The best camping near McKinney Falls State Park

Discover the most magical spots to pitch your tent or park your rig on your next McKinney Falls State Park adventure.

The best camping near McKinney Falls State Park

Discover the most magical spots to pitch your tent or park your rig on your next McKinney Falls State Park adventure.
95% (45 reviews)

Discover the most magical spots to pitch your tent or park your rig on your next McKinney Falls State Park adventure.

Escape to nature, see waterfalls, and explore a historic homestead—all within Austin city limits.  

Popular ways to camp

Community favorites near McKinney Falls State Park

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

Public campgrounds in the park

Stay at a public campground in McKinney Falls State Park

Top-rated campgrounds near McKinney Falls State Park

99%
(622)

The Best Dam Spot

7 sites · Tents3 acres · Staples, TX
4 dispersed tent campsites are located on a large gravel bar facing a beautiful private waterfall. Camping is pack-in, pack-out from the parking lot (approx. 50yds). No overlanding rigs, pop-ups, RVs or rooftop car camping. Vehicles are not allowed at campsites. No pets. When booking, select any of the 4 sites. Sites are first come, first serve. Camping spot includes: unlimited river access, use of kayaks and paddle boards, picnic table, a semi-private communal outdoor shower with hot and cold water and a clean outdoor port-a-potty that is regularly sanitized. No composting and/or personal toilets allowed. Please only use the restroom in the portalet provided. *Electricity is available from dusk to dawn. A 50ft-100ft extension cord is required for electrical access to your site from dusk to dawn (extension cords not provided). *Portable small generators/ Power banks are recommended for electricity at site during the day. **No tent A/C’s** -small fan is recommended. *Canopy/umbrella is recommended for additional shade at site. *Feel free to BYO watertoys (kayaks, SUPs, etc.). Floats/tubes not provided. *Campfires are allowed in designated fire rings only. Campers are responsible for bringing their own firewood. *Climbing on the dam structure is strictly prohibited. *Please arrive BEFORE dark to check-in. *No check-ins after dark. *ALL campers/guests on the property MUST check-in upon arrival, sign a Release of Liability Waiver and pick-up wristband. *All children ages 6+ MUST be included in your reservation under "Children." *Day passes are available for $25 per person/per day. Includes kayak and paddle board use. Please add them to your reservation. -Total headcount of adults and children on property has to match your reservation. Water level above the dam: approx. 10-20ft. Water level below the dam is ankle deep to approx. 10ft. **No lifeguard on duty, swim at your own risk** **Children must be supervised at all times** Lifejackets for all ages are available for use. **NO PETS** **NO GLASS** To book property for events, please reach out for info/pricing. Feel free to message us if you have questions!
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$50
 / night
93%
(69)

P² Farm | Scenic River Camping

5 sites · RVs, Tents30 acres · Georgetown, TX
Welcome to P² Farm (Psquared), a true Texan gem nestled on 30 acres of idyllic countryside just outside of Georgetown, Texas. Our working horse farm offers an authentic rural experience unlike any other, with stunning sunsets that paint the Texas sky each evening. Our farm is home to a delightful variety of animals, including horses, donkeys, goats, pigs and our friendly farm cats and dogs. Our camping sites offer the chance to really dive into nature with access to beautiful trees and the san gabriel river. Camp right underneath our beautiful "Mother Tree" which captures the attention of all of our campers and trail ride participants. Book a trail ride or animal experience during your stay to get the full working farm experience. Restroom facilities with flushable toilets are conveniently located on the property. Well water is available from the sink located near the bathroom. Portable fire ring is provided. Please remember, for the safety and comfort of our animals and guests, unsupervised interactions with our animals are not permitted. All animal interactions must be scheduled and supervised by our experienced staff. Also please remember that while our farm is a total of 30 acres, only about 1/3 of that is available for open use by campers, the rest house our beautiful horses and other animals. Our farm is situated just a short drive from local attractions. We are 10 miles from the Historic Georgetown Square, 11.2 miles from the serene Blue Hole, and 38 miles from the hustle and bustle of downtown Austin. At Psquared Farm, we aim to offer you a tranquil and authentic farm stay amidst our horse-centric environment. Pack your tent and get ready for a unique Texan adventure framed by the beauty of nature and the peaceful rhythm of farm life.
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$30
 / night
99%
(346)

River Grove Campground

4 sites · RVs, Tents12 acres · Gonzales, TX
. These are unique camping spots along the Guadalupe River. I didn’t exactly understand how unique until I started getting feedback from my campers. The surrounding scenery will lower your blood pressure and do wonders to let you reconnect with nature. Sit back and close your eyes late in the evening and listen to all the wildlife talking to each other. There is faint traffic noise from 90A about a 1/3 of a mile away but it calms down after 7 or so. Currently no amenities but I am in the plans for some portable bathrooms. Please be prepared to cover all your bathroom and cooking needs. I do have some good clean well water from a faucet on the way into the campgrounds. Campfires are permitted. There is a convenience store (Diamond A) with clean bathrooms and a great bbq just 5 miles to the west on 90A and a Walmart and HEB 10 miles to the east on 90A. (Both Diamond A and Walmart sell fishing licenses if you need one. Dogs are allowed at sites 3 and 4 but not at 1 or 2 where my livestock guardian dogs have access to. No matter the size or temperament of your pets you are always expected to have them under your control at ALL times. I have very small livestock in the area frequently I am almost always on the property and try to have my phone with me while campers are on site, just let me know what you need and I will do what I can to accommodate you Rentals include paddles and however many lifejackets you need. 12-14ft Jon boats $30 unlimited days Tandem (double) kayaks $25 unlimited days Single kayak $20 unlimited days Tub of mixed firewood ( pecan, hackberry, sycamore and chinaberry $15 Tub of split pecan wood $20 $5 cash discount off total but can also accept Zelle, cashapp, PayPal and Venmo.
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$50
 / night
95%
(475)

River Forest Haven

46 sites · RVs, Tents30 acres · Del Valle, TX
River Forest Haven is a unique space that seeks to bring you closer to nature. We do not artificially light the camp and we strive to leave as much of the property in its natural state as we can. This provides a unique experience that is not your typical campground as we keep all of our campsites tucked under lush natural canopies. Car and tent camping works great! For most sites, you can easily drive up to your spot. Arrive, take a look around and settle into your site. We are always happy to deliver any of our items from our general store- just message us on HipCamp and we will come by. With nearly half a mile of Colorado riverfront to swim, fish, toob, paddle-board, kayak, and canoe*, along with 30 acres to hike and explore, River Forest Haven is also a quick 20-minute drive from downtown Austin.THINGS OF NOTE: ⁃ cell phone service is mostly non-existent ⁃ firewood can be brought or bought, but not collected.
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$30
 / night
96%
(97)

Ranch 3232

31 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents9 acres · Johnson City, TX
Ranch 3232 offers unique Texas Hill Country lodging with cabin rentals, air-conditioned glamping tents, RV sites, camping sites, and even a gypsy wagon—situated 1.5 miles from Pedernales Falls State Park and midway between Dripping Springs and Johnson City. We are Dog Friendly and Family Friendly with Amenities that include fire pits, a community kitchen, picnic tables, bath house, laundry facilities, and a perfect ridge for stunning sunsets. Journey down the Hill Country Wine Trail and experience the activities and attractions nearby: Pedernales Falls State Park Lyndon B. Johnson Nat’l Historical Park Hamilton Pool Preserve Blanco State Park Exotic Resort Zoo Texas Hill Country Olive Co. Johnson City Science Mill Twisted X Brewing Company Deep Eddy Vodka Distillery Texas Hills Vineyard Bell Springs Winery Treaty Oak Distilling Ranch Texas Hill Country Olive Co. 12 Fox Brewing Beerburg Brewing
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$25
 / night
100%
(368)

3 Dry Wells Ranch

6 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents110 acres · Blanco, TX
We welcome you to come enjoy the beautiful outdoors and dark sky on a scenic 110 acre ranch in the Texas Hill Country. Our family has lived and cared for this unique property since 1976 and we are still here today. We are conveniently located in Blanco, Texas less that 50 miles from either San Antonio or Austin and in the heart of the Texas wine country. Our campsites are next to a spring feed tributary creek which flows year around feeding into the Blanco River just a few miles away or hillside with amazing views of the river valley. You will enjoy the babbling creek, miles of hiking and biking trails, cooling off in the creek, scenic hilltop views, solitude, bold sunrises and sunsets, and a brilliant night sky. We have numerous old growth hardwood trees including Live Oaks, Spanish oaks, Elm, Escarpment Cherry, Black walnut, and Ashe Juniper (cedar) one of which has the largest circumference in Texas. We have a wide selection of native and migratory wildlife that calls this place home including white tail deer, wild turkeys, foxes, bobcats, jack rabbits, road runners, seasonal songbirds and butterflies. We are just minutes away from Blanco State Park and a short drive to Pedernales Falls or Guadalupe River State Park.
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$31.50
 / night
99%
(929)

Camping near Hamilton Pool

9 sites · RVs, Tents20 acres · Dripping Springs, TX
This is a relaxing spot in the Hill Country to camp and enjoy the surrounding area with nearby swimming, kayaking, rock climbing, bicycle riding, and hiking on and around the Pedernales River, as well as the many restaurants, wineries, and breweries in the area. We have a variety of campsites styles ranging from cozy secluded oak groves to more open spaces for camping under the stars. Rates: $25 PER PERSON, PER NIGHT (minimum of 2 campers). Children age 3 and under are free. If bringing children, please tell us how many and their ages. Nearby Parks for hiking and swimming: HAMILTON POOL PRESERVE (1.9 mi) is open by reservation for hiking and swimming. Visits are for 3 1/2 hour blocks of time. No dogs allowed at Hamilton Pool MILTON REIMERS RANCH COUNTY PARK (2.5 mi) is nearby and is open for hiking, swimming, fishing, rock climbing, and cycling. Dogs on a leash allowed at Reimers. CASH ONLY! $5/per person, no reservation required. We love it there! WEST CAVE OUTDOOR DISCOVERY CENTER (2.6 mi) is open by reservation only for guided tours of the waterfall/cave-no swimming allowed. No dogs allowed at West Cave PEDERNALES FALLS STATE PARK (34 mi) is open by reservation only for day use hiking and swimming. Dogs on a leash allowed ENCHANTED ROCK STATE NATURAL AREA (71 mi) is open by reservation only for day use hiking on weekends and holidays. If we are not under a burn ban, BRING FIREWOOD and/or charcoal because we have fire rings and BBQ cookers at most of the sites. If we are under a burn ban, campfires (even in fire rings) are not allowed, but bring some charcoal because you may still use BBQ Cookers, which we have at each of our sites. You may also use a campstove if you wish to bring one. We have a hot/cold outdoor shower our guests are free to use.
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$50
 / night
98%
(61)

McDonald Farm

11 sites · RVs, Tents78 acres · Georgetown, TX
We are now offering daytime river access to the San Gabriel River! This is a secluded, hike to spot for fishing, swimming, grilling, picnicing, and hanging out during the day. Access to our river site is included in your camping fee, or we offer day passes for non-campers! There is no overnight camping on the San Gabriel River. All camping is at the main farm area and campers are able to come and go from the river site as they please. McDonald Farm sits in the historic farming community of Jonah, TX between Georgetown and Taylor on scenic Highway 29. McDonald Farm is named after the patriarch of the family, J.H. Mcdonald, who first acquired the property in 1911. The farm sits on the bank of the San Gabriel River and features a lush canopy of huge pecan trees, sprawling corn fields, prairie, and forest. We are a working farm! We primarily grow corn, but we also have livestock on the property. During daytime hours, you will likely see a variety of farm chores being completed. We are only 7 miles from the Georgetown, TX historical district and square. Some say it’s the most beautiful town square in all of Texas. Enjoy shopping, dining, and festivals! We are 13 miles from Granger Lake, which offers boating and bass fishing opportunities. Highway 29 and the many quaint and scenic country roads that intersect it is popular with cyclists wanting to go for longer rides and enjoy the sights of central Texas and the many historical farms in the area. There is excellent bird-watching and wildlife-viewing opportunities on the property. We frequently see white-tailed deer, as well as other wildlife and many species of birds. There is road noise. Highway 29 can be busy at times, despite being a two-lane road. We also have neighbors, so we request quiet hours after 10 pm Sunday - Thursday and midnight Friday and Saturday. Ask us about pasture-raised eggs, naturally-raised produce, and baked goods!
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$25
 / night
91%
(569)

Texas Music River Ranch Events CTR

35 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents75 acres · Webberville, TX
The Texas Music River Ranch is 111 acres located in the quaint village of Webberville, Texas, only 20 miles east of downtown Austin. The large oak and pecan trees amid the rolling green hills of this gorgeous ranch land are nestled on the banks of the lazy Colorado River. Swim, kayak, or canoe...but there’s no better way to beat the legendary Texas heat than by grabbing an inner tube and enjoying a calm, steady float along a river known for an abundance of fossils and its wildlife. Bring your own tubes, kayaks and canoes, we are currently replenishing our inventory. Or perhaps you prefer to fish the shady tree-lined banks. Either way, you'll see a variety of birds while you relax on or beside the cool waters of the Colorado River. We're kid and dog friendly (leashes mandatory) and we love musicians. Bring an instrument and join us for an impromptu jam session in our special events room or around the campfire. Cook dinner on our BBQ pit. Firewood is available onsite A few rules... 1. Check in is before sunset. We ask that all Hipcampers wait at gate for staff to guide you to your location for safety reasons. Contact us if you arrive ahead of schedule. 2. No wondering by the upper level cabins (these are private property). Showers are behind these cabins. Please respect staff spaces. 3. If you have an extra vehicle, please park it with your other vehicle. 4. If you have a 3rd extra vehicle, let us know and we will direct you where to park it. 5. Please be courteous of other campers space and road access. 6. All kids are free. If your kids are 17 and under do not add them or it will charge. 7. If you have an impairment please let us know before booking so that we can ensure a space is ready and suitable for you. 8. All dogs must be on leash. Please clean up your dogs Poop. If you have any questions or concerns, contact our Office phone @ (512) 884-4345 Office Hours: Monday-Saturday 9am-9pm, Sunday 11am-6pm We look forward to making your acquaintance and sharing our little piece of Central Texas heaven with you, your family, and your friends.
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$24.50
 / night
96%
(364)

Sound Ground (fka Reverse Pioneers)

14 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents10 acres · Blanco, TX
Previously Reverse Pioneers Hilltop, we have re-branded as Sound Ground! Sound Ground is rooted in land stewardship, community, creative expression, and planet-minded living. Set on 10 acres in central Texas, we currently offer immersive camping opportunities and are working to expand into event hosting, musical collaborations, education, and local agrarian offerings. Built upon an ethos that connects human well-being with the health of our planet, Sound Ground welcomes travelers, outdoor enthusiasts, city-worn individuals, and creative communities who seek a genuine connection with nature and one another. Kasey Mire is Sound Ground's visionary and founder, but the vision has been and always will be built on community power. Join us in soaking up the magic of this space for a night or 3, and feel free to inquire about longer term stays.
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$21.25
 / night
100%
(890)

Happy Horse Camp & RV Getaway

15 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents22 acres · Cedar Creek, TX
GET AWAY without going FAR AWAY! Feels like the middle of nowhere, but it's only 25 miles to downtown Austin and 15 miles to the charming little town of Bastrop with its eateries, shops and historic buildings. Spend quiet nights in the country listening to the coyotes howl and the owls hoot. Hike the nearby Roughs (trailhead is 2 miles away) or book a river canoe or kayak trip with one of the local outfitters. Bring the family and have a weekend event under the trees and covered shade of our Pony Pavilion! Hollis and her wonderful voice, great stories and powerful ukuleles now offer LIVE MUSIC by your very own campfire, for your private enjoyment. (See the EXTRAS category to book a $20/45 minute/weather-permitting show, or a 1-hour Ukulele lesson, or just get with Hollis when you show up at camp) Enjoy the park trails, the Happy Horse on-site Scavenger Hunt, the delightful maze of campground trails (on your bikes!) and the peace and quiet! Happy Horse Hotel is on 22 acres conveniently located between Austin and Bastrop in the Pope Bend of the Colorado River. LCRA's fabulous McKinney Roughs Nature Park is 2 miles up the road, adjacent to the Hyatt Lost Pines Resort. The camp area is 9 secluded, fenced and wooded acres laced with all-dirt flat biking and walking trails on our property. We encourage you to bring your bicycles along. The bird watching is great!
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$45
 / night
100%
(23)

Wildflower Getaway

10 sites · RVs, Tents10 acres · San Marcos, TX
Escape to the Texas hill country and experience the charm of farm life on 10 acres at Wildflower Getaway! Nestled just outside of Austin, in San Marcos, TX, our property offers a unique experience with hiking trails surrounded by nature and friendly farm animals. There is also a cowboy pool with a shade sail. We have goats, horses, chickens, ducks, and more. In September we will have a llama named Oreo Mochi. There is an outhouse for washing hands and a compost toilet. There are water and electric connections only. 50 amp RV connections. If you need 30 amp you will need a converter. You can pitch a tent. There are rock firepits set up around the property and plenty of firewood. Eventually we will be adding an outdoor shower for camping guests. It is 15-18 minutes to downtown San Antonio. About 15 minutes to tube rentals to float the river in San Marcos. The San Marcos outlet malls are a shower trip. An approximate 30 minute trip to Wimberly, TX wineries. There are wildflowers all over the property; especially in the spring time. We have seen deer grazing on the property and some travelers have found fossils and arrowheads (no guarantees of course). A tent can be provided upon your request ahead of time. We look forward to hosting you. We want you to create lasting memories by connecting with yourself and loved ones.
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from 
$30
 / night

The best camping near McKinney Falls State Park guide

Overview

About

The park may be only 13 miles from the Texas state capitol, but it feels like a world away. The main draws are the two waterfalls, both the result of Onion Creek flowing over limestone ledges. Cool off with a swim in the swimming holes below or fish from the shores. In between the falls, large boulders are perfect for bouldering. Elsewhere at McKinney, nearly nine miles of hiking trails and biking trails wind their way through Hill Country woods, past an ancient rock shelter and Old Baldy, one of the oldest cypress trees in Texas. Many visit just for the day, but with five loops housing 81 camping spots (with all electricity, water hookups, a picnic table, and fire ring), it’s easy to stay overnight.

Notable campgrounds

  • Best for those who need more power: All nine sites at the Little Oak Camping Area offer 50 amps.
  • Best to escape the crowds: The Moss Loop Camping Area, at the southern edge of the campground, has just five campsites.
  • Best for comfort: Six cabins offer bunk beds for four, with air conditioning, a mini fridge, and microwave, though no bathroom or linens.

Tips for snagging a campsite

  1. During peak season, plan to reserve a site as soon as you know your dates. Campsites and cabins can be reserved up to five months in advance. 
  2. If you don’t have a reservation, arrive at the park first thing in the morning to try for an unreserved site.
  3. If your plans are flexible, try to visit during the week, during non-holiday periods, or over winter.

When to go

Peak season runs from March through November. Temperatures soar in summer, making it an ideal time to cool off with a dip in the river and pools. To see the waterfalls at their fullest, visit during the wet season of May through September, as the river can be really low otherwise. On holidays and special event weekends, a three-night minimum stay is required for the cabins, instead of the regular two-night weekend minimum.

Know before you go

  • Onion Creek is prone to flooding after rainfall.
  • Water shoes are a good idea; some trails require a creek crossing.
  • Food, alcohol, glass, coolers, speakers, Frisbees, and balls are prohibited in the Upper Falls and Lower Falls areas.
  • Fishing licenses are not required to fish from shore inside the park.
  • Pets are not allowed in the water, inside buildings, or around the cabins.
  • Bring or purchase firewood from vending near camping loops. Gathering firewood is prohibited in the park.
95%
45 ratings · 6 reviews

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