The weather in Austin is beautiful, so why not take your kiddos to a nearby park? One of my family's favorites is the nearby McKinney Falls State Park.

McKinney Falls State Park
McKinney Falls State Park. Courtesy of Expedia Viewfinder.

Located just 13 miles southeast of downtown, McKinney Falls offers 726 acres of hiking and cycling trails, playgrounds, picnic areas, a campground, and Onion Creek for wading and rock skipping. Ask the park rangers for free Junior Ranger Explorer Packs so your kids can track and sketch animals, bugs and other wildlife. The falls at McKinney Falls are considered one of the most impressive falls in the Austin area (based on the amount of rain the area has received.) The parks trails are moderately long and easy enough for kids of all ages to walk and skip to their hearts content. When the creek is low, kids enjoy walking on the limestone creek bed. McKinney Falls State Park is open daily, year-round from 8 a.m. 10 p.m. Free for kids 12 years and under, and only $6 for adults, it is a good option for an adventure with the family. Bring a picnic lunch and make a day of it!

McKinney Falls State Park 5808 McKinney Falls Parkway Austin, TX 78744

Contributed by Katie Cook.