McKinney Falls State Park Camping
in May

Booking McKinney Falls State Park in May

Texas state parks open reservations exactly 5 months in advance at 8 a.m. Central — so for a May trip, the booking window opens in December. Popular weekends can disappear within minutes of the window opening. If your dates are already full, check the booking system directly for cancellations, or book a cabin or vacation rental nearby.

What to Expect in May

Swimming season at the Upper and Lower Falls begins; weekends fill fast.

Park Highlights

• ✓Upper and Lower McKinney Falls on Onion Creek
• ✓13 miles from downtown Austin — closest state park to the city
• ✓Swimming and wading in natural limestone pools
• ✓Connects to Austin's Violet Crown Trail network
• ✓Ruins of Thomas McKinney's 1850s homestead
• ✓Great for a quick weekend escape without a long drive

Tips

• →This park fills up fast because it's so close to Austin — book as early as the window allows
• →Onion Creek floods after heavy rains and the falls area will close — check conditions first
• →The Homestead Trail is an easy 2.8-mile loop perfect for a morning jog or casual hike
• →You can bike from the park into downtown Austin via the Violet Crown Trail
• →Mosquitoes can be fierce near the creek in summer — bring repellent