x
Breaking News
More () »

Trying to escape SXSW? Here’s a list of Central Texas nature spots

Here is a list of Central Texas nature spots.
Credit: Enchanted Rock Facebook page
A long line of visitors waiting to get into Enchanted Rock.

This spring break, it's likely no surprise that people are hitting Texas parks en mass.

Texas Parks and Wildlife is urging spring breakers to consider visiting some of their lesser-known Texas State Parks, as many are reaching capacity early in the day.

The morning of March 13, a photo posted to Enchanted Rock's Facebook page showed a series of car lights stretching to the end of the roadway as the sun was just beginning to rise.

"Good morning! We took this photo of our line for park entry this morning at 7:30am. If you are not in line already, you are unlikely to be able to enter today," the Facebook post said.

Are you trying to get away from the chaos of South by Southwest Festival?

Free shows at SXSW 2018 | How to save a buck at this year's music festival

Here is a list of Central Texas nature spots:

Barton Creek Greenbelt

Several entry points, runs through South Capital of Texas Highway, Austin

Commonly referred to as "the Greenbelt," it has 12.68 miles of trails, with a main trail stretching about seven miles. There are several spots for water throughout the Greenbelt.

Bastrop State Park

100 Park Road 1A , Bastrop, Texas

Forest fires and floods have ravaged the park in recent years. Now, new trees and new plants are bringing new life to the park. Marvel at Lost Pines or go for a swim.

Blanco State Park

101 Park Road 23, Blanco, Texas

The small park sits along a one-mile stretch of the Blanco River, where you can swim, fish, paddle or boat. You can also hike and camp.

Blue Hole Regional Park

100 Blue Hole Lane, Wimberley, Texas

Along with a swimming area, there are 3.5 miles of trails, picnic areas and recreational areas. Click here to make a swimming reservation.

Enchanted Rock State Natural Area

16710 Ranch Road, Fredericksburg, Texas

A massive, pink dome in Fredericksburg, Texas provides beautiful views of the Hill Country. At the park, you can hike, backpack, camp, rock climb, picnic, bird watch, study nature, geocache and stargaze.

The line into the park forms as early as 8 a.m. and the park can close as early as 9 a.m. Check out the park's Twitter and Facebook for updates daily.

Hamilton Pool

24300 Hamilton Pool Road, Dripping Springs, Texas

One of Central Texas' most celebrated swimming holes, the spot can be difficult to get into to. If you would like to make a reservation through Oct. 31, click here. In November and December 2018, reservations are required only for weekends and official Travis County holidays. A payment of $15 in cash is needed per vehicle.

For updated information about Hamilton Pool regarding weather and bacteria levels, call 512-264-2740.

Jacob's Well Natural Area

1699 Mt. Sharp Road, Wimberley, Texas

Jacob's Well, an artesian spring that releases thousands of gallons of water, it is the second largest fully submerged cave in Texas. The deepest part of the cavern is 140-feet deep. Swimming is not allowed at Jacob's Well until May 1. Reservations for the 2018 swim season will be available online at the end of March. It is still available for hiking and viewing Jacob's Well.

Lockhart State Park

2012 State Park Road, Lockhart, Texas

In between Austin and San Antonio, this park has something for everyone. Whether you want to golf, swim, fish, camp, hike or bike, this quiet and inexpensive park is sure to please.

McKinney Falls State Park

5808 McKinney Falls Parkway, Austin, Texas

Camping, hiking, mountain biking, geocaching, bouldering and picnicking are all on the table at this park.

Pedernales Falls State Park

2585 Park Road 6026, Johnson City, Texas

Just 30 miles west of Austin, this spot is great for either a day trip or a camping getaway. The water, which flows over huge slabs of limestone, can get turbulent. If you notice the water start to rise or get muddy, leave the river area immediately. Flash flooding is common in the Texas Hill Country.

Before You Leave, Check This Out