If you are planning a spring break vacation on a budget, this guide can help. Here are…
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Spring is the perfect time of year to explore one of the most amazing states in the country: Texas. The Lone Star State has something to offer every member of the family. No matter your age, you’ll discover there are tons of amazing activities right in our home state.
One particularly popular Texas activity? Camping at state parks.
But what makes camping in a Texas state park such a special experience? You’ve come to the right place to find out.
We took a look at why so many Texans love camping in Texas state parks, and some of the best state parks near San Antonio for camping (or glamping, whichever is more your style).
State parks are more private than national parks
Let’s start by discussing the importance of privacy during your Texas spring break vacation. After all, it’s important to maximize the amount of solitude you get to fully appreciate being in nature during your camping experience.
Keep in mind that state parks typically don’t get as much traffic as national parks. This means there’s a greater possibility of finding a campsite that provides plenty of privacy for you and your family, even during the most popular travel times of the year.
It’s easier to score a campsite at a state park
Speaking of less traffic, booking a good campsite at a state park is easier than at a national park. Why? Well, a lot of people tend to automatically think “national park” when planning a spring break vacation in Texas. This means national parks are almost always super crowded.
If you want to improve the odds of reserving a great campsite during peak travel times in parks around San Antonio, being open to booking a campsite in a state park can make a big difference.
There are more state parks than national parks in Texas
One of the biggest benefits of choosing a Texas state park, especially when you have a limited trip budget, is the availability of state parks compared to national parks. There are far more state parks than national parks in Texas, so the odds of you being close to a state park are far higher than they would be with a national park.
Texas boasts 89 state parks and only 2 officially designated national parks. This means there will probably be plenty of state parks located near you. This way, you can spend less on gas and more on fun.
State parks charge low entry/camping fees
The average entrance fee for state parks is lower than that of the average national park.
For example, the entrance fee for vehicles at Bastrop State Park is $5, whereas the entrance fee for vehicles at Big Bend National Park is $30. This price difference can obviously add up when you plan to spend multiple days camping in the same park.
Keep in mind that every state park is different and each has its own set of fees. The price will also depend on the number of people in your party and how you intend to camp.
Dogs are usually permitted
Do you love to travel with your dogs? If so, join the club. There’s nothing better than enjoying state park attractions with your favorite four-legged friends.
Fortunately, most Texas state parks are very accommodating to travelers with pets, making it easy for everyone in your family to enjoy your camping experience.