Open
Open year-round. The water/electric campground will be closed September 1, 2026 through January 1, 2027 for a construction project. A burn ban is in effect prohibiting wood and charcoal fires; containerized fuel stoves are permitted. Park gates close 10 p.m. to 8 a.m. Reservations strongly recommended as the park often reaches capacity.
About
Pedernales Falls State Park sits on nearly 5,212 acres of rugged Hill Country terrain along the Pedernales River in Blanco County, about 30 miles west of Austin. The park's namesake falls are a dramatic series of stair-stepped limestone ledges where the river tumbles through a scenic canyon. Swimming access is available via a strenuous quarter-mile hike with steep rock stairs to the river below the falls.
The main campground contains 69 sites with water and 30-amp electric hookups, each equipped with a picnic table, fire ring with grill, and lantern post. Two restroom facilities with showers serve the camping loop. For more remote experiences, the Wolf Ridge Backcountry Camping Area offers primitive hike-in sites about 2 miles from the trailhead, with chemical toilets only and no potable water or fires allowed.
The park provides over 20 miles of trails for hiking, mountain biking, and equestrian use. Fishing, tubing, canoeing, and kayaking are popular on the river, though visitors should be aware of flash flood dangers. A park store sells ice and gift items. Reservations are strongly recommended, as the park frequently reaches capacity on weekends and holidays.
Directions
From Austin, take US 290 west to Johnson City. Turn south on US 281 for 0.1 miles, then east on FM 2766 for 6 miles to Park Road 6026. Follow Park Road 6026 to the park entrance.