Outdoor Blog
20 Best Places to Camp Within 2 Hours of Austin, TX
The state capital of Texas is most well-known for its live music scene and beautiful scenery. The Colorado River runs right through the heart of Austin, and it creates a few lakes for people to swim, fish, or boat in. The downtown area has a lot of nightlife and shopping for everyone to enjoy. The west side of the city is perfect for those who want to reconnect with nature. Here are some great places to camp in Central Texas!
1. McKinney Falls State Park
This camp within a state park has beautiful surroundings and is very close to the city. There are lots of things to do. Campers can hike, bike, or fish! No fishing permit? No problem! A license is not required to fish from the shore of a Texas state park!
There are almost nine miles of trails for hiking and biking enthusiasts to enjoy! Visit their website to figure out which trail would work best for you! After you work up a sweat, campers are allowed to swim in Onion Creek; however, be careful of the creek because it can flood after heavy rainfall. Some of the trails are specifically bike trails, so make sure you know which is which.
Pros:
- Hiking
- Road or mountain biking
- Water and electrical hookups
- Cabins
- Fishing
Cons:
- Creek can flood
- Lots of restrictions
2. Austin East KOA Holiday
This section of the KOA chain has RV hookups, tent camping, and cabins. Guests will feel like they’re staying at a resort instead of a campsite. There’s something for everyone in the family to enjoy! From swimming and fishing to biking and hiking, this campground has a little bit of everything! This KOA is a great getaway for families who are going on a road trip!
Pros:
- Multiple ways to camp
- Pool
- Wifi
- Pet friendly
- Laundry
- Fishing
- Boating
- Golf course
- Camp store
- Hiking and biking
Cons:
- Not for those who want to rough it
3. Austin Lone Star RV Resort
This RV park is year-round, and it offers loads of amenities. There is a pool, game room, fitness center, and clubhouse! If you forgot something at home, there is an on-site store for you. Campers can choose to hook an RV up or rent a cabin. All this, and it’s only five miles from downtown Austin! This place is perfect for you if you’re wanting to enjoy the nightlife of Austin! It’s within Austin’s city limits!
Pros:
- Pool
- Pavilion
- Market
- Restrooms and showers
- Wifi
- Multiple camping areas
- Gated property
- Pet friendly
Cons:
- No trails for hiking
4. Evergreen RV Park
This RV park is great for those who want a quiet environment to sneak away to. It’s conveniently located very close to downtown Austin, but it offers serene surroundings too. If you’re going to be staying for a while, the park has different rates so you don’t break the bank! If you’re headed to Austin for a work trip and want to stay in your RV, this park is great for you!
Pros:
- Peaceful environment
- Wifi
- Laundry
- Different rates for different stay periods
Cons:
- No tent camping
- No bathrooms
- No showers
5. The Oaks RV Park & Campground
This RV resort is settled under 15 acres of big oak trees, providing the perfect shade from the Texas sun. While staying here, guests have full access to wifi, laundry, and a bathhouse. The park has a covered pavilion with picnic tables, ceiling fans, and grills! The park is currently in the process of putting in a pool and fire pit, too! Guests can take in the beautiful scenery by doing some bird watching or by just relaxing.
Pros:
- RV hookups
- Picnic tables
- Pavilion
- Wifi
- Bathhouse
- Grills
- Laundry
Cons:
- No tent camping
- No recreational activities
6. Austin RV Park North
This RV park’s slogan is, “Convenient City Access Meets Peaceful Country Atmosphere.” The park prides itself on the fact that its best amenity is its location. Besides that, it also offers a wifi hotspot, laundry, and sewer hookups. It also has a bathroom and shower. It’s great for people who want to visit Austin in the comfort of their own RV!
Pros:
- Bathroom
- Shower
- Laundry
- Sewer hookups
- Wifi
- Convenient location
Cons:
- No resort-style amenities
- No tent camping
7. Windy Point Park
Sitting on Lake Travis, this campsite’s primitive camping style is tent camping under the shade of the trees. Guests can swim in the lake or relax and take in its beauty. While camping here, you’ll have access to free wifi, hot showers, grills, portable restrooms, and picnic tables. If you want to spend a while along the side of Lake Travis, Windy Point Park is perfect for you! Campers can even go scuba diving in the lake!
Pros:
- Tent camping
- Lake access
- Hot showers
- Portable restrooms
- Scuba diving
- Wifi
- Boat launching
- Grills
- Picnic tables
Cons:
- No flush toilets
- No RV hookups
- No resort-style amenities
8. Rio Bonito Cabin and RV Park
This park offers cabin rentals and places to park an RV. It’s located on the North San Gabriel River, and it has lots to do! Guests have access to a playground, pool, and dog park! Also, campers can go kayaking, tubing, canoeing, fishing, or swimming in the river! It has many resort-style amenities for guests to enjoy, and it has a lot of activities for people of all ages!
Pros:
- Laundry
- Wifi
- Cabin rental
- RV hookups
- Trails
- Pool
- Pet friendly
- River
Cons:
- No tent camping
9. COTA Camping
This campsite is perfect for racing enthusiasts! It is steps away from the Circuit of the Americas racetrack! So if you plan on visiting the track, this place has the most primitive sites for you! Besides the racetrack, this campsite also has restrooms, laundry, full hookups, wifi, picnic tables, and a pool. For those who want to visit this racetrack, COTA Camping offers trackside access! The reviews will tell you that this is many people’s favorite spot to stay when visiting the racetrack!
Pros:
- Next to Circuit of the Americas
- Restrooms
- Laundry
- Wifi and cable
- Pool
- Picnic tables
- Full RV hookups
Cons:
- Mostly for those who want to visit the racetrack
10. Riverbend RV Park on Lake Austin
This RV park sits right on Lake Austin and has premier access to the lake. Guests can rent a paddleboard or kayak and explore the lake! Campers will be fully immersed in nature while staying here. The shady trees surrounding the park offer campers the full camping experience. The lake has low-density populations of catfish, so make sure you remember if you catch one!
Pros:
- Bathroom
- Full hookups
- Fishing
- Kayak and paddleboard rentals
- Picnic tables
Cons:
- No tent camping
- No resort-style amenities
11. Oak Forest RV Park
This RV park has a lot of things for campers to participate in! The park offers laundry and pet parks, as well as a pool and fitness center. Check out the website to find out what new activities are being offered! Oak Forest also has ping pong tables and bocce ball courts! This park is a great getaway for everyone!
Pros:
- Full hookups
- Pool
- Fitness center
- Laundry
- Pet friendly
- PIng pong
Cons:
- No bathhouses
- No tent camping
12. La Hacienda RV Resort
At La Hacienda, guests can choose to hook their RV up or rent one of their luxury cabins. Guests are welcome to have campfires and go fishing! Wifi and cable tv are included in the price of the stay, as well as access to all their resort-style amenities. The park also has planned activities for campers to participate in!
Pros:
- Pet friendly
- Pool
- Two ways to stay
- Fitness center
- Wifi
- Fishing
- Restrooms and showers
- Pavilion
Cons:
- Laundry not included with the price
- No tent camping
13. Royal Palms
This RV park has convenient access to Austin, as well as many amenities. There is a library where guests can rent books or DVDs and a clubhouse with tv, pool, laundry, and fireplace! Campers are welcome to bring their dogs and play with them in the fenced dog park.
Pros:
- RV camping
- Swimming pool
- Library
- Pool
- Wifi
- Laundry
- Pet friendly
Cons:
- No bathhouses
- No tent camping
- No cabin rentals
14. Hudson Bend RV Park
This RV park is close to many amenities, such as a grocery store, Lake Travis, and laundry facilities. Guests have full access to picnic tables and cable tv. The park is surrounded by beautiful trees, and it’s perfect for those who really want to reconnect with nature. While Hudson Bend doesn’t have many of the resort-style amenities other campgrounds have, it makes up for it by having a world-class staff.
Pros:
- Full hookups
- Picnic tables
- Cable tv
Cons:
- Many amenities are close by, not in the park itself
- No bathhouses
15. Big Oaks RV Park
This veteran-owned park has full hookups and purchasable storage space. Guests have full access to laundry facilities, a restroom, a camp store, and wifi! Pets are welcome; however, there are restrictions as to what kind of pets campers can bring. Big Oaks is surrounded by gorgeous oak trees that shade the campsites really well!
Pros:
- Full hookups
- Wifi
- Restroom
- Pet friendly
- Recycling
- Camp market
- Laundry
Cons:
- No showers
- No tent camping
16. Lake Travis Inn & RV Park
If you have work in or around Austin but don’t need to move there, this campsite is the place for you. This campground sits on eight acres of land, so it has lots of beautiful scenery. It has a laundromat so you don’t have to spend time on another chore! It sits right on Lake Travis so guests have full access to the lake! Campers can go fishing, or they can find somewhere to rent a paddle boat and hit the lake.
Pros:
- Laundromat
- Beautiful land
- Full hookups
- Cable tv
Cons:
- No bathhouses
- No resort-style amenities
- No tent camping
- For extended stay only
17. Emma Long Metropolitan Park
This park is open 24/7, and it has lots of open space for campers to enjoy. Guests can load their boat into the Colorado River using one of the two boat ramps the park provides. There are a lot of volleyball courts for campers to use, as well as one basketball court! Campers can hook up an RV or pitch a tent. This is a great spot for those who want to spend time on the Colorado River! There are designated swimming areas, so make sure you know where to swim! This campground has more tent sites than RV sites, so fast!
Pros:
- Swimming hole
- Picnic tables
- Restrooms
- Volleyball courts
- Basketball court
- Mountain biking trails
- RV and tent camping
- Boat ramps
Cons:
- No showers
- No cabin rentals
18. Arkansas Bend Park
This park has different camping sites for everyone! It’s located around Colorado Bend and it has lots of things to do while staying there. Campers can put their boat in using one of the two boat ramps, go for a swim, or fish in the lake. It has a playground for the kids and miles of multi-use trails. This park is located about an hour west of Austin!
Pros:
- Boat ramps
- Miles of trails
- Tent and RV sites
- Picnic tables
- Restrooms
- Playground
- Grills
- Fishing
Cons:
- No showers
- No wifi
19. NW Austin KOA Holiday
This portion of the KOA chain has loads of activities and amenities. Guests can spend their time playing basketball, swimming in the pool, or playing on the playground. It also has 24-hour laundry, showers, and restrooms! Campers can rent a movie for a night in or go out and see what Austin has to offer!
Pros:
- Several ways to camp
- Camp store
- Picnic tables
- Wifi
- Pool
- Kitchen
- Fire ring
- Basketball courts
- Pet area
- Playground
- Laundry
- Bathhouses
Cons:
- Can get crowded
20. Sunset RV Resort
This RV resort is located southwest of Austin. It has full hookups of several different Amps to fit everyone’s RV. It’s a family-owned business, and they are very hands-on! There are 50 feet between each site, so campers have lots of privacy! Also, pets are welcome!
Pros:
- Laundry
- Full hookups
- Bathhouse
- Family-owned
- Wifi
- Pet friendly
- Lots of space between sites
Cons:
- No tent camping
- No cabin rentals
- No resort-style amenities
Final verdict:
Rio Bonito Cabin and RV Park offers the most to do with the best location to Austin. Guests have full access to the North San Gabriel River, as well as all types of river activities! There are many things for anyone to do! While there is no tent camping, the activities within nature make up for it! There are miles of hiking trails and lots of natural areas. Rio Bonito is the best camping spot for people visiting the Austin area. Rio Bonito has the best primitive campsites for those who want to go camping around the Austin area!
Bonus tip: Check out this video for things to do around Austin, TX!
Outdoor Blog
Gear You Should Snag for the Great Outdoors This Season
Outdoor enthusiasts know that having the right gear can make all the difference. Whether you’re hiking, camping, hunting, or engaging in any other outdoor activity, quality equipment ensures not only safety but also a better overall experience. As we head into a new season, it’s time to refresh your gear collection with essential items that will enhance your adventures. In this article, we’ll explore five pieces of must-have outdoor gear, focusing on both practicality and comfort.
Shooting Glasses Are Essential for Outdoor Adventures
If you’re heading out for a shooting range session or a hunting trip, investing in a quality pair of shooting glasses is non-negotiable. Eye protection is critical when engaging in any activity involving firearms, and shooting glasses are designed to keep your eyes safe from potential hazards like debris, shell casings, and even harmful UV rays.
Shooting glasses are a key safety measure that helps shield your eyes from impact and glare. The lenses are typically made from high-impact resistant materials that can endure tough conditions, making them a must-have for hunters, target shooters, and outdoor enthusiasts alike. Beyond safety, these glasses often come with polarized lenses to improve visibility in various lighting conditions. By incorporating shooting glasses into your outdoor gear, you’re ensuring not only better safety but also improved performance during your time in the wilderness.
What Should You Look For During Black Friday Hunting Gear Deals?
One of the best times to stock up on essential outdoor gear is during Black Friday. Black Friday hunting gear deals provide an opportunity for hunters to snag high-quality items at significantly reduced prices. Whether you’re after apparel, backpacks, or specialized equipment, Black Friday sales often feature steep discounts on top brands that every outdoor enthusiast should take advantage of.
This sale season is ideal for upgrading your hunting wardrobe and stocking up on essential gear that may normally be out of your price range. From weather-resistant jackets to durable boots and base layers, hunting gear can be pricey, and Black Friday is the perfect time to invest in the best equipment. By keeping an eye out for deals during this shopping period, you can save money while ensuring you’re well-prepared for your next big adventure.
Multi-Tools Are a Must-Have
Want to know the most versatile pieces of gear you can carry? It is a multi-tool. Whether you’re camping, hiking, or hunting, having a tool that can serve multiple functions is a game-changer. Multi-tools come equipped with a variety of features such as knives, screwdrivers, pliers, and scissors, all compactly housed in a single device that easily fits in your pocket or pack.
The practicality of a multi-tool is hard to beat. It allows you to tackle unexpected tasks, from cutting rope to repairing gear, all without needing to carry a full toolbox. When you’re out in the wild, you want to be prepared for anything, and a multi-tool ensures you’re ready to handle small emergencies or make quick fixes with ease.
Insulated Water Bottles Can Improve Your Outdoor Experience
Staying hydrated is one of the most important aspects of any outdoor activity. Whether you’re embarking on a long hike or spending hours in a hunting blind, having an insulated water bottle can make a difference. Insulated bottles have features that help to keep your drinks at the desired temperature for a long time, which is especially useful during extreme weather conditions.
These bottles maintain the temperature of your beverage—whether cold or hot—so you can enjoy refreshing water in the summer or a warm drink during chilly morning hunts. Insulated water bottles are also typically made from durable materials, meaning they can withstand the rigors of outdoor use without breaking or leaking. Investing in a high-quality insulated bottle ensures that you stay hydrated and comfortable throughout your outdoor excursions.
Durable Backpacks Can Enhance Your Outdoor Experience
A good backpack is the cornerstone of any successful outdoor trip. When you’re out in nature, you need a reliable, durable pack to carry all of your gear comfortably. Look for backpacks that are built to withstand harsh conditions, provide ample storage, and have ergonomic designs that distribute weight evenly to prevent strain on your back and shoulders.
Modern outdoor backpacks come equipped with multiple compartments to help you stay organized, as well as specialized features like hydration bladder compatibility, rain covers, and reinforced straps. By investing in a durable, well-designed backpack, you’ll have the capacity to carry everything you need—whether it’s extra clothing, food, or hunting gear—while maintaining comfort during long treks.
Outdoor Blog
Are You Ready for Autumn Adventures? How to Prep for an Unforgettable Outdoor Fall Guys Trip
As autumn rolls in, the great outdoors beckons with its crisp air and colorful foliage. For those gearing up for an adventurous Fall Guys trip—think hiking, camping, and maybe some deer hunting—the preparation is half the fun and all the necessity. With a myriad of activities to choose from, how do you ensure your fall excursion is not only exhilarating but also safe and comfortable? Here’s a step-by-step guide to making the most of your outdoor escapades this fall.
Choosing Your Adventure
First things first: deciding what type of fall outdoor activity tickles your fancy. Are you looking to conquer trails with breathtaking autumn views, or are you gearing up for a weekend of tranquil camping beside a glistening lake? Perhaps, the thrill of tracking and observing wildlife is what you’re after.
Each activity demands a different approach and preparation method. Start by defining what your fall guys trip looks like. Is it a quiet escape into the wilderness, a challenging hike, or a dedicated hunting expedition? Once you’ve nailed down the type of trip, you can start tailoring your prep list to match the demands of the activities you’ve chosen.
Plan a Camping Trip
If camping is on your agenda, meticulous planning is essential to enjoy both the spontaneity and serenity of nature without a hitch. When you plan a camping trip, think beyond just a tent and a sleeping bag. Consider the overall length of your trip, the climate of your chosen destination, and the size of your group. Are you venturing into bear country? If so, bear-proof containers for your food and trash are a must.
What’s the weather forecast? Ensure your gear is appropriate for colder nights and unpredictable weather patterns. A well-planned camping experience means securing the right campsite, bringing sufficient food and water supplies, and ensuring you have the necessary permits. Also, be aware of the leave-no-trace principles to keep your environmental impact to a minimum. Planning with precision ensures you’re free to relax and revel in the beauty of the season without unnecessary interruptions.
Gear Up for Deer Hunting
For many outdoor enthusiasts, fall is synonymous with deer hunting season. If this is the core of your guys trip, gearing up appropriately cannot be overstressed. Your deer hunting gear is your ticket to not only success but also safety. Start with the basics: a reliable hunting rifle or bow, suitable ammunition, and a quality scope or binoculars for spotting your target.
Clothing is next on the list; opt for layers that can easily adjust to changing temperatures and are also camouflaged to blend in with the fall environment. Don’t skimp on a good pair of boots—comfort, warmth, and durability are key when you’re on the move. Also, essential gear like a hunting license, deer tags, a first-aid kit, and even a GPS or compass should be non-negotiable items in your pack. Remember, the right gear not only enhances your chances of a fruitful hunt but ensures you can do so safely and responsibly within the ecological balance.
Map Your Route
Mapping your route is crucial whether you’re hiking, camping, or hunting. This involves more than just selecting a trail or a campsite; it means understanding the terrain, noting water sources, identifying potential shelter spots, and being aware of exit points in case of emergencies. Topographic maps, GPS devices, and even mobile apps can be incredibly useful tools for this.
Spend time familiarizing yourself with the area through these resources, and always carry a physical map and compass—you never know when technology might let you down. It’s also a good idea to inform someone about where you plan to go and expected return time is a safety must. Properly mapping your route not only helps in avoiding getting lost but also maximizes your interaction with nature, letting you find those hidden spots that make a trip memorable.
Prepare Physically and Mentally
The physical demands of outdoor activities, especially in the unpredictable weather of fall, should not be underestimated. Start conditioning your body weeks in advance, particularly if your trip involves strenuous activities like long hikes or hunting. Cardiovascular exercises, strength training, and hikes with a loaded backpack can prepare your body for the exertion to come.
Equally important is mental preparation. Familiarize yourself with survival skills, such as how to start a fire, basic first aid, and how to stay calm in unexpected situations. A physically and mentally prepared adventurer is more likely to enjoy the trip and handle potential challenges effectively.
Pack Smart
The final step in preparing for your outdoor trip this fall is packing. Since fall weather can be highly variable, layering is key. Include a moisture-wicking base layer, an insulating middle layer, and a waterproof outer layer. Besides clothing, pack essential gear tailored to your activities—this could include a sleeping bag rated for colder temperatures, waterproof bags to keep gear dry, cooking equipment, food supplies, and safety items like a whistle, flashlight, and multi-tool. Be mindful of the weight and volume of your pack; every item should justify its place in your backpack by being essential or serving multiple purposes.
Outdoor Blog
BougeRV Showcases Sustainable Innovations at Outdoor Retailer Summer Market 2024
BougeRV is thrilled to participate in the Outdoor Retailer Summer Market 2024, scheduled from June 17-19 at the Salt Palace Convention Center in Salt Lake City, Utah. As North America’s premier outdoor industry trade show, the event is a convergence of top brands, retailers, and industry professionals showcasing the latest in outdoor gear and innovations. BougeRV’s participation is a perfect example of their commitment to sustainability and eco-friendly outdoor living solutions.
At the head of BougeRV’s exhibit is the Rocky Portable Fridge, a robust and versatile cooling solution designed to meet the demands of outdoor enthusiasts. This innovative fridge features dual-zone capability, allowing it to function simultaneously as a refrigerator and a freezer. Built with heavy-duty materials, the Rocky Portable Fridge is designed to withstand the rigors of outdoor use, including shockproof capabilities up to 40°. The fridge’s efficient energy consumption, coupled with a battery protection system, makes it perfect for off-grid adventures, aligning perfectly with the sustainable ethos of the Outdoor Retailer Summer Market.
The Rocky Portable Fridge also shows off an impressive temperature range from -4°F to 68°F, allowing for precise temperature control. Its smart storage solutions, including a removable divider and basket, ensure that items remain organized and easily accessible. The fridge can be powered by a 12V/24V DC car port, a 100-240V AC wall outlet, or an optional portable power station, providing unparalleled versatility. This adaptability is crucial for modern adventurers who require reliable and efficient cooling solutions on the go.
In addition to the Rocky Portable Fridge, BougeRV is showing several other cutting-edge products designed to enhance outdoor experiences. The CRPRO 30, a compact and high-performance fridge, is perfect for campers and RV enthusiasts. Its advanced cooling technology and robust build make it a reliable companion for any journey. Similarly, the 4000BTU Portable Air Conditioner is tailored for overlanding and camping, offering powerful cooling with user-friendly features such as dual adjustable air outlets and an IPX4 water-resistant design. These products are expected to attract overlanding enthusiasts eager to explore the latest innovations in outdoor living.
BougeRV’s participation in the Outdoor Retailer Summer Market is really and truly about connecting with other industry leaders, exploring emerging trends, and demonstrating their commitment to sustainable and eco-friendly practices. By attending this prestigious and engaging event, BougeRV aims to highlight their dedication to providing high-quality products that cater to the needs of modern outdoor enthusiasts.
For more details about BougeRV and their innovative products, visit the BougeRV website. BougeRV’s involvement in the Outdoor Retailer Summer Market 2024 highlights their dedication to sustainability, innovation, and customer satisfaction, positioning them as a leading brand in the outdoor industry ready to make a significant impact at this breakout event.
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