Cabin accommodations around Cedar Park, Texas range from rustic state park options to private resorts within a 30-mile radius. The region experiences hot, dry summers with temperatures regularly exceeding 90°F and mild winters, making year-round camping viable. Cedar Park sits at approximately 850 feet elevation on the northern edge of Texas Hill Country, creating varied terrain for camping experiences.
What to do
Cliff jumping at Lake Travis: Pace Bend Park offers 20+ miles of shoreline with designated jumping spots ranging from 15-25 feet high. Pace Bend Park provides both lake access and camping options. "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," notes one visitor.
Waterfall exploration: Natural limestone formations create multiple swimming spots and small falls throughout the area. "The falls are pretty. You can walk upriver from the falls, bouldering for quite a long way. Classic hill country terrain," shares one camper at Pedernales Falls State Park.
Mountain biking: Several parks offer designated biking trails ranging from beginner to advanced. "We went mountain biking in shorts the first day and a backpack training hike the next. Nice trails," comments one December visitor at McKinney Falls State Park.
Kayaking and canoeing: Multiple parks rent equipment onsite for $15-25 per hour. "Grab a kayak and paddle up and down Inks Lake. Set up your tent near hiking trails and lake access," recommends a visitor to the area.
What campers like
Spacious, private sites: Many parks offer well-separated camping areas with natural barriers. "Sites were plenty big with electric and running water. The great part is the swimming," notes a visitor to McKinney Falls State Park. "The campsites along the cliffs are beautiful at night," adds another camper at Pace Bend Park.
Lake access: Direct waterfront sites available at multiple parks within 30 minutes of Cedar Park. "Lots of spots on the lake. They do have gazebos at each spot. Campground is very clean," reports a visitor to Jim Hogg - Lake Georgetown.
Natural swimming areas: Multiple limestone-bottomed swimming holes with rope swings and jumping areas. "The site that I had most recently had a beautiful western view over the lake and I enjoyed several beautiful sunsets," shares a Lake Georgetown visitor.
Year-round camping options: Mild winters allow for extended camping season. "Stayed here on Monday, December 21 (winter solstice) 2020. There were only four other campsites taken. It was very quiet," notes one winter camper at Pace Bend Park.
What you should know
Reservation requirements: Most state parks require bookings 2-3 months in advance for weekend stays. Weekday availability improves significantly during non-summer months.
Flash flood awareness: Several parks post warning signs and emergency procedures. "Made me aware of how serious flash flooding is here. Respect weather warnings!" advises a visitor to Pedernales Falls.
Limited shade at some sites: Krause Springs and other locations have variable shade coverage. "Spent a day by the water but our spot didn't have shade so we moved inland under the trees and it was much more comfortable," notes one camper.
Seasonal crowds: Swimming areas become extremely busy during summer weekends. "Very crowded, especially on the weekends. The lot does have electric and water hookups and sewer at the exit gate as well as showers and dumpsters," reports a visitor to Lake Georgetown.
Tips for camping with families
Water safety preparation: Several parks require life jackets for children under 12. "Please be careful swimming. If you can't swim, please refrain or wear a life jacket. There have been several drownings here," cautions one McKinney Falls visitor.
Kid-friendly water features: Graduated swimming areas suitable for various age groups. "The water was warm, and it was perfect for new swimmers with floaties and advanced swimmers. There's a place where you can jump off the rocks into the water," shares a visitor to McKinney Falls.
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Early morning and dusk offer best viewing times. "You might see deer, raccoons, armadillos and occasionally snakes. All of the wildlife should be left undisturbed," advises one park visitor.
Loop camping for kids: Inks Lake State Park offers family-friendly layouts. "We were on a small loop that allowed our kids (8 and 6) to have some room to roam, and we were just a 50 yard walk from the fishing dock and one of Texas State Parks newly renovated bathrooms," shares one parent.
Tips from RVers
Site access considerations: Some parks have size limitations and challenging approaches. "Getting in and out of the park was smooth for the most part just watch some overhanging limbs," advises a McKinney Falls visitor with a 40-foot Class A RV.
Dump station locations: Position varies by park, sometimes requiring planning. "Dump station is at entrance of park and park is fairly large to haul a portable dump tank," notes one Oak Forest RV Park visitor.
Extended stay options: Several parks accommodate longer visits with monthly rates. "We experienced the Austin winter storm 2021 and although we were without water hookup for 1 week we never lost power," reports one winter visitor staying at Oak Forest RV Park during an extended visit.
RV site selection: Request specific areas based on needs. "Sites are medium size, level with tables and pads. Not much road noise although you are not far off the highway," reports a KOA visitor.
