Old Settler's Music Festival
Transport, Hotels & What to Bring

Deep in the heart of Texas, where rolling hills meet endless skies, Old Settler's Music Festival 2026 creates a magical gathering that celebrates the finest in Americana, bluegrass, and folk traditions. Set against the historic backdrop of Camp Ben McCulloch in Driftwood, this beloved annual event transforms the sprawling grounds into a global hub of celebration, drawing up to 15,000 music enthusiasts from across the world. The festival's commitment to preserving musical heritage whilst embracing contemporary artistry creates an atmosphere where seasoned musicians share stages with emerging talents, and families gather under ancient oak trees to experience the authentic spirit of American roots music.

This comprehensive guide covers everything you need to know for your Old Settler's Music Festival adventure, including detailed information about onsite camping facilities, transport options, local accommodation alternatives, weather considerations, and essential packing recommendations to ensure your weekend runs smoothly.

✈️ How to Get There: Transport & Logistics

Getting to Old Settler's Music Festival at Camp Ben McCulloch in Driftwood is straightforward, with most attendees driving from Austin (30 minutes), San Antonio (45 minutes), or Houston (3 hours) via major motorways. The festival typically offers shuttle services from Austin and nearby towns to reduce traffic congestion at the rural venue. For those flying in, Austin-Bergstrom International Airport provides the closest access point, with rental cars and regional transport connections available for the final leg to the Hill Country location.

Closest Airports

1. Austin-Bergstrom International Airport (AUS)

Distance: 29 km
The most practical way to reach Camp Ben McCulloch from Austin-Bergstrom International Airport is by rental car or taxi, which takes approximately 29 minutes via the main highways heading southwest of Austin.

2. San Antonio International Airport (SAT)

Distance: 95 km
The most practical way to reach Camp Ben McCulloch for the festival from San Antonio International Airport is by rental car or taxi, which takes approximately 1 hour 35 minutes along the motorway.

3. William P. Hobby Airport (HOU)

Distance: 235 km
The most practical way to reach Camp Ben McCulloch from William P. Hobby Airport is by rental car, which takes approximately 3 hours 55 minutes driving northwest through Texas.

Getting to the Venue

• Trains/Public Transport: The nearest rail connection is Austin-Bergstrom International Airport station, though you'll need onward transport to reach Camp Ben McCulloch in Driftwood. Austin's MetroRail Red Line connects downtown Austin to Leander, but doesn't extend to the festival site.

• Buses/Shuttles: Dedicated festival shuttles typically run from central Austin pickup points including the State Capitol area and South Austin locations. Check the official festival website for shuttle schedules and booking, as these fill up quickly during Old Settler's weekend.

• Late-Night Return: The last shuttle services usually depart Camp Ben McCulloch around midnight on festival days. If you're staying later, arrange alternative transport in advance as rideshare availability becomes limited in the Driftwood area after hours.

• Taxi & Rideshare: Uber and Lyft operate between Austin, San Antonio and the festival site, though expect surge pricing and longer wait times. Local taxi firms from Dripping Springs and Wimberley also service the area and may offer better availability during peak festival times.

🏨 Where to Stay

Old Settler's Music Festival 2026 offers onsite camping at Salt Traders Coastal Cooking in Driftwood, allowing you to stay right where the music happens. The camping area provides easy access to all four stages and lets you experience the full community atmosphere that makes this festival special. You'll need to bring your own tent and camping gear, and the site includes basic facilities with toilets and water stations throughout the camping grounds.

For those preferring more comfort, Austin offers numerous hotel options about 20 miles northeast of the Driftwood venue, including chain hotels along I-35 and boutique properties in downtown Austin. Dripping Springs, just 10 miles away, has several bed and breakfasts and smaller inns that provide a quieter base whilst still keeping you close to the festival site. Many attendees also book holiday rentals in the Texas Hill Country area, which gives you more space and kitchen facilities for the weekend.

Onsite Camping

Old Settler's Music Festival 2026 offers onsite camping. Check the festival website for:

• Camping ticket options and prices
• Facilities available (showers, toilets, charging stations)
• What you can bring (tent size limits, equipment restrictions)
• Arrival and departure times

☀️ Weather

Dates: 17 April 2026 to 19 April 2026
Season: Spring

Mid-April in Driftwood brings pleasant spring weather with daytime temperatures typically reaching the mid-20s Celsius, though evenings can still be quite cool. Pack layers including a light jacket for chilly mornings and evenings, along with sun protection for the warm afternoon hours.

🎒 What to Bring

Essential Items

• Valid photo ID and tickets (printed or on your phone)
• Payment cards and some cash
• Portable charger for your phone
• Sunscreen and sun protection
• Light jacket or layers (weather can change)
• Reusable water bottle
• Any prescription medications

Check the Festival Website For

• Bag size restrictions (usually A4 or A3 maximum)
• Prohibited items list
• Food and drink policy

🛡️ Safety & Wellbeing

• Stay hydrated throughout the day
• Arrange a meeting point with your group in case you get separated
• Keep valuables secure and out of sight
• Know where the medical tents and welfare areas are
• Look out for friends and fellow festival-goers
• Have emergency contacts saved in your phone

📸 Make This the Best Experience Ever

While it's tempting to capture every moment on your phone, you'll get so much more from the festival by being truly present. Take a few photos to remember the experience, then put your phone away and immerse yourself in the music and atmosphere with your friends.

Your future self will thank you for the memories you made by being present, not the hours spent scrolling through your phone.

🍽️ Make the Most of Driftwood

Pre-Festival: Start your day right before heading to the festival. Great spots near the venue include

• Sonder Coffee Lounge (4.9★) - Sonder Coffee Lounge serves expertly crafted coffee and fresh breakfast fare in a welcoming, relaxed atmosphere.
• Another Broken Egg Cafe (4.9★) - Another Broken Egg Cafe serves creative breakfast dishes with Southern flair in a welcoming atmosphere near Driftwood.
• The Henry Coffee (5★) - The Henry Coffee serves expertly crafted breakfast dishes and premium coffee in a welcoming local atmosphere.

Daytime food options near the festival:

• Casa de Luz Village (4.7★) - Casa de Luz Village serves wholesome vegetarian cuisine with a peaceful, community-focused atmosphere near Driftwood.
• Bouldin Creek Cafe (4.7★) - Bouldin Creek Cafe serves delicious vegetarian comfort food with a relaxed, eclectic atmosphere perfect for leisurely lunches.
• The Leaning Pear (4.5★) - The Leaning Pear serves fresh, farm-to-table cuisine with a charming rustic atmosphere perfect for a leisurely lunch.

🎵 Music & Vibe

The 2026 lineup is focused on Bluegrass, Soul, Jam Bands, and Blues. This weekend showcase draws both established acts and emerging artists who embody the festival's commitment to genuine musicianship.

Old Settler's attracts a diverse, music-loving crowd—from seasoned festival veterans to multi-generational families—all united by their appreciation for organic, heartfelt performances. With 15,000 attendees gathering in a welcoming, community-minded atmosphere, the festival maintains an intimate feel where genuine connections flourish between artists and audiences alike.