McKinney Falls State Park Campground sits just 15 minutes from downtown Austin, offering camping experiences within volcanic formations from the extinct Pilot Knob volcano. The park features varied terrain with flat rock near the main falls and bluebonnets in spring. Summer temperatures regularly exceed 95°F while winter nights can drop below 40°F, creating distinct seasonal camping conditions across the Austin area.
What to do
Swimming at natural waterfalls: McKinney Falls State Park has designated swimming areas where water pools around limestone formations. "There's a place where you can jump off the rocks into the water," notes Steph C., who found the warm water "perfect for new swimmers with floaties and advanced swimmers."
Hiking through post-wildfire recovery: Bastrop State Park shows nature's resilience after devastating fires. "We went after the 2nd fire & was able to see the affected trees from the 1st fire that affected Bastrop. Tons of hiking/running trails," writes Hayley A. The park features multiple miles of trails that can be completed in one or two days.
Cliff jumping opportunities: Pace Bend Park provides unique cliff-jumping experiences into Lake Travis. "My favorite part about this campsite is the ability to cliff jump into a lake. I love the water and this campsite was perfect for me," shares Aaron S. The park features multiple cliff areas of varying heights for different comfort levels.
Explore volcanic geology: McKinney Falls shows interesting volcanic rock formations. "There's an extinct volcano nearby called Pilot Knob. That accounts for the flat rock near the main falls," explains Emily M., who recommends checking out "the ruins of the homestead if the creek is passable."
What campers like
Private, spacious campsites: Cedar Breaks Park offers well-spaced sites with natural barriers. "The sites are large which means you aren't right on top of your neighbors. Lots of shade. Each site has its own shelter with picnic table, grill and fire pit," reports Karen H., who recommends odd numbers 19-35 and even numbers 36-42 as "the most level sites with the best lake views."
Dog-friendly facilities: Austin East KOA provides exceptional pet amenities. "If you have dogs this will probably be the biggest dog park at an rv resort that you have ever been to," says Benjamin R., who appreciated the "ample space between sites, making you feel private and spacious."
Natural shade coverage: Oak Forest RV Park offers mature tree canopy throughout. "Lots of trees and shade. Great people," notes Shelly P., who enjoyed the mix of tiny houses among RVs. Another camper mentioned, "There's multiple dog parks, hammock areas, common areas with fire pits and grills, gardens for the community."
Clean, private bathrooms: Austin Lone Star RV Community maintains excellent facilities. "The showers and bathrooms are private and very clean. There are plenty, so there always seems to be at least one available no matter what time of day," shares Carlyne F., who also noted the "spacious and clean" pet area with benches.
What you should know
Flash flood risks: Pedernales Falls State Park Campground requires weather awareness. "Respect weather warnings!" emphasizes Faith S., who calls the park "a camping staple" but warns visitors to take flash flood warnings seriously based on past experiences.
Varying site levels: Cedar Breaks Park has significant elevation differences between sites. "The sites along the inside are scary unlevel! Some of the big rigs were backed in and jacked up 4 feet or so in front. Saw a lady break her ankle stepping out of her camper," reports Karen H.
Swimming safety concerns: McKinney Falls requires caution for water activities. "Please be careful swimming. If you can't swim, please refrain or wear a life jacket. There have been several drownings here," warns Emily M., emphasizing the importance of water safety.
Seasonal crowds: Krause Springs experiences significant visitor fluctuations. "Can get crowded on the weekends," notes Emily M., who recommends using a headlamp to check out the small cave behind the waterfall but warns of potential snake sightings.
Tips for camping with families
Secure camping for kids: Krause Springs offers family-friendly swimming with supervision required. "Kids can jump off the small Cliffside or fly on the rope swing. If you like nature this is a dream spot," says Brandi W., though they warn about "low hanging trees everywhere" that could damage taller RVs.
Shallow water options: McKinney Falls provides graduated swimming depths. "The water was warm, and it was perfect for new swimmers with floaties and advanced swimmers," notes Steph C., highlighting the versatility for different swimming abilities.
Junior ranger programs: Bastrop State Park offers educational activities. "Kids got to do the junior ranger program which they loved," shares Kim B., who appreciated the "easy trails, historic buildings, nature center, woods, pool" that kept children engaged.
Playground facilities: Austin East KOA maintains dedicated play areas. "There is a nice laundry room, children's playground and pool for guests to enjoy," Carlyne F. reports, making it suitable for families needing multiple amenities.
Tips from RVers
Site selection for level parking: Cedar Breaks Park requires careful site selection. "I suggest odd numbers 19-35 and even numbers 36-42 as the most level sites with the best lake views," advises Karen H., who found interior sites particularly challenging for leveling.
Easy city access: Austin Lone Star RV Community provides urban proximity. "This campground is so close to downtown! We were there in about 10 or 15 minutes," states Deanna W., who appreciated the "large trees at all the spots provide shade and give you a little privacy from the close campers."
Glamping close to Austin, Texas: Oak Forest RV Park blends comfort with nature. "RV Park is very well kept. Nice neighbors too. Heated pool/hot tub look nice," shares Tammee P., who stayed for medical reasons and found the "nearby bike trail has been our saving grace since we'd prefer a state or national park setting."
Secure campground amenities: Austin Lone Star uses access codes for facilities. "Very nice campground, very secure, codes used to enter gate, pool, showers/restrooms & 24hour laundry room," notes Jeannine D., making it suitable for campers concerned about security while glamping near Austin.
