Texas, with its vast landscapes, diverse ecosystems, and rich history, offers some of the best camping experiences in the United States. Whether you’re an experienced camper or just looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life, Texas has a spot for you. Here’s a guide to the top camping destinations in the Lone Star State.
1. Big Bend National Park
- Location: West Texas, along the Rio Grande
- Best For: Desert camping, hiking, stargazing
- Features:
- Chisos Basin Campground: Located in the heart of the Chisos Mountains, it offers cooler temperatures and stunning views.
- Rio Grande Village Campground: Perfect for RV camping with full hookups.
- Backcountry Camping: For those looking to truly immerse themselves in the wild, Big Bend offers primitive campsites throughout the park.
- What to Do: Explore Santa Elena Canyon, hike the Lost Mine Trail, and enjoy some of the best stargazing in the U.S. due to the park’s remote location.
2. Guadalupe Mountains National Park
- Location: West Texas, near the New Mexico border
- Best For: Mountain camping, hiking, wildlife watching
- Features:
- Pine Springs Campground: A basic campground perfect for tent camping, located near the park’s main trailheads.
- Dog Canyon Campground: A more secluded option, ideal for those seeking peace and quiet.
- What to Do: Hike to the top of Guadalupe Peak, the highest point in Texas, or explore McKittrick Canyon, known for its stunning fall colors.
3. Palo Duro Canyon State Park
- Location: Near Amarillo in the Texas Panhandle
- Best For: Canyon camping, biking, horseback riding
- Features:
- Juniper and Sagebrush Campgrounds: Offer a mix of tent and RV camping with stunning views of the canyon.
- Cabins: For those who prefer a bit more comfort, the park offers stone cabins along the canyon rim.
- What to Do: Explore the “Grand Canyon of Texas” by hiking the Lighthouse Trail, or take in a performance of the outdoor musical drama, TEXAS.
4. Garner State Park
- Location: Hill Country, along the Frio River
- Best For: River camping, family-friendly activities, swimming
- Features:
- Riverfront Campsites: Ideal for setting up tents and waking up to views of the Frio River.
- Cabins and Shelters: Available for those who prefer a more comfortable stay.
- What to Do: Float down the Frio River, dance at the summer jukebox dances, or hike the Old Baldy Trail for panoramic views.
5. Pedernales Falls State Park
- Location: Hill Country, near Johnson City
- Best For: Waterfalls, hiking, bird watching
- Features:
- Campsites with Electricity: Suitable for both tents and RVs.
- Primitive Sites: For those seeking a more rustic experience.
- What to Do: Explore the park’s namesake falls, swim in the Pedernales River, or hike the Wolf Mountain Trail.
6. Inks Lake State Park
- Location: Hill Country, near Burnet
- Best For: Lakefront camping, fishing, kayaking
- Features:
- Lakefront Campsites: Perfect for easy access to the water.
- Cabins: Available for those who prefer more amenities.
- What to Do: Enjoy the Devil’s Waterhole, a popular swimming and cliff-diving spot, or rent a kayak and explore the lake.
7. Enchanted Rock State Natural Area
- Location: Near Fredericksburg in the Hill Country
- Best For: Rock climbing, hiking, stargazing
- Features:
- Walk-In Campsites: Close to the rock, these sites are ideal for climbers and hikers.
- Primitive Sites: For those looking to get further off the beaten path.
- What to Do: Climb the iconic pink granite dome, explore the many caves, or join a guided interpretive program.
8. Caddo Lake State Park
- Location: East Texas, near the Louisiana border
- Best For: Swamp camping, fishing, kayaking
- Features:
- Cabins and Campsites: Nestled among the towering cypress trees draped in Spanish moss.
- Boat-in Campsites: Accessible only by water, perfect for a secluded retreat.
- What to Do: Paddle through the labyrinth of bayous, fish for largemouth bass, or take a boat tour to learn about the area’s unique ecology.
9. Lost Maples State Natural Area
- Location: Hill Country, near Vanderpool
- Best For: Fall foliage, hiking, bird watching
- Features:
- Campsites with Water: Suitable for tents and small RVs.
- Primitive Sites: For a more rugged experience.
- What to Do: Visit in the fall to see the vibrant colors of the Uvalde Bigtooth Maples, hike the East Trail for stunning views, and spot rare birds like the Golden-cheeked Warbler.
10. Mustang Island State Park
- Location: Gulf Coast, near Corpus Christi
- Best For: Beach camping, fishing, surfing
- Features:
- Beachfront Campsites: Set up your tent right on the sand.
- RV Sites with Hookups: Available for those who need more amenities.
- What to Do: Fish from the shore, go bird watching, or simply relax on the beach and enjoy the sound of the waves.
Final Tips for Camping in Texas:
- Plan Ahead: Popular parks can fill up quickly, especially during peak seasons. Make reservations early.
- Pack Accordingly: Texas weather can be unpredictable. Bring layers, plenty of water, and sun protection.
- Leave No Trace: Help preserve the beauty of Texas’s natural spaces by cleaning up after yourself and following park rules.
Camping in Texas offers an incredible opportunity to experience the state’s diverse landscapes and rich natural beauty. Whether you’re drawn to the mountains, deserts, forests, or beaches, you’re sure to find a spot that calls to you. Happy camping!
