Guadalupe River State Park offers several pet-friendly camping areas near Kendalia, Texas. Located in the Texas Hill Country at roughly 1,200 feet elevation, the park features limestone terrain and seasonal temperature fluctuations between 40°F in winter and 95°F in summer. River levels vary significantly depending on recent rainfall, with summer months often showing lower water levels.
What to do
Hiking the Bald Cypress Trail: This trail follows the Guadalupe River with access points for fishing spots. "One of the first camping trips I had with my son was Guadalupe River State Park. We tent camped and had one of the primitive sites. We had so much fun swimming in the river and hiking. The bluffs above the river are gorgeous. Mid November and swimming was still fun," notes Patrick H. about Guadalupe River RV Park and Campgrounds.
Kayaking and tubing: The river provides opportunities for water recreation during higher water levels. "There is no better late spring to early summer activity than getting good float down one of the rivers of Texas. While there are plenty of put in spots, many do not have access to a campground which offers as many options as the Guadalupe River State Park," shares Crystal C.
Bird watching: Early mornings near Potters Creek Park provide good wildlife viewing opportunities. "We had a ton of fun and the weather was perfect to sleep under the trees. Highly recommend. Make sure you get there early because it gets busy quickly," advises Matt M.
What campers like
River access: The clear water of the Guadalupe makes it a favorite spot. "It's the best, right by the river and completely private, the land is huge so there's plenty of space between campers. The water is so clear it beautiful, shallow areas to hang out but also has deep areas to fish and float," says Justine A. about Cedar Sage Camping Area.
Spacious, private sites: The camping areas offer good separation between neighbors. "Very nice multi use campsites with tent pads and picnic tables and large flat parking pads. Sites were spaced apart and felt very private," describes Mark G. at Turkey Sink Camping Area.
Wildlife viewing: The parks near Kendalia offer opportunities to see native animals. "Beware of the animal activity, specially at night. Armadillos and raccoons are everywhere and they get a little bit noisy at night," warns Ruben J., while at Wagon Ford, Alexandra notes, "I highly encourage you to take a walk during the night down to the river, it was like a light show of lightning bugs."
What you should know
Summer conditions: The Texas heat affects river conditions. "The river can be a source of a lot of fun and also traffic. Being open for day use as well as for those staying at the park, the area provides a cool retreat to dive into the cool waters of the Guadalupe River," explains Crystal C.
Reservation requirements: Popular campgrounds fill quickly, especially weekends. "Book In Advance! This park is very popular and quickly fills up on weekend, if you are planning a trip make sure you book well in advance to ensure you will have a site," advises Crystal C.
Cell service: Connectivity varies by provider. "Even the ones that say they have Wi-Fi have extremely poor Wi-Fi like not having it at all. But if you have T-Mobile you should know that this campground has 5G. And 4G in certain areas. I was able to use the internet text message and make and receive calls," reports Red S. about Guadalupe River State Park.
Tips for camping with families
Ranger programs: Educational opportunities exist for children. "We worked with the park Ranger program and my son was awarded a Ranger Badge," shares Patrick H. about his experience at Guadalupe River State Park.
Kid-friendly swimming areas: Look for shallow sections of river. "Car camping spots are great. You only have to walk 50-100ft and there are a few options that all offer plenty of space," notes Ronnie M., adding that "the river is the main attraction here!"
Wildlife education: Turn nocturnal visitors into learning opportunities at Blanco State Park Campground. "Great swimming. Shaded campsites. Walking distance into Blanco. On future visits I would choose campsites on the #20 side of the campground for less traffic noise," advises Mylie A.
Tips from RVers
Hookup locations: At most dog friendly campgrounds near Kendalia, utility connections are positioned strategically. "In the improved camping loops, sites came standard with electricity and water connections, with posts being positioned at the front of the site. You would need to provide your own hose or cord to source this toward the rear of the site if desired," notes Crystal C.
Weather considerations: Rainfall affects access to certain areas. "Check the Weather! The river's flow is directly affected by the amount of rainfall. If you are planning a trip pull up the weather to make sure it will not make for unsafe conditions," Crystal C. recommends for Pedernales Falls State Park, which is about 30 miles from Kendalia.
Site selection for shade: Choose sites based on tree coverage during hot months. "The upper loop also has trees which really helped with the August heat," shares Sheila C. about her stay at Potters Creek Park.
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