Exploring the Lone Star State in an RV doesn’t have to break the bank. Texas offers a wide variety of affordable campgrounds that cater to travelers seeking budget-friendly experiences without sacrificing comfort, scenery, or accessibility. From desert vistas and piney woods to beachside retreats, the diversity of locations is part of what makes RV life in Texas so enjoyable.
I’ve spent countless nights across this expansive state, discovering tucked-away campgrounds where the nightly fee is low, but the views and experiences are priceless. Whether you’re chasing sunsets in West Texas or looking to fish in East Texas lakes, this guide highlights some of the best budget-friendly RV campsites in Texas that deliver more than expected.
Lake Somerville State Park – Birch Creek Unit
Situated in Central Texas between Austin and College Station, Lake Somerville State Park is a hidden gem for RV travelers. The Birch Creek Unit is one of the most popular sections, offering full hookup sites for an affordable nightly rate. The park itself is surrounded by peaceful forests, gentle hills, and a large lake perfect for boating and fishing.
What I love about this spot is the peacefulness. The campsites are spaced far enough apart to provide privacy, yet close enough to hiking trails and water access. It’s an ideal place to spend a long weekend or even an extended stay if you’re looking for tranquility on a budget.
For a state park, the amenities are impressive. You get access to clean restrooms, hiking and biking trails, a boat ramp, and even birdwatching platforms. It’s one of the most scenic and budget-friendly RV campsites in Texas and well worth the detour.
Padre Island National Seashore – Malaquite Campground
Camping by the ocean for less than a fast food meal? That’s exactly what you get at Malaquite Campground, located on the remote and beautiful Padre Island National Seashore. This beachfront site operates on a first-come, first-served basis and allows dry camping just steps from the waves.
I’ve parked here and woken up to the sound of surf and seagulls, and it’s hard to imagine a more rewarding experience for such a low cost. While the sites don’t offer hookups, the peace and simplicity of oceanfront RV life make up for it.
This is one of the best options for travelers who can go without hookups for a few days and are craving that coastal vibe. It’s no surprise that it ranks among the most memorable and budget-friendly RV campsites in Texas for adventurous spirits.
Blanco State Park – Blanco
Located in the heart of the Hill Country, Blanco State Park offers an excellent combination of affordability, nature, and small-town charm. It’s just an hour from Austin or San Antonio, making it perfect for weekend getaways or midweek escapes. Full hookup sites are available at a reasonable rate, and the Blanco River runs right through the park.
The river is great for swimming, tubing, and even light kayaking. I’ve spent warm afternoons floating lazily down the stream and evenings around a campfire enjoying the breeze. It’s quiet without being isolated, and the nearby town of Blanco offers groceries, local eats, and even a historic courthouse to explore.
Blanco State Park makes this list of budget-friendly RV campsites in Texas because it offers convenience and beauty at a fraction of what many resort-style parks charge.
Goose Island State Park – Rockport
Goose Island State Park is a favorite for both anglers and RVers looking for waterfront views at affordable prices. Located near the town of Rockport along the Gulf Coast, this park has a mix of wooded and waterfront RV sites. Many offer electric and water hookups, and the cost per night is impressively low for the setting.
What stood out to me here was the fishing pier. Whether you’re casting a line at dawn or watching the sun set over the bay, the views are spectacular. The nearby “Big Tree,” one of the largest live oaks in the nation, adds a historical and natural wonder to the experience.
This location is one of the best budget-friendly RV campsites in Texas for travelers who want to be near water and nature while still having quick access to seafood restaurants and coastal attractions.
Davis Mountains State Park – Fort Davis
If you’re heading out west, Davis Mountains State Park near Fort Davis is an oasis of pine-covered hills and star-filled skies. The elevation makes for cooler temperatures than much of the state, and the RV sites offer electric and water hookups at very reasonable rates.
The town of Fort Davis has old Western charm, and the nearby McDonald Observatory is a must-visit for anyone interested in astronomy. Night sky programs are often free or low-cost and provide unforgettable stargazing.
This park is perfect if you want to combine scenic drives, high-desert landscapes, and quiet surroundings. It absolutely belongs on the list of budget-friendly RV campsites in Texas, especially for those who appreciate dramatic scenery without the usual campground crowds.
Huntsville State Park – Huntsville
Set within the pine forests of East Texas, Huntsville State Park is a lush and relaxing escape not far from Houston. Full hookup RV sites are surrounded by towering trees and offer immediate access to hiking trails and Lake Raven, a popular spot for kayaking and fishing.
I’ve stayed here more than once during spring and fall. The changing foliage, wildlife sightings, and calm lake create a refreshing retreat. It’s close enough to town for supplies but feels worlds away once you’re inside the park.
It’s a perfect example of how budget-friendly RV campsites in Texas can provide more value than even some luxury RV resorts. The combination of nature, affordability, and convenience makes it a top pick for travelers year-round.
Caddo Lake State Park – Karnack
Tucked into the far northeast corner of Texas, Caddo Lake State Park offers something completely different: moss-draped cypress trees, mysterious bayous, and a hauntingly beautiful lake. RV sites come with water and electric hookups at prices that are very friendly to budget-conscious travelers.
Gliding through the bayou in a canoe or kayak is a surreal experience. Wildlife is abundant, from turtles and egrets to alligators (don’t worry they tend to keep their distance). The campsites themselves are shaded and quiet, making this a peaceful and atmospheric destination.
Caddo Lake’s unique environment makes it a standout. If you’re looking for one-of-a-kind yet budget-friendly RV campsites in Texas, this is where you go to immerse yourself in the magic of the swamp.
Lake Corpus Christi State Park – Mathis
If you’re drawn to lakeside living, Lake Corpus Christi State Park delivers full hookup campsites with easy access to boating, swimming, and fishing. Located just outside of Corpus Christi, it’s a quiet place to recharge, with fees that fall well below private campground rates.
I found this park to be particularly family-friendly, with playgrounds, shaded picnic areas, and lots of space to roam. The sunsets over the lake are stunning, and the RV loops are well maintained with enough space for slide-outs and awnings.
Lake Corpus Christi is ideal for both quick stopovers and longer stays. It holds its place among the top budget-friendly RV campsites in Texas for its affordability and waterfront charm.
San Angelo State Park – San Angelo
Near the geographic center of Texas, San Angelo State Park offers scenic beauty and even the chance to spot roaming bison and longhorn cattle. The park has full hookup sites at some of the lowest prices I’ve encountered, especially given the amenities and space offered.
The landscape here transitions between Hill Country and West Texas scrubland. Hiking and biking trails wind through scenic terrain, and the O.C. Fisher Reservoir offers plenty of water-based recreation.
San Angelo State Park proves that budget-friendly RV campsites in Texas aren’t just bare-bones places to park for the night they can offer rich nature experiences and plenty of activities without emptying your wallet.
Lake Livingston State Park – Livingston
Located just north of Houston, Lake Livingston State Park offers a great balance of lakeside fun and forest scenery. The RV sites here vary from primitive to full hookups, and all are priced to suit even the tightest travel budget.
The park features an expansive lake great for fishing, boating, and swimming. I’ve spent lazy afternoons here casting lines off the pier or simply lounging near the shoreline. Wildlife is active, and the birdwatching is excellent year-round.
What makes Lake Livingston one of the best budget-friendly RV campsites in Texas is how it feels like a proper vacation retreat, even when you’re spending less per night than you would on a city dinner.
Final Thoughts
Traveling through Texas by RV offers so many incredible experiences, and you don’t need to spend a fortune to enjoy them. From the Gulf Coast to the Hill Country to the high desert, the Lone Star State is filled with campsites that are affordable, scenic, and RV-friendly.
What ties these parks together is their ability to provide memorable outdoor experiences without sacrificing amenities or comfort. Whether you’re looking for lakes, forests, beaches, or starlit skies, the budget-friendly RV campsites in Texas listed here are proof that adventure doesn’t have to come with a hefty price tag.
Affordable camping lets you extend your trip, explore more hidden corners, and focus on what matters most freedom, relaxation, and the open road.