Texas State Parks Camping

Texas State Parks to Allow Limited Overnight Camping Starting May 18

AUSTIN— As part of a broader effort to reopen Texas, Texas State Parks will resume limited overnight camping beginning May 18. This gradual reopening of overnight reservations will be limited at all Texas State Parks to varying degrees depending on individual park occupancy to align with safe business practices currently followed in Texas. Honored are some existing reservations, but helping prevent overcrowding, manage continued social distancing and safeguard public health, we are accepting no new bookings for now. The Texas Parks and Wildlife Department (TPWD) will notify the public once they accept new reservations.

 “After careful consideration, we are taking this additional step towards returning to normal operations in our parks by resuming some overnight camping at Texas State Parks,” said Carter Smith, Executive Director of TPWD. “As overnight campers are welcomed back to their favorite natural spaces, our team will continue maintaining the cleanliness of frequently used facilities such as campsites, cabins, and restrooms to ensure that visitors, volunteers, and staff can continue to enjoy Texas State Parks safely.” 

TPWD recommends visitors continue to adhere to local, state, and federal travel restrictions and other guidance for safety and social distancing before traveling. Additionally, all visitors are required to pre-purchase and print day-use and overnight camping permits through the Texas State Parks Reservation System before going to a park. All reservations can be made online at www.texasstateparks.org or by calling 512-389-8900.

Existing social distancing standards and public health recommendations remain in effect, including the advice to wear face coverings and bring one’s supply of hand sanitizer. State parks will also continue the requirement of a six-foot distance from individuals outside of their party, including the prohibition of the gathering of groups larger than five that are not part of the same family or household.

Visitors planning on coming to a state park are encouraged to bring all necessary provisions, such as hand sanitizer and face masks, with them to help local businesses have enough goods to serve their communities during this time correctly. It will also help park staff have the necessary supplies available for all guests during their stay.

Texas State Parks will continue to operate at a limited capacity. Operational changes still in effect at parks include the suspension of all transactions at parks, equipment rentals, and in-person interpretive programs. All group-use facilities, visitor and nature centers, headquarters, and other enclosed spaces where people congregate will also remain closed.

The continuation of overnight reservations and other facets of park operations will be subject to change and is dependent on current data, staffing levels, and public health recommendations. Park visitors should check the TPWD website and Texas State Parks Alert Map regularly for the latest information.