It’s the most wonderful time of the year! But we are not talking about mall Santa and fruitcake … at least not yet.
We are talking about camping season.
The weather is dropping from scorching to “ahhhhh” temperatures and it’s time to stock the cooler, pack up that tent, grab your sleeping bag and get out for a weekend of fall camping in the Hill Country.
We put together some of the best Hill Country campsites that are within a couple of hours drive time from the Lake Travis area. You’ll be far enough away from home to wind down and experience a sky filled with Hill Country stars … but you won’t have to spend half of your day on the road trying to get there.
1. Guadalupe River State Park (Spring Branch, TX)
If you are looking to center your camping experience around a beautiful, historic river then look no further. This park is perfect for families, especially if you’re introducing the great outdoors to your youngsters.
The park has a Children’s Discovery Center. Your kiddos can get their hands on themed “discovery” boxes and borrow a free backpack of tools they can use when they leave the center to get some real life experience back in the park. How cool is that?! For more info click here.
2. Krause Springs (Spicewood, TX)
You may have heard how magical Krause Springs is and have been meaning to go. You should!
Enjoy a calming moment next to a 30-foot waterfall or hike through a grove of beautiful, old cypress trees — some of which are estimated to be 1,000 years old.
Located in Spicewood, this one is close to home and a great place for a quick escape to spend a day exploring and a night under the stars. For more info click here.
3. Canyon of the Eagles (Burnet, TX)
Camping doesn’t always mean that you have to rough it. Check out Canyon of the Eagles for a weekend of camping or glamping (glamorous camping).
Located on Lake Buchanan, the site offers an upscale resort complete with free access to their Eagle Eye Observatory, which is operated by the Austin Astronomical Society. From there you can look at our moon, distant stars, and closer constellations.
There are also primitive campsites available, so you can eat dinner at the luxurious Overlook Restaurant and then sleep under the ever-present stars. And yes, there are eagles too! For more information click here.
4. Leifeste Campground (Castell, TX)
The Leifeste Campgound has been in operation for over fifty years and is so popular that reservations are required well in advance. You’ll have access to some of the best fishing on the Llano River where you can catch bass, sunfish, catfish, and a few other species. Just make sure you have your fishing license!
Because the campground is privately-owned, this is a spot to go when you want to escape the crowds of the public parks. The owners are real friendly too and will let you know how the fish are biting! Call (325)-247-3447 for reservations and pricing.
5. Colorado Bend State Park (Bend, TX)
Get away from it all with a weekend of camping and hiking at the beautiful Colorado Bend State Park.
Start your day with a hike to Gorman Falls, which stands over 60 feet high! For the more adventurous, there are caving systems you can enjoy on your own or on a park ranger guided tour (recommended for first-time cavers).
The park boasts an impressive array of bird species, over 155, so download and print the handy bird species checklist and bring your binoculars. Find out more info here.
There you have it Hill Country campers. Get ready to make memories under the stars and the best darn smores you have ever had.
Happy camping!
Post image via Creative Commons, Bendini on Flickr.
