State Park Reservation Definitions

The following terms apply to Texas State Parks reservations. Contact customer service if you need help.

Go to the State Park Reservations Portal to make reservations and find tips and details.

ADA sites

Sites that meet ADA requirements for accessibility. Contact specific parks or the CSC for information about accessible sites.

Cancellation

Complete cancellation of an entire reservation prior to arrival.

Capacity limits

Occupancy limits determined by the local park. Most shelters and drive-up campsites can hold up to eight persons per site, including children. Most primitive hike-in campsites can hold up to four persons. We may charge a per-person excess occupancy fee.

Changes

Any date, site or park change to a reservation.

Check-in time

Normal check-in time is:

  • 2 p.m. for campsites and screened shelters
  • 3 p.m. for all other overnight sites
  • 8 a.m. for day use sites.
Checkout time

Normal checkout time is:

  • Noon for campsites and screened shelters
  • 11 a.m. for all other overnight sites
  • 10 p.m. for day-use sites.
Customer Service Center

The central location in Austin where we make reservations. Contact the CSC by email or call (512) 389-8900 during business hours.

Empty campsites

Empty campsites may be available. Always check the sign at the site or at the park office before setting up camp.

Penalty (administrative) charge

The amount we charge for cancelling or changing a reservation.

Site fee

The amount you pay to rent a park site such as a campsite, shelter, cabin or picnic pavilion.

Late arrivals

Arrivals outside the normal time-frame. Call the park to verify late arrival policies.

Park hours

Most park office hours are 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., but some vary. Most parks close for day use at 10 p.m. and close their gates. Check the park’s website or call the park to verify.

Reservation

When a facility has been reserved for you (one campsite for five nights = one reservation; five campsites for one night = five reservations).

Confirmed (guaranteed) reservation

When we have received full payment on a reservation.

Unconfirmed reservation

When we have not received payment on a reservation, or the payment was returned (check) or declined (credit card).

Rules and regulations

Texas Parks & Wildlife Department Rules and Regulations.

Special functions

Some parks have designated areas or facilities for meetings, social events and celebrations; site fees vary.

Transfer

Any change to a reservation's date of arrival, park location, length of stay, site type, etc.