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Austin City Limits (ACL) Campervan Guide

Stay Nearby. Beat the Surge. Enjoy Every Set.

ACL takes over Zilker Park for two weekends each October. There is no camping at the venue, so a campervan at a nearby RV park is the comfortable, flexible way to do Austin right.

Event Overview

Austin City Limits Music Festival brings hundreds of artists across multiple stages to Zilker Park over two consecutive weekends in October. Hotels fill quickly and prices surge across the city. A campervan gives you your own quiet base with AC, a kitchen, and a comfy bed while you explore Austin.

Location
Zilker Park, Austin, Texas
Typical Dates
Early to mid October
Two weekends
Duration
3-Day Weekend
Fri–Sun
Event Type
Music Festival
Camping
No on-site camping at Zilker Park
Transport
Shuttles, bikes, rideshare

Why Stay in a Campervan for ACL?

ACL is urban and busy. A campervan at a nearby RV park gives you a cool, private retreat and control over costs during peak hotel periods.

  • Air conditioned sleeping space and real mattress
  • Kitchen for easy breakfasts and late night snacks
  • Base yourself 15 to 40 minutes from Zilker
  • Flexible plans if weather changes
  • No hotel minimums or parking headaches

Where to Park Your Campervan

There is no camping at Zilker Park. Choose an RV park or campground with easy access to downtown:

Within Austin
  • RV resorts on the north and south sides
  • Private campgrounds with hookups
  • Book far in advance
Hill Country
  • State parks and private sites west of the city
  • Scenic drives and swimming holes
  • Usually quieter than in-town options

Plan transport: rideshare, festival shuttles, bikes, or e-scooters for the last mile.

Recommended Campervan Features

October in Austin is warm by day and comfortable at night. Pick a van that is city friendly and campground ready.

  • Efficient AC or strong ventilation/fans
  • Shore power capability or solar with battery
  • Compact length for urban parking
  • Fridge or quality cooler
  • Awning or shade system
  • Indoor or outdoor cooking setup

Pickup Locations for Campervan Rentals

Fly in and pick up close by, or road-trip in from a neighboring city.

Austin (AUS)
Local pickups
San Antonio
≈ 1.5 hrs
Houston
≈ 2.5–3 hrs
Dallas
≈ 3–3.5 hrs
Hill Country
Various local operators

Allow time for groceries and a quick shakedown before your first festival day.

What to Pack in Your Van

Build a comfortable base for long festival days and late nights.

  • Reusable water bottles and extra jugs
  • Portable fan or clip-on fan
  • Light rain jacket and ponchos
  • Earplugs and eye masks
  • Small first aid kit and sunscreen
  • Camp chairs and compact table
  • Phone battery bank
  • Cooler or fridge space for snacks

Book Your ACL Campervan Early

RV parks and city-adjacent sites fill quickly for both ACL weekends. Lock in your van and campground in advance.

  • Easy pickup across Texas
  • Compact vans for city driving
  • Hookup ready or off-grid capable
  • Festival-friendly rental policies
  • Add-ons: shade, coolers, power kits

FAQs

Is camping allowed at Zilker Park during ACL?

No. There is no on-site camping at Zilker Park. Book an RV park or campground nearby.

How do I get to the festival from my campground?

Use ACL shuttles from designated pickup points, rideshare, bikes, or e-scooters. Parking near Zilker is very limited.

Do I need hookups?

Hookups are convenient for AC and fridges. If you plan to dry camp, choose a van with solar or a robust battery and manage power usage carefully.

What is Austin weather like in October?

Generally warm days and mild nights with a chance of showers. Pack sun protection and light rain gear.