McKinney Falls State Park

Things to Do

Think of the park as Austin’s backyard; we’re just 13 miles from the state capitol. Here you can camp, hike, mountain or road bike, geocache, go bouldering, and picnic. You can also fish and swim in Onion Creek.

Onion Creek can flood after rainfall. Beware of the creek’s flow; contact the park for current creek conditions. Read through our swimming safety tips before you visit.

Stay at one of 81 campsites (all with water and electric hookups). Or rent one of our six newly remodeled cabins. We also have a primitive youth camping area, for use by nonprofit sponsored youth groups.

Hike or bike nearly nine miles of trails. The 2.8-mile Onion Creek Hike and Bike Trail has a hard surface, good for strollers and road bikes. Take the Rock Shelter Trail (only for hikers) to see where early visitors camped. Take a virtual tour with our Interactive Trails Map.

Go fishing in Onion or Williamson creeks. You do not need a license to fish from shore in a Texas state park. Download McKinney Falls State Park Fishing Tip Sheet.

Rent the group recreation hall for your next get-together. The hall has a full kitchen and an outdoor grill and seating area.

Volunteer! We need your help in the park.

• Ask at headquarters.
• Visit our Volunteer page.

Ranger Programs

We lead programs on birding, geocaching, atlatls and more. Check the Events page for upcoming programs.

Kids: Have we got fun for you!

• Become a Junior Ranger!
  • Pick up a free Junior Ranger Activity Journal at headquarters. Complete tasks to earn a badge.

Teachers: Bring your students out for field trips using TEKS-aligned curriculum!

• McKinney Falls is a Texas Aquatic Science Certified Field Site.

Area Attractions

Austin has restaurants, museums, music and more, all just a short drive away.