Camping is a tried and true American tradition year round so we asked our followers where their favorite spots to camp are in and around Texas! From desert, valley, mountain and even ocean spots, check out the destinations below and then set up camp - literally!
Updated June 2022
BEAVERS BEND STATE PARK
BEAVERS BEND STATE PARK
A quick 3 hour roadtrip will bring you to the scenic Broken Bow Lake area in the Oklahoma woodlands surrounded by pine and hardwood trees! From campsites to RV parks, you can get your camping fix and then enjoy the wide variety of activities that Beavers Bend State Park has to offer! Camping on site at the state park is first come, first serve!
BROKEN BOW, OKLAHOMA | 3 HOURS FROM DALLAS
BIG BEND NATIONAL PARK
BIG BEND NATIONAL PARK
Big Bend National Park was the top result when we asked our followers to submit their favorite camping spots! While the park is temporarily closed, we’re going to tell you about it so you can put a pin in it for later! With 801,163 acres of rugged canyons, desert and mountains, we can definitely see why its such a desired destination! On the park’s grounds you can set up camp at one of 3 developed campgrounds or their full hookup rv park if that’s more your style. Go fully wild off the grid with backcountry camping options!
There are some limits! Visitors can stay up to 28 nights in the park within a calendar year. During the busy season from Jan 1 - Apr 15, park visitors are allotted a total of 14 nights on grounds!
SOUTHWESTERN TEXAS | 8 HOURS FROM DALLAS
photo courtesy of Big Bend
CADDO LAKE STATE PARK
CADDO LAKE STATE PARK
Transport to another world at Caddo Lake State Park engulfed by bayous and tall cypress trees where you might even spot an alligator! While Caddo Lake is popular for 50+ miles of paddling trails, an overnight camping trip is the best way to complete your visit. With 46 campsites starting at $10/night, there’s no shortage of spots to choose from!
KARNACK, TEXAS | 2.5 HOURS FROM DALLAS
CAMP TONKAWA SPRINGS
CAMP TONKAWA SPRINGS
Come out and spend a weekend in East Texas where all your entertainment and activities are right on the campground! In native language Tonkawa means “They all stay together” and that’s the hospitality you’ll feel. Their crystal clear spring fed pond under the pines has been a crowd pleaser for 100+ years. Follow it up with a hike through the forest, a game of horseshoes, volleyball and more for an enjoyable getaway.
GARRISON, TEXAS | 3 HOURS FROM DALLAS
photo courtesy of Camp Tonkawa Springs RV Park
CAPROCK CANYON STATE PARK
CAPROCK CANYON STATE PARK
Caprock Canyon State Park boasts super unique scenery with its tall, red rock canyons, desert fields, vibrant sunsets and wildlife like buffalo! There are plenty of drive-in campsites but the real adventure is the hike-in primitive camping for a true experience. Camping areas start at just $10/night!
QUITAQUE | 5 HOURS FROM DALLAS | RESERVATIONS
photo courtesy of Caprock Canyon State Park
CHICKASAW NATIONAL RECREATION AREA
CHICKASAW NATIONAL RECREATION AREA
Nestled in the foothills of the Arbuckle Mountains is the Chickasaw National Recreation Area! Lakes, streams and springs attract visitors from all over to enjoy its various forms of water recreation! 6 public campgrounds dot the park, 3 of which are available year round. Some are reservable but most are first come first serve. Some pots like The Point even have a lakeside view!
Some campgrounds are temporarily closed, so make sure to check their website for more info!
SULPHER, OKLAHOMA | 2 HOURS FROM DALLAS
photo courtesy of Chickasaw Country
COLORADO BEND STATE PARK
COLORADO BEND STATE PARK
All the best of Hill Country can be found here at Colorado Bend State Park just 2 hours north of Austin. Camping in rugged nature followed by cave tours and hikes to 70-foot Gorman Falls sounds like an ideal trip for any outdoor enthusiasts! Make your way to the overlook that sits at the peak of the Tie Slide trail for a great view 200 feet above the Colorado River!
BEND, TEXAS | 3.5 HOURS FROM DALLAS | RESERVATIONS
photo courtesy of Colorado Bend State Park
COOPER LAKE STATE PARK
COOPER LAKE STATE PARK
Camping next to a beautiful blue lake sounds pretty dreamy! Cooper Lake State Park is a prime fishing destination with tons of amenities like fire rings, outdoors grills and lantern posts to top off the peaceful atmosphere. What sounds better than topping off a beautiful day outdoors than sitting around a fire? You can stay at one of their many campsites starting at just $10/night depending on your camping preferences!
SULPHER SPRINGS, TEXAS | 1.5 HOURS FROM DALLAS | RESERVATIONS
photo courtesy of Cooper Lake State Park
DAINGERFIELD STATE PARK
DAINGERFIELD STATE PARK
In the piney woods region, Daingerfield State Park sits on its very own lake! After setting up camp you can take an easy 2.4 mile hike around the lake to appreciate the nature around you or you can head up the more challenging 1.2 mile Mountain View Trail which guides you to the park’s highest point for an incredible view down below! Water-only tent sites or full hookup sites are available to visitors.
DAINGERFIELD, TEXAS | 2.5 HOURS FROM DALLAS | RESERVATIONS
photo courtesy of Texas Parks and Wildlife
DAVIS MOUNTAINS STATE PARK
DAVIS MOUNTAINS STATE PARK
Spend a night in 2,709-acre Davis Mountains State Park and you’ll feel fully transported! Vast mountain ranges mix with southwestern desert for unparalleled views of the landscape and adobe motel! Hike in to camp primitively all the way up to full hook up camping. Top off your adventure with some hiking, mountain biking or birdwatching!
FORT DAVIS, TEXAS | 7.5 HOURS FROM DALLAS | RESERVATIONS
photo courtesy of Davis Mountains State Park
DINOSAUR VALLEY STATE PARK
DINOSAUR VALLEY STATE PARK
The most noteworthy aspect of Dinosaur Valley State Park are the actual dinosaur tracks in the Paluxy River on site! Spend some time camping where dinosaurs literally walked ages before us! 20 miles of trails provide recreation before setting up for the night. Primitive camping starts at $15/night while sites with electricity run $25/night and group camp sites can be reserved for larger parties.
GLEN ROSE, TEXAS | 1.5 HOURS FROM DALLAS | RESERVATIONS
photo courtesy of Texas Parks and Wildlife
EISENHOWER STATE PARK
EISENHOWER STATE PARK
Just off the shores of Lake Texoma, Eisenhower State Park provides a scenic getaway of backcountry woods! Lush trees and rocky lakeside cliffs are quite a switch from the Dallas area! There are a few trails you can hike which overlook the park and lake below. You might even spot some native wildlife along the way! There’s no shortage of campsites but keep in mind to expect increased rates on some holiday weekends!
DENISON, TEXAS | 1.5 HOURS FROM DALLAS | RESERVATIONS
photo courtesy of Eisenhower State Park
ENCHANTED ROCK STATE NATURAL AREA
ENCHANTED ROCK STATE NATURAL AREA
Perhaps you’ve already heard of the giant, pink mountain that is Enchanted Rock! This hidden gem sits outside of Fredericksburg and offers a spectacular view when you hike to the top. What’s unique about the natural area is that you can take part in some rock climbing during your stay! Camping options are primitive, campsites with water and group camping!
FREDERICKSBURG, TEXAS | 4 HOURS FROM DALLAS | RESERVATIONS
photo courtesy of Texas Parks and Wildlife
GARNER STATE PARK
GARNER STATE PARK
Adjacent to the clear, crisp waters of Frio River, Garner State Park is made up of 1,774 acres of scenic Hill Country landscape and is one of the most popular spots for overnight camping! You’re in for a relaxing weekend with tubing, paddle boating, hiking, mini golf, canoeing and more to do! Campsites with water, electricity and full hook up await after your outdoor adventures. If you’re looking for night entertainment, stop by the summer dances held by the park’s concession building since the 1940s!
CONCAN, TEXAS | 5.5 HOURS FROM DALLAS | RESERVATIONS
photo courtesy of Garner State Park
GOOSE ISLAND STATE PARK
GOOSE ISLAND STATE PARK
Camping with a coastal breeze sounds like quite the serene escape! Goose Island State Park on the south Texas shoreline offers a different scenery with fishing, hiking, birding, geocaching and various types of boating. Pitch camp underneath the big oak trees that give the perfect amount of shade during the warm days. Before you leave, stop by to snap a picture with the Big Tree which has been standing on the coast for centuries!
ROCKPORT, TEXAS | 6 HOURS FROM DALLAS | RESERVATIONS
photo courtesy of Goose Island State Park
HUNTSVILLE STATE PARK
HUNTSVILLE STATE PARK
There are so many ways to enjoy the outdoors at Huntsville State Park amongst the gigantic pine trees! Between 21 miles of trails and 210 acre Lake Raven there are plenty of day activities to take part in while you camp like hiking, biking, picnicking, fishing, swimming, paddling and geocaching. Take your pick from 160 campsites on the park’s grounds to rest up for more activities!
HUNTSVILLE, TEXAS | 3 HOURS FROM DALLAS | RESERVATIONS
photo courtesy of Huntsville State Park
INKS LAKE STATE PARK
INKS LAKE STATE PARK
If you enjoy being near the water when you are camping, the rock cliffs and sparkling blue water at Inks Lake State Park in Texas Hill Country are for you! With a near-constant lake level, water activities can be enjoyed here year round. Choose from nearly 200 campsites, some with weekly and monthly rates depending on how long your adventure is!
BURNET, TEXAS | 3.5 HOUR FROM DALLAS | RESERVATIONS
photo courtesy of Inks Lake State Park
LAKE BOB SANDLIN STATE PARK
LAKE BOB SANDLIN STATE PARK
9,000+ acre Lake Bob Sandlin sits calm and beautiful next to Lake Bob Sandlin State Park in northeast Texas! The piney woods region makes these camping areas feel like something out of the north U.S. with its tall trees that turn brilliant colors in the fall season. There are plenty of places to pitch your camp followed by some of the best nature activities that classic camping trips have to offer!
PITTSBURG, TEXAS | 2 HOURS FROM DALLAS | RESERVATIONS
photo courtesy of Lake Bob Sandlin State Park
LAKE MURRAY STATE PARK
LAKE MURRAY STATE PARK
If you are planning any trips to Oklahoma, why not camp in Oklahoma’s first and largest state park? The park is made up of 12,500+ acres awaiting all your adventures! There are various campgrounds from tent to RV to cabin sites. The diverse scenery is what makes Lake Murray and the state park such a beautiful place to visit. Find hillscapes, lakeside spots, forest woods and more! Whether you’re looking for something more laid back like hiking or adventurous like ATV riding, there are numerous activities available.
SOUTH CENTRAL OKLAHOMA | 2 HOURS FROM DALLAS | RESERVATIONS
photo courtesy of Lake Murray State Park
LAKE TEXOMA STATE PARK
LAKE TEXOMA STATE PARK
From fishing, horse trails, marinas, golf, hiking, biking, hunting and more, there’s something for everybody when camping at Lake Texoma! As Oklahoma’s second-largest man-made lake, it's a prime spot for outdoor enthusiasts to take part in watersports and camping alike. There’s also lots of great hiking trails and picnic spots along the lake. When it comes to setting up camp, book from 160 tent sites or 129 RV sites on their website!
KINGSTON, OKLAHOMA | 2 HOURS FROM DALLAS | RESERVATIONS
photo courtesy of Lake Texoma Association
LAKE TRAVIS
LAKE TRAVIS
Located on the western edge of Austin, Lake Travis is a highly sought out hub of entertainment for those seeking a getaway. Several campgrounds around the reservoir offer different scenery of lake living in Hill Country. Among most campgrounds guests to the area can take part in beaches, picnic areas, boat ramps and shoreline fishing as well as the multitude of activities that Lake Travis provides such as ziplining, a 600-foot water playground with an obstacle course and of course the secret swimming hole nicknamed The Narrows! (pictured)
AUSTIN, TEXAS | 3.5 HOURS FROM DALLAS
photo courtesy of Lake Travis
LAKE WHITNEY STATE PARK
LAKE WHITNEY STATE PARK
Lake Whitney State Park can best be described as fun for the whole family, no matter what age you are! After a short drive from Dallas, you can unwind by exploring the trails, geocaching, fishing, swimming or utilizing the lake for watersports. You might even spot some native wildlife during your stay! Campsites range from water only to full hookup so you’ll be all set for your trip when you arrive.
WHITNEY, TEXAS | 1.5 HOURS FROM DALLAS | RESERVATIONS
temporarily closed through June 2021 due to flooding
photo courtesy of Lake Whitney State Park
LOST MAPLES STATE NATURAL AREA
LOST MAPLES STATE NATURAL AREA
Camp among tree-covered hills at Lost Maples State Natural Area west of Austin and San Antonio! The park is named after its bright maple trees that turn brilliant colors when the fall season comes around. 10 miles of trails await to be explored and one of the loops even takes you to a cliff that looks out over the scenery 2,200 feet high! 30 campsites offer water and electricity or you can backpack to a primitive campsite for a more authentic experience.
VANDERPOOL, TEXAS | 5.5 HOURS FROM DALLAS | RESERVATIONS
photo courtesy of Lost Maples State Natural Area
MARFA
MARFA
You’ve probably seen photos of the trendy desert scene in Marfa, Texas! While Marfa’s city thrives off of the arts, there is plenty of camping to be done. Tent and RV camping can be done on one of the city’s numerous nomadic sites just a short distance from recreational activities. If you’re a thrill seeker you can actually fly through the mountains on glider plains!
MARFA, TEXAS | 7.5 HOURS FROM DALLAS
MINERAL WELLS STATE PARK
LAKE MINERAL WELLS STATE PARK
Fancy a getaway to Texas’ cattle country? Lake Mineral Wells State Park is just 45 minutes west from Fort Worth with a 640-acre lake to enjoy all summer long! While this is not the state park for watersports, the sparkling lake is enjoyed by renting flat bottom boats, canoes, kayaks, paddleboards and rowboats to really soak in the nature around you! On-site campgrounds start at just $10 and they even have equestrian campsites!
MINERAL WELLS, TEXAS | 1.5 HOURS FROM DALLAS | RESERVATIONS
photo courtesy of Lake Mineral Wells
MUSTANG ISLAND STATE PARK
MUSTANG ISLAND STATE PARK
Did you know that you can camp near the ocean right here in Texas! Beachside camping is currently closed, but you can stay tuned on their website for updates! 5 miles of coastline provides plenty of room to spread out, lounge on the beach, swim, surf and other oceanside activities! Be sure to check out the 20 miles of paddling trails during your stay!
CORPUS CHRISTI, TEXAS | 6.5 HOURS FROM DALLAS | RESERVATIONS
photo courtesy of Mustang Island State Park
OUACHITA NATIONAL FOREST
OUACHITA NATIONAL FOREST
It's no secret that the scenery in Arkansas is some of the best! The seasonal shift is so vast that the state showcases each of the 4 seasons distinctly and beautifully for a trip any time of the year. Ouachita National Forest is a go-to for hunting, fishing, camping, biking, trail riding and hiking! If you prefer a more natural experience, primitive camping is permitted almost everywhere throughout the park! There are dispersed camping and “no trace” rules so make sure to abide by those if you’re planning a visit!
HOT SPRINGS, ARKANSAS | 5.5 HOURS FROM DALLAS
photo courtesy of US Forest Service - Ouachita National Forest
PALO DURO CANYON STATE PARK
PALO DURO CANYON STATE PARK
The second largest canyon in the country is right here in Texas and the desert mountainscapes boast some pretty incredible views from wherever you set up camp! Along with the typical camp activities, something that is pretty unique is that during the summer you can enjoy a performance of TEXAS Outdoor Musical at the Pioneer Amphitheater! A new addition to the park are glamping experiences with fully functional luxury camping sites! There is a burn ban at the park so no ash-producing fires are allowed.
CANYON, TEXAS | 6 HOURS FROM DALLAS | RESERVATIONS
PEDERNALES FALLS STATE PARK
PEDERNALES FALLS STATE PARK
This state park has it all! Heavily-treed woodland, a relaxing river, waterfalls and large sections of bright limestone throughout the river for enjoying the warm Texas summer. If you’re into local wildlife there is a bird blind and butterfly garden on the grounds! During the day hike or bike the trails, enjoy various activities on the river or ride your horse on 10 miles of rocky trails!
JOHNSON CITY, TEXAS | 3.5 HOURS FROM DALLAS | RESERVATIONS
photo courtesy of Pedernales Falls State Park
PETIT JEAN STATE PARK
PETIT JEAN STATE PARK
Another Arkansas favorite for the books! Petit Jean State Park spans 3,400+ acres and is full of trails, overlooks and tranquil waterfalls! You can stay nightly at the historic Mather Lodge built in the 1930’s, multiple cabins or the campgrounds. Each of which are strategically placed through the park to offer stunning views of the naturescape. There have been some health updates, so stay up to date on their COVID information through their website!
MORRILTON, ARKANSAS | 5.5 HOURS FROM DALLAS | RESERVATIONS
photo courtesy of Arkansas State Parks
POSSUM KINGDOM STATE PARK
POSSUM KINGDOM STATE PARK
Lake Possum Kingdom is a great vacation destination for those seeking blue, cool water! While standard day ventures include hiking, picnicking, biking, watersports and fishing, Possum Kingdom State Park is unique in that you can scuba dive and snorkel in its lake! Find hidden coves to picnic or set up for the day on 300 miles of panoramic shoreline!
CADDO, TEXAS | 2.5 HOURS FROM DALLAS | RESERVATIONS
photo courtesy of Possum Kingdom State Park
RAY ROBERTS LAKE STATE PARK
RAY ROBERTS LAKE STATE PARK
Whether you prefer woods, river or beach, Ray Roberts Lake State park can accommodate. A quick and easy drive from Dallas and you’ll arrive at a beautiful 29,000-acre lake, sandy beach areas and nature all around! This laid back local spot offers many campsite options starting at $15 per night each with their own amenities. Rent boats, jet skis or kayaks from Lone Star Lodge Marina if you enjoy spending time on the water!
PILOT POINT, TEXAS | 1 HOUR FROM DALLAS | RESERVATIONS
photo courtesy of Texas Parks & Wildlife
SALMON LAKE PARK
SALMON LAKE PARK
Salmon Lake Park may sound familiar for their famous Bluegrass Festival, but camping is also a popular activity at this lake spot. While they have RV camping, tent camping and day use, what sets Salmon Lake Park apart is the opportunity to stay in an actual treehouse! Take your camping experience to the treetops for $35 per night with a personal outdoor picnic table!
GRAPELAND, TEXAS | 2.5 HOURS FROM DALLAS | RESERVATIONS
photo courtesy of Salmon Lake Park
TURNER FALLS PARK
TURNER FALLS PARK
The mountainous hills of Oklahoma are full of natural beauty ready to explore. Turner Falls Park is a hit with locals and surrounding states alike for its hiking trails, caves, cool streams and 77 foot waterfall that you can swim in! It can get pretty packed and there is a visitation limit so make sure to get your entry tickets and parking permits ahead of time! All primitive camping sites are first come first serve while cabins, RV sites and shelters can be reserved. There are a lot of rules when it comes to Turner Falls Park so check out their website for the policies.
DAVIS, OKLAHOMA | 2.5 HOURS FROM DALLAS | RESERVATIONS
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TYLER STATE PARK
TYLER STATE PARK
Sometimes a peaceful lake getaway is just the thing to unwind! Tyler State Park sits among tall, bright green pines and hosts a 64-acre spring fed lake to fill all your water activity needs! There is a 5mph limit for all boats on the lake so the park gives guests a peaceful retreat. 13 miles of trails are ready to be explored, game fish to be caught and memories to be had. You can rent canoes, paddle boats, kayaks, stand-up paddle boards and jon boats from The Texas State Park Store.
TYLER, TEXAS | 2 HOURS FROM DALLAS | RESERVATIONS
photo courtesy of Texas Parks and Wildlife
WICHITA MOUNTAINS WILDLIFE REFUGE
WICHITA MOUNTAINS WILDLIFE REFUGE
The Wichita Mountains of southwest Oklahoma exhibit rocky, rugged mountain landscape surrounded by flat plains, deep canyons and bright blue water sources. You might spot some free-range buffalo in the plains if you’re lucky! Make a point to drive to the top of Mount Scott 2,464 feet above sea level for a fantastic view of the nature scene below! Overnight camping can be done at the Doris Campground at one of the 47 tent sites, 23 RV sites and 20 sites along a nearby trail. If you’re more into backcountry camping, you can do so by permit in the Charon’s Garden Wilderness Area.
INDIAHOMA, OKLAHOMA | 3.5 HOURS FROM DALLAS | RESERVATIONS
photo courtesy of Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge
4R RANCH VINEYARDS AND WINERY
4R RANCH VINEYARDS AND WINERY
Did you know that you can camp at an award-winning winery less than 2 hours from Dallas? 4R Ranch Vineyards and Winery is booking stays onsite! Bring your own tents, vans and truck campers to utilize one of their 11 sites where pets are allowed, too! Not only that but 4R offers camping amenities like sink and shower facilities, toilet paper and complimentary firewood! Enjoy the 4R tasting room and the gorgeous view overlooking the Red River Valley!
MUENSTER, TEXAS | 1.5 HOURS FROM DALLAS | RESERVATIONS
photo courtesy of 4R Ranch Vineyards and Winery
