McKinney Falls State Park is an excellent destination for overnight camping, offering a range of amenities and activities for a comfortable and enjoyable stay. Located just 13 miles from Downtown Austin, this Hill Country gem provides easy access from the Austin-Bergstrom International Airport, making it an ideal starting point for your camping adventure.
Is McKinney Falls State Park Suitable for Overnight Camping?
Yes, McKinney Falls State Park is an excellent choice for overnight camping. The park offers 81 campsites, all with water and electrical hookups, as well as six newly remodeled cabins, providing a comfortable and convenient camping experience. The secluded areas within the park, including cozy oak groves and open spaces for stargazing, make it a perfect getaway for those seeking a peaceful and immersive outdoor experience.
Secluded Areas for Camping and Hiking
One of the highlights of McKinney Falls State Park is the abundance of secluded areas for camping and hiking. The campground offers a variety of sites, from those nestled in the oak groves to more open spaces that provide stunning views of the night sky. The park’s trail system, including the Rock Shelter Trail and the Onion Creek Hike and Bike Trail, allows visitors to explore the Hill Country landscape and discover hidden gems along the way.
Amenities and Restrictions for Campsites with Electricity
The campsites at McKinney Falls State Park come with a range of amenities to ensure a comfortable stay:
| Amenity | Description |
|---|---|
| Electricity | Each campsite has electrical hookups. |
| Water Hookups | Campers have access to water at their sites. |
| Picnic Table | A picnic table is provided at each campsite. |
| Fire Ring | A fire ring is available for campfires. |
| Restrooms | The park has well-maintained restrooms and bathhouses. |
| Dump Station | A dump station is available for RV campers. |
However, there are a few restrictions to keep in mind:
– Campers arriving after 4:30 pm must call the park at 512-243-1643 to receive the entrance gate code.
– Reservations are highly recommended, especially on weekends and holidays, as the park can close to day-use visitors without a reservation when it reaches maximum capacity.
Cost and Timings
- Cost: The rate for camping is $25 per person, per night. Day passes are $6 for visitors ages 13 and older.
- Timings: The park is open from 8 a.m. to 10 p.m. daily. Peak season runs from March through November, with temperatures soaring in summer and the wet season typically occurring from May to September.
Accessibility
McKinney Falls State Park offers accessible amenities, including the visitor center, which has ADA parking and ramps. Some trails are relatively flat, while others may have steep inclines or uneven terrain. The park also provides a GRIT all-terrain wheelchair for reservation, ensuring that visitors with mobility challenges can fully enjoy the park’s natural beauty.
Additional Information
- Local Attractions: The park is close to several local attractions, including the George H.W. Bush Presidential Library, the LBJ Presidential Library, and the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center.
- Wildlife and Activities: Visitors can see local wildlife like armadillos, painted bunting, and various snake species. Activities include hiking, fishing, mountain biking, swimming, and bird watching.
Overall, McKinney Falls State Park is an excellent choice for overnight camping, offering a range of amenities, activities, and accessible trails within a scenic Hill Country setting, just a short distance from the Austin-Bergstrom International Airport.
References:
1. https://www.hipcamp.com/en-US/p/united-states/texas/state-park/mckinney-falls/all
2. https://austintravels.com/travel-news/mckinney-falls-state-park/
3. https://texasstateparks.reserveamerica.com/camping/mckinney-falls-state-park/r/campgroundDetails.do?contractCode=TX&parkId=1200066
4. https://backroadplanet.com/mckinney-falls-state-park-camping/
5. https://www.austintexas.org/austin-insider-blog/post/mckinney-falls/