Texas
Desert mountains, Hill Country rivers, and Gulf Coast beaches.
About this area
Texas is big enough to hold a little bit of everything — Big Bend's desert mountains, Hill Country's spring-fed rivers, and Gulf Coast beaches all within one state's borders. Fall through spring is the most comfortable camping season statewide, especially in the desert and southern regions.
Size
268,581 sq mi
Elevation
Sea level to 8,751 ft (Guadalupe Peak)
Best Time to Visit
Oct – Apr
Places to stay
Find your perfect campsite in Texas
Things to do
Big Bend Desert Camping
Explore the Chisos Mountains and Rio Grande borderlands in one of the least light-polluted, most remote parks in the Lower 48.
Hill Country River Tubing
Float the Guadalupe, Comal, and Frio Rivers, a classic Texas summer tradition.
Gulf Coast Beach Camping
Camp beachfront on Padre Island National Seashore, the longest undeveloped barrier island in the world.
Enchanted Rock Stargazing
Climb a massive pink granite dome near Fredericksburg, designated an International Dark Sky Sanctuary.
Good to know (FAQ)
Fall through spring (October–April) is most comfortable statewide; summer heat can be intense, especially in Big Bend and South Texas.
Yes — Padre Island National Seashore and several Gulf Coast state parks offer direct beach camping access.
Yes, with an extensive network of state parks and private RV resorts, though distances between destinations can be long given the state's size.
White-tailed deer, javelina, roadrunners, and in Big Bend, black bears and mountain lions are all possible sightings.
Good Sam members save 10% off the nightly rate at Good Sam Campgrounds across Texas. Look for the Good Sam badge on each listing.
Stories & guides
The Best Hikes in Every U.S. Region, Backed by AllTrails
From Maine’s fog-kissed coast to Big Bend’s desert ridges, AllTrails recommends the best routes to hit in America.
Road Trips That Reveal America’s Darkest Skies
We sought out the corners of the map where human-made light doesn't dominate. Follow the stars with us.
Why Sailing is the Next Great American Pastime
And why the coast of Maine is the place to sail.