wtmtnhiker wrote:
Advice on hiking trails at low or no cost for access would be especially appreciated as well as any other attractions or venues.
Inks Lake State Park has some nice trails, Enchanted Rock State Natural Area is very interesting and nice hiking.
Pedernales Falls State Park, Guadalupe River State Park & , Lost Maples State Natural Area, Garner State Park, Government Canyon State Natural Area, Hill Country State Natural Area are also all within a day's drive. Honey Creek State Natural Area next to Guadalupe River SP has a unique guided tour available.
Texas State ParksTexas State Parks charge a daily entrance fee - per person. This is in addition to any camping fees if you are camped at the park.
The way to minimize the fee is to buy a Texas State Parks Pass. The current cost is $75 for the first pass. That allows free entry to all Texas State Parks for everyone in the vehicle. (There are a couple concession operations such as the Longhorn Caverns Tour that the pass does not cover.) A second pass per household is available for an additional $25. Only needed if your group will be using two separate vehicles.
The pass is available at any state park. If you camp in Texas State Parks - the pass provides four electronic 'coupons'. For four separate camping visits of two days or longer - you get 1/2 off the camping fee for one day.
Texas State Park PassesOne place we liked to visit - more fun when the weather is warm - is a Travis County Park - Hamilton Pool - it is a bit of a hike down to the pool and around under the waterfalls.
Hamilton Pool
