McKinney Falls State Park Safety and Rules for State Park Touring Enthusiasts and Tour Planners

McKinney Falls State Park is a popular outdoor destination in Austin, Texas, offering a range of activities such as swimming, hiking, biking, and camping. To ensure a safe and enjoyable visit, it’s essential to be aware of the park’s safety precautions and rules.

Safety Precautions at McKinney Falls State Park

1. Swimming Safety:
2. Be cautious of the creek’s flow, especially after rainfall. Contact the park for current creek conditions before swimming.
3. Swim in designated areas only.

4. No lifeguards are on duty, so children should be comfortable with swimming.

5. Trail Safety:

6. Stay on designated trails to avoid accidents and protect the park’s natural resources.
7. Bring plenty of water and travel with a partner.

8. Wear helmets while biking, and maintain a maximum speed limit of 15 mph on trails.

9. General Safety:

10. Pets must be on a leash no longer than six feet and are not allowed in the water or public buildings.
11. No alcohol or drugs are permitted in the park.
12. Be mindful of wildlife, including snakes, armadillos, and other native species.

Rules and Regulations at McKinney Falls State Park

1. Park Hours and Reservations:

2. The park is open daily from 8 a.m. to 10 p.m. Reservations are required for entry, and day passes cost $6 for visitors 13 and older.

3. Prohibited Items:

4. The following items are not allowed in the Upper and Lower Falls areas:

   • Food or snacks
   • Alcohol or glass
   • Coolers, ice chests, or thermal bags
   • Pets in the water
   • Music speakers or hard sports balls.

5. Camping and Overnight Stays:

6. Campsite check-out time is 12 p.m. Renewal requests should be made by 9 a.m. and are subject to availability.
7. A maximum of eight people are permitted per multi-use campsite, and six people per limited use cabin.
8. Quiet hours are enforced from 10 p.m. to 6 a.m. Guests without a camping permit must leave the park by 10 p.m.

Emergency Services at McKinney Falls State Park

In case of an accident or emergency, contact the park headquarters at (512) 389-8900. For more information on park rules and regulations, visit the Texas Parks & Wildlife Department website or the park’s visitor center.

By following these safety precautions and rules, visitors can ensure a safe and enjoyable experience at McKinney Falls State Park. Whether you’re planning a day trip or an overnight stay, being informed and prepared is key to making the most of your time in this beautiful natural setting.

References

Texas Parks & Wildlife Department. (2024). McKinney Falls State Park Facility Map. Retrieved from https://tpwd.texas.gov/publications/pwdpubs/media/park_maps/pwd_mp_p4505_090d.pdf

Texas Parks & Wildlife Department. (n.d.). McKinney Falls State Park. Retrieved from https://tpwd.texas.gov/state-parks/mckinney-falls

Austin.com. (2020, July 16). Absolutely Everything You Need to Know About McKinney Falls. Retrieved from https://austin.com/absolutely-everything-you-need-to-know-about-mckinney-falls/

Austin Texas. (2024, April 28). McKinney Falls in Austin, TX | Hikes, Swimming Holes & Hotels. Retrieved from https://www.austintexas.org/austin-insider-blog/post/mckinney-falls/

The Patel Firm. (n.d.). McKinney Falls State Park TX | The Patel Firm Injury Accident Lawyers. Retrieved from https://thepatelfirm.com/mckinney-falls-state-park-tx/.