Austin, Texas, is known for its vibrant culture, music scene, and outdoor lifestyle. It’s also an excellent destination for pet lovers looking to enjoy the outdoors with their furry companions. Whether planning a weekend getaway or a more extended camping trip, Austin has plenty of pet-friendly camping spots that welcome dogs and other pets. From lakeside retreats to forested campsites, these locations offer the perfect mix of nature and comfort, ensuring you and your pet can relax and explore. Here are some of the best pet-friendly camping spots in Austin.
McKinney Falls State Park
Located just a short drive from downtown Austin, McKinney Falls State Park is ideal for pet owners. This park offers over 80 campsites, many of which are pet-friendly. Your dog can accompany you as you hike along the scenic trails or splash in Onion Creek, which flows through the park. There are multiple pet-friendly areas, and dogs are welcome on the trails if they are on a leash. This makes it a great place for pets to exercise and explore the outdoors with their owners.
The park is well-maintained and provides various amenities, including picnic tables, restrooms, and access to water. There’s even a dog-friendly area where you can take a break and enjoy the natural surroundings with your furry friend. If you plan to camp overnight, reservations are recommended, especially during peak seasons, as this park is quite popular.
Pace Bend Park
Pace Bend Park on Lake Travis is an excellent choice for those looking for a lakeside retreat with their pet. Known for its breathtaking views and numerous hiking opportunities, Pace Bend Park allows pets to enjoy the outdoors alongside their owners. Dogs are welcome in all camping areas and on most of the trails, but they must always remain on a leash.
Pace Bend Park offers tent and RV camping, making it suitable for all campers. The park has plenty of space for dogs to explore, and the lakeside setting provides the perfect environment for you and your pet to relax and enjoy the area’s natural beauty. Whether you prefer to hike the rugged trails, swim in the lake, or simply sit by the water, Pace Bend is a fantastic destination for pet-friendly camping.
Lady Bird Lake Hike and Bike Trail
The Lady Bird Lake Hike and Bike Trail offers a unique urban camping experience for those who want to camp near the heart of Austin. While camping directly at the lake is not allowed, several pet-friendly campgrounds and RV parks are nearby, where you can stay while enjoying the lake’s proximity. This scenic 10-mile trail around the lake is perfect for dog walks, and the park areas around the lake provide ample space for pets to run and play.
Though you’ll be camping outside the bustling city, Lady Bird Lake offers easy access to downtown Austin’s attractions, including dog-friendly restaurants and parks. It’s an excellent spot for pet owners who want the convenience of urban amenities combined with outdoor activities.
Longhorn Cavern State Park
For a unique and pet-friendly camping experience, Longhorn Cavern State Park is an excellent option. Just a short drive from Austin, this park offers pet-friendly campsites perfect for adventurous dog owners. Longhorn Cavern is known for its stunning natural features, and while pets aren’t allowed inside the cavern itself, there are plenty of outdoor areas to explore.
The park offers hiking trails, picnicking spots, and ample space for dogs to roam. You and your pet can explore the rugged terrain, and with plenty of shade and open spaces, you’ll enjoy the cool breeze and natural beauty. Longhorn Cavern is an excellent destination for outdoor adventure with pet-friendly camping.
Emma Long Metropolitan Park
Located on the shores of Lake Austin, Emma Long Metropolitan Park is one of Austin’s most popular spots for pet-friendly camping. The park has several campsites where pets are welcome, and it offers beautiful views of the lake and surrounding hills. The park is large and provides a variety of activities, including hiking, biking, and fishing.
Dogs are welcome on the park’s trails but must always be kept on a leash. Emma Long Metropolitan Park is an excellent choice for those who want to experience both the beauty of the Texas Hill Country and the convenience of being near the city. It’s also a great place to bring your pet for a swim in Lake Austin, where dogs can enjoy the water just like their owners.
Benbrook Ranch RV Park
Benbrook Ranch RV Park is an excellent choice if you’re looking for a pet-friendly RV park with easy access to Austin. Situated just outside the city, this park offers pet-friendly accommodations with plenty of space for your furry friend to play. The park has walking trails and a dog park where pets can socialize and burn off energy.
The park provides all the amenities you need for a comfortable stay, including full hookups, showers, and a laundromat. It’s an excellent option for those traveling in an RV with pets, combining comfort with outdoor adventure. The proximity to Austin allows you to enjoy the city’s attractions while having a peaceful camping experience on the outskirts.
Barton Creek Greenbelt
The Barton Creek Greenbelt is a beloved outdoor escape right in the heart of Austin. While camping is not allowed directly within the Greenbelt, several pet-friendly campsites are nearby. This area offers over 12 miles of trails that wind through forests, creeks, and cliffs, making it a favorite spot for pet owners who enjoy hiking with their dogs.
The Greenbelt is one of Austin’s most popular outdoor destinations, and it’s easy to see why. With plenty of dog-friendly areas and easy access to downtown Austin, it’s ideal for those looking to enjoy nature and city life. The creek and surrounding trails offer a perfect setting for an outdoor adventure with your pet.
Austin is a city that embraces its love for pets, and its surrounding campgrounds and parks make it an ideal destination for pet owners. Whether you are looking for a peaceful lakeside retreat or a rugged wilderness adventure, there are numerous pet-friendly camping spots to explore. From McKinney Falls State Park to Emma Long Metropolitan Park, Austin offers a range of options catering to you and your pet. Pack up your camping gear, leash your dog, and head to one of these fantastic spots for a memorable outdoor experience with your furry friend.