Manchaca sits in the eastern Hill Country of Texas, with elevations ranging from 600-750 feet and average summer temperatures near 95°F. The area receives approximately 33 inches of rainfall annually, supporting oak-juniper woodlands. Camping options span from riverside locations to wooded retreats with varying levels of facilities and terrain conditions.
What to do
Swimming at natural pools: McKinney Falls State Park offers swimming areas beyond the main falls that provide relief during hot Texas summers. "Sites were plenty big with electric and running water. The great part is the swimming. The water was warm, and it was perfect for new swimmers with floaties and advanced swimmers," notes Steph C. about the McKinney Falls State Park.
Fishing opportunities: Cranes Mill Park provides lake fishing access despite seasonal water level fluctuations. "Although water is low there were folks who fished. Showers were clean and RR had plenty of TP and soap," shares Stephanie G. at Cranes Mill Park.
Rock formations exploration: Pedernales Falls features volcanic rock formations that create unique hiking and scrambling opportunities. "You can walk upriver from the falls, bouldering for quite a long way. Classic hill country terrain," explains Emily M., highlighting the geological features that complement water activities.
Golfing excursions: Lockhart State Park offers an affordable 9-hole golf course near camping areas. "We golfed 18 one of the days, fun layout, not in the best shape right now but the price was right. With the Texas pass you also get a discount on golf," notes Cathy J. from her winter visit.
What campers like
Access to Austin: Many campgrounds provide quick access to downtown Austin while maintaining natural settings. "This campground is located just 9 miles from popular South Congress and downtown Austin, nestled between bushes and trees that offer a sense of privacy," says Carlyne F. about Austin Lone Star RV Community.
Private camping spaces: Oak Forest RV Park offers well-separated sites with natural buffers. "Sites are nice distance from one another and nice size. Fit our 43' Motorhome with dolly," shares Roxanna L., highlighting the ample room available for larger rigs and additional vehicles.
Diverse water features: Pace Bend Park offers cliff jumping opportunities alongside traditional swimming areas. "My favorite part about this campsite is the ability to cliff jump into a lake," notes Aaron S., while another camper mentions, "Was absolutely stunning, it's on a cliff top so your 'backyard' is a small trail to a gorgeous overlook of the lake and adjacent cliffs."
Bluebonnet viewing: Spring visits to McKinney Falls provide wildflower viewing opportunities. "There's an extinct volcano nearby called Pilot Knob. That accounts for the flat rock near the main falls... Bluebonnets are amazing here in Spring," says Emily M., highlighting seasonal botanical attractions.
What you should know
Flash flood risk: Central Texas parks experience rapid water level changes during storms. "Made me aware of how serious flash flooding is here. Respect weather warnings!" warns Faith S. about Pedernales Falls State Park.
Drought impacts: Canyon Lake water levels fluctuate seasonally, affecting water access. "The water level of Canyon Lake was down so access to the water wasn't real easy. once in the water it was great floating in a tube," reports Barb M.
Reservation requirements: Most parks require advance booking, especially during spring and summer. "The park has a constant flow of visitors. In the summer it is extremely busy with day visitors, weekend campers and long-term campers," observes Troy W.
Fire recovery: Bastrop State Park continues recovering from past wildfires. "It is heartbreaking to see all the damage to the Pines, due to the wildfires, but it is recovering well," Jennifer J. notes about Bastrop State Park, adding that while the landscape shows recovery signs, visitors should expect a changing forest environment.
Tips for camping with families
Swimming safety precautions: McKinney Falls requires supervision for children. "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.
Kid-friendly parks: Austin East KOA offers family-oriented amenities close to town. "It has private showers and bathrooms that are immaculate. The staff was so friendly and helpful... Spacious RV sites with bbq grills, FHU, fire pit, picnic table, some shade. Really nice pool, small game room with a big, tree-shaded deck," shares Kristen at Austin East KOA.
Educational opportunities: Several parks offer junior ranger programs for children. "Kids got to do the junior ranger program which they loved," shares Kim B. about her family's experience at Bastrop State Park.
Space for group activities: Many sites accommodate larger family gatherings. "We took our dogs and camped in a group campsite. Really nice group campgrounds if that's your vibe. We made a mini-Thanksgiving meal here at our campsite and got to hike the trails with our dogs," explains Michael C.
Tips from RVers
Campground proximity: Several parks offer quick access to Austin while providing full hookups. "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," notes Carlyne F.
Site selection: Choose sites away from highways for quieter stays. "Located along the freeway, so there is some road noise. However, at night it was pretty quiet," mentions Marnie G., suggesting interior sites for reduced noise.
Park entrance considerations: Some parks have overhead clearance issues. "Getting in and out of the park was smooth for the most part just watch some overhanging limbs," advises Dan H., who traveled with a 40-foot Class A RV to McKinney Falls.
Unlevel sites: Many parks feature natural terrain requiring leveling equipment. "The sites are also not super level and our site #2 sloped back," notes Karl W. about his experience at Lockhart State Park with a 35-foot fifth wheel.
