The summer season brings warmer weather and the burning desire to get out of the house and experience the nature and beauty Texas has to offer. With the large number of parks and nature areas to camp in Texas, how will you choose? We’re all about saving you time and money, so don’t hire a travel agent – check out our list of the must-see camping destinations in Texas. So get out there and enjoy the clear, blue skies and wide open country that is Texas.
1. Inks Lake State Park
A short drive from the bustling city and cozy suburbs of Austin and into the gorgeous nature of the Texas Hill Country lies a hidden gem with activities the whole family can enjoy. Inks Lake State Park is a popular favorite among families native to the area and each summer it’s filled with visitors who occupy one of the 200 campsites or 22 cabins. Spend your summer days here kayaking, swimming or canoeing in the brisk Colorado River.
What makes Inks Lake a family favorite? There something for everyone and any age! Along with water activities, you can also spend the days fishing for sunfish, catfish and bass. Swim or hike to the legendary scenic spot, the Devil’s Waterhole. Daring cliff divers flock to this stunning spot and when the Valley Spring Creek is running, head upstream to experience and explore scenic waterfalls you won’t find anywhere else.
2. Colorado Bend State Park
This destination is a must-visit for outdoor enthusiasts. Colorado Bend State Park is a prime spot for “primitive” camping – you know, where you build and sleep in your own tent. Spend time pursuing traditional outdoor activities like hiking, biking, fishing, swimming, wildlife viewing or join one of the guided tours they offer in the park. If those don’t hit your sweet spot for adventure, explore underground caves on one of the Wild Cave Tours offered. You can crawl, slide, and climb through tight crevices and experience canyons few people have visited before. Don’t be afraid to get dirty and possibly drenched on these tours – they aren’t kidding about the crawling!
If you plan to stay above ground during your visit, join the Gormal Falls Tours. A two-hour guided tour includes a 1.5 mile round-trip hike through the rugged, yet beautiful canyonlands to the stunning main attraction of the state park, where chilly water spills over a limestone cliff and into a serene grotto. It’s a quiet, one-of-a-kind spot you can’t miss!
