McKinney Falls State Park: Hiking and Swimming Near Downtown Austin

McKinney Falls State Park is at 5808 McKinney Falls Parkway inside Austin city limits. The park has nearly 9 miles of trails for hiking and biking. Onion Creek runs through it, with limestone waterfalls good for swimming in warm months. Fishing does not require a license from the shore. Entry is $6 for adults; children 12 and under are free.

There are 81 campsites with water and electric hookups, plus six cabins. The park gets crowded March through November, so book in advance at (512) 389-8900. Pets are not allowed in the water. Food, alcohol, glass, and coolers are banned from the Upper and Lower Falls areas.