Pedernales Falls State Park
Park Texas state park known for limestone falls and swimming
A Texas park where the Pedernales River steps over limestone ledges into shallow pools; popular for hiking, swimming, rock-hopping and picnics within reach of Austin.
Pedernales Falls State Park is a Texas state park on the Pedernales River, noted for the river flowing over wide limestone ledges to form rapids, cascades and shallow swimming pools. The park provides trails, picnic sites, camping and opportunities for canoeing and fishing where conditions allow.
Trail networks and river access points lead to viewpoints above the falls and to riverside areas; seasonal river flow affects swimming and boating conditions. The park is popular for day visits and overnight camping.
The park lies near Johnson City in central Texas, roughly 30 to 40 miles west of Austin, in the limestone hill country of the Pedernales River basin.
- Limestone falls and swimming: The main attraction is the Pedernales River cascading over limestone ledges and shallow falls that form pools used for wading and swimming when water levels permit.
How to Get to Pedernales Falls State Park #
Pedernales Falls State Park lies near Johnson City, about a 45-60 minute drive west of Austin. Access is by car on Park Road 6026; follow Texas Parks & Wildlife signage to the park entrance.
Tips for Visiting Pedernales Falls State Park #
- Arrive early morning to avoid weekend crowds and to see the falls with lower sun angles.
- Explore the hiking trails upstream to find quieter swimming holes - the main falls draw the most visitors.
- Bring water shoes for walking on limestone and crossing shallow streams.
Best Time to Visit Pedernales Falls State Park #
Spring and autumn offer the most comfortable weather and attractive landscapes; summer brings heat and stronger crowds.
Weather & Climate near Pedernales Falls State Park #
Pedernales Falls State Park's climate is classified as Humid Subtropical - Humid Subtropical climate with hot summers (peaking in July) and cold winters (coldest in January). Temperatures range from 2°C to 35°C. Moderate rainfall (802 mm/year).
January
January is the coolest month with highs of 15°C and lows of 2°C. Moderate rainfall (42 mm).
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February
February is cool with highs of 18°C and lows of 4°C. Moderate rainfall (52 mm).
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March
March is cool with highs of 22°C and lows of 8°C. Moderate rainfall (50 mm).
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April
April is mild with highs of 26°C and lows of 12°C. Moderate rainfall (65 mm).
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May
May is mild with highs of 30°C and lows of 17°C. The wettest month with heavy rain (117 mm).
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June
June is warm with highs of 33°C and lows of 21°C. Regular rainfall (92 mm).
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July
July is the hottest month with highs of 35°C and lows of 22°C. Moderate rainfall (47 mm).
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August
August is hot with highs of 35°C and lows of 22°C. Moderate rainfall (54 mm).
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September
September is warm with highs of 32°C and lows of 19°C. Regular rainfall (89 mm).
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October
October is mild with highs of 27°C and lows of 13°C. Regular rainfall (88 mm).
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November
November is cool with highs of 21°C and lows of 8°C. Moderate rainfall (59 mm).
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December
December is cool with highs of 17°C and lows of 3°C. Moderate rainfall (47 mm).
