The best camping near Lockhart State Park

Located in the heart of Texas’s barbecue capital, Lockhart State Park is an intimate, 20-site camping venue filled with lush trees and trails along the Clear Fork Creek. It offers amenities like a swimming pool, a golf course, a small waterfall, fishing, and hiking. It’s just a 10-minute drive from legendary restaurants like Black’s Barbecue, Smitty’s Market, and Kreuz Market—all must-eat stops for barbecue fans. The state park offers short, flat trails ideal for novice hikers on the Comanche Loop, and fishing is as easy as casting your line—no license required—and enjoying the peaceful environment.

• Best for anglers: Clear Fork Creek Camping Loop is just steps from the creek.
• Best for RVs: Fairway View Camping Loop includes full hookups for RVs up to 40 feet.

1. Visit the Texas State Parks reservation website to book your park campsite.
2. Reservations can be made up to five months in advance.
3. Weekends, particularly during the summer months and holidays, fill quickly.
4. Same-day reservations may be available on a first-come, first-served basis via the on-site self-pay kiosk.

Central Texas can reach unbearably hot temperatures in the summer months, starting in June through September. Hipcampers can enjoy Lockhart State Park’s on-site pool during these months, but should know that they will share the space with day visitors. Spring and fall can be beautiful and more temperate times to visit. The small campground size keeps crowds controlled, but note that peak weekends and holidays can feel crowded—particularly at the RV sites.

• The pool is open Memorial Day weekend through Labor Day, and individual day use tickets must be purchased separately.
• Clear Fork Creek is known as a place to catch sunfish, catfish and bass, and guests don’t need a fishing license to fish at Lockhart State Park.
• There’s a nine-hole golf course on site; guests may reserve a tee time in advance. 
• Pets are allowed at this campground