Discover the Natural Beauty of McKinney Falls State Park
Experience the tranquil beauty of waterfalls, hiking trails, and rich wildlife at McKinney Falls State Park in Austin, Texas.
A brief summary to McKinney Falls State Park
- 5808 McKinney Falls Pkwy, Austin, Texas, 78744, US
- +1512-243-1643
- Visit website
- Monday 8 am-10 pm
- Tuesday 8 am-10 pm
- Wednesday 8 am-10 pm
- Thursday 8 am-10 pm
- Friday 8 am-10 pm
- Saturday 8 am-10 pm
- Sunday 8 am-10 pm
McKinney Falls State Park is a hidden gem located just a stone's throw away from the bustling city of Austin, Texas. This sprawling park features the stunning McKinney Falls, where Onion Creek tumbles over limestone ledges, creating beautiful cascades that are particularly enchanting after rainfall. The park welcomes visitors with its diverse range of activities, including hiking, biking, and nature photography. Trails wind through scenic landscapes, showcasing the park's rich flora and fauna, making it a perfect spot for wildlife enthusiasts. Families will find plenty of space for picnicking and leisurely strolls under the shade of towering trees. The park’s picnic areas are well-equipped, providing a lovely setting for a relaxing lunch amidst nature. Anglers can also enjoy fishing in the creek, while children can delight in exploring the natural surroundings. The park is known for its vibrant ecosystem, and visitors may encounter various species of birds, butterflies, and other wildlife. For those interested in history, the park also features remnants of the old homestead, adding a touch of cultural significance to your visit. Accessible year-round, McKinney Falls State Park is an ideal getaway for anyone looking to experience the beauty of Texas’s natural landscape, all while being close to the conveniences of urban life.
Local tips
- Visit early in the morning for a peaceful experience and to catch the sunrise over the falls.
- Wear sturdy shoes for hiking, as some trails can be rocky and uneven.
- Bring a picnic and enjoy lunch at one of the designated areas by the creek.
- Don’t forget your camera; the waterfalls and surrounding nature provide stunning photo opportunities.
Getting There
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Public Bus
From downtown Austin, head to the nearest bus stop for Capital Metro buses. Take the MetroRapid 803 towards the 'North Lamar & 183' station. Ride for about 20-30 minutes until you reach the 'Riverside & I-35' stop. Transfer to the 300 bus route towards 'Cedar Park'. Ride until you reach the 'McKinney Falls Pkwy' stop. From there, it's a short walk north to the entrance of McKinney Falls State Park.
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Bicycle
If you prefer to cycle, start from downtown Austin and head southeast along the Lady Bird Lake Trail. Continue on the trail until you reach the intersection with Riverside Drive. Turn left on Riverside Drive and follow it until you reach the intersection with McKinney Falls Parkway. Turn right onto McKinney Falls Parkway and bike for about 1 mile until you reach the park entrance.
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Rideshare (Uber/Lyft)
Open your rideshare app (Uber or Lyft) and set your destination as 'McKinney Falls State Park, 5808 McKinney Falls Pkwy, Austin, TX 78744'. If you are starting from a popular area in downtown Austin, this ride will typically take around 15-25 minutes, depending on traffic.
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Walking
Walking from downtown Austin to McKinney Falls State Park is quite a trek, approximately 6 miles. Start by heading southeast on 6th Street until you reach Riverside Drive. Continue east on Riverside Drive until you reach McKinney Falls Parkway, then turn right and follow the road until you reach the park entrance. This journey can take about 2-2.5 hours, so be prepared with water and comfortable shoes.
Attractions Nearby to McKinney Falls State Park
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Smith Rock Shelter
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McKinney Falls Smith Visitor Center
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Upper McKinney Falls
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Lower McKinney Falls
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McKinney Falls State Park Campsite 018
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McKinney Falls State Park site 10
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Onion Creek Greenbelt
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Onion Creek Metropolitan Park
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Richard Moya Park
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Blunn Creek Nature Preserve
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Cathedral of Junk
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The Boardwalk at Lady Bird Lake
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Larry Monroe Forever Bridge
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South Congress SOCO Mural
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Austin Boardwalk
Landmarks nearby to McKinney Falls State Park
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Sneed House
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Ragsdale Plaza
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Moon Tower Leland/Eastside Drive
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Moreland House
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Bat Sculpture
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Tomb of Stephen F. Austin
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Buford Tower & Kitchens Memorial Chimes
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Historic 6th Street Mural
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Austin
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Doug Sahm Hill Summit
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Willie Nelson Statue
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Museum of the Weird
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Republic Square
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Moonlight Tower
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John Bremond House