As a kid we would come out here several times a year. We would boat, float, cliff jump, cookout, and enjoy each other's company. Twenty years later we are still enjoying these traditions.
If you like primitive, tent sites, cabins, or RV sites, there are plenty of options.
You should check out Hell's Gate while you are here.
There are also a few hike and bike trails, but this is mainly a park for boating and fishing.
It is heartbreaking to see all the damage to the Pines, due to the wildfires, but it is recovering well.
There are several miles of hiking trails, that can be done in one or two days. It just depends on how many miles you want to hike.
The camping grounds are nice. They have water and electric hook-ups, along with bathrooms and showers near most sites. However, there are no primitive campsites.
This is a short distance from Austin, if you want to take a break and head into the "Big" city.
This is a pretty big state Park located in the Panhandle of Texas. It is sometimes referred to as a mini Grand Canyon.
There are plenty of trails for horseback riding, mountain biking, and hiking. You should check out the Lighthouse Trail while you are there.
The "primitive" campsites include a picnic table, running water, and fire pit. If you want to get away from others I highly suggest backcountry camping.
There is a guided tour of the Old West Stables, that is perfect for the whole family. Also, the Pioneer Amphitheater host the play TEXAS, which is a must see if you are in the area.
I would also recommend going to the Panhandle-Plains Historical Museum just 15 minutes West of the park.
I have not camped out here, but have made a few day trips. There are a few miles of hike and bike trails, but I HIGHLY suggest coming out here during Bluebonnet season. It is Absolutely beautiful!!!
I enjoyed hiking and fishing here. The lake is a pretty decent size. The pup and I were able to hike all the trails in a few hours. Next time I will try and stay at one of the campsites and bring my kayak.
The dog and I made a quick trip here on our way to Dallas. There are not a lot of hiking trails, but perfect for the day. They did have a lot of flooding at the time, so I was unable to hike everything. I would go back once the flooding has subsided.
I really enjoyed this park. My dog and I camped and hiked here in February. The plant life was great. We had a nice campsite, not another soul around. We hiked about 10 miles. I would definitely recommend this for individuals and families.
When the water level was down, there was not a soul around. I considered it "My park". There are a lot of trails, running up and down the hills. Great scenery and there's always wildlife around; wild hogs, porcupines, scunks, snakes, etc.. I imagine now that the water level is up it is lot more popular destination.
Easy walk from campsites to Falls. Across the falls are some great hike and bike trails. Get to the park early, as it gets crowded quickly.
This is a really small park. The campsites are okay. There is a small Nature Trail. This would be good for a day, but necessarily for overnight camping.
I was not able to get in the water, due to all the rain they had received, but it is a nice feature.
There is a playground for the kids and a volleyball court.
The reason I ranked this so low is because this park does not have the features I want (lots of hiking trails and primitive camping), however, this would be a great park for families.
This park has great hiking trails, campsites, and water activities. Grab a kayak and paddle up and down Inks Lake. Set up your tent near hiking trails and lake access. Take a jump off the cliffs at Devil's Waterhole. Don't forget you fishing poles, as there are also lots of great fishing areas.
I Love this park. Several miles of hiking trails. The Pedernales river flows for miles through the park, so you can go swimming with others or find your own spot. Primitive sites consist of a two mile hike-in. They are far away from regular campsites, making you feel like you have the park to yourself.