Best Camping in Texas

As we all know, everything is bigger in Texas. With hundreds of campsites spread over thousands of miles, camping in the Lone Star state certainly lives up to its reputation! Whether you like tent camping or prefer staying in an RV park, Texas campgrounds offer endless variety and adventure.

Part of what makes Texas one of the best states to camp in is its diverse natural landscapes. There are over 800 different habitats within Texas, ranging from arid deserts to swampy wetlands and everything in between. Many animal, plant, and flower species in Texas don’t occur anywhere else in the world.

And don't forget about Texas Hill Country—located just north of San Antonio, this is the perfect spot to channel Frances Mayes in Under the Tuscan Sun and grab a camping site nestled amongst vineyards.

Want to camp out on the coast or near the ocean? Always wanted to try primitive camping in the forest? No problem! The Lone Star state can offer it all.

Texas National Parks

Big Bend National Park is undoubtedly one of Texas’ most popular natural areas. Big Bend offers over 800,000 acres of scenery filled with wildlife, natural resources, and plenty of outdoor activities. There’s also an entire mountain range within the park’s borders. Many campers enjoy spending time mountain biking or horseback riding in the Chisos Mountains.

You’ll find some of the most scenic Texas campsites in Guadalupe National Park. There are several campsites available, some of which operate on a first-come, first-serve basis without reservations.

Other National Parks in Texas

• Amistad National Recreation Area
• Lake Meredith National Recreation Area
• Padre Island National Seashore
• Palo Alto Battlefield National Historical Park

Texas State Parks

If you are looking for even more ideas for places to camp in Texas, add these state parks are some of our favorites:

• Caprock Canyons State Park
• Palo Duro Canyon State Park
• Davis Mountains State Park

Take a look at the Texas state parks page to find even more campgrounds in Texas state or search Campendium for your favorite city, then filter by price and recreation features to find the perfect spot to park your RV or pitch a tent.

Texas RV Parks

Many RV campers prefer camping with amenities. Texas has RV parks located throughout the state, from the southern tip of the state to the Texas panhandle. Most parks offer partial hookups (electricity and water) or full hookups (electricity, water, and sewage).

Learn more aboutRV Parks in Texas.

Texas National Forests

Sam Houston National Forest is one of five national forests in the state and named after one of Texas' first senators. The area offers one of the most rugged Texas camping experiences. To have a primitive camping experience, campers can choose a spot anywhere they like within the forest, except during hunting season.

Other National Forests in Texas

• Angelina National Forest
• Davy Crockett National Forest
• Rita Blanca National Grassland
• Sabine National Forest

Free Camping in Texas

Campers who rather not break the bank on camping fees are in luck. Texas offers a variety of options, from free camping on the beach to rest areas where stays are limited to 24 hours and camping outside of vehicles is not permitted.

Learn more about free camping in Texas.