Forest camping in Texas

The largest state in the Lower 48 features no shortage of places to pitch a tent.

97% (12306 reviews)
97% (12306 reviews)

Popular camping styles for Texas

Community favorites in Texas

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

Public campgrounds in Texas

Star Hosts in Texas

Under $50

12 top forest campgrounds in Texas

99%
(617)

Pecans on the Paluxy - River Views

5 sites · RVs, Tents5 acres · Glen Rose, TX
Pitch your tent or boondock your RV on the Paluxy River under giant pecan trees. Enjoy the scenic view of our beautiful river. Our private property is located near the historic square of glen rose but feels like you are miles away in the country. Have fun kayaking, swimming, fishing, or just sit back and enjoy the views. We have 5 different spacious sites to choose from. Most have a tree break area in-between for privacy. Or rent all 5 and have the entire property to yourself. Updated river photos will be posted on our Facebook page, or message me for updates. Unfortunately, I'm not able to control the river. It goes up and down depending on rain and temperatures. The river gets pretty low during July and August. Wheeler Branch Reservoir(only a few miles from camp) is a great spot to swim and fish when the river water levels are lower. Very small lake that is good for swimming and kayaking with a dock, clear waters. We have 5 different sites. All of them overlook the Paluxy River, have rock fire pits, seating areas, patios, and stairs down to riverbed. You will have access to one of the most beautiful parts of the Paluxy River. During drought conditions and high temperatures I always recommend keeping your head above water and avoiding stagnant areas in the river. In order to reserve a spot you must be 21 or over. This is not a extremely remote place where you can party and go crazy. We want everyone to be able to sit back, relax and enjoy the views. Site Big Pecan: This is the farthest site upriver and has one of the largest pecan trees I've ever seen. The trees provide great shade cover during the summer. This site has an awesome rock patio seating area with 2 wooden Adirondack chairs overlooking the river with stairs to provide easy access down into the water. It also has a rock firepit with 2 wooden Adirondack chairs on a rock patio. Also includes a kids sand box, and a picnic table with shade umbrella, and numerous extras available to rent. Site 1 Limestone ledge: Firepit seating area overlooking the river with 4 Adirondack chairs and a shade umbrella, separate rock patio closer to the water overlooking the river with 2 wooden rocking chairs, stairs down to riverbed, huge pecan trees, kids play set with sand box, 1 picnic table, shade umbrella, and a 10' x 10' raised tent deck platform overlooking the river. Site 2: Firepit seating area overlooking limestone riverbed with 3 Adirondack chairs, picnic table with a shade umbrella, 10' x 10' raised tent / deck platform, stairs down to riverbed and shallow area of the river for kids to play. Awesome view of the river with trees / shrubs on each side for privacy. Site 3: Firepit seating area overlooking the riverbed, 2 wooden Adirondack chairs, 2 picnic tables, 1 shade umbrella, 2 sets of rock stairs to the riverbed, shallow area of the river for kids to play. Awesome view of the river with trees / shrubs on each side for privacy. Site 4 Farthest site downstream. Nice rock patio overlooking the river with two wooden rocking chairs. Easy access for RVs and trailers. Rock stairs to the river for easy access. Fire pit with rock patio around it with 4 wooden Adirondack chairs. Picnic table with shade umbrella. Kids sand box. Shallow areas for kids to play in the river. Deeper fishing hole about 100 feet down river. Great area to sit in the river with a lawn chair. Awesome view of the river with trees / shrubs on each side for privacy. A lot of people buy two sites for more privacy and room for larger groups. For example, many purchase Big Pecan and site 1 together. Or sites 2 and 3. kayaks, wood, outdoor games, frisbee golf baskets and disc, grill and utensils, propane firepit, and other extras available for rent. Please select those during checkout Tips: Bring river shoes, nose plugs, swimming essentials. Parts of the river can be very slippery. Bring life jackets, especially for children. Bring the essentials for any camping trip including: sunscreen, bug spray, anti-itch meds, etc. Chairs and sunshades to sit in the river are always popular. The Paluxy river ranges from just a few inches deep to 5 feet deep in our camping area. There are more swimming holes a little deeper up and downstream. Water is available at the entrance. No restroom - pack in, pack out. Bring your own potty and water. If you are not familiar with dry camping do some research. There are all types of methods for restrooms, heating, cooling, etc. available now to make it enjoyable. Dogs are allowed on leash. Please do not allow your dog to roam freely if they are aggressive in nature. Clean up after them. Cancellation Policy: You may cancel up to 3 days before your stay for a full refund. Weekends during peak seasons (March - June & September - November) are non-refundable unless canceled and another camper reserves the site. I do offer partial refunds for extreme weather conditions. Activities Nearby: Dinosaur Valley State Park (Hiking, Biking, Swimming) - 4.5 miles Fossil Rim Wildlife Center (Drive through the park) - 3.9 miles Historic Glen Rose Square (Eat, shop) - .5 miles Big Rocks Park (Free, Kids love to crawl on the huge boulders and wade in the river) - 1.3 miles Oakdale Park (Swimming pool, playground) - 1.4 miles Paluxy Heritage Park / River Walk (Free, Pretty walk, Connects to Big Rocks dam)- 1.2 miles Somervell County Museum (Free, donation) - .7 miles Wheeler Branch Reservoir - (small lake, good kayak fishing, clear)Expo Center (Rodeos, dog shows, different events depending on schedule) Places to eat:*Hammonds BBQ - 2 miles*Sexton Feed Mill Grill/Bar (River View) - .7 miles Los Primos Mexican Food/Bar - 1.7 miles*Mama Mia Mexican Cuisine -*Riverhouse Grill (Lil more upscale) - .4 miles*The Green Pickle (Hamburgers) - .7 milesLa Vita Italian Food - .7 miles*Big Cup Eatery (Breakfast, Dinner) - .9 miles* Storiebook Cafe (Sandwiches, wraps)- .8 miles Beehive Cafe - (hamburgers, Mexican food)Simple Simons (Pizza, calzones) -Snyder's Tavern Bar - .5 miles Blackies Bar/Grill - .7 miles Bull Lion Ranch Winery - .7 miles*Shoo-Fly Soda Shop (Ice-cream, pies) - .7 miles*Loco Coyote Grill/Bar (BBQ) - 8.8 miles Crave Bakery (coffee, pastries) - .8 miles*Grounded Coffee Shop (Coffee, salad bar)Debbie’s Restaurant (Breakfast) -Tiger Corner (Pastries, Sandwiches) -Subway -Sugar Biscuits (Lil Everything) -Teriyaki Chinese Food -Sunshine Doughnuts - *Rough Creek Lodge (upscale reservations, lunch $25, Dinner $125) - 15 miles*Overlook Cafe Fossil Rim (Free by bypassing main entrance, hamburgers, awesome view, petting zoo, gift shop) - 4 miles 7-Eleven Laredo Taco -Tacote (breakfast burritos, lunch) Cancellation Policy: You have until 3 days before your arrival to cancel for a full refund. This is strictly enforced for weekends or holidays. Credits for future stays are not available due to insurance reasons. Cancel as soon as you can. If you cancel after the 3 day period, but I am able to fill the site a refund will be given minus any fees incurred. Please understand there is only 5 sites at this location. A late cancellation hurts our business and those families that wanted to reserve a spot.
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$44.10
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100%
(62)

The Charmadillo: Glamping Resort

29 sites · Lodging, Tents44 acres · 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 outdoor shower! 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 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!* SHOWER HOUSE -4 private stalls: Shower + Toilet + Vanity *Dr.Bronner’s body wash will be provided in each shower KITCHEN: -Equipment: 4 burner range + convection oven + refrigerator + freezer + toaster + kettle + pour over cones -Tools: pots and pans + bakeware + measuring tools +cooking utensils + colander + can opener + wine opener -Pantry: olive oil + butter + salt + pepper -Breakfast: Birch Benders pancake mix (gluten free available) + syrup + oatmeal STOCK TANK POOLS -2 8 foot stock tank pools open 24/7 (not heated) -Get your soak on and take in the views! SAUNA + OUTDOOR SHOWER -Sauna hours will be listed in checkin details. THE DEN** A communal indoor space with Wifi, tables and couches. You can also find games as well as books on plant ID and history of the area. (Found in the first bay of the garage) THE DUGOUT** A covered open air space appointed with twinkle lights and picnic tables. Intended for shaded outdoor hang space. We ask that tent campers cook there if they choose to use their own camp stoves. (Found in the open bay of the garage) 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.
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$35
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96%
(1094)

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.
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$54.40
 / night
94%
(1374)

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.
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$37.50
 / night
96%
(463)

River Forest Haven

46 sites · 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.
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$30
 / night
99%
(65)

Wild 2 Wonderful Ranch

15 sites · RVs, Tents56 acres · Mansfield, TX
Book now and receive a Free Bundle of Firewood ( upon request ) Our Open Prairie Area is perfect for viewing Starry Night Skies, Wild 2 Wonderful Ranch has 4 generations, Living on Ranch, We are right outside Mansfield Texas city limits. We are hard at work reclaiming the land to make it a park like setting. You are 2 miles from old Downtown Mansfield. ( Several quaint shops and restaurants ) There are large open areas and also forest areas. Sit outside and watch the stars and the wildlife, enjoy the peace and quiet of the country with city and stores close by Our camping areas are large and accommodate large groups or small ones THE EXPRESSIONS OF WILD 2 WONDERFUL: As the morning crests the Texas horizon, imagine waking up the serene beauty of a pastural oasis just a stones throw away from urban convenience. here, just beyond the bustling city limits of Mansfield, Texas, awaits an RV camping haven for nature enthusiasts and city explorers alike. Spanning across a reclaimed expanse that exudes a park-like tranquility, our rich verdant landscape offers spacious camping areas ideal for both intimate and sizable RV groups. Whether you're looking to bask in the majesty of star-studded night skies or to witness the gentle parade of local wildlife, the merger of rustic charm with unrestrained freedom is sure to enrich you RV camping experience. Located 2 miles from the historic heart of downtown Mansfield, Campers can indulge in the local charm of quaint shops and inviting restaurant. Meanwhile, adventure seekers and families will revel in the proximity to a wealth of the region's lush flora and innovative water features. Our RV camping retreat offers a balance rarely found a nexus where pastural beauty meets urban excitement, leaving you with an escape that caters to peace-seekers and thrill-seekers alike. Set up camp where generations have sown the seed of hospitality and embraced the blend of nature's touch with the convenience of city amenities at your fingertips. Joe Pool Lake is within 10 miles Texas Ranger Stadium (Globe life field) 21 miles AT&T Stadium ( Dallas Cowboys stadium) 21 miles Traders Village Flea Market 16 miles Hawaiian Falls water park 6.8 miles Six Flags over Texas 20 miles Six Flags Hurricane Harbor 22 miles Downtown Dallas Historic District 37 miles Ft Worth Stock Yards 25 miles Parks Mall at Arlington 16 miles State Hwy 287 3.5 miles State Hwy 360 5.9 miles Interstate 20 16 miles Mans Best Field Dog park. 1.8 miles Ft worth Botanical Gardens 26 miles Ft worth Water Gardens 23 miles
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$12
 / night
99%
(68)

Texas Safari Camp

54 sites · Lodging, Tents31 acres · Kaufman, TX
Escape the stresses of city living on this wooded & secluded 31 acre wildlife habitat.This magical property is only one hour east of Dallas but it feels like another world.At the end of a one lane road with two ponds,trails & wildlife,it is perfect for tent camping groups & individuals.EVERYONE IS WELCOME.No designated camp sites- camp anywhere except between the green building & front pond. More peaceful than most state parks,it is kid & family friendly-not a get drunk & rowdy place.Loud,vulgar people,radios,generators,fireworks & anything that disrupts the peace & tranquility is not permitted.Car alarms must be disabled.Acoustic music is allowed but there is a 10pm-8am noise curfew.Non aggressive, non barking & leashed dogs are OK.Next to the Texas Zoofari Park with 900 exotic animals,many can be seen from the road(or pay to drive through & feed them).While it adjoins the wildlife park on two sides,Texas Safari Camp is in no way affiliated with Texas Zoofari Park. Enjoy swimming & paddling kayaks & paddleboards in the clean water front pond.Parents must bring life jackets for their non swimming kids & personally supervise them.No swimmers with sun screen or insect repellant allowed.Ponds are stocked with bass, cat, crappie & bluegill.Fishing is catch & release with single barbless hook lures only. The rustic outhouse has lights, composting toilet & sink.There is water & electricity,an open air cold water shower (no privacy),dish sink & counter nearby. You must pack out your garbage.No burning of garbage.I will take your garbage to the dump for $10 per bag (payable in cash).Wagons are provided for hauling your gear back to camp.Wagons must be returned to parking area after unloading. Campfires are in designated fire pits only or bring your own self contained metal fire pits.Split firewood can be purchased for $1 per piece (payable in cash) or collect sticks to burn.No firewood from outside of this property can be burned. All forms of hunting,guns,bow & arrows,bb guns,slingshots & weapons of any kind are forbidden. The tiny Hummingbird Treehouse has leaded glass window,screened operable windows,queen bed,small bed in loft,lights,a fan,outdoor tables & chairs.No AC or heat.Bring your sleeping bags & pillows.No food, smoking or pets allowed in the tree house.
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$25
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100%
(355)

3 Dry Wells Ranch

6 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents110 acres · 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.
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$31.50
 / night

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Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field
Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

Forest camping in Texas guide

Overview

Looking for a camping experience in the lush forests of Texas? Look no further than Hipcamp. With over 2,600 options in Texas that offer a forest setting, you'll have plenty of choices to find your perfect spot. Whether you're a seasoned camper or new to the outdoors, you'll find the accommodations and amenities that suit your needs. Check out top-rated campsites like 5D RANCH (822 reviews), 4R Ranch Winery Campsite (548 reviews), and Seco Ridge Campgrounds (454 reviews) for tried-and-true options. Enjoy popular activities such as horseback riding, paddling, and hiking, and take advantage of amenities like pet-friendly spaces, toilets, and campfires. With an average price per night of $40 and options as low as $7, you can plan a memorable camping trip without breaking the bank. So why wait? Start exploring the beauty of Texas forests with Hipcamp today!

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