McKinney Falls State Park

Natural Features

Onion Creek winds its way through the heart of this park, flowing for 2.8 miles and creating two waterfalls along the way - the Upper Falls and Lower Falls - where limestone ledges form natural swimming spots.

These falls and their pools are ideal for cooling off, casting a line, or simply soaking in the beauty of Texas Hill Country. Just know that Mother Nature dictates the water levels here - after a good rain, the falls transform into impressive displays, while drier periods reveal more of the natural limestone formations. Some spots in these swimming holes plunge deeper than 9 feet, creating refreshing retreats from the Texas heat.

Smooth rock formations around natural pools along Onion Creek

Photo: Roy Niswanger (CC BY 2.0)

Trails and Recreation

With nearly 9 miles of trails to explore, there's no shortage of outdoor adventures here. The Onion Creek Trail offers a paved 2.8-mile path that's perfect if you're looking for an easier walk or bike ride with relatively flat terrain.

If you're up for more exploration, the Rock Shelter Trail leads to a fascinating prehistoric shelter once used by indigenous peoples, while the Homestead Trail connects to several loops, letting you customize your hike based on how ambitious you're feeling that day.

The trails here are a wildlife enthusiast's dream - deer often peek through the trees, armadillos scurry across your path, turtles sun themselves on logs, and birds provide a natural soundtrack to your journey. Even in the warmer months, the shaded paths offer a comfortable hiking experience.

Rocky shoreline frames the waters of Onion Creek

Photo: Roy Niswanger (CC BY 2.0)

Historical Significance

Nestled just 13 miles from the state capitol, this 641-acre natural haven sits surprisingly within Austin's city limits. The park bears the name of Thomas F. McKinney, one of Stephen F. Austin's original 300 colonists who made this land his home in the mid-19th century.

You can explore the preserved remnants of Thomas McKinney's homestead and his horse trainer's cabin. You can also discover the ruins of an old grist mill tucked away within the park. Don't miss Old Baldy, one of Texas' most ancient bald cypress trees estimated to be over 500 years old, which you can visit via a charming boardwalk bridge spanning a tributary stream.

A bright red bench perched above Upper McKinney Falls

Photo: rbaire (CC BY-SA 2.0)

Accommodations and Activities

If you're looking to extend your stay, the park offers 81 campsites with water and electric hookups, plus six recently renovated cabins. The sites are generously spaced, and many benefit from the shade of mature oak trees throughout the campground. For larger gatherings, there's a group hall available, as well as a dedicated youth group camping area.

The Upper Falls area is a popular swimming spot, where cypress trees provide shade and the limestone pool is a good place to cool off. You can borrow life jackets for kids or less confident swimmers from the visitor center.

You can fish year-round, with the falls' pools being particularly good spots as evening approaches. There's even trout stocking from November to March. Beyond water activities, the park's landscape is good for bouldering, picnicking, and wildlife photography.

Ancient limestone bedrock creates natural pathways

Photo: Lars Plougmann (CC BY-SA 2.0)

Visitor Information

Within the park, you'll discover numerous picnic areas with tables and grills, many tucked under shade trees that make for perfect family gatherings. Clean restrooms are available throughout, with some including shower facilities for when you need to rinse off after a day of adventure.

The Visitor Center has educational displays about the park's natural and cultural history, including a fiber optic bat cave exhibit. Year-round, knowledgeable park rangers offer programs covering everything from local wildlife to geocaching and the park's rich history.

Your four-legged friends are welcome to join you in most areas of the park, but they'll need to stay leashed, and swimming areas are off-limits to pets. You'll discover water fountains with dog bowls stationed conveniently along the trails.