Discover the Natural Wonders of McKinney Falls State Park
Explore the breathtaking landscapes and outdoor adventures at McKinney Falls State Park, a natural oasis in the heart of Austin, Texas.
McKinney Falls State Park, nestled in Austin, Texas, is a haven for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. With stunning waterfalls, hiking trails, and diverse wildlife, it's the perfect escape from urban life.
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
Local tips
- Plan your visit during weekdays for a quieter experience, as weekends can be crowded.
- Bring plenty of water and snacks, especially if you plan on hiking the longer trails.
- Check for any park events or guided tours that may enhance your visit.
- Wear sturdy shoes suitable for hiking, as some trails can be uneven or rocky.
- Consider visiting during the early morning or late afternoon for the best lighting and fewer crowds.
Getting There
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Car
To reach McKinney Falls State Park by car, first locate your starting point in Central Texas. If you're coming from Austin, head southeast on I-35. Take exit 230B toward TX-71 E. Merge onto TX-71 E and continue for about 5 miles. Take the exit toward McKinney Falls Parkway, then turn left onto McKinney Falls Parkway. The park entrance will be on your right at 5808 McKinney Falls Pkwy, Austin, TX 78744. Note that there is an entrance fee of $6 per person for ages 13 and older, or $12 per vehicle if you're traveling with multiple people.
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Public Transportation
To get to McKinney Falls State Park using public transportation, start by taking a Capital Metro bus to downtown Austin. From downtown, take bus route 20 or 30, which will take you toward the park. You will need to get off at the nearest stop to McKinney Falls Parkway and then walk for about 1 mile to reach the park entrance. Be sure to check the Capital Metro website for current schedules and fares, as prices vary but a one-way fare is typically around $1.25.
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Rideshare (Uber/Lyft)
If you prefer a more direct route, consider using rideshare services like Uber or Lyft. Simply request a ride from your location in Central Texas and enter 'McKinney Falls State Park' or the address '5808 McKinney Falls Pkwy, Austin, TX 78744' as your destination. The cost will vary based on your starting point and the time of day, but expect to pay anywhere from $15 to $30 for a ride from downtown Austin.
Discover more about McKinney Falls State Park
Iconic landmarks you can’t miss
Old Baldy
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Sneed House
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The Plantation at Comal Bluff
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Ragsdale Plaza
6.0 km
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Moon Tower Leland/Eastside Drive
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Historic Montopolis Bridge
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Moreland House
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Bat Sculpture
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Kinsfather Manor
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Congress Avenue Bridge
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Tomb of Stephen F. Austin
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Fannie Davis Town Lake Gazebo
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Buford Tower & Kitchens Memorial Chimes
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Historic 6th Street Mural
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Stevie Ray Vaughan Statue
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Unmissable attractions to see
Smith Rock Shelter
0.2 km
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McKinney Falls Smith Visitor Center
0.3 km
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Upper McKinney Falls
0.3 km
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Lower McKinney Falls
0.6 km
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McKinney Falls State Park Campsite 018
0.6 km
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McKinney Falls State Park site 10
0.7 km
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Independence Brewing Co.
3.3 km
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Onion Creek Greenbelt
3.4 km
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Onion Creek Metropolitan Park
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Skull Mechanix Brewing
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The Austin Winery
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Richard Moya Park
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Still Austin Whiskey Co.
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St. Elmo Brewing Company
5.3 km
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Bartons Springs
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Essential places to dine
Onion Creek Grille
4.4 km
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The Little Darlin'
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Jalisco's Restaurant & Bar at Austin, TX
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THE GIT OUT BAR AND KITCHEN
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Taste of Ethiopia II
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Poke-Poke
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Habana Restaurant
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WEIRD FOOD
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Magnolia Cafe
7.3 km
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June's
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Launderette
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Vespaio Restaurant
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Enoteca Vespaio
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LENOIR
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Ezov
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Markets, malls and hidden boutiques
McKinney State Park Campground
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Four Hands Home
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Pasion a Color
5.1 km
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Curia Arcanum's House of Curiosities
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Taste ATX
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Fashion & co.
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Le Rouge Boutique
6.3 km
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South Congress Square
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The Lawn
7.2 km
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Five Below
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Love From Austin mural
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Prima Dora
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Good Company
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Monkey See Monkey DO
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Little Limbo SoCo
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Essential bars & hidden hideouts
Los Patrones Sports Bar
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Drinks Backyard
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Twin Peaks
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Warehouse Billiard Bar
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The Garden Grille & Bar
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Sagebrush
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The Saxon Pub
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The Beerdrop
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Las Vegas Sports Bar
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The 04 Lounge
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Little Drinks Lounge
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Frazier's Long & Low
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The Far Out Lounge & Stage
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Bender
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Copperhead Club
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Nightclubs & after hour spots
Palazio Gentlemen's Club
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South Congress District
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OK Corral Nightclub
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new night productions
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C-Boy's Heart & Soul
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The Continental Club
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The Continental Gallery
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Cielo Nightclub
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Antone's Nightclub
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Voodoo Room
9.4 km
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Barbarella Austin
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Mala Fama
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Kingdom
9.4 km
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Elysium
9.4 km
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Club Eternal
9.5 km
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