South Llano River Hike In Campground

You’re guaranteed to sleep like a log on the fire after a long day of mountain biking at South Llano River. 25 miles of easy trails cover the park, and what they lack in challenging terrain they make up for in beautiful wooded scenery, including cedar, elm, hickory, and sycamore. Every ride is made better with music, so sit back and enjoy the songs of the warblers, owls, cuckoos, and parulas. Stay on the trail long enough and you might even spot some fireflies.

Choose your water adventure, with both a lake and river at South Llano. The best place to cast your line from shore is near the park’s boat launch, but if the river isn’t your style, take a hike down the Buck Lake Trail for a little seclusion while you fish. No equipment? You can always borrow some gear for the day.

Stick close to the river and you’ll find easy trails that take you past the scenic Buck Lake and out to the historic 4 Mile Dam. Scenic overlooks and historic cemeteries make hiking around South Llano River State Park an all-day affair, but the more adventurous hikers will head south into the park’s forested ridges. Hike deep into the canyons on West Canyon Loop Trail, or observe the changing landscapes along the Fawn Trail. This map lays out all the hiking options. There are plenty of trails near the river, but sometimes it’s more fun to get a little lost.

Whether or not you came with a canoe in tow, you’ll love exploring South Llano River with a paddle. Kayak and canoe rentals are available through the park, and a boat launch near the park entrance makes going out on the water as easy as Texas pie. Float through the grassy banks of the river, or take a rest to cool off in the water. On a good day, South Llano River is clear, blue and perfect for paddling.

Once you jump into the South Llano River, it’s awfully easy to stay in. The river travels the full width of the park and offers multiple river access points, making it easy to find a secluded patch of water to go for a dip or enjoy a float. A hike down the river trail offers easy access to some great swimming holes, as well. The water is clear and refreshing, making swimming the favorite pastime of anyone who’s been to South Llano River.

The biggest star of South Llano River State Park is the Rio Grande turkey, which lives in the expansive wooded bottomland. In fact, these woodlands are one of the oldest and biggest turkey roosts in central Texas, and wildlife viewing stations let you get a good look at these creatures as they travel to and from the roost. In addition to deer, armadillos, and javelinas, some rarer species such as black buck antelope have also been known to make an appearance. Here you can find all the wild details.