jesus_man

First, let me introduce myself. My wife and I are from Colorado. The Air Force has brought us to San Antonio. My wife has a very demanding schedule as she is going to school, but we love to get outdoors when we can.

Naturally, being sportsman from Colorado, we love to go camping. In my mind, the more primitive the better. That's one reason why I got into the sport of rock crawling. I own a '73 bronco that I have modified in order to tackle some pretty extreme terrain. However, it seems here in TX rock crawling is more of a hobby in itself and is usually not coupled with camping. Also we're still adjusting to the heat and humidity, but we're making progress. Which means we're probably more suited to camping in the fall and winter than in the summer here.

My questions are, can anyone point us to some specific spots for camping that may require 4WD to get to, is near water and is dog friendly? I'd like to learn more about spots near San Antonio where we can take a weekend to enjoy, but I'd also like to learn more about spots that are further away that take a long weekend to enjoy. In my searching (how I came across this site), I see that there are some spots in Big Bend that require 4WD.

I also own an stock F-350 4WD that I'd most likely take, but I am interested in spots that take more clearance than my truck if there are any.

Thanks for you help! This is a great site!

J.D.

rockhill

Welcome to Texas and to this board. As to your question, the only place you will find will be Big Bend. Even then the areas that really require high clearance 4wd, autos are banned. Others may know of a place you can access via 4wd. Best option will probably be private land.
Good luck in your search

campermom

Welcome aboard

As for 4x4, it's just not the same here in Texas. You could camp on Padre Island National Seashore, utilize that 4x4, have the beach to yourself, bring your dogs, and fish.

There is a place in Mason or Katemcy Texas I've heard of thru the Xterra owners website, (XOC).

Big Bend has some crawling.

For rock climbing for yourself, try Lake Mineral Wells State Park. For a small day trip, Enchanted rock State Park. For hiking to primitive campsites with a climb involved, try Lost Maples or even Bastrop State Parks.

You just got to dive in and get your feet wet. Welcome to Texas.

jesus_man

Thanks guys - campermom, can you confirm that there are areas in Big Bend that have 4x4 trials? It seems what you stated contradicts what rockhill said. I guess it'd be best for me to call the Park office and get details as well as ideas on where to camp.

Also, not really interested in rock climbing, but thanks! I have a large Tote that has all my camping gear in it. It's way to big to take more than a few yards. I guess it's my dad's marine side coming out in me to be prepared for anything.

I have heard of Katemcy Rocks and I hope to make it there someday, but my wife isn't as much into the hardcore wheeling as I am, so I am trying to find something mild she'd enjoy.

I would even settle for a campground if my closest neighbor was 30 yards away or so. I spoke with someone who said there is a place West of Austin that offers something like this? i wrote the name down, but I can't find it now.

Thanks for the welcome! I have felt welcome around just about every TX forum I joined! People around here are generally more polite than in denver where I spent my last 8 years.

J.D.

campermom

For a local rock crawl, try "the den". it is an area of flood plain next to ingram park mall. XOC crew and Jeep folks crawl on Sundays, usually meeting at the Whataburger first.

PaulR

You may want to check out Barnwell Mountain Recreational Area. It's out in East Texas (Gilmer), but looks to be something like you're looking for.

Public land in Texas is much harder to come across than what you're used to in Colorado...especially with the type of use you're talking about here. Your best bet is going to be some sort of private park if you want much off-trail access for vehicles.

Another suggestion would be to find an offroad club in San Antonio as they would have the best local knowledge.

jesus_man

I'll check out the Den. I have heard about it, but some were saying it's been closed. I just don't want to be doing the wrong thing.

You guys have given me quite a few options. I like the idea of Big Bend, so I will research that and maybe call them. Thanks again!

J.D.