The best camping in Old Tunnel State Park, TX

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Discover the enchanting world of Old Tunnel State Park.  

The best camping in Old Tunnel State Park, TX

Public campgrounds here are often sold out.
Great view of sunsets and bats

1. RockOn Ridge

100%
(48)
0.2mi from Old Tunnel State Park · 3 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Fredericksburg, TX
This property was often frequented by Indians dating back to the Clovis times. It also was the camping site for laborers building the Old Train Tunnel that now houses millions of Mexican Free Tailed Bats. Sitting on the edge of the valley, you can watch the beautiful Sunsets and watch the bats emerge! Learn more about this land: Camp next to a gorgeous view and watch the sunsets and the bats emerge when they are in season. There is a fire ring for when the burn ban is off. We are within a quarter mile (walking distance) to the Old Tunnel State Park and Alamo Springs Cafe bragging the best burgers in Texas. We are also three miles from famous Bankersmith and ten miles from Luckenbach. Fredericksburg town is 20 minutes and there are many wineries in the area. We also live on the property (building a house) so we can be of some help if needed. 23 miles away you have Blanco State Park. Situated along a one-mile stretch of the spring-fed Blanco River, the small but mighty Blanco State Park is very family-friendly, offering the spectacular Falls Dam, nature trails, fishing, tubing, kayaking, and deep water for a good, refreshing swim. The stocked river is teeming with largemouth and Guadalupe bass, catfish, sunfish, and rainbow trout, and can be an excellent place for beginning anglers (you can even borrow equipment for free)
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$55
 / night
City on a Hill at Spring Creek

3. City on a Hill at Spring Creek

100%
(37)
17mi from Old Tunnel State Park · 3 sites · Lodging · Fredericksburg, TX
Located 10 miles from Main Street Fredericksburg, this property has 6 private cabins with their own back porch that overlooks the creek. Enjoy the wildlife while glamping in your comfortable cabin! We hope you'll enjoy beautiful Spring Creek, many deer, and the private hot tubs on the porch! There is plenty of nature to explore on our property - you can walk/hike around, go fishing, and pet/feed the ponies on our property! If you'd like to check out the surrounding areas as well, we are within 15-20 minutes of Enchanted Rock, Lady Bird Johnson State Park, Sacred Cross Mountain Park, many wineries, local shopping, and dining in Fredericksburg, TX. Other Things to Note: - You can stay connected if you'd like to, as cell reception and wifi are both available on our property. Feel free to unplug during your stay though! - The cabin is quite private, though you may see other visitors in passing during your stay. - Furry friends are welcome! Simply add the "extra" of a pet fee when completing your booking on Hipcamp. Please feel free to reach out with any questions and we look forward to your stay!
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from 
$175
 / night
Enjoy sitting out under the stars on the patio. Eat dinner in the covered outdoor kitchen, or play corn hole or Bocci ball on the sport court.

4. Game court, covered patio, fire pit

100%
(13)
18mi from Old Tunnel State Park · 4 sites · RVs, Lodging · Johnson City, TX
Come live The Hye Life! Welcome to our property located in Hye, at the beginning of the Texas Wine Trail. French Connection Wines is right next door and the renowned William Chris Vineyards is just 1 mile away. Not to be missed is the Garrison Brother's Bourbon Distillery, less than a mile down the street – you could even walk to all three! Our property features a shared, covered outdoor patio with a games court for corn hole, checkers, and bocce (checkers, boards and balls provided), gas fire pit, and a gas grill for those cooler nights. The patio is lighted with cafe lights. One of the RV slips is covered, while the other is nestled under a charming burr oak tree. On-site, we also offer a rental cabin. The covered RV slip is equipped with 30 and 50 amps, the other hookup is 50 amp, both have their own water and clean out connections. Both RV slips are on grass/dirt, and the entrance/exit is grass and dirt. *****IF IT RAINS heavily while you are here, please use the paved driveway to exit the property as you may get stuck in the grass at the big double gate.***** Our property uses rain water recapture. Please conserve water when you can when cooking, washing up and cleaning. No washing of cars or RVs is allowed. Please note that there might be other guests staying on the property during your visit. Kindly be considerate of noise levels and how it may impact the experience of fellow guests. You may also be sharing amenities such as the grill, deck, outdoor kitchen, and games court. We welcome dogs, but it is your responsibility to manage their interactions with other guests' pets. Due to potential gaps or larger openings in the fencing, we recommend keeping your dog on a leash. The owners live on the far side of the property. The rest of the property is left natural for wildlife, so expect uneven terrain, tall grasses, and yes sometimes scorpions, spiders and snakes along with deer, armadillo, wild turkeys, and lots of songbirds.
Pets
Toilets
Full Hookups
from 
$42
 / night
The meeting place where adventures start

5. HomeAway Ranch & Wildlife Preserve

92%
(180)
18mi from Old Tunnel State Park · 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.
Pets
Electrical Hookup
Toilets
from 
$28
 / night
Guadalupe River RV Campground

7. Guadalupe River RV Campground

92%
(24)
19mi from Old Tunnel State Park · 6 sites · RVs · Kerrville, TX
Located in the heart of Hill Country, Kerrville Texas with private fully landscaped river access and full RV Hookups. Guadalupe River Rentals Riverside RV campground is the perfect home base for exploring beautiful Hill Country, Texas.Just 34 miles away you can visit the LBJ Ranch. This is a living memorial to the 36th president of the United States. This is the home of the Texas White House, so named because Lyndon B. Johnson spent 20 percent of his presidency there. When the weight of the office became too much to bear, he retreated to this ranch to escape the rigors of Washington. You and your family have plenty of things to do here to escape the rigors of your own lives. Johnson's boyhood home contains artifacts from his childhood, including a baseball glove and ball. The president loved cars. You can view a 1915 fire truck, 1934 Ford Phaeton and a rare Amphicar, a car designed to travel on land and water. He also owned a Jolly 500 Ghia, a gift from the owner of Fiat. There's even that era's Air Force One, the plane Johnson used to get to the ranch.Pets are allowed. Please make sure you pick up after them.
Pets
Full Hookups
from 
$57
 / night
Starlit Flat on the 1873 Ranch

9. Starlit Flat on the 1873 Ranch

100%
(43)
21mi from Old Tunnel State Park · 6 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Fredericksburg, TX
A Texas Hill Country ranch with uncrowded “primitive” campsites about 8 miles from Fredericksburg and about 12 miles from Enchanted Rock. There is no running water, no electricity and no WiFi at the campsite. There is a picnic table, some chairs, a fire ring with some firewood and a portable toilet. This site is suited to tent camping, car camping and small RV "dry camping". There is relative privacy, hopefully starry nights and campfire provisions. Guests share a pasture with livestock and wildlife. Weather in all its variations is part of camping. If you are not prepared to deal with whatever the weather may be, you should consider another option. We encourage guests to research this destination before booking, carefully review our cancellation policy, and consider buying travel insurance to protect against unexpected travel disruptions. Weather conditions are not an acceptable reason for a refund or change of reservation for this campsite. Cellular service is limited here. AT&T provides a good signal in this area. HOWEVER **** SPRINT, VERIZON and T-MOBILE may have “VERY POOR” or “NONEXISTENT” cellular signals at this site. We have neighbors, and although the place is relatively large, and we don't anticipate a problem, there is no guarantee that you will not be bothered by some kind of noise. Likewise, we don’t want our neighbors bothered by any noise coming from you. People live out in the country to enjoy separation of space. Please be considerate of others and keep noise to a minimum. Observe quiet time after 9 pm and before 8 am. The country roads in this area are paved and they are excellent for walking, bicycling and driving. There are “cattle guards” in the roadways. Cattle guards are steel pipe obstacles along a road intended to prevent livestock, such as sheep and cattle from passing out of a fenced area. If you book this property you will be able to check yourself in at the property. The specific location and other check in details will be provided to you on the day of your scheduled arrival, and after housekeeping and campsite make-ready is complete. Most any car should be just fine for accessing the campsite, except in the case of very wet weather. Guests are not allowed to use firearms or fireworks on this property.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$45
 / night
Sunsets and relaxation awaits

10. 3 Dry Wells Ranch

100%
(430)
21mi from Old Tunnel State Park · 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.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$32
 / night
views from the hills

11. The Charmadillo: Glamping Resort

100%
(143)
21mi from Old Tunnel State Park · 29 sites · Tents, Lodging · Center Point, TX
A getaway tucked deep into 44 magical acres of rolling hills. 10 minutes outside of Center Point, Texas. Tucked into the top of a beautiful valley, where hills rule supreme! While on the property spend your time enjoying the rugged trails, bird watching, dark night skies, and the quiet. Don't forget to take advantage of our communal amenities including stock tank pools, sauna and hammock grove! Currently we have 7 A-frame cabins and RV to rent as well as dispersed camping sites! If you're interested in booking the whole property for your group shoot us a message! ~We are grateful to share that our property did not sustain any damage from the Guadalupe flood. During this time, we remain committed to being a place of restoration for all~ *We ask that guests clean up after themselves in the communal spaces during their stay. Allowing all guests to have access to a clean and welcoming space!* The Charmadillo is a great base to explore the area! About an hour from Lost Maples, Garner State Park and Enchanted Rock. About 35 minutes to Hill Country State Natural Area. Various access points to the Guadalupe river via Center Point and Kerrville. With the addition of wineries, honkytonks, and charming bars and restaurants throughout the region.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$40
 / night
Campground area gazebo

12. Hill Country Escape

98%
(32)
25mi from Old Tunnel State Park · 2 sites · Tents, RVs · Johnson City, TX
An intimate, picturesque and serene venue on Grape Creek in the Texas Hill Country. With towering pecan trees and native landscaping this is the perfect setting for camping. There is a gazebo that can be used to get out of the weather or to enjoy if campers don't have a tent. There is a large creek that can be used for Kayaking or fishing (with valid fishing license). Must bring your own Kayak. Lots of hiking trails. This campsite is located near several wineries that are within driving distance. This area is now the Wine Capital of Texas with over 50 wineries located near this property.Learn more about this land:An intimate, picturesque and serene venue on Grape Creek in the Texas Hill Country. With towering pecan trees and native landscaping this is the perfect setting for camping. There is a gazebo that can be used to get out of the weather or to enjoy if campers don't have a tent. There is a large creek that can be used for Kayaking or fishing. Must bring your own Kayak. Lots of hiking trails. This campsite is located near several wineries that are within driving distance. This area is now the Wine Capital of Texas with over 50 wineries located near this property.
Pets
Electrical Hookup
Toilets
from 
$28
 / night
There are plenty of scenic views from our hilltop.

13. Sound Ground

96%
(383)
26mi from Old Tunnel State Park · 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.
Pets
Electrical Hookup
Toilets
from 
$22
 / night
SKYE Texas Hill Country Resort

14. SKYE Texas Hill Country Resort

100%
(22)
28mi from Old Tunnel State Park · 99 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Fredericksburg, TX
SKYE Texas Hill Country Resort offers a unique blend of tranquility and modern convenience, making it an ideal destination for guests seeking a peaceful retreat with all the comforts of home. Our guests have a variety of accommodations to choose from. The SKYE Texas Hill Country Resort is a hybrid and there is no other quite like it. It is a unique combination of factors that provide experiential contrasts and the occasional pleasant surprise! Our resort in rural Texas seeks to preserve the unique nature of the Hill Country land, and at the same time offer state-of-the-art communication services and first-class technology for our guests. EV charging stations are easily available for all as you arrive at the gates of this private resort via Texas Highway 87, you’ll drive down the ‘green tunnel’, our long tree-lined main entrance, then suddenly it unveils our attractive resort grounds and stylish buildings. A peaceful nature sanctuary, only miles away from the loud outside world. Experience nature in remarkable comfort! In the heart of Texas cattle country, SKYE Texas Hill Country Resort boasts 250 acres of serene rural settings but with a commitment to blending nature with modern amenities. The resort's thoughtful design and extensive facilities cater to diverse interests, from birdwatching and hiking to enjoying local libations along the Hill Country Whisky and Wine trails. For history enthusiasts, nearby Fredericksburg offers a glimpse into Texas' past with museums and historic sites, including the National Museum of the Pacific War. Additionally, the resort's proximity to attractions such as the historic town of Fredericksburg, renowned for its German heritage, wineries, and the Enchanted Rock State Natural Area, provides ample opportunities for memorable day trips and adventures in the Texas Hill Country. Whether seeking a quiet escape or an active exploration of the region's cultural and natural treasures, SKYE Texas Hill Country Resort promises an enriching experience that harmonizes relaxation with adventure.
Pets
Toilets
Full Hookups
from 
$65
 / night
Texas Tranquility at Al's Hideaway

15. Texas Tranquility at Al's Hideaway

98%
(337)
29mi from Old Tunnel State Park · 35 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Pipe Creek, TX
Escape to Al's Hideaway - Your Tranquil Texas Hill Country Retreat! Enjoy a peaceful getaway at Al's Hideaway, a relaxing spot in the lovely Texas Hill Country. Our campground is perfect for people who love nature, enjoy adventures, or just want to relax. It offers a unique blend of comfort and natural beauty. Enjoy large campsites for camping, comfortable cabins for glamping, and RV spaces surrounded by tall trees and gentle hills. Spend your days hiking scenic trails, enjoying our pristine swimming pool, or simply relaxing in the refreshing Texas air. As night comes, gather by the campfire to make lasting memories under the stars. Located conveniently close to Bandera, known as the "Cowboy Capital of the World," Al's Hideaway acts as your entry point to delightful small-town charm, local attractions, and countless adventures. Don't miss out on the magic of the Hill Country—book your stay today! Be sure to catch our segment on the Destination Channel's show, Staycautions, airing in May 2025.
Pets
Toilets
Full Hookups
from 
$36
 / night
The open field at sunset

17. Memmie’s Farm

99%
(49)
30mi from Old Tunnel State Park · 53 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Bandera, TX
Memmie’s Farm is a special 30 acres just outside of Bandera, TX on the Medina River! We hope bring love and energy to this beautiful piece of family property by opening it up to visitors who embrace the outdoors. At the designated tent camping sites, you will find oak groves that provide opportunities for shade. The RV sites are in a picturesque field that provides excellent views of the sunset. The field leads down to incredible cypress trees lining the Medina River. We also have a primitive camping area down by the river that requires you to park in a parking area and walk to your preferred camping spot. If you are looking for solitude and untouched nature, this is the place for you. The comforts of Bandera are conveniently only a 5 minute drive away. We are located less than 2 miles from Bandera City Park! At this time, all sites are completely dry. We do have porta-potties available. RV sites are boondocking only (no water or electric at this time.) Our slice of land on the Medina River is truly gorgeous! There are beautiful cypress trees that are magical year round, and there are often small rapids. If relaxing in the shade by the river and dipping your feet in is your thing, our property is perfect for that! However, this is not a swimming hole. The Medina River is generally not considered safe in Bandera, TX, due to consistent low flow. Swim at your own risk.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$14
 / night
Secluded, great hill country views

19. Secluded, great hill country views

99%
(56)
31mi from Old Tunnel State Park · 4 sites · Tents, RVs · Spring Branch, TX
Come stay at Bird Haus Farms! We offer a secluded RV site with stunning views on several acres, away from our four short-term rentals. While the container pool is no longer available, there's a beautiful swimming hole just a short walk from the site (waiver required). Extra swimmers are $20 each. Bird Haus Farms is centrally located in the Texas Hill Country—just 30 minutes from San Antonio, 25 minutes from New Braunfels and Boerne, and 60 minutes from Fredericksburg. A Walmart and HEB are just across the highway, with Guadalupe State Park only 15 minutes away. We're also a quick 3-minute drive from Guadalupe Canoe Livery for river tubing and kayaking! Chickens, cows, and other guests’ dogs are on the property, so please keep your pets on a leash. We also have two cats and an electric fence—exercise caution. Amenities include: 50-amp electrical hookup Water and sewage hookup Toilet and sink inside a nearby shipping container Campfires allowed (if no fire ban) Reach out with any questions—we hope to see you soon!
Pets
Toilets
Full Hookups
from 
$54
 / night
Our happy dog at the campsite

20. It's a Wendelful Life Ranch

98%
(62)
32mi from Old Tunnel State Park · 75 sites · Tents, RVs · Llano, TX
Cinco de Mayo Event (May 3rd-5th, 2024) Our ranch was originally part of the enchanted Rock property owned by Mr Moss. It is currently a 6th generation ranch. Original ranch was 1767 acres. The highest elevation is 1600'. You can locate us on Google Earth by searching for Dooley Wahl Rd Llano, Texas. We have secluded camping available. Primitive tent camping, or if you want to go glamping you can bring an RV with a generator and be even more secluded but still have the comfortable amenities of an RV. IF YOU DON'T HAVE AN RV...no worries! Contact outdoorsy.com. you can rent an RV. They will deliver it, set it up and pick it up. Remember to ask for a generator. You don't have to bring wood. We got yuh covered! There is a porta potty at the dig site. We are currently working on getting an outside bathroom and shower area. Firepit musicians welcome! Bring your instruments! Bring bikes, dirt bikes, atv or mule. Rock hounds who love to pick up rocks will love this place. Photographers who enjoy taking pictures of nature and wildlife will love this! If you enjoy looking for treasures like Arrowheads and artifacts you can participate in one of our large screen digs. You can pay for large screen digs when you arrive and see how it works! You can fish! We allow Jeep rock crawling. You can Target practice. Hand guns/side arms are permitted. Lots of room for kids to run and play! Let them be kids! Family get away, romantic secluded get away! The skies are limitless! Take home anything mother nature makes. Plants, rocks, feathers and more! During the month of February March and April the ranch provides a safe space with no electric lines in the 1500' long Sandy bottom dry creek. Leaving you with straight Lanes to you kites. Fighting kites and rather large exotic kites. Learn local Texas history! We also offer hog hunting, aoUdad hunting, during deer season we have day hunting available.
Pets
Electrical Hookup
Toilets
from 
$75
 / night

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The best camping in Old Tunnel State Park, TX guide

Overview

About

Experience the skies come alive with a mesmerizing display of bats on your next Old Tunnel State Park camping adventure. I the heart of Texas, this park offers a unique blend of hiking, bird-watching, and an unparalleled bat-viewing experience. The Old Tunnel nature trail, open every day of the year, is a seasonal sanctuary for approximately 3 million bats. Though less than half a mile, this trail promises a rich experience, opening at sunrise and closing based on the bat emergence timings. While the trail and the lower viewing area have specific operational days and timings, the experience is worth the wait. However, it's essential to note that the trail can be steep and primitive. Given the park's limited amenities, visitors are advised to bring their own drinking water and snacks. And for the safety and well-being of all, pets and smoking are not permitted. While the allure of the tunnel might be tempting, entrance into it is strictly prohibited. But fret not, the view from the trail offers a captivating sight of the tunnel. Adherence to the designated trail ensures minimal disturbance to the bat colony and guarantees visitor safety. Attend a bat program to delve deeper into the world of these fascinating flying mammals and witness their nightly quest for sustenance. Beyond the bats, camping near Old Tunnel State Park allows explorers to relax, picnic, stargaze, and spot wildlife in the midst of an absurd phenomenon. Just remember to carry your drinking water, as the park doesn't provide any!

When to go

The best time to visit Old Tunnel State Park is from May through October, during the bat season. This is when you can witness the spectacular bat emergence each evening. Outside of these months, the park remains open for daytime activities such as hiking and bird-watching, but the bats are not present.

Know before you go

  • Remember to purchase your bat-viewing tickets in advance as they are not sold on-site and space is limited.
  • Check the park's social media or call ahead for the latest bat emergence times and plan to arrive an hour earlier.
  • Bring your own drinking water, as water is not available in the park.
  • For the safety of wildlife and visitors, camping, pets, and smoking are not allowed in the park.
  • The bat viewing areas and the trail to them are accessible for visitors with mobility impairments.

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