Texas State Parks Near Austin

Are you looking for a quick trip to one of the Texas state parks near Austin? You are in luck! Austin is central to several amazing and unique state parks.

When I first came to Austin, I was in awe of how much there is to do inside this bustling and eccentric city. As much as I love the constant entertainment, sometimes I need to find a quiet place outside to get away from the crowds.

Luckily, Texas alone has 89 State Parks, Natural Areas and Historic Sites with more on the way that are each very distinctive from each other. When you need a break from the city crowds, and are short on time, here are 5 of the best Texas state parks near Austin.

Map of State Parks Near Austin

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Closest Texas State Parks Near Austin

Below are the Texas State Parks 1 hour or less from downtown Austin, Texas.

McKinney Falls State Park

Pedernales Falls State Park

Out of all Texas state parks close to Austin, this is actually one of my top 5 favorites. Anytime we have family or friends in town that want to hike, and need to be convinced that Texas is not flat, we take them to Pedernales Falls State Park.

Greeted with beautiful Hill Country views on the drive to this state park close to Austin, you’ll find all kinds of outdoor activities. With 40 miles of hiking trails rating easy to challenging, my favorites were Pedernales Falls Trail and the Wolf Mountain Trail.

Keep your eyes peeled for wildlife as you enjoy swimming, bird watching, mountain biking, camping and fishing. If you’re wanting to ride your horse, the park also has close to 15 miles of horseback riding trails to enjoy.

My favorite point of interest is absolutely Pedernales falls for the peaceful waterfall beneath the limestone cliffs, and the Hill Country/River overlook for the amazing views.

Lockhart State Park

If you’re looking for a state park around Austin that has more activities than hiking and biking, then check this out! Located near downtown Lockhart, this state park is really special due to having a golf course inside the park. For an additional fee, you can play this 9 hole course in the state park that shares the space with trails, quiet campsites and fishing holes.

With all trails under 1 mile, mostly rating in easy to moderate, you can explore most of the park in one day. The park also has a swimming pool for weekend visitors in the summer for a $1-$2 entrance fee.

This is a great choice if you’re searching for Texas state parks near Austin that are quiet, but also close to town. Lockhart is known as the BBQ Capital of Texas. So after a day of relaxing nature walks, stop by your choice of some of the best BBQ around. There’s also the Lockhart courthouse, museums and live music at The Pearl. It’s perfect for a day trip or weekend getaway near Austin.

Bastrop and Buescher State Parks

If you’re looking for low traffic trails, Texas history and a rare loblolly pine forest, these two are your ideal state parks near Austin. Bastrop State Park offers a vast landscape of rolling hills, and is rich in Texas and Native American history. It was also given the title of a National Historic Landmark in 1997.

Beginner hikers and bikers searching through the different Texas state parks near Austin can find solitude and enjoy trails with very little foot traffic. Even after a forest fire in 2011, and a flood in 2015 this state park still offers a beautiful diverse forest. Most trails in Bastrop state park are rated easy to moderate, however the Lost Pines Loop offers a challenging trail with diverse landscape and steep hills.

Cozy and historic cabins built by the CCC are available to rent in the park, but you will need a separate reservation. Fishing at Lake Mira, a swimming pool and several campsites are also available at Bastrop State Park.

Buescher State Park is next door to Bastrop State Park, and is another quiet and peaceful state park near Austin to enjoy. Cyclist looking for a quiet road can ride the scenic 12 mile Park Road 1C that connects the two parks and offers a handful of challenging hills.

While visiting, you have to see the 30 acre lake where you can bring your kayak and canoe on the water. Fishing is very popular due to the stillness of the lake and the quiet surrounding area. Cabins with lake views are also available to rent to enjoy the scenery. Buescher also has 6 miles of hiking to experience scenic overlooks, wildlife and bird watching.

Palmetto State Park

This park really surprised me. Out of all the Texas state parks near Austin, when you drive into the park you are suddenly transported into a lush and tropical environment full of swamp and wetlands.

Texas State Parks Near Austin Recap

There really is something for everyone near Austin inside Texas state parks. Always remember to bring extra water, food and sunscreen. After all, this is Texas! Check for alerts at all state parks before your visit to learn more.

1. McKinney Falls State Park is the perfect state park in Austin if you want to stay near the city. Explore the trails, and enjoy the beautiful waterfalls only 11 miles south from downtown.
2. If you’re wanting a taste of the Hill Country, and want to explore one of the Texas state parks near Austin, make a trip to Pedernales State Park. Traveling from downtown with low traffic, you’ll arrive in less than an hour with it being 42 miles away via US-290 W.
3. When you plan your trip to Lockhart State Park pack your hiking shoes, bikes, camping gear or even your golf gear. It’s a straight shot on S Hwy 183, and only 35 miles from Austin. Just don’t forget to stop by downtown Lockhart and try one of their famous BBQ restaurants.
4. Bastrop State Park is more than just a park that has suffered from disaster. It’s a rare Texas forest, and through continuous support from the community is coming back to life. Visit and support this state park 37 miles from Austin, Texas.
5. Visitors searching for a quiet road to bike and peaceful trails to hike, make your way to Buescher State Park. The perfect serene day trip from Austin is only 45 miles away.
6. If you are a dedicated bird watcher near Austin, you must make your way to Palmetto State Park. Step into this tropical wetland environment 54 miles from Austin, Texas.