Pedernales Falls

Flowing over and around huge slabs of limestone, the Pedernales River can be turbulent. But most often it is tranquil, and a great place to relax and recharge. We are just 30 miles west of Austin. Come over for an afternoon swim or hike, or load up your gear for an overnight adventure. The river awaits! Things to Do Here at Pedernales Falls State Park, you can camp, hike, mountain bike, picnic, geocache, bird watch and ride horses. On the river, you can swim, wade, tube or fish. Look for local wildlife and plants at the bird blind and butterfly garden. Swim in the river. If you plan to swim, read our swimming safety tips before you come. For your safety, we do not allow swimming and wading in the Pedernales Falls area. WARNING: The water in the river can rise from a placid stream to a raging torrent in a few minutes. If you are in the river area and notice the water rising or getting muddy, leave the river area immediately. Flash flooding is common in the Texas Hill Country. Please be alert to weather conditions. Go camping! Choose a site with water and electricity or hike to a primitive site. Bring your group to the Youth Group Area or Equestrian Group Camp. Hike or bike the scenic Hill Country. Trails range from easy to challenging. Take the .5-mile Twin Falls Nature Trail and stop at the scenic overlook over the falls. Or tackle the six-mile Wolf Mountain Trail. This challenging trail wraps around Tobacco and Wolf mountains and winds along the small canyons created by Mescal and Tobacco creeks. Along the way, cool your heels at Arrowhead Pool, where Bee Creek spills into stair-stepped pools. For the more adventurous cyclist, test your mountain biking skills on the new Juniper Ridge Trail. This 10-mile technical, single track trail provides plenty of obstacles for more advanced riders. Take a virtual tour with our Interactive Trails Map. Tube, canoe or kayak the river. Put in at the swimming area or Trammell’s Crossing Trail. For your safety, we do not allow put-ins or take-outs in the Pedernales Falls area. Ride your horse on 10 miles of rugged trail. The trail is very rocky with some steep slopes, and requires riding experience. Horses should have shoes. You will find water troughs at the trailer parking area and at the midway point of the trail. You must present current Coggins for your horse at the office. We don’t provide horses. Note: We sometimes close the trails due to weather; call before you visit. Volunteer! We need your help. Stop by headquarters or visit our Volunteer page to learn more. The park store sells gift items and ice. Ranger Programs We offer a variety of programs. Check our Events page or look for signs at the park. Kids: Become a Junior Ranger! Borrow an Explorer Pack, with tools for exploring nature. Complete a certain number of activities from our free Activity Journal to earn a badge. Area Attractions Johnson City, just 10 miles west of the park, is home to parks, art galleries and museums. Visit the Lyndon B. Johnson National Historical Park and the Lyndon B. John State Park & Historic Site. Dripping Springs, 13 miles southeast, offers art galleries, wineries and breweries, and more.