Texas is bigger than life itself—and so is the adventure waiting for you in a van. Whether you’re behind the wheel of a Tiffin GH1, pushing limits in a Storyteller Overland MODE, exploring the world in a STO Global Expedition Vehicle (GXV), or chasing freedom in a custom Outside Van, the Lone Star State delivers unforgettable landscapes.
From desert canyons to high mountain trails, these are the top 5 Texas state parks for van camping, handpicked by the team at Hawkes Outdoors—where van life begins.
1. Big Bend Ranch State Park – Remote Desert Bliss
The largest state park in Texas (over 300,000 acres) and one of the most rugged, Big Bend Ranch is a van lifer’s dream. It’s not for the faint of heart—services are minimal, and cell reception is spotty—but if you’re driving a self-contained rig like the Storyteller Overland MODE or a STO GXV expedition build, you’ll thrive here.
Highlights:
- Primitive roadside campsites with world-class stargazing (International Dark Sky Park).
- Epic biking and hiking along desert trails and river corridors.
- Dramatic Chihuahuan Desert landscapes untouched by crowds.
💡 Hawkes Outdoors Tip: Fuel up and stock your pantry before entering—there are no supplies inside the park.
2. Palo Duro Canyon State Park – The Grand Canyon of Texas
Nicknamed the “Grand Canyon of Texas”, Palo Duro is the second-largest canyon in the United States, stretching 120 miles long and 800 feet deep. Campsites along the canyon floor make it easy to explore in comfort from your Outside Van or Tiffin GH1.
Highlights:
- The iconic Lighthouse Rock Trail (5.7 miles roundtrip).
- Scenic drives through colorful red-rock formations.
- Spacious sites with water and electric hookups.
💡 Hawkes Outdoors Tip: Visit in spring or fall. Summer temps inside the canyon can soar over 100°F.
3. Pedernales Falls State Park – Hill Country Escape
Just 30 miles west of Austin, Pedernales Falls State Park is a refreshing Hill Country escape. With cascading limestone falls and easy-to-access campgrounds, it’s perfect for weekend warriors in a Tiffin GH1 or anyone seeking a quick getaway in their adventure van.
Highlights:
- Natural pools and waterfalls on the Pedernales River.
- Scenic trails for hiking, horseback riding, and mountain biking.
- Family-friendly campgrounds with shaded sites.
💡 Hawkes Outdoors Tip: Bring water shoes—the limestone rocks get slick around the falls.
4. Guadalupe River State Park – Riverfront Van Life
If tubing a cool river on a summer day sounds like paradise, Guadalupe River State Park is your spot. Just 45 minutes north of San Antonio, it’s one of the most popular van-camping destinations in Texas. Whether you’re in a compact Storyteller Overland MODE or a fully customized Outside Van, there’s a riverside site waiting for you.
Highlights:
- Tubing, kayaking, and swimming in the Guadalupe River.
- Well-equipped campgrounds with water and electric hookups.
- Shaded picnic areas and plenty of space for families.
💡 Hawkes Outdoors Tip: Campsites sell out fast in summer—reserve early if you want a riverfront spot.
5. Davis Mountains State Park – High Desert Cool Down
Escape the Texas heat in the Davis Mountains, sitting at 5,000 feet elevation. With cooler nights, panoramic drives, and wide-open campsites, this park is perfect for larger expedition rigs like STO GXV or van lifers seeking starry skies.
Highlights:
- The Skyline Drive Trail for breathtaking mountain views.
- Nearby McDonald Observatory star parties.
- Hiking trails that connect directly to Fort Davis Historic Site.
💡 Hawkes Outdoors Tip: Even in summer, pack layers—temperatures drop quickly after sunset.
Why Van Lifers Trust Hawkes Outdoors
At Hawkes Outdoors, we don’t just sell vans—we live the adventure. From luxury comfort with the Tiffin GH1, to rugged self-reliance in the Storyteller Overland MODE, to global exploration in a GXV, to fully custom builds from Outside Van, we help you find the right van for your journey.
🌟 Whether you’re chasing solitude in Big Bend or tubing the Guadalupe, Hawkes Outdoors is your gateway to van life in Texas and beyond.
👉 Visit us today at 16135 College Oak San Antonio, TX 78249 or shop all our vans online at hawkesoutdoors.com to start your journey—your adventure van is waiting.
Financing is available! Call 210-251-2882 for more information.
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