Russell Park
4.25107 reviews2101 CR 262, Georgetown, TX 78633, USA
Russell Park
$16.00 - $80.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$16.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$28.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$80.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Fees range from $16 to $80 per night depending on the site type. Additional fees for reservations may apply.
About this campground
Escape to Russell Park, where primitive camping meets the tranquil shores of Georgetown Lake. Here, anglers cast their lines into waters teeming with fish while hikers explore winding trails through native Texas landscapes. Screened shelters offer a perfect compromise between camping and comfort, all wrapped in the peaceful embrace of Hill Country scenery that makes every sunrise worth waking up for.
Russell Park caters primarily to tent and primitive camping, with additional screened shelters for overnight stays. No RVs, pop-ups, or travel trailers are allowed.
Historical SignificanceWhat began as a practical solution for flood control in 1979 has transformed into one of Central Texas's beloved recreational treasures. Georgetown Lake emerged from the damming of the North Fork San Gabriel River, evolving from utilitarian reservoir to vibrant community gathering place where families have created generations of camping memories and fishing tales that grow bigger with each retelling.
Weather and SeasonsRussell Park basks in the Texas Hill Country's signature dry climate, where sunshine reigns supreme and rain showers make only occasional guest appearances. Summer days bring that authentic Texas warmth perfect for lake swimming, while mild winters invite year-round camping adventures. With predominantly clear skies painting dramatic sunsets over the water, you'll find ideal conditions for stargazing and outdoor activities throughout most of the year.
ElevationNestled within the rolling terrain of the Texas Hill Country, the park's gentle topography creates perfect vantage points for lake views and comfortable camping spots.
Natural Features and SceneryRussell Park showcases the diverse beauty of Texas Hill Country, where aromatic juniper forests meet sweeping prairie grasslands dotted with wildflowers in season. Ancient hardwood bottomlands line the water's edge, their canopies providing natural shade and wildlife habitat. Georgetown Lake sparkles at the heart of it all, its calm waters reflecting the surrounding hills and creating a photographer's paradise at golden hour.
Geological RegionSituated in the iconic Texas Hill Country, Russell Park rests along the transformed waters of the North Fork San Gabriel River. This limestone-rich region tells an ancient story through its rocky outcrops and spring-fed streams, where the reservoir now creates a stunning centerpiece amid the characteristic hills and valleys that define this beloved Texas landscape.
Campsite details
AccessibilityShelters are equipped with screened windows that can be opened, and paths leading to shelters are described as scenic. Bathrooms are located near shelters, though some users mention they are a bit of a walk away.
Sites SizeShelters and campsites are described as spacious in some reviews, accommodating multiple tents or a camp kitchen setup.
Sites PrivacyPrivacy at campsites is often criticized due to their close proximity to one another. Some users mention feeling overcrowded, while others note that certain sites offer more privacy.
Total Campsites27 campsites
Recommended CampsitesChoose screened shelters for privacy and weather protection. Avoid interior loop sites due to overcrowding and lack of maintenance, as indicated by user reviews.
Best CampsitesSites 10, 11, 12, 14, and GS3 are lauded for better views and proximity to amenities.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Check-in begins at 2:00 PM officially.
Check-out
Check-out ends at 2:00 PM.
Stay Limit
- Maximum consecutive stay of 14 days during any visit
- total stay limit of 14 days within a rolling 30 days.
Guests Allowed Per Site
Maximum of 8 guests per site for individual campsites.
Groups
Group shelters at Russell Park accommodate larger gatherings and are equipped with picnic tables, fire rings, and grills. Some reviews note issues with electrical outlets not functioning.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layout27 primitive sites arranged in a loop; 10 of these sites include screened shelters.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen year-round. Swim Beach and Day Use Area closed November to March annually.
Reservation PlatformsReservations must be made via Recreation.gov or by calling 1-877-444-6777.
Walk-in AvailabilityCamping by reservation only; no mention of walk-up availability or first-come-first-served sites.
Cancellation PolicyIndividual sites: Cancellations up to 2 days before reservation start date incur $10 cancellation fee. Day-before or same-day cancellations forfeit first night's fee and add $10 service fee. Group facilities: Late cancellations incur $10 fee plus loss of first night's fee. Refunds are allowed up to 7 days post-departure through the website.
Accomodation available
GroupGroup campsites are offered for larger parties such as families, schools, or organizations. These sites provide space and facilities to accommodate multiple people camping together.
Cabin lodgingCabin lodging is available for campers seeking a more sheltered and comfortable experience. These enclosed accommodations offer protection from the elements and are ideal for those who prefer not to camp in tents.
Amenities available
Showers
Potable water
Fire rings
Picnic tables
Cell phone service
Lodging and accommodations
Flush toilets
Electricity hookups
Activities you can enjoy
Russell Park provides numerous recreational activities for campers. Popular options include fishing, boating, hiking, and wildlife viewing. The San Gabriel River Trail offers a rugged 26-mile path for hiking and biking. Swimming is available at a designated swim beach, although pets are not permitted in this area. Hunting is also allowed by permit for small game and deer.
Hiking
The San Gabriel River Trail is a 26-mile rugged path that encircles Georgetown Lake. It winds through dense juniper forests, hardwood bottomlands, and prairie grasslands. User reviews praise the trail for its shaded and sunny stretches with mild inclines and flat grassy areas.Fishing
Fishing is excellent at Georgetown Lake, with abundant smallmouth bass, black bass, white bass, crappie, and catfish. Fishing docks are available within the campground. However, some reviews note the lack of a fishing pier.Swimming
A designated swim beach is available but closed seasonally from November to March. Pets are not allowed in the swim area. Users appreciate the pebble beach for its lack of sand mess, though some reviews note the beach is not easily accessible from campsites.Biking
Biking is permitted along the San Gabriel River Trail, which offers various terrains including rugged paths and flat stretches. The trail is popular among mountain bikers.Boating
Boating is a favored activity at Georgetown Lake, with a boat ramp provided for campers. The lake supports various watercraft, from motorboats to kayaks.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife viewing opportunities are abundant, with sightings of birds, deer, foxes, and other fauna reported by campers.Beach activities
The pebble beach is a highlight, offering a clean and inviting area for sunbathing and swimming. However, user reviews mention limited shade options and a significant walk to access the beach from campsites.Winter Activities
Camping during winter months is limited as many campsites are closed. However, the lake's beauty remains accessible.Water Sports
Kayaking, paddleboarding, and other non-motorized water sports are popular, though not explicitly detailed in reviews.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- Campfires are allowed, but firewood must be sourced locally to prevent invasive pests.
- Quiet hours are enforced from 10 PM to 6 AM.
Hazards
General hazardsCliffs near campsites may pose a hazard. Wildlife presence, including deer and other small game, is noted. Potential risk of theft mentioned in user reviews.
Active alertsClosure of Swim Beach and Day Use Area from November to March.
Weather forecast
94
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 18%
Very dry conditions, stay hydrated
Wind: 8.2 mph
Strong wind, exercise caution
Clear sky
7-Day Forecast
Access to 7-day forecasts tailored to each campground—covering temperature, precipitation, wind, and sky conditions.
Daily & Hourly Insights
View hourly forecasts with expected weather patterns throughout the day.
Temperature Trends
Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.
Precipitation Trends
Plan around rain or snow with monthly visualizations of expected precipitation patterns.
Weather Summaries
Assess conditions with visuals for easier decision-making on when and where to camp.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
Nearest emergency services are located in Georgetown and include hospitals, police stations, and fire departments.
Good to know
Peak season datesJanuary 1 - December 31 annually (no shoulder or off-season pricing mentioned).
Trash and recyclingTrash and recycling facilities are available. User reviews commend the availability of dumpsters, but cleanliness is sometimes an issue, notably cigarette butts and general littering around the park.
Proximity to water featuresThe park is adjacent to Georgetown Lake, but campsites are separated from the water by cliffs. A boat ramp and swimming beach are available.
Common complaintsComplaints include dirty restrooms, overcrowded or noisy campsites, and lack of privacy due to close site proximity. Maintenance and cleanliness concerns are repeated in reviews.
HostPark hosts were praised as helpful and friendly by multiple reviewers. Hosts Jake and Sandy were specifically noted for their hard work and hospitality.
Campground Map
2101 CR 262, Georgetown, TX 78633, USA
Driving directionsFrom I-35, take FM 2338 west 7.5 miles to FM 3405, then go south 2 miles to CR 262. Go east 2 miles to the park entrance.
The campground is accessible via paved roads throughout the year. Seasonal closures and challenges are not mentioned.Nearby places
Georgetown (approximately 2 miles), Austin (approximately 25 miles)
Nearby supplies
Gas, groceries, and camping supplies are available in Georgetown. Larger amenities are available in Austin, 25 miles away.
Camper Reviews
4.3
107 reviews
Russell Park is satisfactory, placing it in the bottom 60% of campgrounds based on reviews
User reviews present mixed sentiment regarding Russell Park. Positive highlights include its scenic beauty, clean facilities, and abundance of recreational activities. However, negative reviews frequently mention poor campsite spacing, lack of rule enforcement, and dirty restrooms.
Review Summaries
Based on 107 reviews
What Campers Love
Positive aspects often cited include the park's gorgeous views, variety of recreational activities, clean shelters (in some cases), and friendly camp hosts. Wildlife sightings and proximity to the...
Based on 107 reviewsShow more
Common Concerns
Common complaints include dirty bathrooms, overcrowded campsites, broken grills, lack of rule enforcement, poor shelter cleanliness, and accessibility issues to the swim beach.
Based on 107 reviewsPro Tips & Recommendations
Campers recommend bringing bedding for shelters without mattresses, firewood as it is not available on-site, and water shoes for the pebble beach. Booking Saturday to Sunday is advised for less...
Based on 107 reviewsShow more
Seasonal Insights
Winter camping has limited availability due to closed campsites, leading to overcrowding in available sites. Spring and fall are considered ideal seasons, offering moderate weather and less crowded...
Based on 107 reviewsShow more
Camper Quotes
"The site was nice. They have a large paved covered area with a large picnic table." "Bathrooms had plenty of hot water for showers but could stand a little maintenance." "We live local but enjoy...
Based on 107 reviewsShow more
Site-Specific Reviews
Site 04: Mixed reviews; proximity to bathrooms appreciated but noise issues reported. Site 14: Positive feedback; spacious with lake views. Site 16: Negative feedback; litter and poor tent placement...
Based on 107 reviewsShow more
Accessibility Features
Paths to shelters and restrooms are relatively accessible, though some users note significant walking distances. Shelters include screened windows that can be opened for ventilation.
Based on 107 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed in the campground but not in the swim beach area. Some users expressed frustration over this restriction.
Based on 107 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025