McKinney Falls State Park offers cabin accommodations just 15 minutes from downtown Austin and 5 minutes from the Austin airport. The park maintains a year-round camping season despite Texas heat, with summer temperatures regularly exceeding 95°F. Cabin options throughout the Pflugerville area vary significantly in size and amenities, from basic structures with just beds to deluxe units with kitchen facilities.
What to do
Swimming spots: Enjoy natural swimming areas at McKinney Falls State Park, where "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," according to Steph C.
Rock jumping: Visit Pace Bend Park on Lake Travis where cliff jumping is popular. As Aaron S. notes, "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."
Hiking trails: Explore the 26-mile Goodwater loop at Wilson H Fox campground, which circles the entire lake. Laura F. describes it as "a very rugged trail for bikes" but excellent for hiking with "low boat traffic on the lake," making it "a good place to take a kayak or canoe."
Metro access: Take advantage of public transportation from Leander-NW Austin KOA to avoid downtown parking. Susan A. mentions the campground is "1 mile from park and ride metro train to downtown!" making city exploration convenient during your cabin stay.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Many campsites offer good separation between units. At Jim Hogg - Lake Georgetown, Roscoe's R. describes, "spots are spacious, some large. We stayed in site 24. Next closest neighbor was 75 feet or better away."
Clean, accessible facilities: Redbud Ranch RV Resort receives praise for its accessible amenities. Denise V. notes, "Restrooms- very clean and spacious. There are a couple ADA restrooms with showers that can be accessed by wheelchair and multiple household sized showers. Each one is male/female so it would be good for families with children."
Community amenities: Many camping cabins near Pflugerville come with access to shared facilities. Thomas D. reports that at Leander-NW Austin KOA, "grounds immaculate, pool, hot tub, laundry and showers are incredibly well kept and best of all the staff!! They are hands on helpful."
Natural shade: During hot Texas summers, tree coverage is valued. Steve K. from McKinney Falls State Park mentions "Many tree ringed rv sites for privacy," which helps moderate temperatures during summer heat.
What you should know
Seasonal water notices: Some campgrounds experience water system issues. Karen B. warns about Leander-NW Austin KOA: "Please note that they are currently under a boil water notice. No one mentioned this when we checked in and we did not realize until we were looking for the bathroom code."
Road noise considerations: Some camping cabins near Pflugerville experience highway noise. At Austin Lone Star RV Community, Deanna W. notes, "It's located along the freeway, so there is some road noise. However, at night it was pretty quiet."
Train disruptions: At Redbud Ranch RV Resort, Janet H. warns about "constant nonstop trains running throughout the night! Almost unbearable!" Consider this when booking if you're a light sleeper.
Limited facilities: Some campgrounds have restricted bathroom access. Karen B. notes that at one campground "the bathroom is just locked from 9:00 pm to 9:00 am," which can be inconvenient for overnight needs.
Tips for camping with families
Swimming options for children: Wilson H Fox offers designated swimming areas ideal for families. Bobby A. says, "The swimming area was great," though notes "It was difficult to get to the water from our site but doable if you did not mind a little workout."
Covered picnic areas: Many sites feature shade structures critical during hot months. Joseph C. mentions Wilson H Fox has "Covered areas for each site, and they are a good place to set up, and there are lots of hooks and nails to hang stuff up."
Pet-friendly options: Several campgrounds accommodate family pets. Jason A. highlights Leander-NW Austin KOA has an "Amazing dog park!" while Thomas D. elaborates that "The dog park is huge," making it ideal for families traveling with pets.
Screened structures: Some sites offer unique accommodation features. At Wilson H Fox, Roscoe's R. notes "some sites even had a screened-in bunkhouse," providing extra sleeping space or bug-free relaxation areas.
Tips from RVers
Dump station locations: Consider tank management when booking. Mocsaw $. says of Jim Hogg - Lake Georgetown, "Dump station is at entrance of park and park is fairly large to haul a portable dump tank."
Site width considerations: Some RV sites require careful maneuvering. At Redbud Ranch RV Resort, Denise V. cautions, "The site was a little narrow and there's no widening at the entrance on the back-in sites. You have to bring your good backing skills."
Tree clearance: Watch for overhead obstacles when navigating. Dan H. from McKinney Falls State Park advises, "Getting in and out of the park was smooth for the most part just watch some overhanging limbs."
Site surface quality: Level, solid pads are available at most parks. Deanna W. describes Austin Lone Star RV Community: "Our spot is gravel and level. Not too many empty spots! We have a nice table outside and a small grill. Large trees at all the spots provide shade."
