Camping in Texas: Best Texas Campgrounds 2024

United States
—
Texas

95% (28065 reviews)

Popular camping styles for Texas

Under $50

Top camping destinations

Big Bend National Park

97 campgrounds

Colorado Bend State Park

646 campgrounds

Big Bend Ranch State Park

Hidden Falls Adventure Park

659 campgrounds

Stratford

1 campground

Available this weekend

97%

(1788)

4R Ranch Winery Campsite

141 sites · RVs, Tents1132 acres · Muenster, TX

Where the short-grass prairie drops into the Red River Valley, the 4R Ranch—with its magnificent vistas and rocky terrain—is perfectly suited for growing grapes. Patriarch W.C. Roper encouraged his family of sixth-generation Texans to share the beauty of this extraordinary place with others; and so it was love of this man and love of the land that inspired 4R Ranch Vineyards & Winery. Chinquapin oaks, white-tailed deer, the endangered black-capped vireo, and the occasional Rio Grande turkey inhabit this incredible property. Powered by sun, earth and wind, 4R Ranch Vineyards & Winery calls us all to slow our pace, enjoy the view, and sip a glass of wine in the magnificent Red River Valley.

93%

(1234)

El Cosmico

40 sites · RVs, Tents21 acres · Marfa, TX

El Cosmico takes its inspiration from a long American history of hippies, nomads, bohemians and those living a life of self-determination. We believe in tuning in, dropping out and being here now. Vehicles are not allowed onto the grounds, so if you are staying in your car or RV you will post up in our large parking lot with easy access to the grounds. Tent camping is dispersed, so you pick your space within the designated camping areas that are indicated on the property map provided at the front desk. Front desk hours are from 7:30am-11:00pm daily. If you are arriving after 11pm please call ahead for late check-in instructions.

Lost Woods

43 sites · RVs, Tents55 acres · San Antonio, TX

Welcome to our little piece of paradise! 55 acres of woods hidden near town. A network of trails criss-cross the creek and wind throughout the property under a peaceful canopy of large beautiful trees. Don't be surprised if you run into deer, squirrels, or roadrunners! Our property is home to a wide variety of hill-country wildlife. - Each of our campsites are private and surrounded by forest. - Each site has a fire ring for campfires - Our trees are our most precious natural resource and set this campground apart! Please don't do anything to harm them. - Port-o-john is available on site. - All of our campsites are primitive. No electric or water here. - When you camp with us you are welcome to explore and play on the entire property! We have 55 acres of trails and woods to explore! Please bring your bikes, trail shoes, or whatever helps you have fun in the wild! - Hammocks welcome! We have so many trees! All of our sites are hammock-friendly. - When you check-in, just text us, your host will help you find your campsite. - Some sites are drive-in where your vehicle can park right next to the fire. Others are walk-in and require a short hike of 100' or less from your parking space. You can indicate your preference during booking or at check-in. If you want to drive right into your site, Campsites 2, 3, 6, and 12 are the sites you want. Some of our campsites are more secluded than others and offer extreme privacy in the most beautiful settings we have to offer. If you're looking for a wilder campsite surrounded by huge old trees and all the peace the woods have to offer, just request Campsites 4, 5, 7, or 8. Each of these sites requires a walk of at least 50' from your vehicle to the fire ring. Site 13 is only for backpackers or people willing to hike about 500 yards to the campsite over rough terrain. There is no way to drive to it or even get close except on foot. But it is spectacular and beautiful! Only three sites can accommodate a smaller trailer or camper. Site 1, Site 2, and site 6. Please notify me in your booking if you intend to bring a camper and I can accommodate you. We practice leave-no-trace as much as possible. So please pack out anything you pack in. You are responsible for removing all trash. If any garbage is left behind in your site you will be billed for the cleanup. We have a dumpster located near the front gate. Please use it and put all your trash in there. Heads-up! We have a small farm on the property. Dogs are always welcome and we LOVE our furry friends! For their safety and the safety of our livestock please keep them leashed while on property.

96%

(1054)

Sparrow Bend River Retreat

11 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents8 acres · Pipe Creek, TX

Sparrow Bend River Retreat is a beautiful 8 acre multi-site vacation rental property with camping, RV sites and 2 vacation homes.With a private 300yard stretch of the crystal-clear, spring fed MEDINA RIVER your party will spend the day exploring its majestic cliffs and coves, paddling/floating the river (tubes and kayaks for rent), splashing in the shallows, playing yard games on the lawn or sunbathing on a massive bolder.Enjoy a delicious and memorable dinner in Lakehills (15min), Bandera (20min) or Boerne (25min). Or stay in and grill out over the fire, or at the provided grill.Camp sites each have a customized picnic table for you convenience.Spend you evening sharing laughs around the provided firepit as you take in the dazzling canopy of stars. (Firewood available for sale)Our family has always dreamed of hosting a place for families and friends to come enjoy nature however we would have never dreamed of finding a property as unique and beautiful as this. A lake when the water is high, a beautiful river when the waters low. All crowned by a majestic limestone bluff, complete with boulders, coves and endless room for adventures.This land was once a part of a wagon trail along the river and, if you're lucky, you can still find arrowheads along the paths.The property is gated with a high privacy fence along the neighboring borders for security.

5D RANCH

25 sites · RVs, Tents400 acres · Navasota, TX

Welcome to 5D Ranch in Navasota, TX. We’re located 60 miles North of Houston and just 2.5 hours from Austin. We have over 14 miles of trails, 2 fishing ponds, 4 boats that are free to use, and great views of the night sky. With 24 unique campsites, we’re sure to have one that fits your needs! We also can provide rentals of camping essentials, a S'mores package and we offer a meet the ponies session that can be scheduled upon your arrival. We can’t wait to host you! Don't forget to ask us about our farm fresh eggs!

12 top campgrounds in Texas

99%

(2657)

5D RANCH

25 sites · RVs, Tents400 acres · Navasota, TX

Welcome to 5D Ranch in Navasota, TX. We’re located 60 miles North of Houston and just 2.5 hours from Austin. We have over 14 miles of trails, 2 fishing ponds, 4 boats that are free to use, and great views of the night sky. With 24 unique campsites, we’re sure to have one that fits your needs! We also can provide rentals of camping essentials, a S'mores package and we offer a meet the ponies session that can be scheduled upon your arrival. We can’t wait to host you! Don't forget to ask us about our farm fresh eggs!

Lost Woods

43 sites · RVs, Tents55 acres · San Antonio, TX

Welcome to our little piece of paradise! 55 acres of woods hidden near town. A network of trails criss-cross the creek and wind throughout the property under a peaceful canopy of large beautiful trees. Don't be surprised if you run into deer, squirrels, or roadrunners! Our property is home to a wide variety of hill-country wildlife. - Each of our campsites are private and surrounded by forest. - Each site has a fire ring for campfires - Our trees are our most precious natural resource and set this campground apart! Please don't do anything to harm them. - Port-o-john is available on site. - All of our campsites are primitive. No electric or water here. - When you camp with us you are welcome to explore and play on the entire property! We have 55 acres of trails and woods to explore! Please bring your bikes, trail shoes, or whatever helps you have fun in the wild! - Hammocks welcome! We have so many trees! All of our sites are hammock-friendly. - When you check-in, just text us, your host will help you find your campsite. - Some sites are drive-in where your vehicle can park right next to the fire. Others are walk-in and require a short hike of 100' or less from your parking space. You can indicate your preference during booking or at check-in. If you want to drive right into your site, Campsites 2, 3, 6, and 12 are the sites you want. Some of our campsites are more secluded than others and offer extreme privacy in the most beautiful settings we have to offer. If you're looking for a wilder campsite surrounded by huge old trees and all the peace the woods have to offer, just request Campsites 4, 5, 7, or 8. Each of these sites requires a walk of at least 50' from your vehicle to the fire ring. Site 13 is only for backpackers or people willing to hike about 500 yards to the campsite over rough terrain. There is no way to drive to it or even get close except on foot. But it is spectacular and beautiful! Only three sites can accommodate a smaller trailer or camper. Site 1, Site 2, and site 6. Please notify me in your booking if you intend to bring a camper and I can accommodate you. We practice leave-no-trace as much as possible. So please pack out anything you pack in. You are responsible for removing all trash. If any garbage is left behind in your site you will be billed for the cleanup. We have a dumpster located near the front gate. Please use it and put all your trash in there. Heads-up! We have a small farm on the property. Dogs are always welcome and we LOVE our furry friends! For their safety and the safety of our livestock please keep them leashed while on property.

Lynn y B's land

28 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents80 acres · Terlingua, TX

4R Ranch Winery Campsite

141 sites · RVs, Tents1132 acres · Muenster, TX

Where the short-grass prairie drops into the Red River Valley, the 4R Ranch—with its magnificent vistas and rocky terrain—is perfectly suited for growing grapes. Patriarch W.C. Roper encouraged his family of sixth-generation Texans to share the beauty of this extraordinary place with others; and so it was love of this man and love of the land that inspired 4R Ranch Vineyards & Winery. Chinquapin oaks, white-tailed deer, the endangered black-capped vireo, and the occasional Rio Grande turkey inhabit this incredible property. Powered by sun, earth and wind, 4R Ranch Vineyards & Winery calls us all to slow our pace, enjoy the view, and sip a glass of wine in the magnificent Red River Valley.

The Bus Stop Camp Ground

10 sites · RVs, Tents12 acres · Terlingua, TX

Hello Hipcampers! We welcome you to our relaxing desert getaway, our camp ground sits on 12 acres of beautiful desert scenery inside of a stunning range of mountains. There are countless activities to do around the area and no lack of adventure. Big Bend National Park Horseback Riding Plane Tours ATV Tours River Rafting Hiking Mountain Biking and more! Looking to stay inside our Bus Airbnb? Click here to find it and more: https://linktr.ee/BusStopCampground

97%

(63)

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

Sparrow Bend River Retreat

11 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents8 acres · Pipe Creek, TX

Sparrow Bend River Retreat is a beautiful 8 acre multi-site vacation rental property with camping, RV sites and 2 vacation homes.With a private 300yard stretch of the crystal-clear, spring fed MEDINA RIVER your party will spend the day exploring its majestic cliffs and coves, paddling/floating the river (tubes and kayaks for rent), splashing in the shallows, playing yard games on the lawn or sunbathing on a massive bolder.Enjoy a delicious and memorable dinner in Lakehills (15min), Bandera (20min) or Boerne (25min). Or stay in and grill out over the fire, or at the provided grill.Camp sites each have a customized picnic table for you convenience.Spend you evening sharing laughs around the provided firepit as you take in the dazzling canopy of stars. (Firewood available for sale)Our family has always dreamed of hosting a place for families and friends to come enjoy nature however we would have never dreamed of finding a property as unique and beautiful as this. A lake when the water is high, a beautiful river when the waters low. All crowned by a majestic limestone bluff, complete with boulders, coves and endless room for adventures.This land was once a part of a wagon trail along the river and, if you're lucky, you can still find arrowheads along the paths.The property is gated with a high privacy fence along the neighboring borders for security.

99%

(1222)

Low Gear Farmstead

32 sites · RVs, Tents75 acres · Menard, TX

Get into low gear and enjoy the slow pace and peace of our little working farm on the edge of the hill country. Low Gear Farmstead's 75 acres border the lovely San Saba River, providing campers the opportunity to swim, wade, fish and paddle. Farm animals including dairy goats, chickens, and horses inhabit the property, but wildlife such as deer, wild turkey, ringtail, fox and armadillo is also abundant. Bird watchers will be delighted at the diversity of birds, especially in spring. Don't forget to look up at night as our dark skies provide excellent stargazing on clear nights and a very visible Milky Way. We limit the number of campsites and spread them out so that campers may enjoy privacy and seclusion. Campsites are provided with compost toilets and most sites also have a fire ring. 4WD is not required unless we have had heavy rains, otherwise most vehicles, except very low clearance ones, do fine. The nearest town, Menard, is about a 12 minute drive from the property and has a grocery store, gas stations, a couple restaurants, a pub and a bakery. Lovers of history might enjoy visiting the Presidio de San Saba, about 20 minutes from the farm, as well as the historic Pioneers Rest Cemetery in town. Low Gear Farmstead is a safe, welcoming space for queers and POC.

99%

(593)

Coyote Crossing

26 sites · Tents21 acres · Terlingua, TX

Located in Southern Most Section of Terlingua Ranch, within eyesight of the Mexican Border, National, and State Parks. Easy to find, just across from Willow Mountain, one of the most photograph natural features in Big Bend. Traveling highway 118 you will see the Entrance at address 53420, just north 1 mile of the outfitters and gas station. Every night the coyotes would cross the road and come for a visit..Thus the name Coyote Crossing.. With dreams of a tiny home and campground, we continue to improve on the land every day and love to share it with others. When arriving at night it will be very dark.. very few lights in use, dark sky's are protected in Big Bend.. so it may be hard to find. but we are directly on the highway on the west side of 118. Trash Dumpster up front for your use. No collecting rocks, cactus or wood to burn... NO TRACE, leave it as you find it..

94%

(597)

Gypsy Moon Hideaway

13 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents20 acres · Weatherford, TX

Located at the end of the road. There is over 20 acres. Some cleared and some still in original woods. Trees, grass and deer everywhere. There is over a quarter mile of Brazos riverfront property although you cannot get to the river on all of it due to it being in its natural state. There is a beach at the main camp that provides easy in and out of the water. the water depth varies with the rainfall but is usually between 2-4 feet deep.

95%

(1079)

Paisano Azul Ranch

13 sites · RVs, Tents30 acres · Study Butte, TX

Paisano Azul Ranch is on 30 acres located by Terlingua Creek. The property is just minutes from the Terlingua Ghost Town and a short 3 mile drive to the Big Bend National park. Come pitch your tent or park your camper amid the peaceful desert hillside with views of plateaus that lead to the Chisos Mountains in Big Bend National Park. There is a fire pit on site for you to toast marshmallows or cozy up near, and you can enjoy a bite to eat at the picnic table provided at each site. The picnic tables are placed beneath shade sails. There are two nice and new desert tan flushing Porta-Potties on-site, as well as showers for guests to use. These come in handy after a long day hiking. We hope you'll enjoy the beautiful open sky sunsets, sunrises, and stargazing as much as we do. We are located just 3 miles from the entrance to Big Bend National Park. There are plenty of opportunities to get out and explore - you can hike, bike, canoe & kayak, off-road, swim, go horseback riding, visit hot springs, as well as visit restaurants, galleries, and listen to great music in Terlingua. There is something for everyone to feel free to bring the whole family. DIRECTIONS: Once you are on Road Runner Circle, go past the house on the left with the Christmas lights on. Please continue down the road and follow the road around the curve to the left. The campsites will be on the left and side behind the rock walls. Additional details to note: - We now have an above ground pool to keep cool in during the summer! Covered with a shade sail the water stays nice and chilly. ($10 fee/person) - 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. - Seeing other campers on your trip at the campsite is very standard, as the sites are far enough apart to feel like they are yours, but they are not private. - Potable water is provided on-site. We have an artisan well on property that has been certified as drinkable. It is double filtered to give you the best drinking water. Please feel free to reach out with any questions and we look forward to your stay.

95%

(830)

Dos Rios - Hill Country Adventure

22 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents19 acres · Mason, TX

At the Confluence of the Mighty Llano River and the Majestic James River lies something completely unexpected - an undiscovered gem in the Texas hill country. The Dos Rios. We have over 19.3 acres of hill country beauty to explore. Take a casual dip in the mighty Llano River, or take the plunge off of 20-foot red rock cliffs into deep cool water. Kayak, canoe, swim, visit the Eckart Bat Cave, or take a scenic drive down the gorgeous James River Road (a winding gravel road that goes over several low water crossings on the crystal clear James River). Enjoy the island in front of the property, with its beaches and multiple access points to swimming holes. We also have camping, a tiny home and a fully renovated vintage airstream available (see other Hipcamp listings). We also rent kayaks and canoes! www.dosriosrvpark.com

Dog-friendly getaways

94%

(1326)

Lost Woods

43 sites · RVs, Tents55 acres · San Antonio, TX

Welcome to our little piece of paradise! 55 acres of woods hidden near town. A network of trails criss-cross the creek and wind throughout the property under a peaceful canopy of large beautiful trees. Don't be surprised if you run into deer, squirrels, or roadrunners! Our property is home to a wide variety of hill-country wildlife. - Each of our campsites are private and surrounded by forest. - Each site has a fire ring for campfires - Our trees are our most precious natural resource and set this campground apart! Please don't do anything to harm them. - Port-o-john is available on site. - All of our campsites are primitive. No electric or water here. - When you camp with us you are welcome to explore and play on the entire property! We have 55 acres of trails and woods to explore! Please bring your bikes, trail shoes, or whatever helps you have fun in the wild! - Hammocks welcome! We have so many trees! All of our sites are hammock-friendly. - When you check-in, just text us, your host will help you find your campsite. - Some sites are drive-in where your vehicle can park right next to the fire. Others are walk-in and require a short hike of 100' or less from your parking space. You can indicate your preference during booking or at check-in. If you want to drive right into your site, Campsites 2, 3, 6, and 12 are the sites you want. Some of our campsites are more secluded than others and offer extreme privacy in the most beautiful settings we have to offer. If you're looking for a wilder campsite surrounded by huge old trees and all the peace the woods have to offer, just request Campsites 4, 5, 7, or 8. Each of these sites requires a walk of at least 50' from your vehicle to the fire ring. Site 13 is only for backpackers or people willing to hike about 500 yards to the campsite over rough terrain. There is no way to drive to it or even get close except on foot. But it is spectacular and beautiful! Only three sites can accommodate a smaller trailer or camper. Site 1, Site 2, and site 6. Please notify me in your booking if you intend to bring a camper and I can accommodate you. We practice leave-no-trace as much as possible. So please pack out anything you pack in. You are responsible for removing all trash. If any garbage is left behind in your site you will be billed for the cleanup. We have a dumpster located near the front gate. Please use it and put all your trash in there. Heads-up! We have a small farm on the property. Dogs are always welcome and we LOVE our furry friends! For their safety and the safety of our livestock please keep them leashed while on property.

The Bus Stop Camp Ground

10 sites · RVs, Tents12 acres · Terlingua, TX

Hello Hipcampers! We welcome you to our relaxing desert getaway, our camp ground sits on 12 acres of beautiful desert scenery inside of a stunning range of mountains. There are countless activities to do around the area and no lack of adventure. Big Bend National Park Horseback Riding Plane Tours ATV Tours River Rafting Hiking Mountain Biking and more! Looking to stay inside our Bus Airbnb? Click here to find it and more: https://linktr.ee/BusStopCampground

Lynn y B's land

28 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents80 acres · Terlingua, TX

4R Ranch Winery Campsite

141 sites · RVs, Tents1132 acres · Muenster, TX

Where the short-grass prairie drops into the Red River Valley, the 4R Ranch—with its magnificent vistas and rocky terrain—is perfectly suited for growing grapes. Patriarch W.C. Roper encouraged his family of sixth-generation Texans to share the beauty of this extraordinary place with others; and so it was love of this man and love of the land that inspired 4R Ranch Vineyards & Winery. Chinquapin oaks, white-tailed deer, the endangered black-capped vireo, and the occasional Rio Grande turkey inhabit this incredible property. Powered by sun, earth and wind, 4R Ranch Vineyards & Winery calls us all to slow our pace, enjoy the view, and sip a glass of wine in the magnificent Red River Valley.

5D RANCH

25 sites · RVs, Tents400 acres · Navasota, TX

Welcome to 5D Ranch in Navasota, TX. We’re located 60 miles North of Houston and just 2.5 hours from Austin. We have over 14 miles of trails, 2 fishing ponds, 4 boats that are free to use, and great views of the night sky. With 24 unique campsites, we’re sure to have one that fits your needs! We also can provide rentals of camping essentials, a S'mores package and we offer a meet the ponies session that can be scheduled upon your arrival. We can’t wait to host you! Don't forget to ask us about our farm fresh eggs!

Star Hosts in Texas

97%

(1788)

4R Ranch Winery Campsite

141 sites · RVs, Tents1132 acres · Muenster, TX

Where the short-grass prairie drops into the Red River Valley, the 4R Ranch—with its magnificent vistas and rocky terrain—is perfectly suited for growing grapes. Patriarch W.C. Roper encouraged his family of sixth-generation Texans to share the beauty of this extraordinary place with others; and so it was love of this man and love of the land that inspired 4R Ranch Vineyards & Winery. Chinquapin oaks, white-tailed deer, the endangered black-capped vireo, and the occasional Rio Grande turkey inhabit this incredible property. Powered by sun, earth and wind, 4R Ranch Vineyards & Winery calls us all to slow our pace, enjoy the view, and sip a glass of wine in the magnificent Red River Valley.

Lynn y B's land

28 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents80 acres · Terlingua, TX

5D RANCH

25 sites · RVs, Tents400 acres · Navasota, TX

Welcome to 5D Ranch in Navasota, TX. We’re located 60 miles North of Houston and just 2.5 hours from Austin. We have over 14 miles of trails, 2 fishing ponds, 4 boats that are free to use, and great views of the night sky. With 24 unique campsites, we’re sure to have one that fits your needs! We also can provide rentals of camping essentials, a S'mores package and we offer a meet the ponies session that can be scheduled upon your arrival. We can’t wait to host you! Don't forget to ask us about our farm fresh eggs!

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

The Bus Stop Camp Ground

10 sites · RVs, Tents12 acres · Terlingua, TX

Hello Hipcampers! We welcome you to our relaxing desert getaway, our camp ground sits on 12 acres of beautiful desert scenery inside of a stunning range of mountains. There are countless activities to do around the area and no lack of adventure. Big Bend National Park Horseback Riding Plane Tours ATV Tours River Rafting Hiking Mountain Biking and more! Looking to stay inside our Bus Airbnb? Click here to find it and more: https://linktr.ee/BusStopCampground

Nearby parks

Explore the area’s public lands.

96%

(78)

Big Bend Ranch State Park

Caprock Canyons State Park

Quitaque, Texas

87%

(15)

Cedar Hill State Park

Cedar Hill, Texas

97%

(16)

Eisenhower State Park

Texas

95%

(45)

McKinney Falls State Park

Creedmoor, Texas

88%

(61)

Palo Duro Canyon State Park

Lake Tanglewood, Texas

100%

(13)

Lake Bob Sandlin State Park

Rocky Mound, Texas

99%

(78)

Colorado Bend State Park

Lometa, Texas

100%

(24)

Padre Island National Seashore

Port Mansfield, Texas

Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

Camping in Texas guide

Overview

They say everything’s bigger in the Lone Star State, and that includes the variety of options for campers, whether you're looking for an RV park, tent camping, or a primitive camping backcountry adventure. Beat the summer heat on sandy Gulf beaches, or head inland to the arid deserts of Big Bend Country in winter for some of the nation’s darkest skies and best nighttime views. Spring and autumn offer the best weather for wine tasting in Texas Hill Country, hiking the canyons of the Panhandle, or paddling the bald cypress forests of the Texas Pine Curtain.

Big Bend Country

Remote West Texas boasts some of the most pristine landscapes in the state. Explore the hiking trails of Guadalupe Mountains and Big Bend national parks, raft through narrow canyons along the Rio Grande River, go rock climbing in Hueco Tanks State Park near El Paso, or hit the dunes in Monahans Sandhills State Park. The quirky communities of Marfa, Terlingua, and Marathon serve as convenient gateways to desert adventure.

Texas Hill Country

Known for its wineries, whiskey distilleries, swimming holes, and rich German heritage, the rolling hills of this central Texas region extend between Austin and San Antonio, with plenty of small towns to explore along the way. Springtime brings bluebonnets to the roadsides of the region. In fall, head to Lost Maples State Park for some of the state’s best leaf peeping. Soak up panoramic views from Enchanted Rock, venture deep into the Caverns of Sonora or the Cave Without a Name, or take a leisurely float along the Guadalupe River.

Gulf Coast

The Texas Gulf Coast stretches for more than 600 miles along the shores of the Gulf of Mexico and includes the Padre Island National Seashore. Sun seekers will find plenty of sandy beaches with warm Gulf waters (plus opportunities for beach camping), while the natural areas along the coast feature some of the best birdwatching in the nation. Houston, Galveston, South Padre Island, and Corpus Christi are among the most popular areas to stay.

Panhandle

The plains of the Texas Panhandle comprise one of the largest regions in the state. Here you’ll find America’s second-largest canyon within Palo Duro Canyon State Park, as well as the iconic Cadillac Ranch car sculpture along road trip-worthy Route 66.

Pine Curtain

Lakes, forests, and swamps dominate the landscape of the lesser-known Piney Woods of East Texas. Step back in time at Mission Tejas State Park, straddle the state line in Texarkana, pitch a tent among the gargantuan pines of Daingerfield, or make the 835-mile camping trip along the Texas Forest Trail. If you want to get out on the water, it's hard to beat a kayak in Caddo Lake State Park.

Prairies and Lakes

This region sweeps down through the center of the state from the Dallas-Fort Worth area to Waco, Bryan, and College Station (home of Texas A&M University). You don’t have to drive far to find a lakeside campground or on-the-water activity, thanks to the area’s 17 Texas state parks and one national wildlife refuge.