Camping in Texas

Texas is home to a variety of types of campgrounds, public and private. This directory lists only facilities administered by federal, state, and local government authorities in Texas.

Commercial campground information is available from the Texas Association of Campground Owners, 910 S Crowley Road, Suite 9-504, Crowley. 877-518-1989, texascampgrounds.com

The information in the map and database below are based on the Texas Public Campgrounds guide published by the Texas Department of Transportation. This guide, among other travel literature, is available at Travel Information Centers across Texas.

Types of Camping

A great camping trip starts with the right preparation. Make sure to consider things like how long you will be camping, what the weather will be like, and how much you can carry when planning what to take with you. The Texas Parks and Wildlife Department has prepared these tips for camping safety, etiquette and preparation. More information can be found on the Texas State Park camping and lodging page.

The Seven C’s of Camping

• Care – Show care at the campground by being considerate of others.
• Caution – Use caution in the use of camping equipment both on the road and at the campsite. Handle fire and flammable fuels so as not to endanger others or ourselves. Improve our camping skills at all times, knowing the right way is the safest way.
• Courtesy – Practice politeness because it enhances the camping experience. Be respectful of the privacy of others, control children and leash dogs.
• Cleanliness – Be clean in your camping habits and teach your children the importance of cleanliness. Pick up litter, no matter who left it, and be proud of the campsites you leave behind.
• Cooperation – Observe the letter and spirit of camping regulations and rules established to protect the enjoyment of the outdoors. Work cooperatively with others to make the camping experience better for everyone.
• Conservation – Protect the environment in which you enjoy camping and help those whose job it is to guard and wisely manage the country’s natural resources. Endeavor to leave a better outdoors for those who follow you.
• Common Sense – Apply common sense to every situation, knowing that reason, understanding and humor make camping better for everyone.

Safety

Camping is a great way to enjoy the outdoors and make sure your trip is safe.

• Keep watch on children! You are responsible for the safety of your children. Make sure you know where your kids are and what they are doing.
• Be aware of the natural surroundings. There may be plants with thorns or stickers.
• You are a visitor in wildlife’s home. Keep a safe distance from wild animals. Although they may look cute, they are wild and can carry diseases.
• Never feed the wildlife! Feeding wildlife can encourage bad behavior by animals and is against park regulations.
• Be careful with fire. Never leave a fire unattended and be sure your campfire is out when you break camp.
• Axes, knives and saws are useful tools, but be sure you know how to properly use them.

In addition to maintaining the more than 630,000 acres of parkland in Texas, Texas State Parks publishes an official guide and state park app to make the most of your camping, hiking or exploring journey.

Sleeping outdoors is only half the fun of camping. Fishing, hiking, birding, stargazing, or cooking a meal outside all add to the adventure.

Some things just taste better outside — one of the many joys of camping is preparing food to share. Make sure to check local guidelines regarding burn bans before planning what to cook. During dry seasons, campgrounds may limit the use of wood or charcoal, even for cooking.