Camping near Austin

Escape the city to soak in the emerald rivers and waterfalls just outside Austin city limits.

96% (5769 reviews)
96% (5769 reviews)

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12 top campgrounds near Austin

100%
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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
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99%
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The Best Dam Spot

7 sites · Tents3 acres · Staples, TX
4 dispersed tent campsites are located on a large gravel bar facing a beautiful private waterfall. Camping is pack-in, pack-out from the parking lot (approx. 50yds). No overlanding rigs, pop-ups, RVs or rooftop camping allowed at campsites. Vehicles are not allowed at campsites. When booking, select any of the 4 sites. Sites are first come, first serve. Camping spot includes: unlimited river access, use of kayaks and paddle boards, a semi-private communal outdoor shower with hot and cold water and a clean outdoor port-a-potty that is regularly sanitized. No composting and/or personal toilets allowed. Please only use the restroom in the portalet provided. *Electricity is available from dusk to dawn. A 50ft-100ft extension cord is recommended for electrical access to your site from dusk to dawn (extension cords not provided). *Portable small generators/ Power banks are recommended for electricity at site during the day. **No tent A/C’s or heaters** (small fans/electric blankets are recommended) *Canopy/umbrella is recommended for additional shade at site. *Fishing is allowed above and below the dam (valid fishing license required). *Campfires are allowed in designated fire rings only. Campers are responsible for bringing their own firewood. *Climbing on the dam structure is strictly prohibited. *Please arrive BEFORE dark to check-in. *No check-ins after dark. *ALL campers/guests on the property MUST check-in upon arrival, sign a Release of Liability Waiver and pick-up wristband. *All children ages 6+ MUST be included in your reservation under "Children." *Day passes are available for $25 per person/per day. Includes kayak and paddle board use. Please add them to your reservation. -Total headcount of adults and children on property has to match your reservation. **No lifeguard on duty, swim at your own risk** **Children must be supervised at all times** Lifejackets for all ages are available for use. **NO PETS** **NO GLASS** To book the entire property, please reach out for info/pricing. Feel free to message us if you have questions!
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$50
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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
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$25
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97%
(47)

P² Farm | Scenic River Camping

4 sites · RVs, Tents30 acres · Georgetown, TX
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, pigs 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. 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. Restroom facilities with flushable toilets are conveniently located on the property. Well water is available from the sink located near the bathroom. Portable fire ring is provided. 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. 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. At Psquared Farm, 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.
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$25
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96%
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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
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97%
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CampEZ in SxSouth AustinTX

60 sites · Tents2 acres · Austin, TX
Once owned by locally famous (at the time) D.G. Burrow who was a performing Country and Western musician here in Austin TX. Our 'campground/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! Campfires in designated area only with permission (burn ban sometimes). Bring firewood. 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 AND BADMINTON TOO!​ 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?)
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$25
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(877)

Happy Horse Camp & RV Getaway

15 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents22 acres · 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!
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$45
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Hamilton Pool Vineyards & Farms

32 sites · RVs, Tents50 acres · Dripping Springs, TX
Only 2 miles from Hamilton Pool Preserve, Westcave Preserve and Reimers Ranch, we are nestled in one of the most ecologically diverse areas in Texas, not to mention being located in the heart of beautiful hill country. With a 65 acre slice of heaven, we have 2 acres of an Organic Regenerative Farm & a 10 acre Organic Vineyard and many trails that weave around our naturally oak-studded wooded property. The land itself has its own calming, peaceful energy and is far enough from city limits to be considered an Official Dark Night Sky so you can stargaze in lush meadows at our infinite galaxies above. We love preserving and celebrating nature as we incorporate and teach our regenerative and permaculture farming practices throughout our land. We have a full time nature academy and Farm School for kids and several livestock that call this land home. Our school does ask that we request campers do not venture near the farm during school hours Monday-Friday (9a-3p) for our students' safety. Our Tasting Room is open Thursday-Sunday where you can enjoy our delicious Texas wines hand picked by our Master Sommelier. We offer our Hipcampers a 10% discount in the tasting room while camping with us. If you plan to stay the weekend with us and want farm fresh goodies, check out our farm website and place a pickup order by that Wednesday and it will be available that Friday-Sun for pickup. We even have a ley line (earth's natural energetic grid system) that runs through our property which we have honored with our own labyrinth that has been blessed by a Lakota Shaman. Nearby Activities: Reimers Ranch hosts the most popular outdoor climbing spots in Texas along with equine and hiking trails. Hamilton Pool Preserve and Westcave Preserve offer hiking and education but require reservations. Car and biking enthusiasts enjoy the winding roads the weave through the beautiful, peaceful hills. For events or camping retreats, please contact us directly so we can best accommodate your group! jamie@hamiltonpoolvineyards.com
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$25
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Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field
Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

Camping near Austin guide

Overview

State capital, cultural hub, camping hotspot—Austin, Texas has everything going for it. Head out of the city to behold the vistas of Pedernales Falls State Park with its waterfalls and limestone cliffs, or wander into the woods of Lost Pines—an uncommon pine-oak forest—in Bastrop State Park. Other options include heading to the hills for mountain biking around Pace Bend Park’s trails, or setting up camp in your RV at Inks Lake State Park with full hookups and picnic tables. Glamping near Austin is also popular thanks to rustic cabins and yurts. There’s more to Austin than tacos and music festivals, though Hipcampers can enjoy those while camping, too.

Where to go

Texas Hill Country

Texas Hill Country may just be the most popular offshoot destination for those looking to escape Austin. Here, campers can spelunk through underground caves and explore thousands of vast caverns—just don a headlamp and watch your step as you descend deeper and deeper into the Earth, surrounded by columns, flowstone, and even skinny tubes of dripping calcite. Afterward, sit back and unwind at one of the dozens of wineries and vineyards in the area. Hipcamps on private lands offer serenity and space, while the walk-in primitive campgrounds at Hill Country State Natural Area allow for a quick getaway from modern life with access to more than 5,000 acres of awe-inspiring canyons, rocky hills, and flowing springs.

Guadalupe River State Park

This Texas park is named for its river for good reason. Go fishing along the four miles of Guadalupe River frontage (with plenty of launching points for tubing and canoeing, too), or hit the 5-mile Guadalupe River State Park Paddling Trail. From the park’s tent camping area set within the 5,000 acres of preserved natural land, head out on one of the dozen hiking trails, many family-friendly and easy to complete in just a couple of hours—not including snack breaks and wildlife spotting, of course.

McKinney Falls State Park

Less than half an hour from downtown Austin, McKinney Falls State Park is home to a couple of (justifiably) popular swimming holes. Chill in the gently flowing waters of Onion Creek at one of two locations: The Upper Falls has deeper water, so families with younger kids will want to stick to the Lower Falls. Water shoes are a good idea, too. McKinney Falls camping spots come with electricity, water hookups, picnic tables, and fire rings. Don’t forget to visit Old Baldy while you’re there—at 103 feet tall and more than 500 years old, it’s one of the oldest bald cypress trees in Texas!

Lake Travis

On an overhead map, Lake Travis looks more like a salamander-shaped river than a lake. This man-made reservoir on the Colorado River was built in 1942 to contain floodwaters, but today, it’s a wildly popular spot for countless outdoor recreation opportunities—from ziplining to scuba diving. For the more daring, Hippie Hollow Park near the eastern end of Lake Travis is the only legal clothing-optional park in Texas, where you can let it all hang out, au naturel.

When to go

For the most comfortable camping experience, stick with the spring and fall months for camping near Austin. During this time, daytime highs are usually in the 70s, and overnight lows rarely dip below the 40s—so you won’t be sweltering on day hikes, and the cool evenings are ideal for campfires and s’mores. With more moderate weather and abundant food, wildlife is most active during spring and fall, too—look for white-tailed deer, armadillos, raccoons, and more. Some campers may want to avoid the crowds, heat, and humidity of summer—temps get well into the 90s in July and August.

Frequently Asked Questions

Yes, boondocking is allowed in Texas on certain public lands and private properties. Boondocking, also known as dry camping or dispersed camping, is when you camp without any hookups or facilities. In Texas, you can find boondocking opportunities on national forests, state parks, and wildlife management areas, as well as on private properties listed on websites like Hipcamp.

Some examples of boondocking sites in Texas are:

  • Dispersed camping areas in national forests, such as the Davy Crockett National Forest or the Sam Houston National Forest
  • Wildlife management areas, like the Caddo Lake Wildlife Management Area or the Gus Engeling Wildlife Management Area
  • Private properties allowing dispersed camping, which can be found on websites like Hipcamp.

Please remember to practice Leave No Trace principles and always check local regulations and restrictions before boondocking.

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