Things to Do

Off The Beaten Path: Outdoor Adventure Guide for the Texas Hill Country

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Tony Maples Photography

 

McKinney Falls State Park (Beginner)

Austin, Texas

Off The Beaten Path: Outdoor Adventure Guide for the Texas Hill Country

Photo: tpwd.texas.gov

Located within the city limits of Austin, McKinney Falls State Park has about nine miles of trails that accommodate hikers, stroller pushers, and cyclists alike. The pleasing sounds of Onion Creek provide the soundtrack of your time at McKinney Falls, with its relaxing cacophony of water trickling through small waterfalls and pools made of limestone. Perhaps due to its location (and definitely due to its natural beauty), McKinney Falls State Park often reaches capacity on nice days, so be sure to check and make sure the park is open before heading out for a visit to this popular park.

Government Canyon State Natural Area (Beginner to Advanced)

San Antonio, Texas

Off The Beaten Path: Outdoor Adventure Guide for the Texas Hill Country

Photo: tpwd.texas.gov

Just outside of the bustling metropolis of San Antonio sits Government Canyon State Natural Area. Offering over 40 miles of various trails, the byways at Government Canyon State Natural Area range from grasslands to canyonlands and offer challenges for those just coming out of training wheels, as well as the experienced and enthusiastic longtime cyclers.

Camping

Sometimes, spending a few days and nights sleeping under the stars is the only cure for what ails you. Luckily, the Texas Hill Country offers some of the most panoramic camping spots in the country. From riverside locales to campsites that are at the base of a majestic butte, there is a campground in the Texas Hill Country to make everyone happy.

Inks Lake State Park

Burnet, Texas

Off The Beaten Path: Outdoor Adventure Guide for the Texas Hill Country
Photo: tpwd.texas.gov

If the water is calling you, head directly to Inks Lake State Park and embark on fun in the sun and on the water. Camping is made easy at Inks Lake with over 200 campsites and 22 cabins. Spend your days fishing and your nights star gazing at this treat in the heart of the Texas Hill Country.