Camp Ben McCulloch Camping Guide 2025

If you’re looking for a laid-back camping experience with a touch of Texas charm, Camp Ben McCulloch might be just what you need. Tucked away beneath a grove of shady oaks in Driftwood, Texas, this historic campground is more than just a place to pitch a tent—it’s a piece of local heritage. Known for its large group events and traditional gatherings, Camp Ben also welcomes everyday campers seeking peace, space, and access to the nearby Onion Creek. Whether you’re planning a family weekend, a group retreat, or a quiet night under the stars, the spot delivers that classic Texas camping feel without the fuss of backcountry roughing.

What makes Camp Ben special is its accessibility, flat shaded campsites, and the sense of tradition that still lingers around the grounds. There’s a casual, come-as-you-are atmosphere here—no overdevelopment, just nature, fresh air, and the sound of cicadas in the trees.

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How to Get There

Getting to Camp Ben McCulloch is pretty straightforward. It’s located in Driftwood, Texas, just about 25 miles southwest of downtown Austin. That makes it a convenient weekend escape for city folks wanting a quick nature break.

From Austin, take US-290 W to TX-71 W, then head south on FM 1826. You’ll see signs for Driftwood and Salt Lick BBQ—which is a landmark in itself—and Camp Ben is just past that. The drive is scenic, especially as you wind through the Hill Country roads.

Parking is available directly inside the campground area. Most sites are accessible by car, and there’s no long trek required to haul your gear, which makes setup much easier than many other primitive sites.

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Permits and Fees

As of the most recent update, Camp Ben McCulloch operates seasonally and charges a small fee for camping and day use. The fees help maintain the grounds and facilities, which include picnic areas and restrooms. You don’t need a state park pass or special permits like some other Texas sites, but we recommend checking their latest announcements or calling ahead, especially during event weekends.

Typically, the camping fee ranges from $10 to $20 per night per tent depending on group size and area used. Day-use is even less, making it a budget-friendly option if you’re just coming for a few hours.

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Camping Rules and Regulations

Camping at Camp Ben is relaxed, but there are still some important rules to keep in mind to keep the space clean and safe for everyone:

• Dispersed camping is allowed in designated areas, but it’s not wilderness-style. You’ll be setting up in open fields or beneath oak trees—not deep in the backcountry.
• Fires are permitted in designated pits or cleared areas. However, burn bans are common during dry spells, so always check the current status before lighting up.
• Group size should be reasonable unless you’ve made arrangements for a larger event. This is a popular site for reunions, so it’s best to coordinate in advance if you’re bringing a crowd.
• As with any natural area, Leave No Trace principles absolutely apply. That means pack out what you pack in, respect the land, and leave the place better than you found it.

Alcohol is allowed, but be respectful—this is a family-friendly place with a community vibe. Also, quiet hours generally start at 10 p.m., and they do try to enforce it, especially when multiple groups are present.

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Best Camping Spots and Recommendations

The great thing about Camp Ben is that most of the campsites are shaded and grassy, making them comfortable even during the warmer months. If you want a bit more privacy, you’ll want to set up near the edges of the grounds, closer to the creek or the treeline.

The central open field is ideal for larger groups or families with kids—it’s flat, open, and close to the main facilities. However, it does get busier during event weekends and holidays, so expect some noise and foot traffic.

If you’re looking for something quieter, we recommend camping near the western edge, where there’s more distance from the central pavilion and BBQ area. These spots tend to be more peaceful, especially mid-week or in early spring and late fall when things are slower.

One thing to note—there are no marked campsites or numbered pads here. You’ll pick your spot on a first-come, first-served basis, which is part of what gives this place its casual, community feel. Still, arriving early in the day is smart, especially on weekends or if you’re coming with more than one tent.

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Hiking Trails and Routes

While Camp Ben McCulloch itself isn’t known for long-distance hiking trails, you’re not far from some rewarding routes if you’re looking to stretch your legs and explore a bit more of the Hill Country. Just across the road, you’ll find Onion Creek, where casual walks along the creek bed or the oak-covered grounds offer a peaceful, slow-paced nature experience. These aren’t marked trails, but you can meander comfortably and explore the area’s natural beauty.

If you’re up for more adventure, Driftwood and the surrounding areas offer excellent trail options just a short drive away. Charro Ranch Park and Reimers Ranch Park are within 20–30 minutes and have well-marked trails ranging from 1 to 5 miles, offering a mix of shaded woodlands and open bluffs with scenic views. Pedernales Falls State Park is a bit farther out, but it’s worth the trip if you’re looking for elevation gain and longer routes.

We’d suggest bringing a printed map or downloading one ahead of time, especially if you’re heading outside Camp Ben. Cell signal can be spotty, and not all local trails are well marked.

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Packing List and Gear Guide

Packing for Camp Ben McCulloch is relatively straightforward compared to more remote camping spots, but a few thoughtful choices will make your stay more comfortable. The grounds are mostly flat and grassy, but you’ll want gear that handles both shade and the occasional muddy patch after rain.

Here’s what we’d recommend bringing:

• Tent with rainfly and stakes – Sudden showers aren’t rare here.
• Ground tarp – Helps prevent moisture or mud from seeping in.
• Folding chairs or picnic blanket – There are a few tables, but not always enough.
• Headlamp or lantern – Lighting is minimal at night.
• Bug spray and citronella candles – Especially in spring and early summer.
• Cooler with ice – There’s no store on-site, so bring what you need.
• Storage bins or bags – Helps keep food and gear clean and critter-proof.

If you plan to do any hiking nearby, toss in a daypack, refillable water bottles, sunscreen, and good walking shoes. While the terrain around Camp Ben isn’t rugged, it can get hot and dusty, and the shade doesn’t cover everything.

Water filtration systems and dune-specific gear aren’t needed here since the terrain is not sandy or backcountry-style. Still, having solid organization for food, trash, and gear goes a long way in keeping your site comfortable and tidy.

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Water and Food Tips

One important thing to note: there’s no reliable potable water source at Camp Ben McCulloch. That means you’ll want to bring all the drinking and cooking water you’ll need. For a weekend trip, plan for at least one gallon per person per day, plus extra if it’s hot or you’re cooking meals that require water.

We also suggest:

• Bringing sealed water jugs or a larger container with a spigot for group use.
• Having smaller reusable bottles for each person to refill.
• Avoiding untreated creek water, even if it looks clean—it’s not safe without filtration and boiling, and most campers skip it entirely.

As for food, there are no bears here, but raccoons and smaller critters will absolutely dig into your supplies if they’re left out. Use tight-sealing bins or coolers, and don’t leave snacks or trash lying around, especially overnight.

Cooking is allowed on camp stoves and in fire rings when burn bans aren’t in effect. You’ll need to bring your own firewood or charcoal—collecting wood on-site isn’t permitted.

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Best Time to Visit and Weather Tips

Central Texas weather can be all over the place, so timing your trip can really affect your experience.

We recommend camping at Camp Ben McCulloch in:

• Late March through early May – Comfortable temps, fewer bugs, wildflowers in bloom.
• October through early November – Warm days, cooler nights, and lighter crowds.

Summer (June through September) can be brutally hot and humid, with temperatures often hitting the high 90s. There’s also a higher chance of mosquitoes and the occasional thunderstorm. If you do camp in summer, seek out the shadiest spots and take plenty of breaks to stay hydrated.

Winter months (December through February) can be mild, but occasional cold snaps do happen. Expect temps from the mid-30s at night to the 60s during the day. The campground is generally quiet in the off-season, which can be a plus if you’re after solitude.

No matter the season, keep an eye on local forecasts. Rainstorms can come through quickly and drench the area. The creek may rise in heavy rain, though it rarely causes major flooding at the campsite itself.

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Safety and Navigation

While Camp Ben McCulloch feels calm and contained, it’s still smart to come prepared. There’s limited or no cell service in some parts of the grounds, especially under thick tree cover, so make sure at least one person in your group has informed someone else of your plans.

Here are a few safety tips to keep in mind:

• Print or screenshot directions before you arrive.
• Bring a first aid kit, especially if you’re camping with kids.
• Be fire-aware – follow posted signs about burn bans or fire restrictions.
• Know your surroundings – it’s a fairly open area, but it’s easy to lose track of where you set up if you wander too far.

In case of an emergency, Dripping Springs and Austin are both within 20–40 minutes by car. There’s no ranger station on-site, so you’re mostly on your own when it comes to safety. That said, the campground is generally very safe, with a family-friendly crowd and a low-key atmosphere.

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Leave No Trace Principles

Camp Ben McCulloch is a special place, not just for its wide, shaded spaces and relaxing atmosphere, but because it still feels a bit like a well-kept secret. If you’re planning a visit, we strongly recommend following Leave No Trace principles to help keep it that way.

Here’s how we’d approach low-impact camping here:

• Pack it in, pack it out – There are trash bins available, but they’re not always nearby or empty. Bring your own trash bags and take everything you brought with you.
• Stick to designated areas – Camp only in the open grassy spaces or spots that have clearly been used before. Avoid setting up near the creek banks or trampling native vegetation.
• Don’t disturb the wildlife – Raccoons and armadillos are around, and while it’s tempting to feed or follow them, it’s best to just observe and let them be.
• Use fire responsibly – Only build fires in the provided rings or grills, and keep them small. When there’s a burn ban in place, respect it completely.
• Respect quiet hours – This is a family-friendly campground, so loud music or rowdy behavior late into the night is out of place. Most campers wind down early.

Keeping your site clean and quiet not only helps preserve the area—it also makes the experience more enjoyable for everyone around you.

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Nearby Attractions

Camp Ben McCulloch is tucked in a spot that gives you access to some of the Hill Country’s most enjoyable places, all within a short drive.

Here are a few nearby highlights we think are worth your time:

• Salt Lick BBQ (less than 5 minutes away) – This iconic Texas BBQ joint is practically next door. Grab a meal before or after your camping trip—you won’t regret it.
• Driftwood Estate Winery – Just up the road, this winery offers beautiful views, tastings, and a relaxed vibe. Perfect for a midday detour.
• Charro Ranch Park – A peaceful public park great for hiking and walking, especially if you want something close and low-key.
• Hamilton Pool Preserve – About 30 minutes away, this stunning natural swimming hole is well worth a visit—but you’ll need a reservation.
• Downtown Dripping Springs – Whether you’re looking for shops, coffee, or live music, this little town has a lot of charm packed into a small area.

You’re also close enough to Austin that a quick trip into the city is totally doable for food or gear runs.

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Suggested Itineraries

1-Night Quick Trip
If you’re planning just a night away, we recommend a late afternoon arrival. Set up your tent under one of the oak trees for shade, then take a relaxing walk down to Onion Creek before dinner. Bring a simple dinner to cook over your camp stove or fire ring (if allowed). After dark, kick back in your chair and enjoy the quiet—no need to rush.

What to pack:

• Tent and rainfly
• Cooler with prepped dinner and breakfast
• Headlamp or lantern
• Blanket or chair
• 2 gallons of water per person
• Trash bags and paper towels

2–3 Night Adventure
For a longer trip, you can really settle in and explore the area. Camp near the rear of the grounds for more privacy, and plan to take a short drive each day. One day could include a hike at Reimers Ranch or Pedernales Falls, and another could be a laid-back visit to the Salt Lick and Driftwood Estate Winery. Evenings back at camp are great for campfire meals and stargazing.

Additional items to bring:

• Firewood or charcoal
• Daypack and hiking shoes
• Portable phone charger
• Extra clothes for changing weather
• Book, cards, or games

It’s a relaxed kind of camping trip—no need to overdo it, just enjoy the space and the slower pace.

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Frequently Asked Questions