Motorhome Parks In Elmendorf, Texas -- Find Campgrounds
29.2561° N, 98.3328° W
Quick Overview
Elmendorf sits just 20 miles southeast of San Antonio, offering motorhome campers a strategic base for exploring South Texas while avoiding the hustle and expense of big-city camping. This small Bexar County community puts you within easy striking distance of the Alamo City's attractions while maintaining that authentic small-town Texas feel. The surrounding landscape rolls gently through mesquite and oak country, with the San Antonio River winding through nearby valleys.
The area hosts several motorhome campgrounds and parks, with some offering free camping options. These facilities range from basic overnight stops to full-service parks with swimming pools and recreation halls. Most parks cater to both short-term travelers and long-term residents, creating a welcoming community atmosphere that's particularly strong during the winter months.
From your campsite in Elmendorf, you're perfectly positioned for day trips to San Antonio's River Walk, the historic missions, and SeaWorld, all within a 30-minute drive. The nearby Calaveras Lake offers excellent bass fishing and water sports, while the Elmendorf Lake Park provides a quieter alternative for kayaking and bird watching. Brackenridge Park Golf Course sits just 15 miles north, and the San Antonio Zoo makes for an easy family outing.
This area works well for RVers seeking full service with amenities like laundry facilities and Wi-Fi, though you won't find much in the way of primitive camping or free camping opportunities. The parks here focus on comfort and convenience rather than wilderness experiences. Many sites accommodate big rigs with pull-through options, making it popular with travelers hauling longer trailers or motorhomes.
Spring and fall deliver the most pleasant weather for camping, with mild temperatures and lower humidity. Summer brings typical South Texas heat, but most parks have good shade trees and pool facilities. Winter sees an influx of snowbirds escaping colder climates, so book ahead if you're planning a December through February stay.
Check out our complete listings below to find the perfect spot for your South Texas camping adventure.
Top Rated Dump Stations in Elmendorf
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All Dump Stations Near Elmendorf
| Station Name | Distance | Rating | Category | Cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Roadrunner RV Park | 1.6 mi | \u2014 | Dump Station | Varies |
| Made In The Shade RV Park | 1.9 mi | \u2014 | Dump Station | Varies |
| Vista Ridge RV Park | 3.4 mi | \u2014 | Dump Station | Varies |
| Braunig Lake RV Resort | 4.2 mi | \u2014 | RV Park | Varies |
| Yanawana Camp RV Park | 8.8 mi | \u2014 | Dump Station | Varies |
| Eagle's Nest RV Park | 10.8 mi | \u2014 | Dump Station | Varies |
| Shady Oaks RV Park | 11.6 mi | \u2014 | Dump Station | Varies |
| 5 L RV Park | 11.9 mi | \u2014 | Dump Station | Varies |
| Traveler's World | 12.1 mi | \u2014 | Dump Station | Varies |
| Creekside RV Park | 12.6 mi | \u2014 | Dump Station | Varies |
Roadrunner RV Park
1.6 miMade In The Shade RV Park
1.9 miVista Ridge RV Park
3.4 miBraunig Lake RV Resort
4.2 miYanawana Camp RV Park
8.8 miEagle's Nest RV Park
10.8 miShady Oaks RV Park
11.6 mi5 L RV Park
11.9 miTraveler's World
12.1 miCreekside RV Park
12.6 miTraveling to Elmendorf by RV
Elmendorf sits right off US Highway 181, making it incredibly easy to reach from most directions. If you're coming from the north, take I-35 south from San Antonio and exit at US-181 southeast – it's a straight shot with no tricky turns or low bridges to worry about. From Houston, you'll take US-87 west through Stockdale, then connect to US-181 south. The roads are all motorhome-friendly with good shoulders and gentle grades.
US-181 itself is a scenic drive, especially in spring when the wildflowers bloom along the roadside. You'll pass through classic South Texas ranch country with wide-open views and occasional roadside barbecue joints that are worth a stop. The highway handles big rigs without issues – no steep grades or tight curves to navigate.
Fuel up before you arrive, as Elmendorf's options are limited to a couple of small stations. Your best bet for diesel and supplies is to top off in San Antonio or continue to Floresville, about 10 miles southeast, which has a Walmart Supercenter and several truck stops. If you're coming from the coast, Beeville offers good fuel prices and a Stripes travel center that's motorhome-accessible.
The area doesn't have any major motorhome dealerships or service centers, so handle any maintenance needs in San Antonio before settling in. Cell service runs strong throughout the region on all major carriers.
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Dump Station Costs in Elmendorf
Nightly rates in Elmendorf typically run $25-35 for basic sites with water and electric, while full hookup spots with sewer connections range from $35-45 per night. The area's proximity to San Antonio keeps prices reasonable compared to urban campgrounds, but you'll pay a bit more than truly rural locations. Weekly rates often drop the daily cost by 10-15%, and monthly stays can cut costs significantly if you're planning an extended visit.
With a portion% of local options being free and a portion% requiring payment, budget camping requires looking beyond the immediate Elmendorf area. Free camping exists at some of the wildlife management areas and along certain county roads, but these spots lack amenities and may have seasonal restrictions.
Winter months see slight price increases due to snowbird demand, particularly January through March. Summer rates sometimes drop as the heat keeps many RVers away. Good Sam and Passport America discounts apply at some locations, potentially saving you 10% or more on longer stays.
Fuel costs run typical for rural Texas – expect to pay 5-10 cents more per gallon than in major cities. Groceries at the Floresville H-E-B offer competitive pricing, while the small markets in Elmendorf charge convenience store premiums. Budget around $40-50 per day total for a couple camping with moderate dining out.
Contact station for pricing details.
Prices may vary. Always confirm with the station before visiting.
What RVers Are Saying About Elmendorf
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Best Time to Visit Elmendorf by RV
Winter
December-February
45-70°F
Crowds: High
Peak snowbird season with advance reservations recommended, especially for monthly stays at popular parks.
Spring
March-May
60-85°F
Crowds: Medium
Perfect weather with wildflower blooms, moderate crowds as snowbirds depart and summer visitors haven't arrived.
Summer
June-August
75-100°F
Crowds: Low
Hot and humid with afternoon thunderstorms, but pools and lake activities provide relief from heat.
Fall
September-November
65-85°F
Crowds: Medium
Comfortable temperatures return with lower humidity, hunting seasons bring weekend activity to surrounding areas.
Explore the Elmendorf Area
Both Motorhome parks in Elmendorf cater to different camping styles, so pick based on your priorities. If you want a social atmosphere with organized activities, the larger park with the clubhouse will suit you better. For a quieter stay focused on fishing and nature, choose the smaller lakeside option that attracts fewer families with kids.
Boondockers should look beyond Elmendorf proper – try the Calaveras Lake area or some of the ranch roads off FM 1937 for dispersed camping, though always ask permission on private land. The nearby state wildlife management areas sometimes allow primitive camping during hunting seasons.
Don't miss the barbacoa at Vera's Restaurant on Saturday and Sunday mornings – it's a local institution that draws folks from San Antonio. For groceries, drive 10 minutes to Floresville's H-E-B rather than paying convenience store prices in town. The Elmendorf Lake offers surprisingly good catfish and bass fishing, especially from the dam area early in the morning.
Bring mosquito spray during summer months, as the lake and river areas can get buggy at dawn and dusk. Most parks have decent Wi-Fi, but cell boosters help if you're working remotely. Pet owners will find plenty of open space for walking dogs, though watch for fire ants in grassy areas.
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Read more →Frequently Asked Questions About Dump Stations in Elmendorf
What are the best motorhome campgrounds in Elmendorf?
The two main options each serve different camping styles – one focuses on social activities with a clubhouse and organized events, while the other offers a quieter lakeside setting perfect for fishing and relaxation. Both provide full service and accommodate big rigs, so choose based on whether you prefer community activities or peaceful solitude.
Is there free motorhome camping near Elmendorf?
Elmendorf itself doesn't offer free motorhome camping, but you can find dispersed camping opportunities at nearby Calaveras Lake and some wildlife management areas within 20 miles. These spots lack hookups and amenities, so come prepared for dry camping with full tanks and batteries.
What is the best time of year to camp in Elmendorf?
Spring and fall offer the most comfortable weather with temperatures in the 60s-80s and lower humidity. Winter brings snowbirds and higher occupancy rates, while summer can be quite hot but offers lower crowds and rates plus access to swimming and lake activities.
Are there full hookup motorhome parks in Elmendorf?
Yes, both motorhome parks in Elmendorf offer full hookup sites with water, electric, and sewer connections. These parks cater to both overnight travelers and long-term residents, with pull-through sites available for larger rigs and additional amenities like laundry facilities.
Can I fish at Elmendorf Lake from my motorhome site?
One of the local motorhome parks sits right on Elmendorf Lake, giving you direct access to fish for catfish, bass, and sunfish. The lake also offers good kayaking and bird watching opportunities, making it popular with RVers who enjoy water-based activities and peaceful mornings by the shore.
What are the best motorhome campgrounds in Elmendorf?
The two main options each serve different camping styles – one focuses on social activities with a clubhouse and organized events, while the other offers a quieter lakeside setting perfect for fishing and relaxation. Both provide full service and accommodate big rigs, so choose based on whether you prefer community activities or peaceful solitude.
Is there free motorhome camping near Elmendorf?
Elmendorf itself doesn't offer free motorhome camping, but you can find dispersed camping opportunities at nearby Calaveras Lake and some wildlife management areas within 20 miles. These spots lack hookups and amenities, so come prepared for dry camping with full tanks and batteries.
What is the best time of year to camp in Elmendorf?
Spring and fall offer the most comfortable weather with temperatures in the 60s-80s and lower humidity. Winter brings snowbirds and higher occupancy rates, while summer can be quite hot but offers lower crowds and rates plus access to swimming and lake activities.
Are there full hookup motorhome parks in Elmendorf?
Yes, both motorhome parks in Elmendorf offer full hookup sites with water, electric, and sewer connections. These parks cater to both overnight travelers and long-term residents, with pull-through sites available for larger rigs and additional amenities like laundry facilities.
Can I fish at Elmendorf Lake from my motorhome site?
One of the local motorhome parks sits right on Elmendorf Lake, giving you direct access to fish for catfish, bass, and sunfish. The lake also offers good kayaking and bird watching opportunities, making it popular with RVers who enjoy water-based activities and peaceful mornings by the shore.
Are there free dump stations in Elmendorf?
Yes — there are free RV waste disposal options available near Elmendorf.
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