A dozen outdoorsy sites scattered throughout Texas' vast landscape have been crowned the best places to camp in the U.S. — and three of them are in San Antonio'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 four best places to camp outside San Antonio are all within a one- or two-hour drive of the city, making it a fun weekend getaway that's just far enough to embrace the beautiful countryside.
Travelers who prefer to set up camp along a body of water will find a waterfront oasis at Boulderdash Cabin & Camping in Bandera. This five-acre stomping ground sits along the Medina River where campers can cool off in the water and unplug from their busy city lives. Campers are more than welcome to feed the deer and look out for foxes, armadillos, squirrels, birds, and other Hill Country wildlife.
Boulderdash offers a variety of lodging options for campers of all ages — from primitive tent and RV sites to a fully furnished cabin, barn, and vintage trailer.
"Had a wonderful time camping and playing in the river," one reviewer wrote. "We were the only ones in the tent camping area, so it was very peaceful and felt like our own private riverside hideaway. The dog also loved the space and room to explore."
Another top destination to pitch a tent is Laf Ranch in Medina, situated an hour further west from Boulderdash and two hours from San Antonio. The expansive ranch encompasses 1,100 acres of land and offers 20 dispersed sites for campers to pick from.
The ranch's remote location allows guests to fully immerse themselves in nature and appreciate its beauty. Campers can hike, swim, tube, bike, or nap in a hammock while "enjoying the breeze and peace and quiet," according to host Fritz. Laf Ranch has been owned and stewarded by Fritz's family for four generations, the description says.
Laf Ranch is the perfect remote escape just two hours from San Antonio.Photo courtesy of Hipcamp
One reviewer was lost for words on how to describe the serene beauty of the ranch, but simply chose to call it "divine."
"There aren’t many places in Texas that yield such pristine and untouched property, so we will certainly return time and time again," the review said. "Fritz is an excellent host who will ensure you have a great trip and provides awesome background on the history of the area and resources for the property."
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
San Antonians 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 between San Antonio and Austin. According to host Laura, each of the four dispersed tent sites is 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."
The best campgrounds elsewhere in Texas
San Antonians 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:
Laf Ranch is the perfect remote escape just two hours from San Antonio.Photo courtesy of Hipcamp
Some travelers prefer a fully-furnished camp getaway.Photo courtesy of Hipcamp