I recently went camping in Waco.
Waco is a small city in Texas, known for its rich history and beautiful scenery. As someone who loves spending time outdoors, I was excited to explore the natural beauty of this city. During my camping trip in Waco, I was amazed by the diversity of wildlife that surrounded me, squirrels, deer, and birds. The total cost was $30 per night plus $16 for 2 bundles of firewood.
I had been cooped up in my office for far too long, and the walls seemed to be inching closer with each passing day. Nature was calling, and I was more than ready to answer.
I packed my gear into the back of my SUV, making sure to include my trusty tent, which boasted a 6-person capacity with a peak height of 72 inches—ample space for me to stand up straight and stretch after a good night’s sleep. I didn’t forget my sleeping bag, rated for 20-degree weather, ensuring I’d stay toasty even if the night air turned chilly by the water.
The drive to Lake Waco was a balm in itself. Rolling down the windows, I let the fresh air wash over me, carrying away the stress of my workweek. Upon arriving, I found a picturesque spot to set up camp, nestled among the trees with a perfect view of the lake’s glimmering surface. The campsite was spacious, with a fire ring at its center, where I envisioned a crackling fire to come alive under the stars.
As I pitched my tent, the sounds of the wilderness enveloped me—the distant call of a bird, the gentle rustling of leaves in the breeze, and the soft lapping of water against the shore. The tent went up without a hitch, its forest green fabric blending into the surrounding foliage, almost as if it was meant to be there.
With my temporary home secured, I set out to explore the area. Lake Waco’s waters were a clear, deep blue, reflecting the vast Texas sky above. I took my kayak, a sleek vessel measuring about 10 feet in length, and set off across the lake. The rhythm of the paddle through the water was meditative, each stroke propelling me further into a state of peace.
As the day waned, I returned to my campsite and prepared a simple meal over the fire. The crackle and pop of the flames were the perfect soundtrack to my solitary dinner. I watched as the sun dipped below the horizon, painting the sky in shades of orange and pink that I had only seen in paintings.
Night fell, and the stars emerged, a dazzling display that city lights often obscured.
I’ve found that Waco, Texas, is home to several scenic campgrounds perfect for those looking to explore the outdoors. Whether you’re interested in lakeside spots or places with ample shade and amenities, Waco’s got you covered.
Airport Park
Airport Park is a gem on the shores of Lake Waco. It’s well-loved for its spacious sites and I appreciate that it comes with full hookups for RVs. The park is also tidy, making it a top choice for families who need both convenience and comfort.
Lake Waco Campgrounds
At Lake Waco Campgrounds, I get to camp right by the water, which is perfect for fishing or a sunset canoe trip. Most sites have electricity and water, which is a big plus for me when I want a bit of comfort in the wild.
As I explored the Lake Waco Campgrounds, I was impressed by the variety of camping options available. From tent camping to RV sites, there’s something for everyone at this scenic location.
The campgrounds offer a total of 102 campsites, including 68 RV sites with full hookups and 34 tent sites with water and electric. The RV sites can accommodate rigs up to 50 feet in length, making it a great spot for larger RVs.
One of the highlights of the Lake Waco Campgrounds is the beautiful lake views. Many of the campsites are located right on the water, providing a serene and picturesque setting for your camping trip. I found it was not that crowded during the midweek, with about half the spots empty. I paid $35 per night.
Midway Park
Midway Park impresses me with its medium-sized campground, ideal for those who enjoy a quieter setting. The campsites there are neatly maintained with standard facilities, including picnic tables and fire rings. Plus, you can expect beautiful sunrise views over the lake.
Speegleville Park
Speegleville Park offers a serene atmosphere where I find the mix of open and wooded areas quite appealing. It’s also equipped with boat ramps, which I consider a bonus for water enthusiasts looking to spend their day out on the lake.
More a short drive away
There are several great camping spots within a two-hour drive from Waco, Texas, offering a variety of landscapes from lakeside views to wooded retreats. Here’s a list of some places you might consider for your next camping adventure:
- Lake Whitney State Park – Located about an hour north of Waco, Lake Whitney State Park offers camping, hiking, fishing, and boating activities. The park features campsites with water and electric hookups, as well as primitive sites for those seeking a more rustic experience.
- Mother Neff State Park – Approximately 40 minutes south of Waco, Mother Neff State Park is one of Texas’ first state parks and offers a peaceful camping environment. You can enjoy hiking trails, picnicking, and a rich history while camping at one of their sites with water and electricity.
- Meridian State Park – Situated around 1.5 hours northwest of Waco, this park offers a scenic escape with a 72-acre lake at its center. Campsites include options with full hookups, as well as primitive sites.
- Cleburne State Park – Just under a 1.5-hour drive from Waco, Cleburne State Park surrounds a spring-fed lake and features over 5.5 miles of mountain biking trails. The park offers a variety of camping options, including sites with full hookups.
- Dinosaur Valley State Park – About a 1.5-hour drive from Waco, this park is not only a great place to camp but also to see dinosaur footprints in the riverbed. The park provides sites with water and electric hookups, as well as primitive sites.
- Colorado Bend State Park – Located approximately 2 hours southwest of Waco, this park is a bit of a longer drive but is well worth it for the stunning scenery and outdoor activities, including a remarkable cave tour and the beautiful Gorman Falls. The park offers both drive-up sites and walk-in primitive sites.
- Fairfield Lake State Park – Around 1.5 hours northeast of Waco, Fairfield Lake State Park offers camping, fishing, and trails for hiking and biking. The park has a variety of campsites, including ones with full hookups.
- Possum Kingdom State Park – Just within the two-hour drive limit from Waco, Possum Kingdom State Park is located to the northwest and is known for its clear blue waters and dramatic cliffs. It offers sites with water and electric hookups.