McKinney Falls State Park Campground sits just 15 minutes from downtown Austin and 5 minutes from the airport, making it one of the most accessible natural escapes near Sunset Valley, Texas. The park features volcanic rock formations from the extinct Pilot Knob volcano, creating unique flat rock areas near the main falls. Water temperatures remain warm throughout summer months, with swimming areas suitable for both beginners and experienced swimmers.
What to do
Hiking and biking trails: McKinney Falls State Park Campground offers numerous forest trails for day exploration. "Lots of fun hiking/running/biking options around the park. Easy access to Austin and plenty of local options (groceries, pharmacy, restaurants, etc) just a few minutes from the park," notes Dan H., who stayed for a week in December.
Swimming in natural pools: Krause Springs provides multiple swimming options with natural pools. "The creek extending from the swimming area eventually leads to Lake Travis. There's a trail that goes along the creek for awhile, past the second waterfall and some nifty formations on the cliffs. There's a rope swing for jumping into the water," shares Emily M.
Golf and fishing: Visit Lockhart State Park for a unique combination of camping and golfing. "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 and anything else you buy," reports Cathy J., who visited in February.
What campers like
Private, spacious sites: McKinney Falls State Park Campground receives praise for its site layout. "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," writes Kingrex49 M.
Cliff views and lake access: Pace Bend Park offers dramatic camping spots along water edges. "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. I didn't expect to be given this view," explains Juliet S.
Clean facilities: Austin East KOA maintains high standards for their bathrooms and amenities. "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., who stayed at the resort.
What you should know
Weather considerations: Winter visits can bring unexpected weather changes. "We were here 2/8/21 to 2/13/21. We had 2 decent days and then the bad weather began," shares a visitor at Lockhart State Park.
Road noise: Austin Lone Star RV Community provides convenient city access with some trade-offs. "It's located along the freeway, so there is some road noise. However, at night it was pretty quiet," explains Marnie G., who appreciated the location despite this minor drawback.
Flood risk awareness: McKinney Falls has experienced severe flooding. "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. in her review.
Tips for camping with families
Fishing spots for kids: Bastrop State Park offers accessible fishing options. "Great campground within miles of downtown Austin. Two scenic waterfalls for frolicking in warm weather camping. Many tree ringed rv sites for privacy," notes Steve K.
Swimming areas for various ages: Pedernales Falls State Park Campground accommodates different swimming abilities. "Lots of hiking trails here. Good swimming. The falls are pretty. You can walk upriver from the falls, bouldering for quite a long way," shares Emily M.
Pet-friendly glamping options: Oak Forest RV Park welcomes pets with dedicated spaces. "We've had such an amazing time here. There's multiple dog parks, hammock areas, common areas with fire pits and grills, gardens for the community," says Sam M., highlighting the family-friendly atmosphere available for glamping in Sunset Valley, Texas.
Tips from RVers
Site selection considerations: Oak Forest RV Park has different sections for different needs. "Two sections, older for permanent or long term; newer well spaced, sites toward office. Five star private bathrooms, pool areas are clean and well kept," advises Brenda M.
Access challenges: Krause Springs requires careful navigation for larger vehicles. "My only warning is low hanging trees everywhere. I couldn't imagine trying to navigate the campground in a 5th wheel or class A. You could do some rooftop damage," warns Brandi W., who visited in a Class C motorhome.
Connectivity options: While glamping near Sunset Valley, Texas, connectivity varies between parks. "The park has 4G network with T-Mobile cell service. It worked pretty well. I could surf online send and receive text messages and was able to talk to my wife," reports Red S. about Lockhart State Park, while Brenda M. notes "Only con is non existent WIFI" at Oak Forest RV Park.
