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Pedernales Falls State Park

Park

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.

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In this guide

Pedernales Falls State Park essentials

Address: Pedernales Falls State Park, 2585 Park Rd 6026, Johnson City, TX 78636
Website: tpwd.texas.gov
Hours: Daily 8am-10pm (hours may vary seasonally)
Admission: Day-use fee (typically $6-$8 per vehicle; check Texas Parks & Wildlife for current rates)
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About Pedernales Falls State Park

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.
When to Go

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.

Spring
March-May · 12-26°C
Wildflowers and flowing water - generally the sweetest time to visit.
Autumn
September-November · 15-28°C
Cooler evenings and quieter trails after the summer rush.

Weather & Climate near Pedernales Falls State Park

Climate

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).

Air Quality: AQI 27 Good
Temperature & Rainfall
Temperature Range
35°
Warmest Month
2°
Coldest Month
Monthly Conditions
Month Comfort Temp Feels Rain Sky Humidity Wind UV Daylight
January - 2° - 15° 7° 42 mm - - 3.6 m/s - -
February - 4° - 18° 11° 52 mm - - 3.8 m/s - -
March - 8° - 22° 15° 50 mm - - 4.2 m/s - -
April - 12° - 26° 19° 65 mm - - 4.2 m/s - -
May - 17° - 30° 23° 117 mm - - 3.9 m/s - -
June - 21° - 33° 27° 92 mm - - 3.7 m/s - -
July - 22° - 35° 29° 47 mm - - 3.4 m/s - -
August - 22° - 35° 28° 54 mm - - 3.1 m/s - -
September - 19° - 32° 25° 89 mm - - 3.0 m/s - -
October - 13° - 27° 20° 88 mm - - 3.2 m/s - -
November - 8° - 21° 14° 59 mm - - 3.5 m/s - -
December - 3° - 17° 8° 47 mm - - 3.5 m/s - -
Getting There & Around

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.