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
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.
Outdoor Blog
The Evolution of Outdoor Apparel: How Fashion Meets Functionality in the Wilderness
The wilderness beckons with the promise of adventure, but any seasoned hunter knows that what you wear can make or break your experience. Gone are the days when outdoor apparel was purely utilitarian. Today, fashion and functionality blend seamlessly to create gear that’s not only practical but also stylish. From the latest camouflage patterns to weather-resistant fabrics, let’s explore the evolution of outdoor apparel and how it’s revolutionizing the way we approach the great outdoors.
Camouflage: The Stylish Science of Stealth
Camouflage has come a long way from the simple green and brown patterns of yesteryear. Modern camouflage designs are now a blend of advanced science and cutting-edge style. These patterns aren’t just about blending into the background; they’re about creating an optical illusion that makes the wearer nearly invisible to wildlife.
Contemporary camo gear incorporates a variety of colors and textures to match different environments, from dense forests to arid deserts. This evolution in design is as much about aesthetics as it is about effectiveness, allowing hunters to move through their chosen terrain with confidence and stealth.
The shift towards more sophisticated camouflage patterns also reflects a broader trend in outdoor apparel: the desire for gear that looks good and performs even better. Hunters today want apparel that makes a statement while still providing the ultimate in concealment. Whether it’s a jacket with a sleek, modern design or pants that offer the perfect balance of comfort and camouflage, today’s outdoor apparel combines fashion and function like never before.
Layering: The Key to Comfort and Style
Layering is a critical concept in outdoor apparel, offering both practical and aesthetic benefits. Modern layering systems are designed to regulate body temperature and provide protection from the elements. However, they also offer a chance to showcase personal style. Successful layering starts with choosing pieces that work well together both functionally and visually.
Base layers, for instance, have evolved from simple thermal wear to stylish garments that can be worn on their own or as part of a layered ensemble. These pieces are often made from advanced fabrics that provide warmth without bulk, ensuring that hunters can stay comfortable and mobile. Mid-layers add another dimension of style and functionality, offering insulation while allowing for breathability. Softshell jackets and vests come in many different colors and designs, making it easy to find pieces that suit individual tastes.
Layering can also help you catch different kinds of animals. For instance, when you’re looking for turkey hunting tips, it’s important to look at the best kinds of layering to stay incognito and catch the best birds. Choosing the right layers can make a significant difference in staying comfortable and concealed during long hours in the field.
Footwear: From Trail to Trendsetter
Footwear is another area where outdoor apparel has seen significant evolution. In the past, hunting boots were purely functional, but, today, they still offer these essential qualities but have also become a fashion statement. Modern hunting boots come in a variety of styles, from traditional leather to contemporary synthetic materials, and are available in a range of colors and designs.
The advancements in footwear technology have been remarkable. Today’s hunting boots are designed to be lightweight yet durable, with features like waterproof membranes, breathable linings, and advanced traction systems. These innovations ensure that hunters can move comfortably and safely through any environment. But it’s not just about functionality; the aesthetic appeal of modern hunting boots is undeniable. Many boots are designed with sleek, stylish lines that make them suitable for wearing both in the field and in more casual settings.
High-Performance Gear: Pushing the Boundaries of Innovation
When it comes to hunting, high-performance gear is a game-changer. This is the section where outdoor apparel truly shines, combining cutting-edge technology with sleek design to create products that offer unmatched performance. Performance hunting gear includes everything from moisture-wicking base layers to high-tech outerwear designed to withstand the harshest conditions.
Today’s high-performance apparel utilizes advanced materials that are both lightweight and durable. Fabrics like Gore-Tex and other proprietary blends offer superior protection against wind and water while maintaining breathability. These materials help regulate body temperature, keeping hunters comfortable in a wide range of environments. In addition to these practical benefits, high-performance gear often features ergonomic designs that allow for a full range of motion, ensuring that hunters can move freely and easily.
Sustainable Fashion: Eco-Friendly Choices for the Modern Hunter
Sustainability has become an increasingly important consideration in the world of outdoor apparel. Hunters who are passionate about preserving the wilderness they love to explore are now seeking out eco-friendly clothing options that minimize environmental impact. Eco-friendly outdoor apparel is made from sustainable materials such as recycled polyester, organic cotton, and biodegradable fibers. These materials offer the same performance benefits as traditional fabrics but with a lower environmental footprint.
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