The best camping near Balcones Canyonlands National Wildlife Refuge

Discover the most magical spots to pitch your tent or park your rig on your next Balcones Canyonlands National Wildlife Refuge adventure.

Discover the natural splendor of Balcones Canyonlands National Wildlife Refuge.  

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Community favorites near Balcones Canyonlands National Wildlife Refuge

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Top-rated campgrounds near Balcones Canyonlands National Wildlife Refuge

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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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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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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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McDonald Farm

11 sites · RVs, Tents78 acres · Georgetown, TX
We are now offering daytime river access to the San Gabriel River! This is a secluded, hike to spot for fishing, swimming, grilling, picnicing, and hanging out during the day. Access to our river site is included in your camping fee, or we offer day passes for non-campers! There is no overnight camping on the San Gabriel River. All camping is at the main farm area and campers are able to come and go from the river site as they please. McDonald Farm sits in the historic farming community of Jonah, TX between Georgetown and Taylor on scenic Highway 29. McDonald Farm is named after the patriarch of the family, J.H. Mcdonald, who first acquired the property in 1911. The farm sits on the bank of the San Gabriel River and features a lush canopy of huge pecan trees, sprawling corn fields, prairie, and forest. We are a working farm! We primarily grow corn, but we also have livestock on the property. During daytime hours, you will likely see a variety of farm chores being completed. We are only 7 miles from the Georgetown, TX historical district and square. Some say it’s the most beautiful town square in all of Texas. Enjoy shopping, dining, and festivals! We are 13 miles from Granger Lake, which offers boating and bass fishing opportunities. Highway 29 and the many quaint and scenic country roads that intersect it is popular with cyclists wanting to go for longer rides and enjoy the sights of central Texas and the many historical farms in the area. There is excellent bird-watching and wildlife-viewing opportunities on the property. We frequently see white-tailed deer, as well as other wildlife and many species of birds. There is road noise. Highway 29 can be busy at times, despite being a two-lane road. We also have neighbors, so we request quiet hours after 10 pm Sunday - Thursday and midnight Friday and Saturday. Ask us about pasture-raised eggs, naturally-raised produce, and baked goods!
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$25
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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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Rebecca Creek Campgrounds and RV Park

37 sites · Lodging, Tents15 acres · Spring Branch, TX
A Texas Camping and Relaxation Experience at it's Best! Pitch your tent on the banks of the Rebecca Creek in the Texas Hill Country. Fire pits, picnic tables and gorgeous views! Covered Picnic table sites come with Water and electric for a few creature comforts. Explore over 15 acres of hill country beauty and enjoy the Corn Hole Area. Take a casual dip in Rebecca Creek where it meets the mighty Guadalupe River River, or take the plunge off our rock edge river banks into deep cool water. Kayak, canoe, swim, hike around, or take a scenic drive down the gorgeous Tanglewood Trail Road or Rebecca Creek Road and cruise the Hill Country backroads. We also have air-conditioned glamping tents and several fully renovated RVs available (see other Hipcamp and Airbnb listings). We also rent kayaks and canoes!
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$10
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Sound Ground (fka Reverse Pioneers)

14 sites · RVs, Tents10 acres · Blanco, TX
Previously Reverse Pioneers Hilltop, we have re-branded as Sound Ground! Sound Ground is rooted in land stewardship, community, creative expression, and sustainable living. Set on 10 acres in central Texas, we currently offer immersive camping opportunities, and are working to expand into event hosting, musical collaborations, education, and local agrarian offerings. Built upon an ethos that connects human well-being with the health of our planet, Sound Ground welcomes planet-minded travelers, outdoor enthusiasts, city-worn individuals, and creative communities who seek a genuine connection with nature and one another. Kasey Mire is Sound Ground's visionary and founder, but the vision has been and always will be built on community power. Join us in soaking up the magic of this space for a night or 3, and feel free to inquire about longer term stays.
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$21.25
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Camping near Hamilton Pool

9 sites · RVs, Tents20 acres · Dripping Springs, TX
This is a relaxing spot in the Hill Country to camp and enjoy the surrounding area with nearby swimming, kayaking, rock climbing, bicycle riding, and hiking on and around the Pedernales River, as well as the many restaurants, wineries, and breweries in the area. We have a variety of campsites styles ranging from cozy secluded oak groves to more open spaces for camping under the stars. Rates: $25 PER PERSON, PER NIGHT (minimum of 2 campers). Children age 3 and under are free. If bringing children, please tell us how many and their ages. Nearby Parks for hiking and swimming: HAMILTON POOL PRESERVE (1.9 mi) is open by reservation for hiking and swimming. Visits are for 3 1/2 hour blocks of time. No dogs allowed at Hamilton Pool MILTON REIMERS RANCH COUNTY PARK (2.5 mi) is nearby and is open for hiking, swimming, fishing, rock climbing, and cycling. Dogs on a leash allowed at Reimers. CASH ONLY! $5/per person, no reservation required. We love it there! WEST CAVE OUTDOOR DISCOVERY CENTER (2.6 mi) is open by reservation only for guided tours of the waterfall/cave-no swimming allowed. No dogs allowed at West Cave PEDERNALES FALLS STATE PARK (34 mi) is open by reservation only for day use hiking and swimming. Dogs on a leash allowed ENCHANTED ROCK STATE NATURAL AREA (71 mi) is open by reservation only for day use hiking on weekends and holidays. If we are not under a burn ban, BRING FIREWOOD and/or charcoal because we have fire rings and BBQ cookers at most of the sites. If we are under a burn ban, campfires (even in fire rings) are not allowed, but bring some charcoal because you may still use BBQ Cookers, which we have at each of our sites. You may also use a campstove if you wish to bring one. We have a hot/cold outdoor shower our guests are free to use.
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$50
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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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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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The best camping near Balcones Canyonlands National Wildlife Refuge guide

Overview

About

Catch your breath in the shade of mesmerizing canyon walls on your next camping trip near Balcones Canyonlands National Wildlife Refuge. This refuge is a sanctuary for the area's beautiful arrangement of native wildlife and plants, and its primary mission is the protection of the nesting grounds for the black-capped vireo and the endangered golden-cheeked warbler. Beyond its rich biodiversity, Balcones Canyonlands plays a crucial role in maintaining water quality in central Texas. Situated just north of Lake Travis, which supplies drinking water to the Austin metro area, the refuge underscores the interconnectedness of ecosystems and urban centers. Camping near Balcones Canyonlands offers a plethora of activities for nature enthusiasts. Hiking is a favorite among visitors, with over 10 miles of trails that beckon you to explore and discover the signs of wildlife. As you tread along, the scent of wildflowers fills the air, and the sounds of birds, including the distinctive calls of the vireos and warblers, provide a natural soundtrack. For those who prefer a more leisurely pace, the observation decks are perfect spots to simply soak in the panoramic views.

When to go

The best time to visit Balcones Canyonlands National Wildlife Refuge is during spring and fall when the weather is mild and the endangered songbirds are nesting. Summer can be hot and dry, making early morning the ideal time for activities. Winter offers a serene, less crowded experience, though some areas may be less accessible.

Know before you go

  • Check the refuge's official website for any seasonal closures or special alerts before your visit.
  • Wear appropriate footwear for hiking on rugged and rocky trails.
  • Bring plenty of water, as sources are limited, especially during the hot Texas summers.
  • Remember, pets are not allowed, ensuring the safety of the refuge's wildlife.
  • Photography and birding are popular activities, so consider bringing binoculars and cameras.

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