Let's Go Y'all! Texas Camping
From the red rocks of Big Bend to the pines of East Texas, there’s no better place to explore when the snow is on the ground than the Lone Star State.
Calling all campers and snow-covered adventurers!
From the red rocks of Big Bend to the pines of East Texas, there’s no better place to explore when the snow is on the ground than the Lone Star State. Whether you prefer camping in a tent or an RV, the diversity of Texas' climate has something to accommodate your needs.
Full disclosure here...I grew up in Texas and always dreamed about being able to camp in my backyard in the mountains. Now that I can do that, I realize the snow is not something I really want to deal with. So, pack up your gear and come explore the largest state in the union with us a bit as we detail out some serious fun under the stars. From stargazing to canyon exploring to rafting the Guadalupe River, these are some of the things that are uniquely Texan. Get ready for an unforgettable experience with nature as we give you a brief (Texas is actually BIG) overview of what you can find camping and exploring Texas.
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Texas - A Brief History
Texas, the Lone Star State, boasts a rich and diverse history that spans thousands of years. The land that we know today as Texas has been inhabited for millennia, with archaeological evidence suggesting that the first human settlements date back to 13,000 BCE. Over the centuries, various Native American tribes have called Texas home, including the Caddo, Comanche, and Apache, each leaving an indelible mark on the area's cultural heritage.
The 16th century ushered in a new era for Texas with the arrival of European explorers. In 1519, Spanish explorer Alonso Álvarez de Pineda first mapped the Texas coastline, but it wasn't until 1685 when French explorer La Salle established a short-lived colony along the Gulf Coast, that Europeans began to vie for control of the region actively. In response to the French presence, Spain established missions across Texas, including the famed Mission San Antonio de Padua, now known as the Alamo.
During the 18th and 19th centuries, Texas became a battleground for various factions asserting their control. Mexico gained its independence from Spain in 1821, and Texas became a part of the newly-formed nation. The Mexican government began to encourage American settlers to move to Texas, leading to the establishment of Anglo settlements such as Stephen F. Austin's colony in 1823. However, tensions simmered between Anglo settlers and Tejanos (Texas-born Mexicans), culminating in the Texas Revolution in 1835.
The Texas Revolution saw Texans fight for independence from Mexico, with key battles such as the Siege of the Alamo and the Battle of San Jacinto shaping the state's identity. Under the leadership of General Sam Houston, the Texian Army defeated the Mexican forces at San Jacinto, securing Texas' independence in 1836. The Republic of Texas was born, with Houston serving as its first president.
Texas' status as an independent nation was short-lived, as it was annexed by the United States in 1845, sparking the Mexican-American War. The Treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo in 1848 ceded Texas to the United States, along with much of what is now the southwestern part of the country.
The turmoil continued as Texas played a prominent role in the Civil War. In 1861, Texas seceded from the United States and joined the Confederate States of America. However, the Confederacy faced defeat in 1865, and Texas was eventually readmitted to the Union in 1870.
Texas has since evolved into a key economic and cultural powerhouse in the United States. The discovery of oil in 1901 ushered in a new era of prosperity, solidifying Texas' role in the petroleum industry. Throughout the 20th and 21st centuries, Texas has diversified its economy, becoming a hub for technology, aerospace, and biomedical research.
In terms of sights and activities, Texas offers a wealth of options for visitors. The state's vibrant cities like Austin, San Antonio, Houston, and Dallas are home to renowned museums, world-class dining, and lively arts scenes. Meanwhile, the state's natural beauty is on display in national parks such as Big Bend or the Guadalupe Mountains. Camping opportunities abound, whether you prefer a beachside retreat on the Gulf Coast, a riverside spot in the Texas Hill Country, or a desert escape in the Chihuahuan Desert.
In summary, Texas' history is marked by a tapestry of cultural influences, fierce battles for control, and an unyielding spirit that has shaped the state into what it is today. Visitors to Texas can immerse themselves in this rich history, explore diverse landscapes, and partake in numerous activities to create unforgettable experiences in the Lone Star State.
Why We Chose Camping In Texas
You love the great outdoors. In fact, you may live in a place like I do that is great for camping, but you're not a fan of camping in the snow like currently covers southwest Colorado. If you ever wondered where cabin fever comes from, it is situations just like we are in at our headquarters. You want to get out and enjoy the sun and nature, but it is just not quite possible.
Outdoor Verified is here to help with your cabin fever. Hopefully, this will relieve some of ours just writing about camping in Texas where the weather is warm already. With the information we provide in this article and your desire to go on adventures, we hope that this helps to get you one step closer to the cure for cabin fever.
Ron Knezek
What You Will See
Texas offers some of the most breathtaking natural scenery in the country with its vast collection of state and national parks. From lush forests to rugged mountains and canyons, there is a wealth of outdoor adventure to be found here. Whether you're looking for a short day hike or a week-long camping trip, you'll find something to fit your needs.
With over 140 state parks throughout Texas and over 20 national parks, you won't run out of options anytime soon. So grab your hiking shoes and hit the trails - outdoor exploration awaits.
State Parks / National Parks
Texas, the Lone Star State, is home to a plethora of state and national parks that boast immense diversity in both landscapes and wildlife. The sheer size of Texas caters to various ecosystems, ranging from vast deserts and towering mountains to lush forests and pristine rivers. There are 89 Texas State Parks alone not including national parks. The parks mentioned in the provided list offer an intriguing glimpse into the natural wonders of this great state.
Big Bend National Park
Big Bend National Park, located in the far southwestern corner of Texas, spans over 800,000 acres of the Chihuahuan Desert. This remarkable scenic park is distinguished by its dramatic mountain ranges, deep canyons carved by the Rio Grande, and a variety of plants and animal species, including the elusive mountain lion.
Hueco Tanks State Park
Another unique park in Texas is Hueco Tanks State Park, located northeast of El Paso. This park is a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts, famed for its ancient rock art, unique geology, and world-class rock climbing opportunities. The park gets its name from the large hollows, or "huecos," in the rocks, which store rainwater and create a vibrant desert ecosystem.
Balmorhea State Park
Over in West Texas, you will find Balmorhea State Park, famous for its natural, spring-fed pool that spans 1.75 acres and reaches depths of up to 25 feet. The crystal-clear waters give visitors the opportunity to swim, snorkel, and even scuba dive while observing various aquatic species like catfish, turtles, and even an endangered fish species called the Comanche Springs Pupfish.
Colorado Bend State Park
Colorado Bend State Park is a hidden gem located in Central Texas. This park is renowned for its limestone cliffs, dense forests, and the cascading Gorman Falls. The park also features over 32 miles of multiuse trails for hiking, mountain biking, and exploring caves. The Colorado River, which runs through the park, provides excellent fishing and canoeing opportunities.
Garner State Park
In the heart of Texas Hill Country, Garner State Park has been an iconic family vacation spot since the 1940s. With over 10 miles of scenic hiking trails, visitors can enjoy panoramic views of the Frio River, limestone cliffs, and vibrant foliage. During the summer months, visitors flock to the park for river activities such as swimming, tubing, and kayaking.
Dinosaur Valley State Park
Dinosaur Valley State Park, nestled in North Central Texas near Glen Rose, transports visitors back in time with its well-preserved dinosaur tracks and ancient fossils. The park is situated along the picturesque Paluxy River, which courses through limestone beds, revealing tracks left by sauropods and theropods more than 110 million years ago. In addition to its prehistoric allure, the park offers miles of hiking, biking, and horseback riding trails, and visitors can also swim in the river or partake in birdwatching.
In conclusion, Texas boasts an exceptional variety of state and national parks that cater to nature lovers and adventure seekers alike. From the desert landscapes of Big Bend National Park to the prehistoric wonder of Dinosaur Valley State Park, Texas promises a unique and unforgettable experience for all who visit these great parks.
Rivers In Texas
Rivers in Texas are vital to the state’s ecology, climate, and economy. The Lone Star State boasts a variety of flowing waterways including the Frio River, Guadalupe River, Brazos river, Rio Grande River, Colorado River, Red River, and San Marcos River.
Frio River
The Frio River is located in south-central Texas near the city of Concan. This popular recreational spot is well known for its crystal clear water and abundant wildlife. Its tributaries feed into the Nueces river basin and it eventually empties into Choke Canyon Reservoir which offers a variety of activities including fishing, canoeing, and kayaking.
Guadalupe River
The Guadalupe River runs through central Texas from Kerr County to San Antonio Bay. It originates near Hunt and flows southward for approximately 240 miles before it meets up with San Antonio Bay just east of Victoria. This river is an important source of irrigation water for farms throughout the region as well as a popular destination for white water rafting enthusiasts.
Brazos River
The Brazos River begins in North Central Texas near Possum Kingdom Lake before winding through Waco, College Station, and Grayburg on its way to join up with the Gulf of Mexico at Freeport. This is one of the longest rivers in America with a length totaling 897 miles when combined with its tributary streams. The Brazos has been used historically for transportation purposes but today it serves mainly for recreational activities such as fishing and boating.
Rio Grande
The Rio Grande stretches from its headwaters in southwestern Colorado all the way down to Brownsville at the Mexican border where it empties out into the Gulf of Mexico. This river serves as an important source of irrigation water along both sides of its banks as well as providing habitat for various wildlife species such as fish and migratory birds like snow geese or white pelicans.
Colorado River
One of the most famous rivers in Texas is undoubtedly The Colorado River. Beginning near Lubbock this river flows southeastward before finally reaching Matagorda Bay off the coast of Galveston Island after passing through numerous dams along its route spanning 800 miles long! It’s been used extensively by humans over thousands of years due to its navigability – even serving as an important part of western expansion during 19th century America.
Red River
The Red River is another major tributary located on the western edge of Texas that forms part of both Oklahoma and Arkansas borders before finally emptying out into Atchafalaya Basin in Louisiana after traversing across 7 states total! It’s home to many species of native aquatic life like bass or catfish but unfortunately due to extensive pollution from agriculture runoff has caused significant damage throughout recent decades despite efforts made by conservation organizations like Ducks Unlimited USA trying put an end to the degradation of this natural resource once shared between 3 states.
San Marcos River
Last on our list, we have The San Marcos River beginning near Luling before traveling southward towards San Marcos where it ends up meeting up with the Blanco river shortly after crossing under the IH-35 bridge there. It remains one last remaining naturally spring-fed rivers left in the United States acting as home to over 40 different species including salamanders, hellbenders, and crayfish among others, this unique habitat also provides refuge for the endangered whooping crane during winter months September through April each year.
Lakes And Swimming Holes
Texas is home to some of the most beautiful lakes in all of North America. Lake Travis, Possum Kingdom Lake, and Lake Texoma are all located within Texas and provide a variety of recreational opportunities including fishing, swimming, boating, and more.
Lake Travis
Lake Travis is a 65-mile long reservoir that runs through the Texas Hill Country. With its clear waters and stunning views, it's no surprise that this lake has been named one of the most beautiful places in all of Texas. Visitors can spend their time picnicking on the shore or rent boats for a fun day out on the water. The lake also offers excellent fishing for bass, catfish, carp, sunfish, and more.
Possum Kingdom Lake
Possum Kingdom Lake is another popular destination in Texas. Located along the edge of Possum Kingdom State Park just a short drive west of Fort Worth, this lake is well known for its breathtaking scenery and abundance of outdoor activities for visitors to enjoy. Boaters will appreciate its many coves and bays perfect for exploring as well as outstanding fishing spots throughout the lake. Visitors can also take advantage of the picnic areas located along the shoreline or camp out under the stars overnight at one of the nearby campgrounds.
Lake Texoma
Lake Texoma is an expansive 89,000-acre lake located along the Oklahoma-Texas border near Denison. It’s not only one of Texas’ largest lakes but also one of its most popular with visitors who come to experience everything from fishing tournaments to boat cruises on historic paddle wheelers while taking in breathtaking views on both sides of the state line. Additionally, there are several marinas in operation so you can rent jet skis or even book yourself a guided tour.
Caddo Lake
Caddo Lake sits about 75 miles east of Dallas near Marshall where visitors get to explore lush wetlands and lush cypress forests some call “The Venice Of The South” due to its network of bayous and channels perfect for canoeing or kayaking through.
Toledo Bend Reservoir
Toledo Bend Reservoir is yet another great spot in East Texas that offers some amazing views as it straddles both Louisiana and Texas borders. As far as fishing goes it's known for having fantastic catches throughout its well-stocked waters which include bass, crappie bluegill sunfish perch catfish white bass as well as much more.
Lake O' The Pines
Lastly Lake O' The Pines sits near Jefferson between Longview and Marshall offering visitors plenty of reasons to stay here longer than just a weekend due to its pristine waters that serve up plenty of drive up campsites spectacular wildlife sightings plus tasty catches like black bass white crappie striped bass flathead catfish hybrid bass channel catfish blue catfish among others.
Areas Within Texas
Hill Country
The Texas Hill Country boasts a diverse and picturesque landscape that spans across Central Texas. The region's terrain comprises rolling hills, lush forests, and meandering rivers, making it an outdoor enthusiast's paradise. This area is known for its striking Bluebonnet fields during the spring, a flower native to Texas that adorns the hillsides with its vibrant blue hues. Texas Hill Country is also home to a variety of wineries, making it the heart of Texas wine country. The region's German and Mexican cultural heritage is evident, giving rise to a unique blend of architecture, cuisine, and artistic expression.
Texas Coast
With over 350 miles of coastline along the Gulf of Mexico, the Texas Coast is a diverse region that offers a wide range of vacation possibilities for residents and visitors alike. From the bustling beaches of Galveston to the serene shores of the Padre Island National Seashore, the Texas Coast has something for everyone. In addition to its sun-soaked beaches and warm gulf waters, the Texas Coast is home to numerous wildlife refuges, where bird-watching enthusiasts can witness hundreds of migrating species. Moreover, the region boasts a thriving seafood industry, attracting food lovers from all over the country.
East Texas
Situated between the Sabine River to the east and the Trinity River to the west, East Texas is characterized by its thick pine forests, bayous, and swamps. East Texas is a prime destination for travelers seeking unique adventures, as it is home to the expansive Big Thicket National Preserve, a designated UNESCO Biosphere Reserve. The region's deep southern roots and rich history also make it a hub for Texas culture, featuring numerous museums, historical sites, and antebellum mansions. The famous Texas Rose Festival, held annually in Tyler, celebrates the area's rich horticultural heritage.
West Texas
A land of contrasts, West Texas boasts dramatic deserts, rugged mountains, and mesmerizing rock formations. While vast expanses of desert may paint a barren picture, the region is home to several stunning state and national parks, including Big Bend National Park and Guadalupe Mountains National Park. West Texas boasts natural wonders like the Monahans Sandhills State Park and the mysterious Marfa Lights. The cultural impact of the region can be observed in the countless art galleries and museums located in the various towns and cities, with Marfa being a renowned art destination.
Texas Panhandle
Situated along the northernmost part of Texas, the Texas Panhandle is known for its flat and fertile agricultural plains. It is bordered by New Mexico to the west, Oklahoma to the north and east, and the Texas Rolling Plains to the south. The region is home to the stunning Palo Duro Canyon State Park, also known as the "Grand Canyon of Texas," which showcases impressive geological formations and natural beauty being the second largest canyon in the US. The area also contains many small towns rich in local history and heritage, such as Amarillo and Lubbock, which host several cultural celebrations and events throughout the year.
What you can do
Texas, the second largest state in the United States, offers a plethora of outdoor activities for adventure enthusiasts, nature lovers, and history buffs. Here we explore some of these exciting activities with more detailed descriptions, facts, and higher semantic richness.
Hiking
Texas boasts over 90 state parks, national parks, and private nature preserves that provide stunning landscapes and challenging terrains for hikers of all skill levels. One notable hiking destination is the Big Bend National Park, which offers over 150 miles of trails that take you through diverse ecosystems, including the Chisos Mountains and the fossil-rich Chihuahuan Desert.
Fishing
With over 80,000 miles of rivers and streams, as well as 191,000 acres of reservoirs and lakes, Texas is a great place to enjoy fishing. The state offers numerous fishing opportunities in both fresh and saltwater environments. Notable species to catch include largemouth bass, red drum, and flounder.
Horseback riding
Texas has a rich history of Western culture and equestrian adventures and is an amazing place to go horse riding. Visitors can experience scenic trail rides through lush forests, rolling hills, and sprawling ranches. Popular destinations include the Palo Duro Canyon State Park and the Hill Country State Natural Area.
Rock Climbing
The state's diverse geology and unique rock formations make it a popular location for rock climbing. Enchanted Rock State Natural Area is one of the most popular locations, featuring a massive pink granite dome towering 425 feet above the ground. Hueco Tanks State Park, another notable climbing destination, boasts world-class bouldering routes.
Rafting
With several major rivers, including the Rio Grande, Colorado, and Guadalupe, Texas is an ideal destination for whitewater rafting. Thrill-seekers can enjoy adrenaline-pumping rapids, while families and beginners can experience a leisurely scenic float.
Surfing
The Texas Gulf Coast offers 367 miles of shoreline with numerous beaches to catch waves. South Padre Island, Galveston, and Corpus Christi are popular surfing destinations, offering waves suitable for beginners as well as seasoned surfers.
Off-Roading
For off-road adventurers, Texas has a wide variety of terrains and natural areas to explore, including dunes, forests, rocky trails, and wide-open plains. Big Bend Ranch State Park and the Sam Houston National Forest are great destinations for off-road enthusiasts to tackle challenging obstacle courses and scenic paths.
Caving
The State's limestone-rich geological formations have resulted in an extensive network of caves. The Natural Bridge Caverns, the largest commercial caverns in Texas, feature spectacular underground sights such as the massive King's Throne and the delicate Soda Straw Balcony formations.
Historic Sites
Texas' history is full of fascinating stories, from Native American civilizations to the fight for independence from Mexico. History buffs can explore iconic sites such as the Alamo, the San Jacinto Battleground State Historic Site, and the Presidio La Bahia.
Geocaching
Geocaching is a popular modern-day treasure-hunting activity that takes participants on a challenging and fun adventure. Texas hosts thousands of hidden geocaches across the state, encouraging outdoor exploration while combining problem-solving and technology.
And that's not all, but it's Texas a big diverse state with a vast array of outdoor activities catering to people of all ages and interests. From exploring the stunning landscapes to immersing in the rich history, there's no shortage of adventures to experience in the Lone Star State.
Where you can stay - Camping in Texas
Texas, the second largest state in the US, boasts a vast and diverse landscape that offers various camping opportunities for outdoor enthusiasts to connect with nature. From the arid deserts of West Texas to the verdant Piney Woods of East Texas, the Lone Star State invites you to immerse in its unique environment through its numerous options for Texas camping with campsites, beach camping options, and RV-friendly locations. Whether it's securing a spot at a state park, making reservations for an unforgettable beach adventure, finding some cabins to stay in, or obtaining permits for a backcountry escape, camping in Texas will cater to all your outdoor desires.
Campsites
Campsites in Texas are incredibly varied and offer something for everyone. For those looking to go tent camping, hiking or mountain biking amidst the rugged terrain, Big Bend Ranch State Park boasts a vast trail system in addition to numerous backcountry and roadside campsites. The park requires you to obtain a permit before setting up camp. Alternatively, if you prefer a more peaceful environment with fishing opportunities, the serene Caddo Lake State Park in East Texas features some walk in campsites surrounded by a maze of lush bayous, sloughs, and ponds. And, if you have your own horse, there are plenty of equestrian campsites scattered around if you look at the right Texas state park.
Beach Camping
Beach camping on the Texas coast provides a unique experience to reconnect with nature surrounded by cool ocean breezes and pristine sandy beaches offering some of the best tent camping. The Padre Island National Seashore, the longest undeveloped barrier island in the world, offers fantastic tent camping opportunities along its 70-mile stretch. Here, campers can admire the seasonal appearances of Kemp's Ridley sea turtles, witness migratory birds, and appreciate the stunning sunrises and sunsets. Be sure to reserve your campsite in advance, as RV and tent camping spots are highly coveted during peak seasons.
RV Camping
RV camping enthusiasts will find several highly rated RV parks throughout Texas. Garner State Park, located in the picturesque Texas Hill Country, offers top-notch RV facilities and amenities while also providing easy access to the stunning Frio River, where you can take a refreshing dip in crystal clear waters. While staying in these developed campgrounds with full hookups, you can revel in nature's beauty while remaining plugged in at the tranquil Pecan Park Riverside RV Park, nestled along the banks of the San Marcos River. These RV parks offer various water and electric hookups, as well as laundry, restrooms, coffee makers, and WiFi facilities to ensure a comfortable camping experience.
Camping Amenities
Camping in Texas offers a plethora of amenities that cater to campers of all preferences and skill levels. The Lone Star State takes pride in making the outdoor experience as comfortable and enjoyable as possible through its many facilities and services available in various campgrounds and state parks.
One of the essential amenities provided in most Texas campgrounds is picnic tables. Picnic tables facilitate memorable outdoor dining experiences, whether campers indulge in a barbeque or simply enjoy pre-packed meals while admiring the beautiful surroundings. Picnic tables are usually strategically positioned to offer breathtaking views and shade where possible.
Restroom facilities play an indispensable role in ensuring the cleanliness and hygiene of campers. Texas camping sites are equipped with well-maintained restrooms, often offering toilets, sinks, and even shower facilities to make the stay as comfortable as possible. Handicap-accessible restrooms are also typically available to accommodate campers with different needs.
Screened shelters are another amenity provided in various Texas campsites, which are highly popular among families and friends who want a mix of outdoor adventure and some creature comforts. These structures are designed to protect campers from insects, weather elements, and offer some degree of privacy, ensuring campers get a peaceful night's sleep outdoors.
Camp stores are invaluable resources for campers, offering essential camping supplies to purchase as well as providing local knowledge and guidance on the area. A camp store typically provides camping gear, toiletries, food items, and other necessities that campers may require during their stay.
Walk-in tent sites are an authentic way of enjoying the Texas wilderness, offering solitude and space for campers to pitch their tents away from the hustle and bustle of drive-in sites. These walk in sites often provide basic amenities such as fire rings and picnic tables, allowing campers to have a secluded yet comfortable experience.
Potable water is critically important to campers, and that's why many Texas campsites provide access to clean drinking water distributed through faucets or water spigots. This vital resource helps keep campers hydrated during their stay and ensures they have water for cooking, cleaning, and other essential tasks.
For campers traveling with RVs or trailers, hook-ups are an essential amenity in Texas campgrounds, offering electricity, water, and sometimes even sewer connections. This service ensures campers in RV sites have access to the comfort of home while still enjoying the great outdoors.
Lastly, dump stations serve as crucial amenities for RV owners who need a safe and eco-friendly way to dispose of their waste. Most Texas campgrounds have designated dump stations that help prevent pollution and maintain a clean environment for all campers to enjoy.
In conclusion, Texas camping sites offer an impressive range of amenities to cater to the varying needs of campers. From basic facilities like picnic tables and restrooms to more advanced services such as screened shelters and hook-ups, Texas ensures that both seasoned and novice campers can relish a memorable and comfortable outdoor adventure.
Permitting
When planning your camping retreat in Texas, don't forget to check park-specific reservation policies and permit requirements. Most state parks allow for reservations up to five months in advance. You can book conveniently online or by contacting the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department. Some spots may require additional permits, such as backcountry camping permits, which can be obtained from the respective park office.
Embarking on a camping adventure in Texas promises to be a delight, filled with awe-inspiring landscapes, a plethora of flora and fauna, and unique outdoor experiences that you'll cherish for a lifetime. It is hot. Ensure any adventure you undertake in Texas is done responsibly with the climate in mind and lots of water intake. Summer evenings can still be quite warm without air conditioning. Many people plan ahead to enjoy camping in the early spring when the best camping weather is present but camping in Texas is very possible year round.
Final Thoughts
It's a unique experience to be able to call both Texas and the Colorado Rocky Mountains home. Although I've been gifted different terrains in each region, we always make it a point to admire and appreciate the native wildlife, plants, and culture around us. Camping has become our favorite way to do so in both the snow-covered Rocky Mountains of Colorado and the rolling hills of Texas.
For this reason, we're committed to sharing all the information we can on places to camp along with what gear to take so that other adventurers can have their own amazing experiences as well. If you’re looking for an escape or simply a change of scenery, let us show you how many incredible places to camp in the United States provide just what you need.
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~ Ron
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