Stillhouse, Belton, TX

For Texans who love the great outdoors, the sparkling waters, and the tranquility of nature, finding that perfect camping spot is a cherished pursuit. In the heart of Central Texas, Stillhouse Campground at Stillhouse Hollow Lake offers an idyllic escape that perfectly blends serene natural beauty with convenient recreational opportunities. This isn't just a place to pitch a tent or park your RV; it's a beloved destination known for its peaceful atmosphere, clean facilities, and stunning lake views.

Operated by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Stillhouse Hollow Lake is a gem in our state, providing a fantastic backdrop for all kinds of outdoor adventures. Many locals consider it their go-to spot for everything from a quick fishing trip to an extended family camping vacation. The consistent praise from visitors about its quietude, cleanliness, and the friendly ambiance speaks volumes. Whether you're a seasoned camper, a first-time RVer, or simply looking for a beautiful place to spend a sunny day with loved ones, Stillhouse Campground offers a genuine slice of Texas paradise that truly embodies outdoor living.

The Location and Accessibility of Stillhouse Campground are part of its immense appeal. Situated at 4050 Simmons Rd, Belton, TX 76513, USA, the campground is directly on the shores of the picturesque Stillhouse Hollow Lake. This prime location means immediate access to the lake's vast expanse, perfect for boating, fishing, and swimming. Belton, a charming Central Texas city, is just a short, convenient drive away, providing easy access to supplies, dining, and other urban amenities without disrupting the peaceful campground experience.

The area is also highly accessible via major Texas highways, including I-35, making it an easy drive for residents coming from Dallas-Fort Worth, Austin, or San Antonio. Furthermore, Stillhouse Hollow Lake is intertwined with an extensive trail system. One reviewer highlighted an "8-mile walk/hike/run/bike on the trail from Dana Peak," indicating excellent connectivity for outdoor enthusiasts. The convenience of its location, combined with its natural setting, ensures that guests can easily reach the park and then fully immerse themselves in the outdoor activities available.

Stillhouse Campground, as part of the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers' offerings at Stillhouse Hollow Lake, provides a comprehensive set of Services Offered to enhance your camping experience. These services are designed to cater to various camping preferences, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable stay:

Developed Campsites: The lake offers various developed campgrounds, including Union Grove Park and Dana Peak Park, which fall under the broader Stillhouse Lake recreation area. These typically offer sites for both RV and tent camping.
RV Sites with Hookups: Campsites are available with 20, 30, and 50 amp electrical service along with water hookups, providing full convenience for RVers. Double sites are also available for larger groups.
Tent Sites with & Without Hookups: Options range from primitive tent sites without utilities for a more rustic experience to tent-only sites with water and electric hookups.
Restrooms with Showers: Clean, waterborne restrooms with flush toilets and hot water showers are available within the developed campgrounds, a key comfort for campers.
Sanitary Dump Station: A convenient dump station is typically located near the entrance of camping facilities for RV waste disposal.
Picnic Tables & Grills/Fire Rings: Most campsites and day-use areas include picnic tables and either grills or fire rings, perfect for outdoor cooking and enjoying campfires (subject to burn bans).
Boat Ramps: Multiple 4-lane boat ramps with courtesy docks are available around the lake, including at Stillhouse Park, Union Grove Park, Dana Peak Park, and Riversbend Park, providing excellent access for boating and fishing.
Designated Swim Beaches: Clean swimming beaches are available at various parks around the lake, including Stillhouse Park and Union Grove Park.
Playgrounds: Playground equipment can be found in some areas, offering entertainment for children.
Group Pavilions: Reservable group pavilions, such as Island View and Tear Drop Pavilions at Stillhouse Park, are available for larger gatherings and events.
Fishing Docks: Dedicated fishing docks are present at locations like Union Grove Park and just outside Dana Peak Park, providing easy access for anglers.
Year-Round Access (Partial): While some facilities may close seasonally, many boat ramps and trails remain open year-round, offering continued access for outdoor activities.

These extensive services make Stillhouse Hollow Lake a well-equipped destination for all types of campers.

The Features / Highlights of Stillhouse Campground and the surrounding Stillhouse Hollow Lake area are numerous and contribute to its excellent reputation:

Peaceful and Quiet Environment: Consistently praised by visitors, the lake and its campgrounds offer a serene atmosphere, perfect for relaxing and escaping the noise of city life.
Beautiful Natural Scenery: With "gorgeous panoramic views of the lake" and "clear lake waters," the natural beauty is a major draw. The area also features diverse wildlife, including a 10-acre man-made wetland ideal for bird-sighting.
Exceptional Water Activities: Stillhouse Hollow Lake is renowned for being "great for fishing," with clean water "for swimming or rafting." It's a "boating and fishing haven," with convenient boat ramps.
Extensive Trail System: Access to trails, including the one connecting to Dana Peak, offers fantastic opportunities for "walk/hike/run/bike," appealing to active visitors.
Family and Pet-Friendly: The campground is explicitly noted as "great for dogs, kids, boats, and friends," making it an inclusive destination for all members of the family, including furry ones.
Well-Maintained Facilities: Reviewers highlight "restrooms clean" and "picnic area our great most have there own pavilion to keep you shaded," indicating a commitment to cleanliness and visitor comfort.
Flexibility for All Stays: Whether you're a "weekender" or looking for a "long term staying" option (referring to the broader area's suitability for RV living), the various camping options cater to different needs.
Pavilions for Gatherings: The availability of covered pavilions makes it an ideal spot for family gatherings and group events, providing shaded areas for enjoyment.

These features ensure that Stillhouse Campground provides a well-rounded and enjoyable outdoor experience for everyone.

Regarding Promotions or Special Offers, Stillhouse Campground, as a U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) managed property, primarily offers federal discount programs rather than specific short-term promotional deals. These programs provide significant savings for eligible individuals:

America the Beautiful – The National Parks and Federal Recreational Lands Pass Series:
- Annual Pass ($80): Covers entrance fees and standard amenity fees for the pass owner and accompanying passengers in a single vehicle at federal recreation sites.
- Senior Pass ($20 for lifetime or $10 annual): Available for U.S. citizens or permanent residents aged 62 or older. Provides free entrance to most federal recreation areas and a 50% discount on use fees, including camping.
- Access Pass (Free): For U.S. citizens or permanent residents with permanent disabilities. Provides free entrance and a 50% discount on use fees, including camping.
- Military Annual Pass (Free): For current U.S. military members and their dependents.
- Every Kid Outdoors 4th Grade Pass (Free): For U.S. 4th graders, valid for their school year and following summer.
- Volunteer Pass (Free): Awarded to volunteers who contribute 250 or more hours.
Group Rates: Group pavilions are available for reservation, with fees (e.g., $120 per day for Island View or Tear Drop Pavilion), which can offer cost savings for larger events compared to individual site rentals.

These federal passes offer substantial value for frequent visitors to USACE parks and other federal lands. It is highly recommended to check the official U.S. Army Corps of Engineers website (specifically the Fort Worth District for Stillhouse Hollow Lake) or recreation.gov for the most current fee schedule and details on these passes.

To plan your visit or make a reservation at Stillhouse Campground, or for any general inquiries about Stillhouse Hollow Lake, here is the Contact Information:

Address: 4050 Simmons Rd, Belton, TX 76513, USA
Phone: (254) 939-6741 (Stillhouse Hollow Lake Office, which oversees these parks)
Reservations: Camping reservations for Union Grove Park and Dana Peak Park can typically be made via www.recreation.gov or by calling 1-877-444-6777.

It is always advisable to contact the lake office directly, especially for the most up-to-date information on site availability, seasonal closures, specific park rules (like burn bans), and to confirm any details relevant to your trip.

In Conclusion: Why this place is suitable for locals, Stillhouse Campground at Stillhouse Hollow Lake is an undeniable gem for Texans seeking an enriching outdoor experience right in their backyard. For our local residents, its proximity to Central Texas communities like Belton, Killeen, and Temple makes it an incredibly convenient and accessible escape. It offers a perfect blend of peaceful natural beauty and abundant recreational activities, making it suitable for a wide range of interests – from avid anglers and boating enthusiasts to hikers, families with kids, and dog owners.

The consistent praise for its clean facilities, quiet environment, and the sheer beauty of the lake ensures a consistently positive experience. Whether you're looking for a quick day trip for some fishing and picnicking, a weekend tent camping adventure, or an extended RV stay by the water, Stillhouse provides the ideal setting. The availability of well-maintained amenities and the value offered through federal discount passes further solidify its appeal. For Texans desiring to reconnect with nature, enjoy water sports, or simply unwind in a serene setting without traveling far, Stillhouse Campground truly is a perfect local getaway.