Best Camping near Pace Bend Park, TX 2025

95% (43 reviews)

Nine miles of camping, boating, hiking, and horseback riding along the shores of Lake Travis.

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Stay at a public campground in Pace Bend Park

95%

(43)

Pace Bend Campground

420 sites · RVs, Tents In Pace Bend Park

Explore camping beyond Pace Bend ParkDiscover 200+ magical spots to camp in Regional Parks

Top-rated campgrounds near Pace Bend Park

99%

(637)

The Best Dam Spot

7 sites · Tents3 acres · 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. Camping spot includes: unlimited river access, use of kayaks and paddle boards, picnic table, a 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. *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** -small fan is recommended. *Canopy/umbrella 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 bringing their own firewood. *Climbing on the dam structure is strictly prohibited. *Please arrive BEFORE dark to check-in. *No check-ins after dark. *Feel free to BYO wagon to haul gear to site. *ALL campers/guests on the property MUST check-in upon arrival, sign a Release of Liability Waiver and pick-up wristband. *All children ages 5+ MUST be included in your reservation under "Children." *Day passes are available for $25 per person/per day. Includes kayak and paddle board use. Please add them to your reservation under total headcount. -Total headcount of adults and children 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!

91%

(97)

P² Farm | Scenic River Camping

5 sites · RVs, Tents30 acres · Georgetown, TX

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, pigs 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. 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. Restroom facilities with flushable toilets are conveniently located on the property. Well water is available from the sink located near the bathroom. Portable fire ring is provided. 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. At Psquared Farm, 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.

83%

(35)

Happy Hideaway - Near COTA

4 sites · Lodging5 acres · Del Valle, TX

This property is 5 acres, just 5 min from the Circut Of The Americas and 7 min from Austin International airport. It is a rural landscape that features a small pond that is generally full in the cooler parts of the year. This property was designed with many permaculture principles in mind to save water and preserve the natural landscape.

100%

(935)

Camping near Hamilton Pool

9 sites · RVs, Tents20 acres · Dripping Springs, TX

This is a relaxing spot in the Hill Country to camp and enjoy the surrounding area with nearby swimming, kayaking, rock climbing, bicycle riding, and hiking on and around the Pedernales River, as well as the many restaurants, wineries, and breweries in the area. We have a variety of campsites styles ranging from cozy secluded oak groves to more open spaces for camping under the stars. Rates: $25 PER PERSON, PER NIGHT (minimum of 2 campers). Children age 3 and under are free. If bringing children, please tell us how many and their ages. Nearby Parks for hiking and swimming: HAMILTON POOL PRESERVE (1.9 mi) is open by reservation for hiking and swimming. Visits are for 3 1/2 hour blocks of time. No dogs allowed at Hamilton Pool MILTON REIMERS RANCH COUNTY PARK (2.5 mi) is nearby and is open for hiking, swimming, fishing, rock climbing, and cycling. Dogs on a leash allowed at Reimers. CASH ONLY! $5/per person, no reservation required. We love it there! WEST CAVE OUTDOOR DISCOVERY CENTER (2.6 mi) is open by reservation only for guided tours of the waterfall/cave-no swimming allowed. No dogs allowed at West Cave PEDERNALES FALLS STATE PARK (34 mi) is open by reservation only for day use hiking and swimming. Dogs on a leash allowed ENCHANTED ROCK STATE NATURAL AREA (71 mi) is open by reservation only for day use hiking on weekends and holidays. If we are not under a burn ban, BRING FIREWOOD and/or charcoal because we have fire rings and BBQ cookers at most of the sites. If we are under a burn ban, campfires (even in fire rings) are not allowed, but bring some charcoal because you may still use BBQ Cookers, which we have at each of our sites. You may also use a campstove if you wish to bring one. We have a hot/cold outdoor shower our guests are free to use.

96%

(106)

Ranch 3232

31 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents9 acres · 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

100%

(898)

Happy Horse Camp & RV Getaway

15 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents22 acres · Cedar Creek, TX

GET AWAY without going FAR AWAY! Feels like the middle of nowhere, but it's only 25 miles to downtown Austin and 15 miles to the charming little town of Bastrop with its eateries, shops and historic buildings. Spend quiet nights in the country listening to the coyotes howl and the owls hoot. Hike the nearby Roughs (trailhead is 2 miles away) or book a river canoe or kayak trip with one of the local outfitters. Bring the family and have a weekend event under the trees and covered shade of our Pony Pavilion! Hollis and her wonderful voice, great stories and powerful ukuleles now offer LIVE MUSIC by your very own campfire, for your private enjoyment. (See the EXTRAS category to book a $20/45 minute/weather-permitting show, or a 1-hour Ukulele lesson, or just get with Hollis when you show up at camp) Enjoy the park trails, the Happy Horse on-site Scavenger Hunt, the delightful maze of campground trails (on your bikes!) and the peace and quiet! Happy Horse Hotel is on 22 acres conveniently located between Austin and Bastrop in the Pope Bend of the Colorado River. LCRA's fabulous McKinney Roughs Nature Park is 2 miles up the road, adjacent to the Hyatt Lost Pines Resort. The camp area is 9 secluded, fenced and wooded acres laced with all-dirt flat biking and walking trails on our property. We encourage you to bring your bicycles along. The bird watching is great!

97%

(73)

McDonald Farm

11 sites · RVs, Tents78 acres · Georgetown, TX

We are now offering daytime river access to the San Gabriel River! This is a secluded, hike to spot for fishing, swimming, grilling, picnicing, and hanging out during the day. Access to our river site is included in your camping fee, or we offer day passes for non-campers! There is no overnight camping on the San Gabriel River. All camping is at the main farm area and campers are able to come and go from the river site as they please. McDonald Farm sits in the historic farming community of Jonah, TX between Georgetown and Taylor on scenic Highway 29. McDonald Farm is named after the patriarch of the family, J.H. Mcdonald, who first acquired the property in 1911. The farm sits on the bank of the San Gabriel River and features a lush canopy of huge pecan trees, sprawling corn fields, prairie, and forest. We are a working farm! We primarily grow corn, but we also have livestock on the property. During daytime hours, you will likely see a variety of farm chores being completed. We are only 7 miles from the Georgetown, TX historical district and square. Some say it’s the most beautiful town square in all of Texas. Enjoy shopping, dining, and festivals! We are 13 miles from Granger Lake, which offers boating and bass fishing opportunities. Highway 29 and the many quaint and scenic country roads that intersect it is popular with cyclists wanting to go for longer rides and enjoy the sights of central Texas and the many historical farms in the area. There is excellent bird-watching and wildlife-viewing opportunities on the property. We frequently see white-tailed deer, as well as other wildlife and many species of birds. There is road noise. Highway 29 can be busy at times, despite being a two-lane road. We also have neighbors, so we request quiet hours after 10 pm Sunday - Thursday and midnight Friday and Saturday. Ask us about pasture-raised eggs, naturally-raised produce, and baked goods!

95%

(476)

River Forest Haven

48 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents30 acres · Del Valle, TX

River Forest Haven is a unique space that seeks to bring you closer to nature. We do not artificially light the camp and we strive to leave as much of the property in its natural state as we can. This provides a unique experience that is not your typical campground as we keep all of our campsites tucked under lush natural canopies. Car and tent camping works great! For most sites, you can easily drive up to your spot. Arrive, take a look around and settle into your site. We are always happy to deliver any of our items from our general store- just message us on HipCamp and we will come by. With nearly half a mile of Colorado riverfront to swim, fish, toob, paddle-board, kayak, and canoe*, along with 30 acres to hike and explore, River Forest Haven is also a quick 20-minute drive from downtown Austin.THINGS OF NOTE: ⁃ cell phone service is mostly non-existent ⁃ firewood can be brought or bought, but not collected.

91%

(577)

Texas Music River Ranch Events CTR

35 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents75 acres · Webberville, TX

The Texas Music River Ranch is 111 acres located in the quaint village of Webberville, Texas, only 20 miles east of downtown Austin. The large oak and pecan trees amid the rolling green hills of this gorgeous ranch land are nestled on the banks of the lazy Colorado River. Swim, kayak, or canoe...but there’s no better way to beat the legendary Texas heat than by grabbing an inner tube and enjoying a calm, steady float along a river known for an abundance of fossils and its wildlife. Bring your own tubes, kayaks and canoes, we are currently replenishing our inventory. Or perhaps you prefer to fish the shady tree-lined banks. Either way, you'll see a variety of birds while you relax on or beside the cool waters of the Colorado River. We're kid and dog friendly (leashes mandatory) and we love musicians. Bring an instrument and join us for an impromptu jam session in our special events room or around the campfire. Cook dinner on our BBQ pit. Firewood is available onsite A few rules... 1. Check in is before sunset. We ask that all Hipcampers wait at gate for staff to guide you to your location for safety reasons. Contact us if you arrive ahead of schedule. 2. No wondering by the upper level cabins (these are private property). Showers are behind these cabins. Please respect staff spaces. 3. If you have an extra vehicle, please park it with your other vehicle. 4. If you have a 3rd extra vehicle, let us know and we will direct you where to park it. 5. Please be courteous of other campers space and road access. 6. All kids are free. If your kids are 17 and under do not add them or it will charge. 7. If you have an impairment please let us know before booking so that we can ensure a space is ready and suitable for you. 8. All dogs must be on leash. Please clean up your dogs Poop. If you have any questions or concerns, contact our Office phone @ (512) 884-4345 Office Hours: Monday-Saturday 9am-9pm, Sunday 11am-6pm We look forward to making your acquaintance and sharing our little piece of Central Texas heaven with you, your family, and your friends.

98%

(28)

Wildflower Getaway

10 sites · RVs, Tents10 acres · San Marcos, TX

Escape to the Texas hill country and experience the charm of farm life on 10 acres at Wildflower Getaway! Nestled just outside of Austin, in San Marcos, TX, our property offers a unique experience with hiking trails surrounded by nature and friendly farm animals. There is also a cowboy pool with a shade sail. We have goats, horses, chickens, ducks, and more. In September we will have a llama named Oreo Mochi. There is an outhouse for washing hands and a compost toilet. There are water and electric connections only. 50 amp RV connections. If you need 30 amp you will need a converter. You can pitch a tent. There are rock firepits set up around the property and plenty of firewood. Eventually we will be adding an outdoor shower for camping guests. It is 15-18 minutes to downtown San Antonio. About 15 minutes to tube rentals to float the river in San Marcos. The San Marcos outlet malls are a shower trip. An approximate 30 minute trip to Wimberly, TX wineries. There are wildflowers all over the property; especially in the spring time. We have seen deer grazing on the property and some travelers have found fossils and arrowheads (no guarantees of course). A tent can be provided upon your request ahead of time. We look forward to hosting you. We want you to create lasting memories by connecting with yourself and loved ones.

98%

(285)

Twisted Oaks...

21 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents21 acres · San Marcos, TX

. Twisted Oaks is located on 21 acres of tree lined Texas Hill Country nestled in the heart of San Marcos. . The campsites are well spaced and several have large oak tree canopy/shade, Campers may choose their own site based on availability. We encourage campers to purchase our firewood, we will make sure you have what you need at a fair price. Please be respectful. This is my home (35 years) I do not need any help redecorating or rearranging. Treat it as you would want your home treated by a guest. No tobacco if you choose to smoke do it in your vehicle. I work from my home, My workspace is separated from campsites and is off limits for your own safety. Campfires are tied to weather, strong wind low humidity and dry conditions will be considered when allowing permitted fires.... cook stoves are ok. We want our guests to enjoy and create lifelong memories...good vibes only.

97%

(271)

CampEZ in SxSouth AustinTX

60 sites · Tents2 acres · Austin, TX

campround/farmette' is about 2 acres (inside the city limits!), on a creek, kind of woodsy, and next to a pretty vast parkland greenbelt. Recent flooding made quite a mess but it's still pleasant here. Several friendly and permanent residents and farm animals. Creek-side private campground hideaway available. This is a CAMPGROUND: NO RV, ROOM, BED, INVOLVED - BRING A TENT AND GEAR FOR COMFORT (check my other listings for an RV stay). This a "want to camp" campground and not a living solution. If you "need to camp" due to financial or other reasons, Camp EZ will likely not be a good fit for you. 6 nights maximum stay. Not suitable for very young children. Please include your child in your count. Campfires in designated area only with permission (burn ban sometimes). Bring firewood. Community vibe 'round here; everyone is expected to be quiet and respectful of one another and clean up after themselves "leave no trace" style. Six night maximum stay. Bring a tent and gear needed to be comfortable. 2 private hot outdoor showers, rustic kitchen and 2 charming flush restrooms included. Wood fired sauna available. Visitors are expected to clean up after themselves especially in the kitchen, showers, restroom and, of course, your campsite. Trash and recycle containers are around or, better yet, pack it out! We are a 2 acre community on a secret and secluded little street 5 miles due South of the capitol of TX and even closer (2.5) to the very hip SoCo area (Continental Club, Jo's Coffee, Guero's Taco Bar, El Mercado and lots more). I have 3 cats, 11 chickens, 2 little donkeys and sweet 4 mini goats here at my little and funky 'farmette' right on Williamson Creek (sometimes flowing and not really swimmable) and next to a huge wooded greenbelt with a quiet and unused nature trail. This is not a KOA or a state park. This is a home hostel/campground. It's kind of rustic and we like it that way. You may see a roach, ant or cricket and you may also see a deer, fox or coyote. We are busy and not always able to visit for long. Lots of remodeling and flood related cleanup chaos here but also lots of pretty and secluded nature. Short walk to bus stop and historic Sagebrush HonkyTonk and Austin Bergstrom Airport is 9 easy highway miles away. Rustic outdoor shower/kitchen/privy. BYOTent. No wild or excessive partying here please and please remember: no smoking. WE NOW HAVE A COVERED PING-PONG PLAYING AREA ! Other details to note: Street parking. Camping is a very short walk from parking lot. We have carts to tote your gear if needed. Sorry, this campground is not set up to be able to park next to your site. We do not supply towels, toiletries, tents or bedding. Camp fire in designated fire pits only with approval. BYO Firewood. NO GENERATORS OR RECORDED MUSIC. Quiet time: 9PM-9AM. Please be mindful and respectful of your neighbors. -Jim O' (Did I mention rustic?)

The best camping near Pace Bend Park guide

Overview

About

Soaring cliffs, sandy beaches, and rocky coves line the shores of Lake Travis in Pace Bend Park, while inland, miles of trails afford options for hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding. Launch your boat or kayak from the public boat ramps, enjoy fishing or cliff jumping around the lakeside, then cool off in the swimming areas at Mudd Cove, Kate's Cove, and Gracy Cove. Campers have plenty of choices, with more than 400 primitive campsites dotted around the coast, including some right on the beach. Twenty more “improved campsites” are found at Levi Cove, with electric hook-ups, showers, and restrooms.

Notable campgrounds

Best for RVs: Levi Cove improved campsites
Best for Lakeside Views: Kate and Johnson Cove Campground
Best for boating and fishing: Tatum Cove

Tips for snagging a campsite

Primitive campsites are first-come, first-served, and popular spots can fill up quickly during holidays and summer weekends. Secure your spot by checking in on arrival—the entrance station opens at 7am.
You can reserve improved campsites through the Travis County Parks website or directly at the park office. Book at least six weeks in advance for summer weekends.
If arriving after 10pm you can still access the primitive campsites—patrols will be made in the morning, though, so head to the entrance station to pay your fee first thing

When to go

Pace Bend Park is open year-round, but peak season is summer, when popular spots can get crowded, especially on weekends. A late spring or early fall visit is the ideal compromise, when it’s still warm enough for swimming and water sports. Alternatively, visit in April when fields of bluebonnets bloom along the lakeside.

Know before you go

Pace Bend Park is located in the Highland Lakes region, about 30 miles northwest of Austin or about a 50-minute drive away along Highway 71. Access to the campsites is via a six-mile, paved road that loops around the coast. Boat access can be found at Collier Cove on the west side of the lake, and Tatum Cove on the east side.
There are day-use entry fees for the park in addition to camping fees. Bring enough cash, as cards are not accepted at the entrance station.
Primitive campsite facilities include picnic tables, barbecue grills, and fire rings, while pit toilets dot the park. These sites have no electricity or running water, so bring everything you need with you. Improved campsites have water, electric hook-ups, showers, and restrooms.
Campsites on the east and north sides are accessible for wheelchairs and provide easy access to the lake.

95%

43 ratings · 17 reviews

Recommends

· May 2025

Solid, conventional camping

Pace Bend Campground

It’s a solid campground with nice lake access and good amenities. Very similar to State Park camping, it’s nice and easy.

J

Juan V.

2 reviews

Recommends

· April 2019

Pace Bend Campground

Great place to camp for a more primitive experience. Like most parks in Texas you should go during the week if you want more privacy.

Douglas G.

15 reviews

May 2018

Pace Bend Campground

Pace Bend is a must-go for rock climbers in Texas. It's an easy drive right outside of town. It is the only place to Deep Water Solo in TX, which makes it great for climbers in the Summer when it's too hot to sport climb! There's also lots of great cliff jumping if the climbing part isn't your thing.

Becca S.

7 years on Hipcamp

Mixed feelings

· November 2017

Pace Bend Campground

Pit toilets that stink, stink, stink. No showers.

Randy G.

2 reviews

Recommends

· September 2017

Pace Bend Campground

Some of the campsites facing the lake are full of burrs- be careful before you settle in.

Samantha K.

7 years on Hipcamp

Recommends

· August 2017

Pace Bend Campground

Classic spot for cliff-jumping and deep water solo--ing! Pick a cove and check it out -- or hope around to all the coves and pick your favorite! Mine are usually on the west side of the peninsula ;)

C

Chelsea S.

2 reviews

Mixed feelings

· July 2017

Pace Bend Campground

A great, easy getaway, but not one with a ton of (or any) quiet or privacy. A great place for beginner campers!

A

Andy B.

7 years on Hipcamp

Recommends

· May 2017

Pace Bend Campground

Some sites are difficult to access the Colorado River. Plenty of camp sites with lots of room.

Dillon S.

8 years on Hipcamp

January 2017

Pace Bend Campground

This is one of our favorites. Only 45 minutes west of Austin. With so many sites available, this is our go-to for spur-the-moment weekends. No need for reservations unlike many of the surrounding state parks with limited sites.

Spencer I.

9 years on Hipcamp

November 2016

Pace Bend Campground

I did a little overnighter at Pace Bend in just my hammock in October, and it was great! It was my first time hammock camping and I didn't have a tarp or anything, so since the campsite I picked was right by the water, I did get destroyed by mosquitoes. On the flip side, it was incredible falling asleep truly in the great outdoors. Pace Bend was nice for the one night get away, but it's not a completely wild place. There's fancy lake houses across the water, and the stars aren't as bright as I wanted them, but campsite space seems to be endless so it's great for quick, spontaneous trips.

Jason H.

8 years on Hipcamp

November 2016

Pace Bend Campground

Love this park, but for all the grass burrs, it would be perfect. I miss the bar and grill at the entrance :(

Sherry K.

8 years on Hipcamp

October 2016

Pace Bend Campground

What a great example of county parks! A friend at work recommended this park - we didn't even know it was here, and less than an hour from home. Our family enjoyed our recent weekend at Pace Bend - we stayed in the improved campsite area, and found it to have great access to the lake, to trails, and well-shaded sites with a handy, and code-guarded running-water restroom and shower facility just for people at that campsite area. We definitely plan to go back soon!