Whether you have a little or a lot of time at McKinney Falls State Park, there is much to experience with whatever time you have. Check out our suggestions for day and weekend trips at this Texas State Park just south of downtown Austin.
If you have 2 hours...
Austin can either be your destination or the city you’re passing through on your way to many other Texas treasures. If you’re passing by and hoping to stretch your legs for a bit, you should take the Rock Shelter Trail from one waterfall to another and see the best things about this park. Park in the Bluebonnet Meadow parking area and make your way to Upper Falls via the trail right next to the bathroom. Check out the TRAIL MAP for details.
Upper Falls
Once you get to the falls, explore the area. See the natural channels of water flow and all of the limestone. From here, hop on the Rock Shelter Trail. You’ll pass the Visitor Center and then arrive at Old Baldy.
Old Baldy
Old Baldy is over 500 years old and was named Austin’s Tree of the Year in 2012. It’s a mighty thing to behold. The park has made a really nice area for viewing.
Rock Shelter
Continuing on the trail a bit further, and you’ll come to the Rock Shelter. This area is a part of the National Register of Historic Places. It was home to Native Americans thousands of years ago. Find out more about the history of the park HERE.
Lower Falls
Once you’ve passed the Rock Shelter, you’ll come to a very wide open space. Make your way to the right, follow the river, and you’ll find the Lower Falls. This area has multiple waterfalls and is very popular for swimming. Explore, play, and enjoy the outdoors with the time you have left. When you’re ready, head back the way you came to the parking area. In total, your hike is less than 2 miles round trip. Not a bad way to spend 2 hours.
If you're planning a day trip...
Day trips are a very popular option at the park. If you plan to be at the park on a weekend or holiday, reserving your DAY PASS in advance is highly recommended. You’ll need the pass regardless, but if you want a guaranteed entry, reserve early.
Swimming
You’ll really get to enjoy a nice day outside with a whole day to do it. Along with everything you should do in 2 hours, consider a prolonged swim time. Both Upper and Lower Falls are excellent for swimming, although the Lower Falls does seem to have a larger swim area. Both have parking areas for easy access. Bring a picnic lunch and plenty of water.
McKinney Homestead
Before you hop in the water, take a hike on the Homestead Trail. This 3 mile hike takes you to the homestead of Thomas McKinney. He was a racehorse breeder and one of the original colonists of Austin. Once you’re done with your hike, jumping in that cool water will be so refreshing.
If you're going for the weekend...
Many people want to take in the full view of this Texas State Park and a weekend trip is a great way to do that. The park has both CABIN and CAMPING options for overnight guest accommodations.
Cabin & Camping
Make your reservations HERE for overnight stays. Choose ‘Camping’ and it will take you to both campsite and cabin options that you can choose from.
Sometimes makes campsite reservations can be difficult with many options. Use this MAP to help you decide where you want to stay in the park.
12 sites have 50amp and water hookups
69 sites have 30amp and water hookups
There is a dump station in the park
HERE are some details about the site options
There are 6 cabins that can sleep up to 4 people. There is an A/C unit, microwave, and mini-fridge among other amenities. There are no restrooms in the cabins, but there is a bathhouse just a short walk away.
MORE cabin details
McKinney Falls State Park does offer some large group options. Check out those facilities and how you can reserve them HERE
Onion Creek Hike & Bike Trail
If you’re staying in the campground, there is a wonderful trail called Onion Creek that begins right from the camping area. It is a 2.8 mile trail that allows for both hiking and biking. This is an improved surface trail and has a great opportunity to see wildlife.
Consider the Wonders is a travel blog intended for entertainment purposes only. We are not RV, travel, or hiking experts and are not making recommendations. These are our opinions and you should do your own research and make your own decisions.
Consider the Wonders is not affiliated with McKinney Falls State Park, Texas State Parks, or Texas Parks and Wildlife Department.
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