Texas may be famous for its heat, but that doesn’t mean you need to put off camping until the cooler months. From shady forests to riverside retreats, Texas has fantastic options for campers looking to beat the summer sun. These great camping spots in Texas offer cool breezes, refreshing water, and shaded trails, making them ideal for summer camping trips. Here are some of the best places to escape the heat while enjoying a memorable outdoor experience in Texas.
Location: Spring Branch, TX
Why it’s cool: Guadalupe River State Park is among the most refreshing camping spots Texas has to offer. Known for the Guadalupe River’s cold, clear waters, it’s an oasis for swimming, tubing, and fishing. The river’s steady flow keeps temperatures down, making it one of the best camping places in Texas for escaping the heat.
Activities: Hiking and biking enthusiasts can explore over 13 miles of trails, while bird watchers can enjoy sightings of various species. Picnicking along the riverbank is also a favorite activity.
Campgrounds: The park provides campsites with electricity and water, and some are located right by the river. Reserve a spot early, as it’s one of the most popular camping places in Texas during summer.
Location: Brewster County, TX
Why it’s cool: Big Bend’s high elevations in the Chisos Mountains keep temperatures cooler than on the desert floor, making it a perfect choice for summer camping trips in Texas. The dramatic views of the rugged terrain and natural beauty make it one of the most scenic and good places to go camping in Texas.
Activities: Big Bend offers numerous hiking trails, from short walks to challenging treks. Other activities include river trips along the Rio Grande, stargazing, and wildlife viewing, which makes Big Bend an ideal spot for Texas hiking and camping adventures.
Campgrounds: With multiple campgrounds, including the Chisos Basin Campground at a higher elevation, Big Bend is a haven for those looking for a break from the heat. Backcountry camping is also available for those seeking a more rugged experience.
Location: Concan, TX
Why it’s cool: Garner State Park sits along the Frio River, famous for its cold, clear waters, making it a fantastic spot to cool off. Swimming, tubing, and paddle boating are popular ways to enjoy the river.
Activities: The park offers over 16 miles of hiking trails, miniature golf, and summer evening dances—a cherished tradition. Garner is among the most classic camping spots Texas has to offer for family fun.
Campgrounds: Garner features sites with water and electricity, as well as cabins and screened shelters for a more comfortable experience. Book early for this ever-popular location.
Find A Campsite At Garner State Park →
Location: Vanderpool, TX
Why it’s cool: Lost Maples is a hidden gem in the Texas Hill Country, offering well-shaded trails, cool swimming holes, and dense foliage that shields campers from the summer heat.
Activities: Hiking trails lead to scenic overlooks and natural springs, making it an ideal location for Texas hiking and camping. Bird watching is also popular here, with the chance to spot the rare Golden-cheeked Warbler.
Campgrounds: Lost Maples offers shaded campsites with water and electricity, keeping campers cooler even on warmer days.
Location: Canyon, TX
Why it’s cool: Palo Duro Canyon, known as the “Grand Canyon of Texas,” has slightly cooler temperatures due to its elevation. With shaded areas and stunning rock formations, it’s one of the good camping places in Texas to escape the summer heat.
Activities: The park is ideal for hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding, with the added bonus of live musical performances in the summer at the park’s amphitheater.
Campgrounds: Palo Duro has a variety of campsites, including primitive options and sites with full hookups, offering some of the best views in Texas camping.
Location: Burnet, TX
Why it’s cool: With its constant-level lake, Inks Lake State Park is perfect for water-based activities, ensuring a cool camping experience even in the heat of summer.
Activities: Nine miles of hiking trails, including scenic views at Devil’s Waterhole, make it ideal for those seeking a blend of Texas hiking and camping.
Campgrounds: Campers can choose from lakeside campsites or opt for cabins. Inks Lake’s accessibility to water activities makes it a favorite among Texas’s camping spots.
Location: Near Lufkin, TX
Why it’s cool: The towering pines of Davy Crockett National Forest provide ample shade, and Ratcliff Lake offers a cool place to swim, making it an excellent location for a summer camping trip.
Activities: Hiking, fishing, and boating are all popular, with the 20-mile-long Four C National Recreation Trail drawing hiking enthusiasts.
Campgrounds: Ratcliff Lake Recreation Area offers campsites with water and electricity. Dense forest surroundings make it one of the best camping spots in Texas to stay cool.
Location: Livingston, TX
Why it’s cool: Lake Livingston, one of Texas’s largest lakes, is perfect for water recreation. Its size and depth keep the water cool, offering a refreshing break during hot summer days.
Activities: With ample swimming, boating, and fishing opportunities, Lake Livingston is one of the good places to go camping in Texas for water activities. The park also offers hiking and bird-watching trails.
Campgrounds: Lake Livingston has campsites with water and electricity, screened shelters, and cabins, providing various camping options.
Location: Johnson City, TX
Why it’s cool: Pedernales Falls State Park is known for its scenic waterfalls and natural swimming areas. The cool waters of the Pedernales River are perfect for beating the summer heat.
Activities: Besides swimming, the park offers hiking, bird watching, and horseback riding. The falls themselves are a beautiful spot for photography and picnicking.
Campgrounds: The park features campsites with water and electricity, as well as primitive campsites. Many sites are well-shaded and close to the river.
Location: Toyahvale, TX
Why it’s cool: Balmorhea State Park is home to the world’s largest spring-fed swimming pool. The pool’s clear, cool waters are a perfect way to escape the summer heat.
Activities: Swimming and snorkeling in the spring-fed pool are the main attractions. The park also offers picnicking and bird watching.
Campgrounds: The park has campsites with water and electricity, as well as a group camp. There are also motel-style accommodations available.
Even at these cooler spots, it’s essential to take some precautions to stay comfortable:
Texas offers a variety of camping spots that can help you beat the summer heat. Whether you prefer rivers, lakes, mountains, or forests, there’s a cool camping destination waiting for you. Remember to plan ahead, pack appropriately, and make the most of the natural resources available to stay comfortable and enjoy your camping trip.
For more information on firewood sources and local fire restrictions, visit our crowd-sourced map and fire resources at stacked.camp. Happy camping!
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