McKinney Falls State Park and Cedar Breaks Park offer practical camping options within 15-30 minutes of Pflugerville, Texas. The region features limestone creek beds, natural swimming holes, and elevations ranging from 400-800 feet. Summer temperatures regularly exceed 95°F, making water access a priority for campers from May through September.
What to do
Swimming holes exploration: McKinney Falls State Park has two distinct swimming areas at the Upper and Lower Falls. The volcanic rock formations create natural pools for cooling off. "There's an extinct volcano nearby called Pilot Knob. That accounts for the flat rock near the main falls... Please be careful swimming. If you can't swim, please refrain or wear a life jacket. There have been several drownings here," notes Emily M.
Lake activities: Cedar Breaks Park provides direct lake access with clear water for swimming and fishing. "The lake has been low so fishing hasn't been good. The best activity is hiking the trail which can be a little rugged. Bikes are also allowed on the trail but it has been described as a 'cheese grater,'" explains deb T.
Historical exploration: Visit the historic homestead ruins at McKinney Falls when creek levels permit. "The ruins of the homestead are definitely worth checking out if the creek is passable," advises Emily M. The park's visitor center details the area's settlement history and geological formation.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: McKinney Falls State Park Campground offers secluded camping spots with natural barriers. "We spent a couple of nights at this park. We loved the water falls and the sites are far apart with trees and shrubs surrounding them," reports Kingrex49 M.
Lake views: Many sites at Cedar Breaks Park feature direct views of Lake Georgetown. "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," warns Karen H.
Yurt camping options: For those seeking yurt camping near Pflugerville, Texas, Oak Forest RV Park offers furnished yurts with modern amenities. "There's multiple dog parks, hammock areas, common areas with fire pits and grills, gardens for the community, and an incredible coffee truck over by the welcome office," shares Sam M.
What you should know
Water safety concerns: McKinney Falls swimming areas require caution, especially after rainfall. Water levels can change rapidly, and drownings have occurred. "The mini waterfalls here are really neat along with the rock formations. Good family-friendly camping for sure," notes Michael C.
Seasonal crowds: Expect heavy visitor traffic during summer weekends at Pace Bend Park. "Wonderful summer time spot, plenty of drive-up tent sites (don't settle for the first you see unless it's a busy weekend) great cliff jumping and deep-water soloing opportunities for the seeking," advises Kadyn D.
Site levelness: Cedar Breaks Park has significant elevation changes between sites. "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.
Bathroom availability: Facility access varies significantly between parks. "Bathrooms seem iffy. One had intermittent water issues, not flushing. Automatic timed lights can be a pain. Especially if natural light is limited," warns Joseph C. about Wilson H Fox Park.
Tips for camping with families
Playgrounds and activities: Wilson H Fox offers family-friendly amenities. "Great swimming area. 30/50 amps, and water hook ups. No sewer. Playground area," notes Mary S. The swimming beach area is shallow enough for younger children.
Safety considerations: At Pace Bend Park, cliff areas require supervision. "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., though families should note these areas need careful monitoring with children.
Educational opportunities: McKinney Falls provides junior ranger programs for children. "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
Site selection for levelness: At Cedar Breaks Park, choose outer loop sites for easier leveling. "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," advises Kenneth H.
Weather preparedness: Summer camping near Pflugerville requires heat management strategies. Austin Lone Star RV Community offers reliable power for air conditioning. "This RV park is in an ideal location for exploring Austin. It's located along the freeway, so there is some road noise. However, at night it was pretty quiet," reports Marnie G.
Internet connectivity: Most RV parks near Pflugerville offer varying Wi-Fi quality. "Only con is non existent WIFI. They do have fiber for long term," notes Brenda M. about Oak Forest RV Park. For remote workers, consider alternative connection options.
