Serene Central Texas Camping Getaways for Fall

Plan a mini-getaway this fall, not too far away from your own backyard. Explore the beauty of the Hill Country, sleep under the stars, or enjoy an afternoon of kayaking at one of these many camping areas, all less than three hours away.

Lost Maples

3 hours from downtown Austin

37221 F.M. 187, Vanderpool, TX 78885

With its expanse of trees, Lost Maples is a prime spot to admire fall foliage and scenic views. Bring your fishing gear and cast a line into Can Creek, or set up camp near the flowing Sabinal River. The 30 campsites offer water and electricity. Fees: $26 per night.

Pedernales Falls

1 hour from downtown Austin

2585 Park Road 6026, Johnson City, TX 78636

Hike and bike along the Pedernales River at Pedernales Falls State Park. Wander the trails along the falls, or ride your mountain bike on the tough 10-mile Juniper Ridge trail. Reservations recommended. Fees: $26 per night.

Inks Lake

1 hour 15 minutes from downtown Austin

3630 Park Road 4 West, Burnet, TX 78611

Make a splash in the lake with open water swimming, or by renting a kayak or paddle boat. Families can take advantage of easy trails and fishing at Inks Lake State Park. There are 125 campsites with electricity and 22 cabins with bunk beds. Fees: $29–$61 per night.

Enchanted Rock

1 hour 40 minutes from downtown Austin

16710 Ranch Rd. 965, Fredericksburg, TX 78624

Lace up your boots to tackle the 425-foot granite rock and explore 11 miles of trails at this beautiful hiking destination. Rock climbers can also climb in certain areas of Enchanted Rock State Natural Area. There are 35 campsites available. Reservations recommended. Fees: $25 per night.

Pace Bend Park

1 hour from downtown Austin

2805 Pace Bend Rd. North, Spicewood, TX 78669

Take in a Hill Country sunset and the view of Lake Travis at this popular camping and boating area. Expect to encounter wildlife, including foxes and whitetail deer, along the hiking trails at Pace Bend Park. There are 20 campsites available with electricity hookups and shower access. Reservations recommended. Fees: $20–$30 per night.

Guadalupe River State Park

1 hour 30 minutes from downtown Austin

3350 Park Road 31, Spring Branch, TX 78070

Walk beneath the cypress trees along the Guadalupe River and watch for birds, including the golden-cheeked warbler. Guadalupe River State Park‘s 85 campsites offer water and electricity. Reservations recommended. Fees: $27–$31 per night.

Bastrop State Park

45 minutes from downtown Austin

100 Park Road 1A, Bastrop, TX 78602

Set in the Lost Pines, Bastrop State Park offers tent campsites, full hookup RV sites and historic cabins for overnight stays. Spend the day exploring seven miles of hiking trails, fishing or biking scenic Park Road 1C. Fees: $20–$30 per night.

McKinney Falls State Park

20 minutes from downtown Austin

5808 McKinney Falls Parkway, Austin, TX 78744

Onion Creek provides a refreshing place to dip your toe in the water and hike along the water at McKinney Falls State Park. The 81 campsites offer water and electricity. Fees: $26–$30 per night.

Garner State Park

3 hours from downtown Austin

234 RR 1050, Concan, TX 78838

Along the Frio River, Garner State Park offers swimming, tubing and fishing, plus 16 miles of hiking trails through the Hill Country. Overnight options include tent and RV campsites, screened shelters and cabins. Fees: $23–$43 per night.

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