Austin is best known for its live music scene, eccentric residents, and entrepreneurial spirit. However, the City of the Violet Crown also has access to some of Hill Country’s dynamic state parks. If you’re looking to escape the concrete jungle for a little r&r, here are a few of the best places to camp near Austin.
1. Inks Lake State Park
A little over an hour northwest of Austin, the popular Inks Lake State Park charms both locals and tourists. It features 1,200 acres of lakefront scenery and gorgeous pink granite outcroppings. Since the reservoir is level-controlled, much of the park is unaffected by periods of drought or flooding.
2. Pedernales Falls State Park
Prized for its Wolf Mountain Trail that hugs the terrain as it winds its way through fern-lined canyons carved out by the Mescal and Tobacco creeks, Pedernales Falls is a must-stop for the avid hiker. Cool off in the stair-stepped pools along Bee Creek or seek out the park’s more than 150 species of bird from roadrunners and wild turkeys to the endangered golden-cheeked warbler.
3. Blanco State Park
A little less than an hour west of Austin, this 105-acre park nestled along the banks of the Blanco River is one of the best places to camp for tubing, swimming, or kayaking under the shade of verdant cypress, cedar, and pecan trees.
4. Enchanted Rock State Natural Area
While not as famous as Ayer’s Rock in Australia, climbing to the top of this massive pink granite monadnock is something of a right of passage for residents of Central Texas. Abruptly jutting 425 feet above of the surrounding plain, the Enchanted Rock batholith offers unforgettable views of the surrounding 1,600-acre park.
5. McKinney Falls State Park
Outdoor enthusiasts don’t even need to leave Austin in order to enjoy one of the best places to camp in the area. McKinney Falls State Park surrounds an ancient lava dome from the long extinct Pilot Knob volcano and offers scenic falls along Onion Creek, refreshing swimming spots, and several hiking trails.
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Featured Image from Kyle Vena/Unsplash
