Explore
/
United States
/
Texas
/
Balcones Canyonlands National Wildlife Refuge

The best camping in Balcones Canyonlands National Wildlife Refuge, TX

Discover the natural splendor of Balcones Canyonlands National Wildlife Refuge.

Popular ways to camp

Camper favorites near Balcones Canyonlands National Wildlife Refuge

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

Snag sold-out campsites.

Get notified the instant a national park campsite becomes available, for free.

See the best spots in one place.

Explore 500K+ public lands, RV resorts, and private sites you won't find anywhere else.

Book with confidence.

Read millions of real reviews from campers like you—so you know what to expect.

Stories from the community

Sundar

5 days ago

16 ft car

With kids

Weekend Trip to Twisted Oaks...

My son and I had a great time camping here! John and Nugget were wonderful hosts - very friendly, welcoming and helpful. John helped guide us to a spot that had enough vertical clearance for our RTT and helped us get our “camp kitchen” setup. It’s a beautiful property - we didn’t get to explore as much as we would have liked because it rained but we will definitely be back!

Campsite fire ring and cedar stump seats

Micaela

5 days ago

Tent

Weekend Trip to 3 Dry Wells Ranch

Loved it! The two provided chairs and table made a big difference!

nash

6 days ago

Tent

1 night at 3 Dry Wells Ranch

Beautiful property! Great views, didn’t see another person! Popped in letter in the afternoon to pitch a tent and stay the night, campsite was clear and ready with firewood!

Camron

6 days ago

20 ft campervan

2 nights at Brown Chicken Brown Cow Ranch

We really enjoyed our stay here. Communication was great from the beginning and they were super hospitable to us during our stay here. We only got to spend a limited time here since we were there to visit inks lake and enchanted rock during the day. It was just a short drive to both and very convenient. Had so much fun trying to get pictures with the longhorns too. Hopefully we can come back and visit again.

Tent pad under the mature Live Oak with gorgeous views of the creek valley beyond

Jacob

1 week ago

Tent

With pets

1 night at 3 Dry Wells Ranch

Our family of four with a pup had a great time camping here. It was easy to find, yet very private. Nice flat terrain for your tent with beautiful views of hill country. We would definitely come back! Thanks William!

Erik

1 week ago

Tent

1 night at 3 Dry Wells Ranch

Great site! Highly recommend for privacy and great views.

Eric

1 week ago

Tent

With kids

2 nights at Lampasas Camping and Glamping

Hosts were very helpful, showed us around the property, and the campground was perfect. Would definitely come again!

Evan

1 week ago

Tent

With pets

2 nights at 3 Dry Wells Ranch

Scenic and private camp site. Fire pit and tent pad were well kept and we really enjoyed our stay. Would stay here again.

Rene

1 week ago

Tent

14 nights at Twisted Oaks...

Great land to just get away. John is super nice and accommodating.

Sarah

1 week ago

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to 3 Dry Wells Ranch

The property was absolutely gorgeous, perfect for the dogs. We went to the top of the hill and enjoyed the view. Would definitely recommend.

Norma

1 week ago

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to 3 Dry Wells Ranch

Beautiful views, perfect spot for a tent, the small table was very useful. Overall, great stay!

Harold

2 weeks ago

Tent

3 nights at Wimberley Valley Camping

Everything was set up and ready exactly as advertised. I was the only person camping at the time and it was very private. Excellent site for primitive camping. There was a burn ban in effect and they even furnished a propane fire pit so I could still have a fire, and the fresh eggs were great for breakfast. I highly recommend a stay here.

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.

Allison

2 weeks ago

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to River Forest Haven

Beautiful place to unplug and recharge. Pretty crowded on the weekends, but awesome during the week. Attentive, helpful camp host.

COURTNEY

2 weeks ago

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to 3 Dry Wells Ranch

This was an amazing spot for camping- incredible views, lots of privacy and so much beauty! Would definitely stay again.

Martine

2 weeks ago

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Camping Near Hamilton Pool

We had a wonderful stay at Sheri and Johnnie’s property. They both came to greet us when we arrived and were incredibly welcoming. They even offered to look after our dog while we visited Hamilton Pool, which was so thoughtful. It was a perfect experience - 10/10, we’ll be back!

Blake

2 weeks ago

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to Wildflower Getaway

This campsite was great! The kids had lots of fun exploring the property, playing with the animals, and jumping on the trampoline.

Blake

2 weeks ago

Tent

Weekend Trip to 3 Dry Wells Ranch

Such a beautiful site with privacy that is difficult to find while camping in the hill country. 10/10!!

Lindsey

2 weeks ago

Tent

Group trip

Weekend Trip to P² Farm | Scenic River Camping

My friends and I had an absolute blast on the pasture mingle campsite. I will say though, if you’re looking for a lot of privacy, you’ll probably want to go with the mother tree location. Since this campsite is next to the barn where horse rides begin, there were people coming in and out a lot during our stay. Didn’t bother us, and we preferred being right up next to the horses, with two sheep roaming and playing around for us to watch. I’d recommend this spot to families with kids who like animals, and the mother tree location for people who want more of the private river spot. Overall we were very pleased.

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.

Top-rated campgrounds

3 Dry Wells Ranch

100%

(427)

44mi from Balcones Canyonlands National Wildlife Refuge · 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.

Ranch 3232

95%

(131)

26mi from Balcones Canyonlands National Wildlife Refuge · 31 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · 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

Sound Ground

96%

(380)

43mi from Balcones Canyonlands National Wildlife Refuge · 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.

Farmhouse Cottages and Luxury RV PK

42mi from Balcones Canyonlands National Wildlife Refuge · 9 sites · RVs, Lodging · Wimberley, TX

Black Canyon Wimberley – Farmhouse Cottages & Luxury RV Park Welcome to Black Canyon Wimberley, a serene Hill Country retreat nestled along Wayside Drive, just minutes from the Blanco River and Wimberley Square. Our property offers the perfect blend of comfort, privacy, and natural beauty—ideal for couples, small families, or anyone seeking peace beneath the Texas stars. We feature: • Six boutique RV sites — each with full hookups, level pads, and natural privacy between sites. • Three luxury accommodations — the Summermoon and Jackrabbit Farmhouse Cottages, plus Blancobreeze, our new Timberwolf 20OG RV Suite. • Access to our private pool complex and clubhouse (a short drive or walk down Wayside), featuring a resort-style pool, outdoor fireplace pavilion, and a golf-simulator clubhouse available for hourly rental. What You’ll See & Do Explore our scenic canyon nature trail, enjoy world-class stargazing, and unwind among the oak trees and wildflowers that define the Hill Country landscape. Wimberley’s restaurants, boutiques, and wineries are just a five-minute drive away, and nearby adventures include Blue Hole Regional Park, Jacob’s Well, and the Blanco River. Guest Experience Expect a quiet, well-kept property that values privacy and relaxation over crowds or noise. Pets are welcome (with approval), and guests often gather around our shared fire pit or relax on private porches to enjoy stunning Hill Country sunsets. Whether you bring your own RV or stay in one of our charming cottages, you’ll find Black Canyon Wimberley to be the perfect base for your next Hill Country escape.

CampEZ in SxSouth AustinTX

97%

(295)

31mi from Balcones Canyonlands National Wildlife Refuge · 60 sites · Tents · 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?)

Texas Music River Ranch Events CTR

90%

(587)

41mi from Balcones Canyonlands National Wildlife Refuge · 35 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · 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.

P² Farm | Scenic River Camping

93%

(141)

32mi from Balcones Canyonlands National Wildlife Refuge · 6 sites · Tents, RVs · Georgetown, TX

*We were highly affected by the flooding in Georgetown, Texas. Please understand that the river may look nothing like pics from before the flood, it has changed in many ways. Use code T8B6LGMW for a 25% discount to support rebuilding 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, 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 while still being just a few minutes walk away from electricity and running water. 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. Enjoy our newly renovated communal Pavillion which offers access to 4 different kind of grills, a brick pizza oven, a propane firepit table, games, a microwave, coffee maker, and a fridge stocked with drinks to purchase. Well water is available from the sink located near the bathroom. 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. 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.

River Forest Haven

95%

(509)

40mi from Balcones Canyonlands National Wildlife Refuge · 48 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · 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.

Blue Sage

95%

(29)

8.7mi from Balcones Canyonlands National Wildlife Refuge · 10 sites · Tents, RVs · Jonestown, TX

Situated on 12.54 acres, our property offers stunning Hill Country views. Resting on a hillside facing east, it provides a tranquil and picturesque setting. Explore the wooded areas by hiking through the property, revealing its natural beauty. With 2 wash areas available, you'll find convenience and comfort throughout your stay. Campfires are welcomed, provided there's no active burn ban in effect. Just 1 mile away, Lake Travis beckons for boating, fishing, and swimming, ensuring endless outdoor enjoyment. As you navigate the dirt roads, you'll find a private escape with individual campsites. The upper level of the property is camper-accessible, while the lower part requires either four-wheel drive or serves as walk-in tent sites. We're committed to enhancing your camping experience, with ongoing property upgrades planned over time. Cedar and oak trees grace the landscape, offering shade and adding to the natural ambiance. To ensure a harmonious environment, campers are kindly asked to respect each other's space and adhere to quiet hours from 10:00 p.m. to 7:00 a.m. Join us for a memorable camping adventure in this serene Hill Country haven.

Brown Chicken Brown Cow Ranch

98%

(178)

39mi from Balcones Canyonlands National Wildlife Refuge · 31 sites · Tents, RVs · Fredericksburg, TX

CLOSEST PROPERTY TO ENCHANTED ROCK - 18 mins away, 38 mins from Fredericksburg, 25 mins from Kingsland, and 5 mins from Llano, Texas. Flat, tree surrounded sites with campfire rings. Or stay up top on the granite outcropping with a a hillside fire ring and city views (appropriate vehicle required). Rustic natural landscape with granite outcroppings, seasonal wildflowers and year round wildlife siting's - deer, wild pigs, raccoons, dove, scorpions, ants and various varieties of snakes. (YES RATTLERS and COPPERHEADS - April - November). With 10 potential sites to choose from, campers select preferred camping spot desire based on availability. Each campsite is unique. Hilltop location requires 4x4 transportation. For all campsites, there are rocks and brush located thru out the property, caution required driving low clearance vehicles. We are not responsible for car or tire damage - so proceed with caution and stay on designated paths. GREAT FOR A VARIETY OF LARGE PARTIES - inquire with the host. Absolutely NO HUNTING ALLOWED. We feed the deer. And the Longhorns! If you'd like to feed them too we can leave a bag of deer corn or cow cubes and you can feed them as well. Hand feeding the Longhorns is a true experience. The property is been completely fenced. Please close and secure gate after entering and exiting with the lock provided. Code provided before arrival. There is a manual gate and a automatic gate you will be given the code for both. REQUIRES WAIVER: We have a waiver a renters, tenants and guest are required to sign prior to their visit. Copy link below and put in your browser. https://docs.google.com/document/d/15Q4GkSB4mPaDy2ykEsDUTNAopSBQScd1/edit?usp=sharing&ouid=102534340586917429889&rtpof=true&sd=true Please include all guests names and write in pre-approved pets names on bottom of the form. A lamented copy of the waiver will be at the entrance to complete and photograph and email to bcbcranch@yahoo.com or text to 512-608-3399 prior to your stay.

Happy Hideaway - Near COTA

87%

(56)

41mi from Balcones Canyonlands National Wildlife Refuge · 4 sites · Lodging · 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.

Happy Horse Camp & RV Getaway

100%

(923)

45mi from Balcones Canyonlands National Wildlife Refuge · 15 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · 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!

The best camping in Balcones Canyonlands National Wildlife Refuge, TX guide

Overview

About

Catch your breath in the shade of mesmerizing canyon walls on your next camping trip near Balcones Canyonlands National Wildlife Refuge. This refuge is a sanctuary for the area's beautiful arrangement of native wildlife and plants, and its primary mission is the protection of the nesting grounds for the black-capped vireo and the endangered golden-cheeked warbler. Beyond its rich biodiversity, Balcones Canyonlands plays a crucial role in maintaining water quality in central Texas. Situated just north of Lake Travis, which supplies drinking water to the Austin metro area, the refuge underscores the interconnectedness of ecosystems and urban centers. Camping near Balcones Canyonlands offers a plethora of activities for nature enthusiasts. Hiking is a favorite among visitors, with over 10 miles of trails that beckon you to explore and discover the signs of wildlife. As you tread along, the scent of wildflowers fills the air, and the sounds of birds, including the distinctive calls of the vireos and warblers, provide a natural soundtrack. For those who prefer a more leisurely pace, the observation decks are perfect spots to simply soak in the panoramic views.

When to go

The best time to visit Balcones Canyonlands National Wildlife Refuge is during spring and fall when the weather is mild and the endangered songbirds are nesting. Summer can be hot and dry, making early morning the ideal time for activities. Winter offers a serene, less crowded experience, though some areas may be less accessible.

Know before you go

Check the refuge's official website for any seasonal closures or special alerts before your visit.
Wear appropriate footwear for hiking on rugged and rocky trails.
Bring plenty of water, as sources are limited, especially during the hot Texas summers.
Remember, pets are not allowed, ensuring the safety of the refuge's wildlife.
Photography and birding are popular activities, so consider bringing binoculars and cameras.

Be the first to review

Share your experience here to help other campers.