March 17-19, 2026
Wasn’t sure what to expect of Austin but it was on the way to my next destination and I had heard good things about McKinney Falls State Park. So Austin it was for three nights.
McKinney Falls State Park
I had a beautiful camp site at Mckinney Falls. More on the park later.
Meanwhile Brewing
After setting up camp I headed to a local brewery, “Meanwhile Brewing” that had a number food trucks on site.
Excellent pizza and beer.
One thing I learned on the short drive to Meanwhile Brewing is that Austin traffic is absolutely horrendous. I made a decision that night not to stray far from the campground.
The Falls
The Onion Creek runs through the park and there is an “upper falls” and a “lower falls”. Neither are that impressive, at least during a drought.
Here are the Upper Falls:
The local news stations have been talking about blooming season for the bluebonnet – the Texas state flower. They were saying that drought conditions were adversely impacting the bloom. Near the upper falls there were many patches of bluebonnets.
The lower falls were equally impressive.
What was cool near the lower falls was this section of El Camino Real de los Tejas, a historic Spanish colonial trail that once connected Mexico to Louisiana.
Old Baldy and the Prehistoric Rock Shelter
Between the two falls there are two attractions.
Old Baldy is a 500 year old Bald Cypress. It was named Tree of the Year in 2012.
Small trunk for a 500 year old tree.
And the Prehistoric Rock Shleter.
Texas BBQ
I did want to try some Texas BBQ. I had traveled to Dallas during my working years and enjoyed BBQ there. A friend recommended Leroy & Lewis. It wasn’t a far drive so I made the move.
That’s the brisket, tri-tip, miso glazed carrots, and cauliflower burnt ends.
I’m sure Austin has more to offer but I had to move on.