Experience History and Adventure at McKinney Falls State Park This January: Guided Hikes, Trout Fishing, and Family Activities Await
Just 13 miles from the Texas State Capitol, McKinney Falls State Park is opening the year with a full slate of nature-based activities for all ages. From scenic watercolor painting at the Upper Falls to educational ranger-led hikes and family-friendly pet programs, January 2026 promises something for everyone looking to explore the outdoors and connect with the history and ecology of Central Texas.
January Events at McKinney Falls State Park
The month’s programming kicks off on January 10 with a morning B.A.R.K. Ranger session at 9:00 a.m. at the Onion Creek Trailhead. This fun and pet-friendly event teaches families how to enjoy the park responsibly with their furry companions. Complete with a scavenger hunt and photo ops, participants will earn an official B.A.R.K. Ranger certificate.
Also on January 10, visitors can attend a Watercolor Painting session at the Upper Falls starting at 9:30 a.m., where local artist Mark Gale will guide participants in creating a 5x7 nature-inspired keepsake. Art supplies and sketches are provided, making it an easy and enjoyable activity for all ages.
Later in the day, park guests can fish for freshly stocked trout at the Upper Falls beginning at 2:00 p.m. No license is required within state park boundaries, and while some gear is available onsite, bringing personal equipment is recommended. Simultaneously, the Smith Visitor Center will host Nature Painting with a Ranger, a hands-on kids’ craft session perfect for creating a one-of-a-kind souvenir.
On January 17, a guided hike with a park ranger departs from the Visitor Center at 9:30 a.m. The 1.5-mile trek includes park landmarks like the famed “Old Baldy” cypress tree, the Rock Shelter, and Lower Falls. If conditions allow, hikers will also visit the historic McKinney Homestead ruins. This immersive hike blends nature, exercise, and a deeper appreciation for the park’s layered history.
Rounding out the month is “Coffee with a Park Host” on January 31 at 2:00 p.m. at the Smith Visitor Center. Guests are invited to enjoy a casual cup of coffee with Park Host Bob while asking questions about wildlife, park management, and Texas state parks in general.
All events are free with park entry: $6 for adults, and children 12 and under are admitted free. Reservations are strongly encouraged, as the park often reaches capacity—especially on weekends. Passes can be reserved online or by calling the park directly.
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A Rich History Beneath the Trails
McKinney Falls State Park isn’t just a place for outdoor fun—it’s a living museum of Texas history. The land was once part of El Camino Real de los Tejas, a historic trade route used by missionaries, Spanish soldiers, and early settlers from the late 1600s to early 1800s. Evidence suggests Onion Creek served as a crossing point during many of these early expeditions.
The park’s namesake, Thomas F. McKinney, was a prominent early Texas settler and a financial backer of the Texas Revolution. In the 1850s, McKinney built a two-story limestone home, a gristmill, and a dam along Onion Creek. The structures, developed with enslaved labor, formed the backbone of his ranching and horse-breeding operation. Today, visitors can view the remains of McKinney’s homestead and gristmill, offering a tangible glimpse into 19th-century Texas life.
After his death in 1873, McKinney’s estate passed to James Woods Smith, whose descendants eventually donated the land to the State of Texas. In 1976, McKinney Falls officially opened as a public park—preserving not just the scenic beauty of the Hill Country but also centuries of Texas history.
What You Can Do at McKinney Falls State Park
Whether you’re an avid camper, casual hiker, angler, or history buff, the park offers an accessible and enriching outdoor experience:
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Camping & Cabins: 81 campsites with water and electric hookups, plus six remodeled cabins and a youth group camping area.
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Hiking & Biking: Nearly 9 miles of trails, including the accessible 2.8-mile Onion Creek Hike & Bike Trail.
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Fishing & Swimming: No license required for shoreline fishing; popular areas include Onion Creek and Williamson Creek.
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Wildlife & Observation: Spot native species and enjoy interpretive exhibits at the Smith Visitor Center.
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Educational Opportunities: From Junior Ranger programs to TEKS-aligned field trips, the park engages youth in environmental education.
Plan Your Visit to McKinney Falls State Park
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Hours: Gates open daily from 8 a.m. to 10 p.m.
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Office: 8 a.m. – 4:15 p.m.
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Visitor Center: Tues–Thurs noon–4 p.m., Fri–Sun 9 a.m.–4 p.m.
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Entry Fees: $6 per adult (13+), free for children 12 and under
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Reservations: Visit the TPWD Reservation System
McKinney Falls State Park continues to serve as a treasured escape into nature, history, and family-friendly fun—all within Austin’s city limits. This month’s events offer the perfect opportunity to rediscover the outdoors and appreciate the roots of Texas, one trail or trout at a time.
Tiffany Krenek has been on the My Neighborhood News team since August 2021. She is passionate about curating and sharing content that enriches the lives of our readers in a personal, meaningful way. A loving mother and wife, Tiffany and her family live in the West Houston/Cypress region.