Do cooler temperatures have you dreaming of ways to spend more time outside? Here are 10 ideas to get you out of town and exploring the best of fall in Central Texas.
Photo via Pixabay, Creative Commons licensed.
1. Inks Lake State Park
Inks Lake State Park boasts 7.5 miles of hiking trails, a sparkling lake, nearly 200 campsites, and a variety of ranger-led programs. Bonus: Park entrance is free November 8. Reservations recommended to guarantee entry!
Just 10 minutes down the road from Inks Lake, you can experience one of a variety of cavern tours at Longhorn Cavern State Park. Pack a picnic, strap on your hiking boots, and don’t forget the camera!
Via Holp Photography, with permission.
2. Sweet Berry Farm
If you thought Sweet Berry Farm was only open for spring berry picking, you’ve been missing out on some serious fun. Fall at Sweet Berry Farm features scarecrow stuffing, hay rides, mazes, pumpkin painting, a barrel train, homemade ice cream, and more. It’s definitely a must for checking items off of your fall bucket list. Visit their website for fall hours.
Photo via Sweet Berry Farm Facebook.
3. Stuff Yourself With Barbecue in Lockhart
The Black’s BBQ family has been actively serving the barbecue community for over three generations, originally making a name for themselves at the Black’s BBQ family-owned restaurant in Lockhart, the barbecue capital of Texas! They now have four locations, New Braunfels, Austin, San Marcos, and the original in Lockhart. Of course they’re not the only BBQ stop you need to make. There is Smitty’s Market, Kreuz Market, and Lockhart Chrisholm Trail BBQ. We hope you bring you appetite because you’re going to need it. They don’t call it the barbecue capital of Texas for nothing!
4. Colorado Bend State Park
A 60-foot high waterfall awaits visitors to Colorado Bend State Park. The park also offers kayak rentals, 32 miles of multi-use trails, and guided spelunking adventures through the park’s cave system (registration required). Don’t forget to check out a Junior Ranger backpack for the kids.
Photo by Holp Photography, used with permission.
5. Wimberley
Fall’s cooler temperatures may mark the end of swimming season, but the smaller crowds at Blue Hole Regional Park and Jacob’s Well Natural Area mean you’ll have plenty of room to hike and explore the breathtaking natural scenery (both require reservations, so you’ll need to plan ahead of time). Another great outdoor activity is Prayer Mountain. You might have to take 220 steps up Prayer Mountain but the beautiful Texas Hill Country view from the top is work every step. Look out for the motivational sayings written on rocks on your way up the “mountain”.
6. Johnson City
Johnson City has something to please every member of your family. Get your history on at LBJ Ranch and the Sauer-Beckmann Farmstead. Discover the fun of science at Hill Country Science Mill. Explore a local brewery, distillery, or winery. Feeling wild? Take a guided safari tour at the Exotic Resort Zoo or go for a swim at Pedernales Falls State Park.
7. Enchanted Rock
A short, invigorating climb up Enchanted Rock will earn you magical views of the Hill Country. There’s more to this park than its pink granite dome: hiking, birding, geocaching, a Junior Ranger program, and unbelievable stargazing, too.
Photo via Texas Parks & Wildlife
8. Get A Taste of Germany With A Trip To Fredericksburg
Founded by German immigrants, this town has kept its German roots going strong. Only a little over an hour outside of Austin, you’ll get a variety of authentic German cuisine and architecture providing you with a tiny taste of Germany, right here in Texas. That’s not even half of what this charming town has to offer. Get more info here.
9. Waco
You might be surprised to learn that Waco is a treasure trove of family fun. Cameron Park Zoo’s 52 scenic acres are home to nearly 1,731 animals, representing 300 species, housed in natural habitats. Sports enthusiasts will appreciate the Texas Sports Hall of Fame, Texas history buffs will enjoy the Texas Ranger Hall of Fame & Museum, and kids will have a blast exploring the Mayborn Museum (and visiting Baylor’s Bear Habitat while you’re on campus). Recharge at the Dr. Pepper Museum’s soda fountain before heading home.
Photo via Facebook.
10. Lost Maples State Natural Area
Forget New England, because gorgeous fall foliage is closer than you think. Believe it or not, a classic fall in Central Texas can be found just around the corner. Lost Maples State Natural Area, a 3-hour drive from Austin, is home to a large, isolated stand of Uvalde bigtooth maples known for their spectacular fall colors. Check the park’s Foliage Report before making the trek; colors are generally brightest from mid-October to mid-November. Lost Maples also features great hiking, fishing, bird-watching, and camping. While you’re out west, consider a stop in Bandera: Cowboy Capital of the World.
Lost Maples via Texas Parks & Wildlife
Featured photo courtesy of Holp Photography.
