A dozen outdoorsy sites scattered throughout Texas' vast landscape have been crowned the best places to camp in the U.S. — and five of them are in Austin's Hill Country backyard.
The 2026 Hipcamp Awards identified the places that Hipcamp users loved the most based on an analysis of bookings, ratings, and reviews across more than 500,000 campsites from August 2025 to August 2026. The featured campgrounds are "a celebration of the [h]osts who consistently offer some of the most incredible camping experiences in the world."
"There are thousands of incredible places to camp on Hipcamp, so being recognized in the Awards is a genuinely high bar," said Alyssa Ravasio, CEO and founder of Hipcamp, in a release. "These are places that have earned exceptional feedback again and again, and we’re excited to give the Hosts behind them the recognition they deserve."
The five best places to camp outside Austin are all within a two-hour drive of the city, making it a fun weekend getaway that's just far enough to embrace the beautiful countryside.
Camping spots west of Austin
Camping Near Hamilton Pool in Dripping Springs is the nearest destination to Austin that feels like a private escape. The campground doesn't have direct access to any swimming holes, but campers can visit nearby parks to hike and explore, such as Hamilton Pool Preserve, Milton Reimers Ranch Park, West Cave Outdoor Discovery Center, and more.
The property has eight dispersed RV/tent sites, from "cozy secluded oak groves to more open spaces" that are far enough apart from one another that you won't be able to spot the other sites, but close enough that campers will be within hearing distance of any "laughter and loud talking."
For campers that prefer a rustic hideaway that feels like home, look no further than Hill Country Nature Retreat in Blanco, a 38-acre private homestead featuring a sustainable tiny home, a treehouse cabin, and a vintage Airstream trailer. The retreat is often described as "peaceful and relaxing" in reviews, with environmentally friendly features implemented by the owners.
"My husband and I have built 100 percent of our homestead ourselves, with no hired help, and we try to use as many recycled materials as possible," said owner Marlena. "We utilize some solar power and capture 100 percent of our water from the rain, for an eco-friendly experience."
Some travelers prefer a fully-furnished camp getaway.Photo courtesy of Hipcamp
The best campground east and south of Austin
Travelers who prefer to set up camp along a body of water will find a waterfront oasis at Colorado RiverBend Retreat in Smithville. This 12-acre stomping ground sits along the Colorado River where campers can cool off in the water and unplug from their busy city lives. Campers are more than welcome to fish in the river and watch for other wildlife.
The retreat offers four tent-only sites, one RV/tent site, and a fully-furnished cabin called "The River Shack" that comes with a private enclosed spa hot tub.
Austinites that eschew fancy accommodations in favor of a primitive camping experience will be right at home in The Best Dam Spot in Staples, a small town outside San Marcos. According to host Laura, each of the four dispersed tent sites are pack-in, pack-out from a parking lot that's approximately 50 yards away. Visitors won't find any overlanding rigs, pop-ups, RVs, or rooftop car campers at this campground.
There is unlimited access to the San Marcos River from the campsites, and all have views of a private waterfall for a peaceful atmosphere. Reviews commonly say The Best Dam Spot lives up to its name, and one reviewer said it is an "incredible hidden treasure."
"From the moment we arrived, it felt like the perfect getaway," the review said. "If you’re looking for a quiet place to unplug and enjoy nature, this is it. We made so many great memories here, and without a doubt, we’ll be back."
One property that backs up to the Guadalupe River is the perfect destination for campers that want to immerse themselves in the Texas wilderness. River Grove Campground in Gonzales boasts four RV/tent campsites that are scattered along the winding river, each offering their own peaceful atmosphere.
"The surrounding scenery will lower your blood pressure and do wonders to let you reconnect with nature," the campground's description says. "Sit back and close your eyes late in the evening and listen to all the wildlife talking to each other."
River Grove Campground maximizes visitors' primitive camping experience with a lush wild landscape and peace and quiet. Photo courtesy of Hipcamp
The best campgrounds elsewhere in Texas
Avid campers might recognize one other winner on the list: Llama Land Ranch in Tool, a property just a short drive from Dallas where llamas and other wildlife roam free on 101 acres of land. Earlier this summer, the ranch was named one of America's 50 favorite camping spots, thanks to its affordability and its mix of tent-only, RV/tent, and RV-only campsites.
"From the moment we arrived, everything felt peaceful, welcoming, and thoughtfully set up," wrote one reviewer. "The campsite itself is beautiful, clean, and well-maintained, with just the right balance between comfort and nature. Waking up to the fresh air and scenic surroundings was incredibly relaxing. The highlight, of course, was the llamas — they were adorable, friendly, and added such a special touch to the entire stay."
Campers who recommend the ranch don't only rave about the llamas. Many reviews also praise the owner, Judy, whose family has owned the property for almost 40 years.
"Judy was a fantastic host — kind, responsive, and clearly passionate about what she’s created," the review continued. "She made sure we had everything we needed and offered helpful tips to make the most of our visit. If you’re looking for something different from a typical camping trip, this is the perfect spot."
The other award-winning best places to camp in the Lone Star State are:
Some travelers prefer a fully-furnished camp getaway.Photo courtesy of Hipcamp
River Grove Campground maximizes visitors' primitive camping experience with a lush wild landscape and peace and quiet. Photo courtesy of Hipcamp 