Alternative Camping Styles

This is the year. The year you’ve decided to go camping for the first time. We know you’ve been putting it off because the thought of pitching a tent sounds daunting. We get it. Tent camping may be the traditional go-to, but LCRA Parks offers so much more for those looking to experience nature in new and exciting ways. This season, think beyond the tent, and check out three fresh ways to stay and play in Texas. 

Prefer to keep things simple but still enjoy the freedom of the open road? Then overland camping might be right up your alley. It’s a form of self-sufficient travel where you explore the outdoors using a vehicle equipped for the journey and carrying all necessary supplies. Typically characterized by longer trips and remote destinations, overlanding at LCRA Parks lets you roll in and set up at one of our classic campsites, rather than an unmarked area in the park. We have plenty of campsites to choose from on the south side of Lake Travis at Grelle Recreation Area, or on the north side at Turkey Bend Recreation Area. Turn your vehicle into your basecamp without wrestling with tent poles on the ground.

If you need a bit more convincing with some added amenities, then let’s look at a permanent structure to sleep in instead. On the scenic shores of Lake Buchanan, our deluxe cabins at Black Rock Park offer a cozy, climate-controlled option. With 18 colorful cabins to choose from and patios for entertaining the family, these cabins are a great choice for group campouts. Since guests use communal restrooms and showers, you can certainly consider this camping - just with much-needed heat and A/C for that crazy Texas weather. 

Alright, alright, alright. If you think the two previous options are still “roughing it,” then glamping must be more your style. Check out our latest accommodations at Lake Bastrop South Shore Park. We teamed up with ÖÖD House to offer our visitors The Bloom and The Hideaway – two luxury mirror houses tucked in the Lost Pines. These sleek, modern escapes reflect the forest around them and offer high-end amenities with a minimalist aesthetic. Think comfy beds, relaxing rain showers and peaceful outdoor hot tubs – yes, please. 

Tent camping will always have its place in the outdoors, but at LCRA Parks, it’s just the beginning. Come camp, glamp or simply get outside to see the starry skies at night.