McKinney Falls State Park, located 15 minutes from downtown Austin, offers a convenient glamping destination close to Elgin, Texas. The park sits on volcanic rock formations from an extinct volcano called Pilot Knob, creating unique waterfalls and swimming areas. Winter temperatures average 50-60°F, while summer temperatures can exceed 100°F with high humidity, affecting camping comfort throughout the seasons.
What to do
Swimming and water recreation: At McKinney Falls State Park, you can cool off in natural swimming holes formed by volcanic rock. "There's an extinct volcano nearby called Pilot Knob. That accounts for the flat rock near the main falls," explains Emily M. The swimming areas accommodate different skill levels: "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," notes Steph C.
Hiking and biking trails: Many campgrounds feature connected trail systems with varied difficulty levels. At Bastrop State Park, you can explore moderately challenging paths. "The have some good moderate hiking trails and some interesting historical sites," mentions Steve & Ashley G. For longer excursions: "There are several miles of hiking trails, that can be done in one or two days. It just depends on how many miles you want to hike," adds Jennifer J.
Water sports and fishing: Several area lakes support boating and angling. Wilson H. Fox Park provides "good fishing spots. I've always had a good time here," according to Quentin D. For canoe enthusiasts: "We rented a canoe from the office one day and really enjoyed that," says a visitor at Lake Bastrop.
What campers like
Privacy and spaciousness: Many glamping spots near Elgin feature well-separated sites. At Lake Bastrop North Shore Park, "The campsites are private and there are always sites available. The campsites along the cliffs are beautiful at night," remarks Katie B. Similarly, at Cedar Breaks Park, "The campsites are of more than adequate size for comfort. The lakefront spots have a very nice view and the others are tucked nicely in amongst the trees," explains Kenneth H.
Clean facilities: Most glamping locations maintain good bathroom standards. Oak Forest RV Park "is very well kept. Nice neighbors too. Heated pool/hot tub look nice. Laundry facilities on-site are credit card operated," notes Tammee P. At Wilson H. Fox, "Each site seems to have its own pavilion, which I have not seen before, especially at $26 per night. Some sites even had a screened-in bunkhouse," adds Roscoe's R.
Natural setting with urban access: Several glamping options provide nature while staying close to amenities. "Great campground within miles of downtown Austin. Two scenic waterfalls for frolicking in warm weather camping. Many tree ringed rv sites for privacy," says Steve K. about McKinney Falls State Park. Similarly, at Lone Star RV Community, "Located only 9 miles from popular, South Congress and downtown Austin this resort is right off the interstate but nestled in between bushes and trees that offer a sense of privacy," Carlyne F. explains.
What you should know
Seasonal considerations: Summer heat impacts camping comfort. "Visited during the middle of summer, so it was very hot, sunny, and dry. Bring sun screen and plenty of water!" warns Danielle R. about Bastrop State Park. Winter brings milder conditions: "Stayed for a week in December...plenty of space between sites. Park, sites, and road all well maintained," reports Dan H.
Availability challenges: Popular glamping sites fill quickly. Cedar Breaks Park requires advance planning as "the weekends to be super crowded, especially in the day use area (where the easiest accessible swimming spots are). During the week we had the park to ourselves," advises Mark S.
Natural hazards: Be prepared for wildlife encounters. "Watch out for RATTLESNAKES. We saw 2," warns another visitor to Cedar Breaks Park. At McKinney Falls, "Please be careful swimming. If you can't swim, please refrain or wear a life jacket. There have been several drownings here," cautions Emily M.
Tips for camping with families
Choose sites with kid-friendly amenities: Select campgrounds with appropriate facilities. At Austin East KOA, visitors appreciate that "it has private showers and bathrooms that are immaculate" and "a nice little general store was perfect for forgotten items," according to Kristen. The campground also features "a nice pool, small game room with a big, tree-shaded deck."
Plan for extreme weather: Summer camping requires extra preparation. "It's HOT in Texas during the summer. During our outing the temperatures reached 105F, but we were having so much fun that it really didn't matter," shares Troy W. about Lake Bastrop South Shore Park. Swimming opportunities become essential in summer months.
Consider weekday visits: For a more relaxed experience with children, avoid weekends. "The front office and check in process is excellent. The campsites have water and ample shade. They have a children's playground and a nice swimming pool," notes Steve & Ashley G. about Bastrop State Park.
Tips from RVers
Check campsite levelness: Some RV sites require significant leveling. At Pace Bend Park, "The sites along the outside of the loop have lake views and are level. 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," cautions Karen H.
Consider hookup options: Facilities vary between parks. At Cedar Breaks Park, "They have very nice shelters with concrete foundations at each site. The sites all have water and electric connections," notes Kenneth H. For those needing sewer hookups, "We have an access pass which gives us half off each night - $13 per night. Can't beat that deal for 50/30 and water. No sewer hookups so we use our Honey Wagon," adds Mary S.
Road access awareness: Some campgrounds have challenging entry points. "Getting in and out of the park was smooth for the most part just watch some overhanging limbs," advises Dan H. about McKinney Falls State Park. RVers should also consider proximity to amenities as "there are full-timers but also plenty of travelers passing through" at Austin Lone Star RV Community.
