McKinney Falls State Park in Austin, Texas, offers a variety of camping options for visitors seeking to immerse themselves in the great outdoors. Whether you’re looking for a cozy cabin or a spacious campsite with all the amenities, this state park has something to suit every camping enthusiast’s needs.
Camping Areas at McKinney Falls State Park
Big Cedar Camping Area
The Big Cedar Camping Area is the largest camping area within McKinney Falls State Park, offering 81 campsites with water and electrical hookups. These spacious, wooded sites come equipped with picnic tables, tent pads, and fire rings, providing a comfortable and convenient camping experience. Nearby, you’ll find well-maintained restrooms and bathhouses.
Group Youth Camping Area
For nonprofit-sponsored youth groups, the park offers a dedicated Group Youth Camping Area. This area provides a group campsite with amenities such as picnic tables and fire rings, making it an ideal destination for organized outdoor activities and team-building exercises.
Cabins
If you’re looking for a more comfortable and convenient camping option, McKinney Falls State Park has six newly remodeled cabins available for rent. These cabins offer a cozy and well-appointed alternative to traditional tent or RV camping.
Accessing Trails and Facilities
Trails
One of the highlights of McKinney Falls State Park is its extensive trail system, which includes over 10 miles of hiking trails. Visitors can explore the Homestead Trail, Onion Creek Hike and Bike Trail, and Rock Shelter Trail, each offering a unique and scenic experience, from easy strolls to more challenging hikes.
Facilities
The park’s facilities include restrooms, bathhouses, a dump station, and park hosts to assist visitors. Additionally, each campsite is equipped with picnic tables, fire rings, and lantern posts, ensuring a comfortable and well-equipped camping experience.
Rules and Regulations
Late Arrivals
Campers arriving after 4:30 pm must call the park at 512-243-1643 before 4:30 pm to receive the entrance gate code. Failure to do so may result in the cancellation of the reservation.
Reservations
Reservations for campsites and cabins can be made up to 5 months in advance. Walk-up reservations may be available, but they must be confirmed with park staff by 4:30 pm.
Pets
Pets are allowed in the park, but they are not permitted to enter Texas State Park buildings. Visitors should familiarize themselves with the specific rules and restrictions regarding pets at McKinney Falls State Park.
Swimming
Swimming is allowed in Onion Creek, but there are no lifeguards on duty, and visitors swim at their own risk.
Cost and Timings
Camping Fees
Campsites with 30 amp hookups cost $20 per night, while campsites with 50 amp hookups cost $24 per night. There is also a daily entrance fee to the park.
Hours
McKinney Falls State Park is open from 6 am to 10 pm. Campers must check in by noon on the day after their scheduled arrival date to avoid cancellation of their reservation.
Contact Information
- Phone Number: 512-243-1643
- Address: 5808 McKinney Falls Parkway, Austin, TX 78744
- GPS Coordinates: 30.18058, -97.72213
Additional Information
Internet and Cell Service
The park has poor WiFi but good cell service from Verizon, AT&T, and T-Mobile.
Amenities
McKinney Falls State Park offers a playground, picnic tables, fire rings, and restrooms with showers. However, there is no pool, hot tub, or laundry facilities available.
By understanding the different camping areas, accessing the trails and facilities, and familiarizing yourself with the rules and regulations, you can plan an unforgettable camping experience at McKinney Falls State Park in Austin, Texas.
Reference:
- https://texasstateparks.reserveamerica.com/camping/mckinney-falls-state-park/r/campgroundDetails.do?contractCode=TX&parkId=1200066
- https://thedyrt.com/camping/texas/texas-mckinney-falls-state-park
- https://www.cinderstravels.com/mckinney-falls-state-park-campground-review/
- https://tpwd.texas.gov/state-parks/mckinney-falls/fees-facilities/campsites
- https://backroadplanet.com/mckinney-falls-state-park-camping/