The best camping near San Antonio Missions National Historical Park

You can drive on this fascinating tour of four missions outside San Antonio proper, or you can take advantage of the hop-on, hop-off bus tour for an ultra-low price. Make a bike ride of it (10 miles each way to visit them all). Any way you choose, it's well worth the time. Start with a visit to the Alamo, and keep going through the whole chain to get a sense of what life was like in 18th century Texas.

Each mission has a completely different vibe. Spend some time relaxing in the beautiful gardens at San Espada, and don't miss the movie at the Visitor Center at San Jose. You get a real sense of Texas history. All four missions are beautifully maintained and landscaped. It's worthwhile to visit for the architecture alone. Keep in mind that these missions are still active as churches, so be respectful if a Mass is in progress.

The rangers are very helpful, and the Junior Ranger program is a real bonus if your kids are with you. You can find plenty of spots to stay, most northwest of San Antonio, through Hipcamp. Pitch your tent alongside the Guadalupe River, hook up your RV on a welcoming farm, or take advantage of glamping options.