No, McKinney Falls State Park is not free. The park charges a daily entrance fee of $6 for adults (13 years and older), while children 12 years and younger enter for free. However, there are some free activities and areas within the park that visitors can enjoy without additional charges.
Entrance Fees and Passes
As mentioned, the daily entrance fee for McKinney Falls State Park is $6 for adults (13 years and older). Children 12 years and younger can enter the park for free. The park also offers several pass options for visitors:
| Pass Type | Cost |
|---|---|
| Daily Entry Permit | $6 per adult |
| Annual Pass | $70 per person |
| Texas State Parks Pass | $70 per person |
| Seniors (65+) | $3 per adult |
| Disabled Veterans | Free |
The annual pass and Texas State Parks Pass provide unlimited entry to McKinney Falls State Park and all other Texas state parks for one year from the date of purchase.
Free Activities and Areas
While the park does charge an entrance fee, there are several free activities and areas that visitors can enjoy within McKinney Falls State Park:
Picnic Areas
The park has designated picnic areas where visitors can enjoy a meal or snack without additional fees. These picnic areas are equipped with tables, grills, and shade structures, making them a great spot to relax and take in the natural surroundings.
Hiking Trails
McKinney Falls State Park offers nine hiking trails of varying difficulty, all of which are included in the daily entrance fee. Visitors can explore the park’s diverse landscapes, from the cascading waterfalls to the wooded areas, without incurring any additional costs.
Swimming Holes
The park is home to two large swimming holes, the Lower McKinney Falls and the Upper McKinney Falls. These natural swimming areas are accessible to visitors with the daily entrance fee, providing a refreshing way to cool off on a hot day.
Bird Watching
McKinney Falls State Park is a popular destination for bird enthusiasts. Visitors can engage in bird watching activities throughout the park without any additional fees, as the park’s diverse habitats are home to a wide variety of avian species.
Facilities and Amenities
In addition to the free activities and areas, McKinney Falls State Park offers a range of facilities and amenities for visitors:
- Campgrounds: The park has both RV and tent campsites available for overnight stays, with fees ranging from $15 to $30 per night.
- Visitor Center: The park’s visitor center provides information about the park’s history, geology, and wildlife, as well as exhibits and educational programs.
- Interpretive Trails: The park offers several interpretive trails that provide information about the local ecosystem and the park’s history.
- Boat Ramp: Visitors can launch their boats at the park’s boat ramp, which is subject to an additional fee.
- Fishing: The park’s waterways offer opportunities for fishing, with a valid Texas fishing license required.
Conclusion
While McKinney Falls State Park does charge an entrance fee, the park offers a variety of free activities and areas that visitors can enjoy. From hiking trails and swimming holes to picnic areas and bird watching, there are plenty of ways to experience the natural beauty of the park without incurring additional costs. Whether you’re a local or a visitor, McKinney Falls State Park is a great destination for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.
References:
- https://austin.com/adventure-austin-mckinney-falls-state-park/
- https://tpwd.texas.gov/state-parks/mckinney-falls/fees-facilities/entrance-fees
- https://www.austintexas.org/austin-insider-blog/post/mckinney-falls/
- https://travel.usnews.com/Austin_TX/Things_To_Do/McKinney_Falls_State_Park_64485/
- https://austin.com/absolutely-everything-you-need-to-know-about-mckinney-falls/