Pedernales Falls Is A Blue-Green Oasis Tucked Away In The Texas Hill Country
If we had to pick one region of Texas that gives visitors the most “bang for their buck,” so to speak, it would undoubtedly be the Hill Country. From all-day floats on the river to rugged canyon landscapes, this area truly has it all. Pedernales Falls State Park is one Central Texas destination that belongs on your bucket list, with its pristine waters, ancient rock formations, and breathtaking panoramic views.
Tucked away on the outskirts of Austin in Johnson City, Pedernales Falls State Park is such an underrated Hill Country destination. Pristine waters cascade over enormous limestone rocks, creating a picture-perfect scene that belongs on the summer bucket list of every Texan.
Guests typically spend most of their visit admiring the falls, which are the clear main attraction. These rock formations are some 300 million years old, so you'll get to come face-to-face with ancient history.
From the scenic overlook at the north end of the park, enjoy a bird's-eye view of the falls in all their glory. Over a distance of 3,000 feet, the Pedernales River plunges down a series of natural stairsteps.
Some of the rocks have taken on truly unique shapes, like this cave you'd be surprised to learn isn't man-made. Surrounded by impossibly white sands, this area of the park is truly awe-inspiring. (Note: we do not recommend climbing up into the cave.)
While swimming isn't allowed in the falls area, there is a designated area. Bring an inner tube and get ready to soak up some rays in this emerald oasis, surrounded by whimsical cypress trees that look like something from a fairytale.
Also in the park are nearly 20 miles of hiking and mountain biking trails, 10 miles of equestrian trails, and 14 miles of backpacking trails. Gaze for miles into the distance from atop Wolf Mountain as you revel in the silence so absolute, the sound of a pin dropping would reverberate across the entire landscape.
If you're in search of a short-and-sweet adventure, look no further than Twin Falls Nature Trail. It's just half a mile long but leads to a lush, jungle-like grotto that makes you feel anywhere but Texas.
As is the case with most bodies of water in Central Texas, flash flooding can occur in a matter of minutes. Keep a watchful eye on the water level, and leave the river area immediately if it starts to rise. Visit the park’s website or Facebook page to learn more.
Katie Lawrence is a Southeast Texas native who graduated 18th in her high school class with a GPA of 4.25. She attended college in the Houston area and changed her major twice (psychology, computer science, and finally criminal justice) before taking a leap of faith and dropping out to pursue a career in freelance writing.
Today, Katie writes for the Texas and Arizona pages of OnlyInYourState.com and has never been more passionate about a job before. Outside of work, you can likely find her curled up on the sofa with a hot cup of coffee, watching a crime TV show or scary movie.
