4 Great Natural Areas Around Austin!

If you’re an Austinite- native or not- you probably enjoy city living. But being in the heart of the Texas Hill Country allows for easy access to some of the most scenic, natural areas in the state. Get away from the hustle-and-bustle of the big city with one of these short trips!

Hamilton Pool Reserve

One of the Hill Country’s most popular “best kept secrets,” Hamilton Pool Preserve is a 232-acre nature preserve located in Dripping Springs, about 23 miles west of Austin. The pool is a collapsed grotto that’s been formed over thousands of years of erosion, which creates a stunning 50 foot waterfall and pool area. The preserve surrounding the pool is home to a variety of native fish, birds, and other animals and plants, including the federally endangered Golden-Cheeked Warbler. During peak entry times, from May-September, reservations are required to get into the preserve, and wait times can extend up to 45 minutes due to overcrowding. Entry fees are $15 per vehicle, with a ¼ mile long hike to get to the pool.

Enchanted Rock State Natural Area

Enchanted Rock is a massive pink granite formation located outside of Fredericksburg, about 95 miles from Austin. Rock climbing is one of the most popular activities in the area, but there are also 11 miles of hiking trails, as well as camping, nature watching, geocacheing, and star gazing. 12,000 years ago, when humans first inhabited the area, Enchanted Rock was believed to be supernatural in origin due to the creaking, groaning, and flickering of “ghost fires,” hence the name. Each year, about 250,000 people venture to the area, which often leads to park closures for up to four hours when parking fills up. Scientists estimate that Enchanted Rock formed when two continents collided 1.1 billion years ago. Entrance fees are $7 per person over the age of 12.

Longhorn Cavern State Park

Longhorn Cavern has been a Registered Natural Landmark since 1971, and is the main draw for visitors in the 639-acre Longhorn Cavern State Park. The Cavern was created thousands of years ago by the cutting action of an underground river, and was used as a hidden speakeasy during the 1920’s prohibition era. 1.5 hour guided tours are offered year round through the 68 degree caverns. Entrance to the park is free, while tours are paid based on age.

McKinney Falls State Park

McKinney Falls State Park opened in 1976, just 13 miles from downtown Austin at the convergence of Onion and Williamson Creeks. History buffs will be thrilled to visit McKinney Falls State Park, which is the remnant of a shallow sea that covered most of Texas during the Cretaceous period. In fact, a complete skeleton of a mosasaur was found in the rocks of Onion Creek near the park! Camping, hiking, geocacheing, fishing, and swimming are just some of the activities offered in the park. The park is open daily from 8am-10pm, and costs $6 per adult for entry, while children 12 and under get in free.