McKinney Falls State Park offers a diverse range of activities and attractions for visitors, making it a popular destination for state park touring enthusiasts and tour planners. From hiking and biking to swimming and fishing, the park provides a wealth of opportunities to explore the great outdoors.
Hiking and Biking Trails
One of the main draws of McKinney Falls State Park is its extensive network of hiking and biking trails. Visitors can enjoy the following trails:
| Trail Name | Distance | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Onion Creek Hike and Bike Trail | 2.8 miles | Suitable for strollers and road bikes |
| Rock Shelter Trail | 0.6 miles | Hiker-only trail featuring the 500-year-old “Old Baldy” cypress tree |
| Homestead Trail | Varies | Includes historic sites like the McKinney Homestead and the Smith Family Picnic Table |
| Williamson Creek Overlook Trail | 1.1 miles | Requires some negotiation of the Homestead Trail to access |
Swimming and Fishing
The park’s natural water features, including the Upper and Lower Falls, offer excellent opportunities for swimming and fishing. The Upper Falls area is deeper, while the Lower Falls is shallower and more suitable for younger children. Fishing is allowed in Onion and Williamson creeks, and no license is required if fishing from the shore within the park.
Camping and Accommodations
For those looking to extend their stay, McKinney Falls State Park offers a variety of camping and accommodation options, including:
- 81 campsites with water and electric hookups
- 6 newly remodeled cabins that can be reserved in advance
- A primitive youth camping area for use by nonprofit-sponsored youth groups
Other Activities
In addition to hiking, biking, swimming, and fishing, the park offers a range of other activities, including:
- Geocaching
- Picnicking
- Bird watching
- Ranger-led programs on topics like birding and geocaching
- Junior Ranger program for kids
Accessibility and Safety
McKinney Falls State Park is committed to providing an accessible and safe experience for all visitors. The visitor center is fully accessible, and an all-terrain wheelchair is available for use in the park (reservations required). Visitors should also familiarize themselves with swimming safety tips and check the current creek conditions, as Onion Creek can flood after rainfall.
Planning Your Visit
To make the most of your visit to McKinney Falls State Park, be sure to plan ahead. Make day pass or campsite reservations in advance, and be aware of the park’s hours (8 a.m. to 10 p.m. daily) and ticket prices ($6 for visitors 13 and older). Two parking lots are available, one at the visitor center and one near the Lower Falls.
Additional Tips
When visiting McKinney Falls State Park, remember to follow the principles of Leave No Trace to minimize your impact on the environment. Additionally, certain items, such as food, alcohol, glass, coolers, pets in the water, speakers, and hard balls, are prohibited in the Upper and Lower Falls areas.
By exploring the diverse range of activities and attractions at McKinney Falls State Park, state park touring enthusiasts and tour planners can create unforgettable experiences and discover the natural beauty of this Texas gem.
References:
1. https://tpwd.texas.gov/state-parks/mckinney-falls
2. https://www.austintexas.org/austin-insider-blog/post/mckinney-falls/
3. https://www.komoot.com/guide/3391562/attractions-in-mckinney-falls-state-park
4. https://www.lostwithlydia.com/destinations/usa/tx/Things-To-Do-at-McKinney-Falls-State-Park/
5. https://austinactivekids.com/mckinney-falls-state-park/