This page is your quick reference for all the practical information you need before visiting Pedernales Falls State Park. Bookmark it and check it before each trip — conditions, burn bans, and closures can change.
Contact information
- Address: 2585 Park Road 6026, Johnson City, TX 78636
- Phone: 830-868-7304
- Email: Pedernales.Falls@tpwd.texas.gov
- Official website: tpwd.texas.gov/state-parks/pedernales-falls
- Reservations: texasstateparks.reserveamerica.com
Hours
- Gate: Open 8:00am to 10:00pm daily
- Park office: 8:00am to 4:30pm daily (possible extended hours on weekends/holidays)
- Late arrivals: If arriving after 5:00pm with a reservation, call 830-868-7304 before 5:00pm on your arrival day to receive the gate code
Entry fees
- Day use: $6 per person per day, ages 13 and older
- Children under 13: Free
- Texas State Parks Pass: Covers entry fees at 80+ state parks — worth it if you visit more than twice a year
- Camping fees are charged in addition to the daily entrance fee
Reservations
Day pass reservations can be made up to one month in advance. Campsite reservations can be made up to 12 months in advance. During weekends, school breaks, and holidays, the park frequently reaches capacity and closes to visitors without reservations. Pre-booking is strongly recommended.
Book at texasstateparks.reserveamerica.com or call the Customer Service Center. Day passes are only valid for the time slot selected, but once you enter, you may stay for the rest of the day.
Directions
From Austin: Take Highway 290 West to RR 3232. Turn right (north) and continue approximately six miles to the intersection at FM 2766. Turn right — the park entrance is ahead. Total drive time from central Austin: approximately 45 to 55 minutes.
From Johnson City: Take FM 2766 East for nine miles from Highway 281 to the park entrance.
GPS works reliably to the park entrance. Once inside, cell service is very limited. Download maps and your reservation confirmation before leaving home.
Current conditions and alerts
Burn ban: A burn ban is currently in effect. No wood or charcoal fires are allowed anywhere in the park. Containerized fuel stoves (propane) are permitted for cooking only.
Flash flood warning: The Pedernales River can rise from a calm stream to a dangerous flood in minutes due to upstream storms, even when skies above the park are clear. If you notice the water beginning to rise or turning muddy, leave the river area immediately.
Prescribed burns: Prescribed burns are planned September through March depending on weather. Some areas may be closed for public safety. Contact the park before visiting if you have concerns.
Always check current conditions at tpwd.texas.gov/state-parks/pedernales-falls before your visit.
Park rules families should know
- Pets must be on a leash (six feet or shorter) at all times
- Swimming and wading are permitted in the designated swimming area only — not at the falls
- No tube or equipment rentals are available at the park — bring your own
- No put-ins or take-outs for paddling in the falls area — use the swimming area or Trammell’s Crossing Trail
- Horseback riders must stay on designated equestrian trails and present a current Coggins certificate
- No shows: if you don’t check in by noon the day after your scheduled arrival, your reservation is cancelled and camping fees are forfeited
- Speed limit on park roads: 20 mph
Facilities
- Restrooms and shower facilities in the campground area
- Park store (sells ice and gift items — no food concessions)
- Picnic areas throughout the park
- Bird blind and butterfly garden near headquarters
- Water troughs at the equestrian trail parking area and midpoint
- Pit toilet approximately two miles from the Wolf Mountain trailhead
Weather by season
- January average low: 32°F
- July average high: 94°F
- Wettest months: May, August, and September
- First freeze: Early November
- Last freeze: Early April
- Best seasons for visiting: Spring (March–May) and fall (September–November)
Frequently asked questions
Do I need a reservation for a day visit? On weekends, holidays, and school breaks, yes — strongly recommended. The park closes to new entrants when at capacity.
Can I bring my dog? Yes, on a leash at all times.
Is there a Junior Ranger program? Yes. Ask at the park office for a booklet. Kids complete activities and earn a badge.
Is there cell service in the park? Very limited. Download everything before arrival.
Are strollers practical on the trails? No. The terrain is rocky limestone. A hiking backpack carrier for infants and toddlers is more practical.
What’s the best time to see the falls? Early morning before crowds arrive, and after recent rainfall when water levels are higher. The falls can be very shallow or nearly dry during extended dry spells.
Can we swim at the falls? No. Swimming and wading are permitted only in the designated swimming area, not at the falls themselves.
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