McKinney Falls State Park Campground stands 15 minutes from downtown Austin in the western Hill Country region, where elevations range from 500-800 feet. The park features volcanic rock formations near the falls, remnants of an extinct volcano called Pilot Knob. Summer temperatures consistently reach 95-100°F while winter nights can drop to freezing, requiring appropriate gear for seasonal camping.
What to do
Hiking trails and waterfalls: McKinney Falls State Park Campground offers multiple trails through volcanic rock formations. "There's an extinct volcano nearby called Pilot Knob. That accounts for the flat rock near the main falls... The ruins of the homestead are definitely worth checking out if the creek is passable," notes Emily M. in her review of McKinney Falls State Park Campground.
Swimming holes: Pedernales Falls State Park provides multiple swimming areas with varying water depths. "Lots of hiking trails here. Good swimming. The falls are pretty. You can walk upriver from the falls, bouldering for quite a long way," writes Emily M. about Pedernales Falls State Park Campground.
Cliff jumping: For more adventurous visitors, Pace Bend Park offers cliff jumping opportunities into deeper sections of Lake Travis. "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," writes Aaron S. in his Pace Bend Park review.
Off-leash dog trails: Emma Long Metropolitan Park provides dedicated trails where dogs can run without leashes. "The off-leash dog trails are awesome!" notes Chelsea O., highlighting a benefit for pet owners seeking dog-friendly camping near West Lake Hills.
What campers like
Private campsite layouts: McKinney Falls receives consistent praise for site spacing. "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., describing the privacy that reduces noise between neighboring sites.
Proximity to downtown Austin: Austin Lone Star RV Community offers exceptional city access while maintaining a natural setting. "Located only 9 miles from popular South Congress and downtown Austin, this resort is right off the interstate but nestled between bushes and trees that offer a sense of privacy," writes Carlyne F. about Austin Lone Star RV Community.
Individual bathrooms: Many campgrounds near West Lake Hills feature private bathroom facilities. "The showers and bathrooms are private and very clean. There are plenty, so there always seems to be at least one available no matter what time of day," notes Carlyne F. regarding Austin Lone Star RV Community.
Waterfront views: Arkansas Bend Park provides direct lakefront access with newly renovated facilities. "RV and tent sites on very well manicured gravel pads. Facilities are super clean and very nice. Great playground for the kids and several miles of hiking trails," shares Jacob C. about Arkansas Bend.
What you should know
Flash flood awareness: Hill Country weather patterns can create dangerous conditions. "Respect weather warnings!" emphasizes Faith S. about Pedernales Falls State Park Campground, adding "Made me aware of how serious flash flooding is here."
Swimming safety: Water depth varies significantly at many swimming holes. "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. regarding McKinney Falls.
Seasonal considerations: Spring brings wildflowers while summer brings crowds. "Bluebonnets are amazing here in Spring," notes Emily M. about McKinney Falls, while Troy W. mentions "In the summer it is extremely busy with day visitors, weekend campers and long-term campers."
Site selection: Not all sites accommodate every camping style. Chelsea O. notes about Emma Long Metropolitan Park: "The campsite is nice however they are roped off so if you have a rooftop tent you cannot get your vehicle inside it."
Tips for camping with families
Playground access: Several parks offer dedicated play areas for children. Jacob C. notes that Arkansas Bend has a "Great playground for the kids and several miles of hiking trails."
Water depth considerations: Look for swimming areas with gradual entry points. "The water was warm, and it was perfect for new swimmers with floaties and advanced swimmers," shares Steph C. about McKinney Falls State Park Campground.
Group camping options: Some parks specifically accommodate larger family gatherings. "My family and I took a camping trip out here when I was in grad school back in 2016 around the time of Thanksgiving. We took our dogs and camped in a group campsite. Really nice group campgrounds if that's your vibe," writes Michael C. about McKinney Falls.
Site privacy for families: Sites with natural barriers help contain children and pets. "Large trees at all the spots provide shade and give you a little privacy from the close campers," notes Deanna W. about Austin Lone Star RV Community.
Tips from RVers
Airport proximity: For RVers flying in to rent rigs, McKinney Falls offers exceptional location. "We stayed here because it was close to the airport and had a flight to catch. It was only a 9 min drive," shares Eat · See · RV L. about McKinney Falls State Park Campground.
Site leveling: Arkansas Bend Park features exceptionally level sites. "We were very surprised at how level our gravel campsite was. It made setup a breeze. The loop makes backing into your spot easy," writes Lauren Z.
Tree clearance: Watch overhead when maneuvering larger rigs. "Getting in and out of the park was smooth for the most part just watch some overhanging limbs," advises Dan H. about McKinney Falls.
Full hookup spacing: Austin Lone Star sites provide adequate room between connections. "Each site feels spacious and comes with its own picnic table and full hook-ups," notes Carlyne F., a benefit for those seeking pet-friendly camping with full amenities near West Lake Hills.
