9 State Parks Close to Austin

State Parks Close to Austin

Texas State Parks are open. Though new guidelines have been outlined for upcoming visits.

• Reserve Day Use passes in advance through the Texas State Parks website. State Parks aren’t free to visit. All visitors 12 and over are required to pay admission. 
• Wearing face masks or coverings is encouraged.
• No groups over five people.
• Must keep six-foot social distancing from people outside your group. 
• Check the park’s website before departing for up-to-date information.
• Annual Park Pass holders will receive two additional months to their pass. This action will happen automatically and doesn’t require further action from the pass holder. 

State Parks near Austin

Bastrop State Park

Though ravaged by a forest fire nearly 10 years ago, the Lost Pines of Bastrop still stand tall. And a large cluster can be found around the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) built cabins. Mirroring the National Park Service’s rustic architecture style, the cabins use local materials.

Located at 100 Park Road 1A, Bastrop, TX 78602. Day-use adult admission is $5

Buescher State Park

A sister park to Bastrop State Park, it’s connected by a park road, popular with cyclists. Also find a 30-acre lake. 

Located at 100 Park Road 1E, Smithville, TX 78957. Day-use adult admission is $5. 

McKinney Falls State Park

Hike along the shores of Onion Creek. This park is the closest state park to downtown Austin. Located at 5808 McKinney Falls Park, Austin, TX 78744. Day-use adult admission is $6. 

Lockhart State Park

Built by the CCC in the Great Depression, this park offer a 9-hole golf course. Or try fishing in Clear Fork Creek with free loaner equipment and State Parks don’t require a fishing license. 

Located at 2012 State Park Rd. Lockhart, TX 78644. Day-use adult admission is $3.

Hill Country State Parks

Find additional state parks west of Austin in the Texas Hill Country.

Blanco State Park 

Splash in the Blanco River with its natural swimming area. This park also features structures built by the CCC back in the Great Depression. 

Located at 101 Park Road 23, Blanco, TX 78606. Day-use adult admission is $5. 

Colorado Bend State Park

Explore the rugged Hill Country including Gorman Falls, a 70-foot waterfall. 

Located at 2236 Park Hill Dr. Day-use adult admission is $5 per person. 

Inks Lake State Park 

As a constant-level lake, this park is ideal for boating. It also features structures built by the CCC back in the Great Depression. 

Located at 3630 Park Road 4 West, Burnet, TX 78611. Day-use adult admission is $6. 

Lyndon B. Johnson State and Historic Site 

Learn about the pioneer life in the Texas Hill Country along with the life of the 36th President of the United States. An additional National Park Service site is located close-by. 

Located at 199 Park Road 52, Stonewall, TX 78671. This park is free for everyone.

Pedernales Falls State Park 

Splash in the Pedernales River or hike along its rugged trails. 

Located at 2585 Park Road 6026, Johnson City, TX 78636. Day-use adult admission is $6. 

Additional Outdoor Areas

84 Places to Get Outdoors in Austin 

Best Places to  Camp near Austin