Indulge you and your group by taking advantage of our on-site private yoga, massage, personal training, and facial services, and kayak, canoe, and stand-up paddle board rentals. We recommend local activities such as a wine tasting at Stone House Vineyard (walking distance), a swim/picnic at Krause Springs spring-fed pool, or an eco-adventure at Cypress Valley Canopy Tours. This unique property is a tranquil and rejuvenating respite in the hill country on Lake Travis, therefore it's not ideal for loud parties. We love animals, but we are a non-pet-accommodating property due to the abundant wildlife present. We look forward to making memories with you....
Potable water
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$72
 / night
Rancho Moonrise

5. Rancho Moonrise

40mi from San Marcos · 23 sites · Tents, Lodging · Manor, TX
Welcome to our 34-acre ranch just outside of vibrant Austin, Texas! Experience the authentic charm of Texas living as you wake up to the sprawling Texan sky and sip your morning coffee while watching our cows graze peacefully. Our ranch offers a range of amenities designed to make your stay memorable and enjoyable. Take a refreshing dip in our inviting pool, unwind with a drink at our bar, or relax in our cozy lounge area. Whether you're seeking relaxation or excitement, there's something for everyone to enjoy on our ranch. We welcome families and pets, so feel free to bring your loved ones along for the adventure. Create lasting memories as you explore our expansive property and take in the beauty of the Texas countryside. Escape the hustle and bustle of city life and immerse yourself in the tranquility of our ranch. Whether you're lounging by the pool, exploring the grounds, or simply enjoying the company of friends and family, our ranch offers the perfect retreat for a memorable Texas getaway. We look forward to hosting you and sharing the beauty of our ranch with you.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$40
 / night
12 Fires Winery and Vineyard

6. 12 Fires Winery and Vineyard

100%
(9)
42mi from San Marcos · 5 sites · Lodging · Johnson City, TX
What better way to experience the Texas Hill Country than glamping at one of its premier wineries? 12 Fires Winery, surrounded by lush trees and an outdoor cozy feel, now offers glamping tents for families, couples, and friends. These pet-friendly tents offer the ideal place to sit back, relax and enjoy some of our authentic locally produced Texas wines. Located just five miles from Johnson City and 25 miles from Fredericksburg, these unique tents offer the perfect base for exploring the area. Guests have access to enjoy our beautiful grounds and winery. We have an outdoor terrace where we frequently have live music events and where guests can enjoy a glass of wine. Please join us on a vineyard tour and check out our new tasting room. COMPLIMENTARY WINE TASTING: Your reservation comes with a complimentary wine tasting from the owners of 12 Fires! You will receive a tasting of six different 12 Fires wines of your choice and can learn about the founding of our Winery. You have a choice between white, rose, red, sparkling, and dessert wine! We kindly request that if you are bringing pets along, they are kept on leashes for the comfort and safety of all our guests. The Tasting Room can be used as a friendly workspace for laptop users Welcome to our enchanting retreat, where nature meets simplicity, and we strive to provide a charming experience that allows you to disconnect and rejuvenate. COLD WINTER CONDITIONS: In the tents we do provide an extra space heater and extra blankets for extreme cold temperatures. Please be aware however that these are glamping tents and provide a certain amount of insulation. Please pack accordingly
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$136
 / night
Cameron Ranch Glamping - GLAT

7. Cameron Ranch Glamping - GLAT

44mi from San Marcos · 8 sites · Lodging · Bastrop, TX
Cameron Ranch Glamping at GLAT Austin Cameron Ranch Glamping at GLAT Austin is where luxury meets the lake. Nestled within North Shore Park on beautiful Lake Bastrop, this waterfront retreat was designed for travelers who crave nature but don’t want to give up comfort. Just an hour from Austin, it’s the perfect blend of peaceful escape and easy convenience — ideal for couples, small families, or friends looking to unplug and reconnect. Our lakefront glamping cabins and safari tents are thoughtfully designed with stylish décor, plush bedding, climate control, and private patios complete with grills and fire pits. Whether you’re sipping coffee at sunrise or stargazing by the fire, every stay feels like your own private slice of lakeside paradise. The premium cabins feature indoor bathrooms and hotel-quality finishes, while our budget-friendly tents offer a cozy, no-frills way to experience the outdoors without sacrificing comfort. Guests enjoy full access to everything the LCRA park offers — hiking and biking trails, kayak and paddleboard rentals, fishing piers, and a fully stocked camp store open daily. It’s a true Texas lake experience with a modern twist. You might spot deer grazing nearby, kids splashing along the shore, or glowing lanterns reflecting off the water at night. Cameron Ranch Glamping is known for its signature design and attention to detail, blending rustic charm with boutique-style comfort. Each stay reflects our passion for outdoor hospitality and our mission to make Texas glamping more accessible, beautiful, and unforgettable. Whether you’re celebrating an anniversary, planning a weekend getaway, or simply need to reset, GLAT Austin invites you to slow down, breathe deeply, and enjoy lake life at its finest. Discover why guests call it “the most relaxing escape near Austin.” Cameron Ranch Glamping at GLAT Austin isn’t just a place to stay — it’s a place to experience, unwind, and remember.
Pets
Potable water
Toilets
from 
$144
 / night

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Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field