Central Texas is the perfect place for a family camping trip or retreat into nature because the topography is, among many other things, both rugged and lush. There's beauty in rock formations that have been there for hundreds of years and in the flora and fauna that line the paths and walkways that serve as scenic courses to calm anyone's nerves.
West of Lampasas is 5328.3 acres that comprise Colorado Bend State Park. Originally purchased in part in 1984, the remainder was acquired and officially opened to the public in 1987. There are tours of gorgeous Gorman Falls in addition to Gorman Cave and Crawling Cave Tours. There are drive-up sites and riverbank tent sites for some campers, and carry-in and carry-out backpack areas for the more rugged traveler.
Colorado Bend State Park
Box 118
Bend, TX 76824
325-628-3240
According to the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department, Enchanted Rock State Natural Area was designated a National Natural Landmark in 1970 and was acquired and opened by the state in 1984. Its two massive pink granite domes are part of the 1643.5-acre reserve located on Big Sandy Creek north of Fredericksburg. Adventurous campers can enjoy backpacking, camping, hiking and star gazing there, as the Rock rises 425 feet above ground and is 1,825 feet above sea level.
Enchanted Rock State Natural Area
16710 Ranch Rd 965
Fredericksburg TX 78624
830-685-3636
Since 1950, Inks Lake State Park has been a popular stop for wilderness campers. According to the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department, Inks Lake has 1,201 acres of recreational facilities and is part of the Highland Lakes chain. There is tent and small-trailer camping available along with the recently opened limited-use cabins.
Inks Lake State Park
3630 Park Road 4 W.
Burnet TX 78611
512-793-2223
Forty miles southwest of Bandera is 5369.8 acres that make up the Hill Country State Natural Area. Purchased in 1976 and opened to the public in 1984, campers and hikers have more than 40 miles of trails, and there are tent areas for camping. Make sure you bring your own water to drink.
Hill Country State Natural Area
10600 Bandera Creek Road
Bandera, TX 78003
830-796-4413
East of Johnson City and opened to the public in 1971, Pedernales Falls State Park is part of the Edwards Plateau terrain, according to Texas Parks and Wildlife. You must watch for flash floods in this area, but otherwise campsites and hike-in primitive camping are accessible and encouraged. There's nearly 20 miles of hike-and-bike trails and 14 miles of backpacking trails.
Pedernales Falls State Park
2585 Park Road 6026
Johnson City, TX 78636
830-868-7304
