McKinney Falls State Park, Texas: Best Things to Do – Top Picks

Just 13 km (8 miles) from downtown Austin lies a hidden natural gem where limestone ledges create stunning waterfalls and ancient cypress trees have stood witness to over five centuries of Texas history. McKinney Falls State Park, spanning 289 hectares (714 acres), welcomes nearly 300,000 visitors annually to its crystal-clear swimming holes and scenic hiking trails, yet somehow maintains the feeling of a secluded natural retreat.

Getting There & Planning Your Journey

McKinney Falls State Park is conveniently located just 18 km (11 miles) southeast of downtown Austin, making it an easy day trip for both locals and tourists. The park’s accessibility is one of its greatest assets – you can immerse yourself in nature without venturing far from urban amenities.

Park Entrance & Fees

The park entrance fee is $6 per person for adults (13 and older), while children 12 and under enter free. Texas State Parks Pass holders also get free entry. During peak seasons (summer weekends and holidays), the park often reaches capacity early, so reservations are highly recommended.

You can make day-use reservations up to 30 days in advance through the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department website or by calling (512) 389-8900. The park is open daily from 8:00 AM to 10:00 PM.

Best Time to Visit & Weather Tips

McKinney Falls State Park offers unique experiences year-round, but timing your visit can significantly enhance your experience.

Seasonal Highlights

Winter (December-February) brings mild temperatures between 7-18°C (45-65°F) and the lowest visitor numbers. While swimming isn’t ideal, the peaceful trails and occasional foggy mornings create a serene atmosphere perfect for photography and wildlife spotting.

Top Things to Do at McKinney Falls State Park

From refreshing swims to scenic hikes, McKinney Falls offers diverse activities for nature lovers of all ages. Here are the must-do experiences during your visit:

Swimming at the Falls

The park’s crown jewels are its two limestone waterfalls, each creating natural swimming areas that provide welcome relief during hot Texas days.

Hiking Trails

With over 14.5 km (9 miles) of trails ranging from easy paved paths to more challenging rocky terrain, McKinney Falls State Park offers hiking options for all skill levels.

Fishing & Wildlife Watching

McKinney Falls State Park offers excellent opportunities for anglers and wildlife enthusiasts alike, with Onion Creek providing habitat for various fish species and the surrounding landscape supporting diverse Texas wildlife.

Fishing Opportunities

No fishing license is required when fishing from shore within Texas state parks. Onion Creek is home to several fish species including:

• Largemouth bass
• Sunfish (bluegill and green sunfish)
• Catfish (channel and blue)
• Rio Grande cichlid (found only in Central Texas streams)

The best fishing spots include the deeper pools below Lower Falls and the calmer waters near the Rock Shelter area. Early mornings and evenings typically yield the best results, especially during summer months.

Wildlife Watching

The park is home to numerous wildlife species that can be spotted while hiking or sitting quietly in natural areas. Common sightings include:

Bring binoculars and a field guide to enhance your wildlife watching experience. Early morning and dusk are prime times for animal activity. The Onion Creek Trail and quieter sections of the Homestead Trail offer excellent wildlife viewing opportunities.

Historical Sites & Cultural Significance

Beyond its natural beauty, McKinney Falls State Park preserves important pieces of Texas history, from prehistoric indigenous settlements to early pioneer homesteads.

McKinney Homestead

The park is named after Thomas F. McKinney, one of Stephen F. Austin’s original 300 colonists and a significant figure in early Texas history. His homestead, built in the 1850s from limestone quarried on the property, now stands as a preserved ruin accessible via the Homestead Trail.

Nearby, you can also see the remains of McKinney’s horse trainer’s cabin and the gristmill he established in 1852. The mill used waterpower from Onion Creek to grind corn and wheat but was largely destroyed by a flood in the late 19th century.

“Old Baldy” Cypress Tree

One of the park’s most remarkable features is “Old Baldy,” a bald cypress tree estimated to be over 500 years old. Standing 31 meters (103 feet) tall, this living monument was already a century old when European explorers first arrived in the region. You can find this impressive tree along the Rock Shelter Trail.

El Camino Real

The limestone crossings at both Upper and Lower Falls were once part of El Camino Real de los Tejas (The Royal Road), a historic route that connected Mexico City to Natchitoches, Louisiana. Spanish missionaries, settlers, and traders used this route beginning in the late 17th century.

Where to Stay

Whether you prefer sleeping under the stars or retreating to comfortable accommodations after a day of outdoor adventure, there are plenty of options for staying at or near McKinney Falls State Park.

Camping in the Park

McKinney Falls offers 81 campsites with water and electrical hookups (30/50 amp), accommodating both tents and RVs. Each site includes:

• Picnic table
• Fire ring with grill
• Lantern post
• Access to restrooms with hot showers

Campsite fees range from $20-$24 per night, and reservations can be made up to 5 months in advance through the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department website. Sites are often fully booked during weekends and holidays, so plan accordingly.

Nearby Accommodations

If camping isn’t your style, numerous lodging options are available within a short drive of the park:

For those seeking a unique experience, consider glamping options in the Hill Country or staying at one of the many distinctive accommodations that embody Austin’s “Keep It Weird” spirit, all within a 30-minute drive of the park.

Practical Travel Tips

Make the most of your visit to McKinney Falls State Park with these essential tips from experienced visitors:

What to Pack

• Water shoes – Essential for swimming areas where limestone can be slippery and sharp
• Plenty of water – At least 1 liter per person for every 2 hours of activity
• Sun protection – Hat, sunscreen, and sunglasses, especially in summer
• Insect repellent – Particularly important during warmer months
• Binoculars – For wildlife watching and bird spotting
• Proper footwear – Sturdy hiking shoes for trails, especially after rain

Park Etiquette & Safety

Accessibility Information

McKinney Falls State Park offers several accessible features:

• Paved Onion Creek Hike & Bike Trail suitable for wheelchairs and strollers
• Accessible restrooms at the visitor center and campgrounds
• Several accessible campsites with paved parking and amenities
• Accessible fishing areas along portions of Onion Creek

The visitor center features exhibits on the park’s natural and cultural history and is fully accessible. Staff can provide additional information about trail conditions and accessibility options.

Plan Your McKinney Falls Adventure

McKinney Falls State Park offers a perfect blend of natural beauty, outdoor recreation, and historical significance just minutes from downtown Austin. Whether you’re swimming beneath limestone waterfalls, hiking scenic trails, or exploring historic ruins, this urban oasis provides a refreshing escape from city life without requiring a long journey.

With its accessibility, diverse activities, and year-round appeal, McKinney Falls State Park deserves a spot on any Texas travel itinerary. Remember to make reservations in advance, especially during peak seasons, to ensure your access to this natural gem in the heart of Texas.