Take a hike. Then reward yourself with pizza and beer, plus goats!
In our mission to spend 1000 hours outside every year, we’re sharing some of our favorite hiking spots in this series titled “This Week’s Hike”.
✅ Trails for Children
❌ Swimming
✅ Bathrooms
✅ Playground and Sports Fields
✅ Free Admission for Park and Trails (and free parking)
✅ Stroller-friendly Trails
❌ Reservations needed
Jester King isn’t just a brewery. A few years ago, they added a nature trail, a playground, and an event barn, all of which are beautiful and unique additions to an already fun destination. The trails are open every day from dawn to dusk; the brewery and restaurant are open Monday through Thursday 2-8 pm, Friday – Saturday 11 am – 9 pm, and Sunday 11 am – 8 pm.
We’re excited to share everything we love about the Jester King Brewery in Dripping Springs!
Trail Options for All Levels
Whether hiking with tiny tots, older kids, or adults, these trails are a great choice! You can take a short hike with easy, flat terrain or you can extend the hike to follow the entire 2 mile trail with a few offshoots into the woods.
Easy Parking and Access
Google Maps will take you directly to the entrance. You can park for free in the parking lot and take the short farm trail that begins at the back of the brewery or start at the trailhead on the other side of the parking lot. There are many options with signs along the loop. Beware that the parking lot can be a bit bumpy with some potholes.
Special Soil
While traversing one of the back wooded trails, check under your feet to see what the soil looks like. On parts of the trail, the dirt is more like clay than sand. Encourage your kids to scoop out a small amount and they can roll the clay-like soil between their palms and fingers to create a ball. Keeping little hands busy while on a long hike can be the trick to keeping their feet moving too.
Interesting Stops
For kids of all ages, there are options to take forks in the trail, run up and down hills, climb a few trees, check out the unique event barn and pretend to dance at a wedding reception, jump atop boulders, and enjoy the views of both wilderness and development for miles around.
The ultimate destinations, though, are the goat barn and the brewery/restaurant. Visit goats of all ages and personalities that will greet you at the fence and show off their talents in the hopes that you’ll book a goat experience and feed them too. Then, there’s the ultimate reward for a strenuous hike or family stroll to look forward to…
Pizza and Beer (or Soda)
After burning calories hiking and exploring, treat yourself to pizza, taste one of the brewer’s unique beers, savor a flavored soda, or delight in dessert. The surroundings are beautiful and relaxed with ample covered and uncovered outdoor seating available. The kids will love play time on the playground or in the huge field as well.
Jester King is an awesome spot to exercise your body, entertain the kids, and enjoy a meal with your friends or family. Let us know what you think after you visit! For other family hike recommendations in the Texas Hill Country, check out our page, This Week’s Hike.
Follow @dripping_with_kids on Instagram or this blog so you don’t miss out on the best places to go in the Texas Hill Country! We’d love to hear about your favorites as well.
Save Money with These Alternatives to Austin and Hill Country Hot Spots
There seem to be limitless attractions in Austin and within the surrounding Texas Hill Country. These include trails, swimming holes, museums, playgrounds, classes, farms, festivals, and historical sites. My kids and I enjoy almost everything in this area! However, too many choices can paralyze the planner; they can also blow the budget.
Two of my kids are homeschooled. We have a lot of time each day, which we try to fill with unique learning experiences. Most of my weekly plans involve getting my kids out of the house.
Unfortunately, many attractions, even those in natural landscapes, can be upwards of $20 per person. That adds up too quickly, especially with a large family. We’re often searching for options that are free or at least cost half as much as the typical attraction price.
To assist both with my planning and yours, I’ve compiled a list of frugal alternatives to the top attractions in the Austin area and the Texas Hill Country. These alternatives are not only cheaper, but they’re likely to be less crowded, especially on weekdays.
While Hamilton Greenbelt is more of a trail than a tourist attraction, it offers a view of waterfalls, shaded walking trails, creeks to splash in (if it’s been raining), a bird blind, picnic tables and grassy area for sunning, a few animal sculptures to search for, and no fee, plus free parking.
Hot Spot: Umlauf Sculpture Garden ($7/adult)
Frugal Alternative: FREE Day at Contemporary Art Museum and Laguna Gloria (all day Thursdays)
See beautiful sculptures as you stroll along the calm waters of the Colorado River. Add on a visit to Mayfield Park to make your day truly unique and tranquil.
This short trail is a fun stop to add on to a day at the Hill Country Galleria, where you can visit the cute library, do a little shopping, and see additional art exhibits along the store fronts and at Bee Cave Art Foundation.
Hot Spot: The Thinkery Children’s Museum ($18/person)
You can still visit the popular children’s museum yet avoid the crowds on free museum days. Just check out a weekly admission pass from the library. Dripping Springs Library definitely has them, and chances are, other local Austin libraries do too. You can go for FREE during the less busy hours.
This museum is my younger kids’ absolute favorite! Their imaginations come alive in the many role play areas. These include the hospital room, the grocery store, the space station, the bank, the art studio, and the outdoor water play area. We spend the whole day there for just $8 per person. Plus, there are several cute restaurants nearby to grab lunch. (Admission fee grants you in/out access all day.)
The Science Mill is a frugal alternative if you’re up for more science-focused exhibits. It offers both indoor and outdoor hands-on experiences. They have many special events throughout the year as well.
Explore animal exhibits, both indoor and outdoor. Visit a frog pond and streams where you can catch tadpoles with your own net. Discover rooms with insect and animal specimens. Enjoy a sandy dino dig area…. all for free.
If you’re willing to travel out of town for a bigger, better zoo experience, head north instead of south. You’ll find several of the same animals and a more chill and close-up experience at the Cameron Park Zoo. If you love zoos as much as we do, you might want to consider getting a zoo membership. It offers reciprocal discounts at other zoos.
Explore Lady Bird Lake on a kayak or paddleboard. Take in the downtown skyline and the beauty of Zilker Park for half the price (on weekdays). Coupon is on the site linked above.
Hot Spot: Bob Bolluck State History Museum ($13/adult, $9/child)
If your goal is to stroll among beautiful wildflowers, marvel at creative art pieces, and find cute photo ops, this free alternative is the way to go. You can enjoy a picnic or cafe-style lunch. Roam freely in the great outdoors. You can even do a little wine tasting or shopping. There aren’t as many play areas specific to children. However, this unique spot hosts many fun events with kid-friendly activities. These include a Fall Festival, live music options, and a butterfly release day.
Hot Spot: Guadalupe or Comal River Tubing Float ($20-$25/person)
Hit the rapids, jump off the bridge, linger in the shade, or float the slow current of the San Marcos River. Bring your own tube to drop in at Rio Vista Park. Head downstream a bit to find one of the best tube chutes around.
Keep these options in mind for next summer. There are shows almost every night of the week with kid-friendly themes and excellent actors, all for free.
Check the high school websites in your area for musicals in the Fall and in the Spring. Most are produced at a very high quality, and there’s a lot of young talent on those stages!
Hot Spot: Barton Springs Pool ($5-$9/adult, $3-$5/child)
This open access swimming area is just downstream from the popular swimming hole. It’s open year-round and has no restrictions on food and drink. It can attract a crowd, as well as lots of dogs, during popular times and really hot days. Swim at your own risk and go early to claim a spot on the bank. The easiest way to access Barking Springs is to go down the staircase just east of the Zilker Park Playground. You can park in the first parking lot near the playground.
Head down to San Marcos for a glass bottom boat tour, aquarium, discovery center, and trails. The cost is significantly less, and the experience is focused on conservation and education. If you want a truly frugal experience, go on a Family Fun Day for FREE admission and activities for children. There are also homeschool days that mimic a field trip for only $10/person (pre-registration required).
For only $5/hour, you can try out a variety of challenging climbing walls at Hill Country Indoor. These walls are unique. You can climb even if you’re not a member of the gym. Call ahead to make sure the climbing area isn’t reserved for a party.
Hot Spot: Painting with a Twist ($40-$50/event)
Frugal alternative: FREE Art Classes at Buda City Library
This library has several options for all ages. It includes teen art projects and adult art with Inspired Minds. However, they offer more than just art classes. There are also STEM classes for homeschoolers, come and go crafting, cooking classes, and more.
Pioneer Farms is a cool place and not that expensive. However, Sauer-Beckmann Farm and LBJ State Park are completely free. It’s one of our favorite attractions in the area. There are period actors every day working the farm and demonstrating how people homesteaded more than 100 years ago. There are also hiking trails, a museum, and animals to visit.
We hope this list encourages you to check out some of the lesser-known attractions in the area! Some require more of a drive. You might also need a bit more packing or planning. However, my family thinks they’re all worth it. Plus, the savings make a huge difference, allowing us to get out and explore even more.
If you’d like to experience some of the bigger attractions, as well as semi-professional games, in San Antonio, Waco, and Austin at a huge discount, check out the POGO Pass. It charges one annual fee per person for free admission into multiple family-friendly places.
Usually by mid-March, our family is already looking ahead to summer and planning our bucket list, seeking out the top things to do in our area, dreaming about the vacations we’ve booked, and reserving coveted spots in local camps. But after paying for those trips and camps, there’s little left in the budget for the rest of the summer days. That’s when this bucket list can come to the rescue.
This year, I’m a little behind in making our list because so many great ideas and new opportunities have been flooding my inbox and text chains. Sometimes, I consider keeping these hot spots a secret to be enjoyed without much of a crowd, but NAH, this blog is all about sharing the fun!
I invite you to check off these Top 21 FUN (and affordable or FREE) things to do in Austin and the surrounding areas with us, so we can make the summer of 2024 memorable!
Items marked with an * are FREE.
HILL COUNTRY SUMMER BUCKET LIST (in no particular order)
Swim in the warm Pedernales River, hike the moderate to difficult trails, try a little rock climbing, or just lay out on the beachy river shore. Be prepared for a bit of a hike down and uphill if heading to the water from the parking lot. Fees are charged for entry at $5/adult, cash only, and reservations are not allowed.
When you combine open green space, climbing trees, picnic tables, delicious food, and unique wines, you get a fantastic place to spend an afternoon with family and friends. Bring snacks for your kids, a few lawn toys, and savor the views and the slower pace in a beautiful setting next to a vineyard. You can order food to-go from the winery or a full Italian meal from Trattoria Lisina and picnic with a bottle of their wine.
Multiple porches, splash pad, small playground, casual food menu, and full bar make these hotspots great family-friendly options for a summer evening. Dreamland also has putt putt golf for $10/person and pickle ball courts.
Pack a cooler, load up the tubes, grab a fishing pole, pull out some cash ($10 for adults, $6 for kids), and remember the slip-proof water shoes for a full day in and on the water. The trek down can be a tad difficult so be prepared to carry little ones. There are bathroom facilities on site but no food options. Overnight camping is also available with advanced reservations.
Clear your schedule for the day and hit as many parks as you can. Finish up the hot day of play with a dip in a local pool or splash pad like the one below.
This is one of our fave pools! There are waterslides, leap pads, baby pool, pool loungers, and picnic tables. There’s also an affordable concession stand. Small fee required for all day access.
This scenic park is free for day use, and it has a variety of shaded trails, as well as a few swimming spots. Park at any of the designated parking areas and go right for lake swimming, left for creek and waterfall. Bring in all your own swimming toys, food, and blankets/towels. The trails toward the lake are flat enough for a wagon.
This is one of the best priced water parks with 3 distinct pool areas for all ages, as well as multiple slides, cargo net for climbing, splash pad, and small obstacle courses. Two of the pool areas are spring-fed and quite cool. There is a large locker room with bathrooms and changing areas. You can bring in your own food and drinks. Just outside of the aquatic center is a train that takes you around the park, which has multiple playgrounds and trails.
Enjoy a hike or a bike ride along the waters of Hurst Creek on the Hamilton Greenbelt and then travel a few minutes away to take in a gorgeous view at the Hurst Creek Overlook. Finish the day with a swim in Lake Travis at Lakeway City Park or with a meal with a view at Ski Shores Cafe.
Walk the trails, photograph the peacocks and peahens, and lounge in a beautiful, shaded outdoor space at this free city park. If you go on a Thursday, you can visit the Laguna Gloria art gallery next door for FREE. Make a full day of it by traveling less than 10 min to Red Bud Isle for hiking, kayaking, and an off-leash dog park or to Hula Hut for a unique dinner on the water.
Enjoy a beach day on the shores of Lake Austin. The park boasts swimming, camp sites, hiking trails, fishing areas, volleyball and basketball courts, boat ramps, a cycling trail, and lots of wildflowers. $5-$10/vehicle admission, coins or card only. You can also book online in advance.
Spend the cool morning hours touring the farm and hiking the easy trails to see Texas Longhorns. When it gets too hot, take the driving tour through the national park to see the LBJ family working ranch, as well as historic sites. Check out the link above for more details and to find out whether the onsite pool is open for a dip after your tours.
Sand, boulders, a flowing river for swimming or wading, shaded trails, unique wildlife, campsites, and beautiful views… what more could you want for a summer day or weekend? Be sure to reserve a day pass or campsite in advance. They do sell out. Also keep in mind that most trails are not stroller-friendly.
14. *Chill in the San Marcos River after Playground Fun
Check out one of the best playgrounds in the area, The Children’s Park in San Marcos, and then cool off in the river just steps away. Bring your own floats or tubes as well as a picnic lunch. Then head into downtown San Marcos for a unique treat at Icy Rolls. Your kids will never look at ice cream the same way again.
15. *Attend Awesome Library Events
The Dripping Springs, Bee Cave, Lake Travis, Westbank, and Wimberley Libraries have amazing magic and puppet shows, petting zoos, parties, summer reading challenges, Lego and chess clubs, and movie nights. Some require registration in advance. Be sure to check the summer event calendars and plan ahead.
16. A *Hike and Some Ice
Hike the Hill of Life (enter at the “Trail’s End Access to Barton Creek Greenbelt”) until you get to the water’s edge for a few beautiful photos and opportunities to splash in the creek.
Then, after the difficult hike back up what feels like a small mountain, reward yourself with a mountain of delicious shaved ice at Woody’s (check online before you go to see if it’s open).
As mentioned, the hike is steep in some areas, with loose gravel, and not stroller friendly. For younger kids, try an easier hike (ending in a secret swimming hole) on Lost Creek Trail, which begins at 2614 Lost Creek Blvd, before the sweet treat.
Small, laid-back park in the heart of town with easy hiking trails, campsites, a playground, and several swimming and fishing areas along the river. Bring tubes or paddle boards, as well as a picnic. Day pass reservations recommended. $5/adult.
Take a cold dip in the spring-fed waters, hike, picnic, and enjoy playground fun. Afterward, wander into town for a walk along Cypress Creek and playtime at Community Pizza. You’ll always hear some live music and will find several options for an icy cold treat. (Make swimming reservations for Blue Hole in advance. $12/adult, $6/child)
Spend the whole day on a paddle board, in a canoe, or in a tube. You can bring your own or rent on site. You can also climb in the small cave, search for the goats, and lounge on the shore munching a delicious taco from the on-site restaurant. $10/adult, $6/child 5+.
Zilker Hillside Theater is back with a free production of Legally Blonde: The Musical! The show must go on rain or shine or 100 degree heat every Thursday through Sunday at 8 pm from July 12th through Aug 17th. Bring a picnic blanket, bug spray, and snacks. It’s a long night.
It’s the perfect opportunity to check out the famous Barton Springs pool before the show if you’ve never been. And if you can’t get in, good news… there’s a free, public-access side too! It’s right next to (and down the hill) from the Barton Springs facility.
This park has it all: playground, 1500 foot beach, large shallow swimming area, several shaded picnic spots, boat ramps, volleyball courts, and a deeper side of the lake for floating and boating. $20/vehicle for all day (no in and out) or $5 for Comal County registered vehicles.
I hope this list gets you motivated to get out and explore without breaking the bank, even on the blistering hot Texas summer days. And for those weeks when your kids need a break from all the outdoor fun, check out this list of the best VBS optionsin the area.
Also, please subscribe below or follow on Instagram for upcoming posts with reviews on the above places as we check off our list. Dripping with Kids will also share frugal travel tips and ideas for indoor fun with kids. Thank you for reading!
The wildflowers are blanketing the medians and open fields. The weather is still cool in the mornings. The bees are buzzing; the caterpillars are eating through our vegetable garden; the fireflies are making an appearance at night; and the creeks are flowing. Spring is here, and we want to relish every beautiful moment of it.
BUT every parent knows it’s already time to start summer planning. All of the best camps fill up quickly, and Vacation Bible Schools are no exception. After reading through countless camp lists and trying out a variety of them with my first two kids, I’ve definitely learned something…
I will always say ‘yes’ to multiple VBS weeks each summer! I’m completely amazed by how much planning, time, and faith are put into vacation bible schools, and I am thrilled that my children get to experience that kind of joy. It moves me to tears every time I hear them singing the songs they learn in VBS, and I love it even more when I hear them relating what they learn in the summer to future Bible lessons throughout the year.
And what makes VBS even better?
The price tag, of course! Many are free or cost less than $30 per child.
If you’re searching for a VBS to send your children to this summer, here is a list of some wonderful options in the Austin area and the Texas Hill Country that are currently open for registration:
Lake Hills Church starts at incoming kinder age. Theme: Making Madness. Dates: June 3rd-6th, 9:30 am – 12:30 pm. Cost: $25.
Riverbend Church starts at age 4 through 5th grade. Theme: Start the Party. Dates: June 3rd-7th, 9 am – noon. Cost: $40.
Bethany Lutheran Church has VBS for PK3(potty-trained) through 5th grade. Theme: Scuba. Dates: June 17th-20th, 9 am – noon. Cost: $20, includes T-shirt. Register soon; this one is a huge hit. Other camps are available throughout summer for $300 per week.
Life Family Churches host Camp Life Kids in Austin and Marble Falls. This camp has a higher cost associated with it, but it goes all day, from 9 AM until 4 PM. Dates: June 3rd-7th. Cost: $250. For rising kindergartners through 6th grade.
Woodlawn Baptist Church is offering VBS daily from July 15th-19th from 9 am – 12 pm for age 4 through 5th grade. Theme: Breaker Rock Beach. Cost: FREE
Austin Ridge Bee Cave and Southwest have Camp Ridge Kids starting at age 3 (potty trained) or 4 – 5th grade. Dates: June 10th-13th, 9 am – noon. Theme: Summer Blast. Cost: $30.
Dripping Springs United Methodist Church has a unique approach to VBS: it’s for the whole family. Their VBX will structure programming for the kids and for the adults as well. The evenings include dinner, worship, and games. Theme: Family Olympics. Dates: July 16th-18th, 5:30-8 pm. Registration opens soon.
MORE INFO ON VBS OPTIONS TO COME…
We’ve never attended this one and don’t know anyone personally who has, but it seems to be an excellent option in Buda — Southern Hills Church of Christ in Buda will have VBS from Sunday June 23rd to Thursday June 27th. Theme: Flood. Cost: FREE
Another one we’ve heard great things about is Faith Bible Church. Theme: Great Jungle Journey. Dates: June 10th-13th, 9 am – noon. Ages Pre K4 through 5th grade. $15
If you’re looking to plan other activities to do with your family this summer, check out our past Summer Bucket Lists.
It’s only March. Spring has barely begun, but every parent knows it’s time to start summer planning. And VBS is often at the core of those plans.
Summers are what memories are made of, and that puts a lot of pressure on vacation and camp decisions. But the excessive options for summer are beyond overwhelming! There is a camp for every possible interest in the world, especially if your budget is limitless. After reading through countless camp lists and trying out a variety of them with my first two kids, I’ve definitely learned something…
I will always say ‘yes’ to at least one VBS each summer! I’m completely amazed by how much planning, time, and faith is put into vacation bible schools, and I am thrilled that my children get to experience that kind of joy. It moves me to tears every time I hear them singing the songs they learn in VBS, and I love it even more when I hear them relating what they learn in the summer to future Bible lessons throughout the year.
And what makes VBS even better? The price tag (well.. the lack of one)!
If you’re searching for a VBS to send your children to this summer, here is a list of some wonderful options in the Austin area and the Texas Hill Country that are currently or will soon be open for registration:
Lake Hills Church starts at incoming kinder age. Theme: TBA. Dates: June 5-8, 9:30 am – 12:30 pm. Registration opens at the end of March. Cost: Unknown
Bethany Lutheran Church has VBS for PK3(potty-trained) through 5th grade. Theme: Stellar. Dates: June 19-23, 9 am – noon. Cost: $20, includes T-shirt. Registration is open. Other camps are available throughout summer for $300 per week.
Life Family Churches hosts Camp Life Kids in Austin and Marble Falls. This VBS is so popular that the Austin location already has a waitlist, but you can still register for the Marble Falls location, which will occur June 19-23, 9 am-4 pm. Cost: $210. For rising kindergartners through 6th grade.
Bannockburn Dripping Springs and South Austin for age 3 through 5th grade. Theme: TBA. Dates: June 26-29th. (Registration opens mid-March.) Morning and evening options available. Cost: FREE
Southern Hills Church of Christ in Buda will run from Sunday June 25th to Wednesday June 28th. Click here for more details and registration.
Woodlawn Baptist Church is offering VBS daily from June 26-30th from 9 am – 12 pm for preschool-age through 5th grade. Registration to open later in March.
Austin Ridge Bee Cave has Camp Ridge Kids starting at age 3 (potty trained) – 5th grade. Theme: Summer Blast. Dates: July 10-13, 9 am – noon. Cost: Unknown, registration opening soon.
Dripping Springs United Methodist Church has a unique approach to VBS: it’s for the whole family. Their VBX will structure programming for the kids and for the adults as well. The evenings include dinner, worship, games, petting zoo, and shows. Theme: Pets Unleashed. Dates: 7/11-7/13, 5:30-8:30 pm. Registration will open soon.
MORE INFO ON VBS OPTIONS TO COME…
If you’re looking to plan other activities for this summer, check out our past Summer Bucket Lists.
Dripping Springs is a unique destination that people from all over the country quickly fall in love with. It attracts families, retirees, travelers, wedding parties, brewmasters, distillers, entrepreneurs, corporate execs, farmers, and chefs. It has quite the draw for small town Texas, but why?
I recently heard someone describe Dripping Springs as the biggest small town she’d ever been to. Don’t let the population size of under 6,000 confuse you: this town includes many more people and a lot more to explore than what’s included in its official borders. The extra-territorial jurisdiction of Dripping Springs extends south into Driftwood, east into Austin, north to the Travis County line, and west toward Henley.
Dripping Springs is home to over 20 wedding venues and dozens of distilleries, wineries, tasting rooms, and breweries to entertain the wedding parties, as well as local families. Patio weather is year-round in Texas, so on any given sunny Saturday, it can be hard to find a picnic table available at any of the outdoor favorites. This town is quickly adding more restaurants, fast food chains, entertainment venues, churches, and even another HEB. The new developments are popping up annually; the roads are being expanded; the playgrounds are often full; the YMCA is packed; the schools are multiplying; and the sports programs are overwhelmed with little athletes.
Dripping Springs is also home to multiple nicknames, from The Drip to Pound Town to Drinking Springs, each of which has an origin story the locals can tell well. Speaking of locals, there are only a few native Drip residents left, and they know this town’s history well. They remember when there was only one tiny grocery store, when the first car wash popped up, and when there was little to no traffic, except on Founders Weekend. It’s been quite an adjustment to watch their small town expand so quickly in recent years.
My family is not native to this area, but Dripping Springs can quickly feel like anyone’s hometown. I moved here in late 2016, with a husband, three kids, and one more on the way. We had land we intended to build on (then sold); we lived on a few acres for 3 years; and we’re now experiencing the master-planned neighborhood life. All have suited our family well at the time, and no matter where we’ve lived in town, we’ve met the nicest people, who are all fans of their beloved Drip.
What makes this town so appealing, though? How can a place that’s growing rapidly, at a rate of 6% or more each year, still have that small hometown vibe? How can a location so close to the city still resist the influence of “Keep Austin Weird”? How can a once rural community continue to attract life-long city-dwellers? What makes Dripping Springs a place that everyone loves?
This post will attempt to answer those questions from the perspective of someone who once lived in Austin but last moved from the big city of Houston, someone who is raising a family in Dripping Springs with a couple of homeschooled kids and two others in the school district, someone who’s been writing a blog in an attempt to experience as much of what the Hill Country has to offer (yet has barely scratched the surface), someone who hopes this post doesn’t make anyone on the Dripping Springs Neighbors Facebook page angry…
In honor of February, the month with my least favorite “hallmark holiday” smack in the middle of it, here are 28 Things to Love about Dripping Springs. Click on the links in the list to read more about what makes Dripping Springs the place to be.
The People —- Most Dripping Springs residents are friendly, polite, ethical, genuine, successful, humble, welcoming, and interesting. A majority of locals volunteer at the schools and in kids’ sports. We wave to neighbors walking by. We use manners at the grocery stores and restaurants, chat with the person standing next to us at the playground or in line somewhere, and scoot down to let more people on the football bleachers. We cheer for other people’s children. We help strangers move animals or debris during an emergency, and we open up our homes when others are without water, power, or food. We care. No one can be perfect all of the time, but it’s the general kindness and friendliness of fellow residents that make be proud to call Dripping home.
The Library — We have such a sweet, small-town library, but don’t let its facade fool you. It is very well-stocked, has a huge children’s area with dozens of family activities and contests each month, plus many interesting events for teens and adults.
Emphasis on a Well-Rounded Education (post about education options and experiences to come soon)
Generous Charitable Organizations — With a full food pantry, an active Veteran program, a variety of small organizations started by local students, a center for youth in crisis, rescue homes for foster children, a pregnancy resource center, services and a thrift shop for the elderly, and conscientious animal shelters, Dripping Springs proves it has a heart for giving.
The First Responders — Not to boast, but we have the best. The Hays County First Responders are held in high regard due to the love and protection they selflessly provide to Dripping Springs and the surrounding towns. You’ll find local firefighters, police officers, and EMS personnel at almost every town event, teaching children and adults about safety, giving away gifts and important info, and simply making friends with the residents. They’re quick to respond to emergencies and bravely put their lives on the line for others. They uphold a high standard for this part of Texas. They show respect to everyone and have earned it ten-fold.
West of Weird — Austin is a unique place and a great city to be near, but most people in Dripping are happy to be just outside of the boundaries of the big city. Austin’s motto is “Keep Austin Weird”. Dripping Springs has little interest in weird. Our residents do love the restaurants, the shows, the trails, the playgrounds, and the jobs available in Austin; we just choose a slightly different culture for our daily lives and our families.
Support of Small Businesses — The franchises are slowly moving in, more on the east side of Dripping Springs, but for a long time, the town shied away from endorsing franchised businesses. The people hereare extremely supportive of small businesses and local owners.
Church Communities — If anyone asks on the local forums or Facebook page about finding a church in the area, there are hundreds of positive responses. Each church-goer LOVES his or her church, and there’s a reason for it. Narrowing down a church home here can be difficult because each one in and near Dripping Springs does incredible work to serve the body of Christ. Worship services are meaningful and entertaining, and most of the churches offer Bible studies, events, children’s programming, and summer camps to continue to foster a community of faith.
4H and Equestrian Barns — Just about every small (and large) town in Texas has roots in ranching. Caring for livestock and connecting with animals are core qualities of native Texans, and these values run deep in Dripping Springs as well. The equestrian, 4H, and FFA communities are active and growing. There are a dozen or more horse-boarding and training barns within 10 miles of Dripping Springs, and several residents keep horses, chickens, goats, cattle, swine, and even “exotic” animals on their properties. There are also therapeutic riding barns serving children and adults with neurological and physical disabilities, most notably the RED Arena. A community that cares for animals and carries on traditions of the past is something most people want to be a part of.
The Weather — It’s Texas y’all. The weather is unpredictable and usually hot, which is exactly how most of us prefer it. The random ice storms are a pain and the 6-month summer can get tiring; however, the ample sunshine leads to hours spent in the great outdoors, and the challenges presented by random weather events unite neighbors and our community even more.
Sneak Peak of Country Life — As the “Gateway to the Hill Country”, Dripping Springs allows people to dip their toes into country life. It’s a step in the direction toward settling out west in rural America while still having all the conveniences that we depend on close by. Rarely do I meet a Dripping resident who hasn’t dreamed of more land and a simpler country life. Many have been able to find that on beautiful acreage in DS, but many are biding their time and seeing that dream as a possibility just a little further down the road.
Safety — The crime rate is low, and we intend to keep it that way.
Plethora of Car Washes, Banks, and Mattress Stores — This one is just for the locals. #insidejoke
George P. Bush, as land commissioner, once said, “Texas isn’t just a place on a map… it’s an idea in the hearts of our people.” I believe this to be true for every small town within Texas, but some towns represent the Texas ideal just a little bit better than others. Dripping Springs happens to be one of them.
I’d love to hear what others think makes our town a place that everyone loves. Please comment below and subscribe to the Dripping with Kids blog to read more about the best of Dripping Springs and the Texas Hill Country.
There is a freedom you begin to feel the closer you get to Austin, Texas.
Fall is here! Sometimes I think the ‘a’ in Fall should be changed to the letter ‘u’ because our calendar is so FULL… in the very best way imaginable. There’s just so much to do and so much to love about Fall in the Texas Hill Country.
We’ve already been checking off some of our Fall to-do list. I put the Halloween decorations up and pulled the orange and black T-shirts to the front of my kids’ drawers. I switched out the candles throughout the house from summery scents to pumpkin vanilla and honey apple. I’ve hung the leafy wreaths and garland throughout the house. I’ve stocked the kitchen with the best fall recipe ingredients. And last week, while running those essential errands, I tried the new Iced Apple Crisp Oatmilk Macchiato at Starbucks, which is a delicious mouthfull!
Now, it’s time to tackle our Fall Bucket List with all the places we want to go and things we want to do during this beautiful season of pumpkin patches, cute costumes, cooler temps, colorful leaves, and outdoor adventures. Feel free to join us!
At the homestead of the founding family of Dripping Springs, enjoy lawn games, a pumpkin patch, food trucks, live music, animal visits, photo opps, and beautiful picnic spots under the oaks. Also, the Founder’s Park playground is right next door. Admission prices vary. Check link above.
Located in Georgetown, TX, this farm is loaded with the typical fall festival activities, such as a corn maze, pumpkin patch, and petting zoo, but it also has a few unique options. We can’t wait to go back again to take another spin on a pedal cart; shoot an apple from a slingshot; climb up a tire hill, then slide down; watch pig-racing; wade in the San Gabriel River; play corn hole, gaga ball, kickball, or tug o’ war; and challenge ourselves on the obstacle course, plus so much more.
You can find this farm and pumpkin patch along the scenic banks of the Colorado River in Bastrop, TX. Fall festival activities include a very complex corn maze, baseball and football toss, fall photo opps, train rides, tree fort, super slides, jumping pillow, fishing, face painting, and more. There will also be live music and a biergarten this year.
The short drive to Marble Falls is worth it to spend the day on this cute farm with hayrides, two mazes, a huge pumpkin patch with adorable photo opps, face painting, goat-feeding, barrel train rides, scarecrow-stuffing, and horseback riding. Admission is free, but activities are charged individually.
It’s a 3-day small-town music festival highlighting the best local talent on multiple stages. Enjoy music, food, friendly people, and adorable downtown shops on the weekend of Oct 14th-16th. In my opinion, the highlight of the weekend is the Gospel Brunch on Sunday morning at Hudson’s on Mercer. You can attend the showcases for FREE!
Enjoy Fall fair festivities, such as rock wall, cake walk, concessions, and games while supporting a local elementary school. Bring the kids to Dripping Springs Elementary School from 3 – 6 pm on Nov. 5th and/or Walnutpalooza on the same day from 12-4. Admission is free; tickets for activities and food sold on site.
Enjoy the beautiful drive past vineyards and state parks to Fredericksburg, where you will find this fun stop with shopping, wine tasting, lunch options, wildflower trails, and butterfly gardens. Save the date for the Monarch Celebration on Oct 8th (9:30 am – 2:30 pm) during which there will be tagging demonstrations, followed by butterfly releases at 11:30 am and 2:15 pm.
The food, music, dancing, carnival rides, and hours of German-inspired entertainment at the biggest festival of the year in the town of New Braunfels are all great reasons to travel south down I-35! The festival lasts for 10 days, and there are several opportunities for FREE admission. Check the link above. If you go on a Saturday, allow a little extra time in the morning for the New Braunfels farmers’ market in downtown.
This FREE family-focused event has so many fun activities on the schedule, from costume contests to wildlife exhibits to s’mores around the campfire. Make plans to spend Halloween eve in Wimberley! Schedule linked above.
In-store making is back! My kids and I love these free classes, and my daughter is especially excited for the Fall necklace project. Check out the offerings at your local store (link above).
Most likely, there’s a Board and Brush near you with dozens of adorable signs to make for the Fall season. You can join an established workshop or book a private party. All signs can be personalized with name, color choices, and texture. It’s such a fun activity, especially with older kids! (Prices start at $35)
Head to your local Home Depot before noon on the first Saturday of the month (and the Sat after Thanksgiving) to create unique woodworking projects for kids. You can also collect the patch, certificate, and token HD orange apron if you don’t have one yet. Upcoming projects include Scarecrow Napkin Holder on Nov 5th, Train Ornament on Nov 26th, and Santa Mailbox on Dec 3rd.
Find artisan crafts, beer and wine, tasty food, and nearby shops with sales on the third full weekend of the month and first weekend of December. Stick around for lunch at the Gristmill and free live music (fingers crossed!) at Gruene Hall.
Located near the historic Pound House (and DS Pumpkin Fest) in Founders’ Park, this Farmers’ Market has grown to include vendors from Dripping Springs and surrounding towns as well. It’s definitely worth stopping by on Wednesday afternoons for a thai dinner to go, locally grown produce, organic meat from sustainable farms, and live entertainment. Also, you can spend the rest of your evening at a family friendly brewery in the area.
Travel south on RR12 for a scenic drive and the 2nd largest flea market in Texas, held the first Saturday of every month (Mar – Dec) from 9 am to 4 pm. Grab a glass of wine, browse the shops, pop in the candy store or Scoops Frozen Yogurt for a treat for the kiddos, and then walk the trail along the creek behind downtown to skip rocks, play on the playground, or wade in the water. If it’s a particularly hot day, check out Cypress Falls Swimming Hole.
My kids beg to return to this festival every year. They love the costumes, the accents, the shows, the rides, the games, and the feeling of time travel. It’s a bit of a drive from the Hill Country, but camping sites are available next to the festival grounds. Children 12 and under are FREE on Sundays. Advanced tickets required.
This living history farm offers guided tours and classes, such as blacksmithing and Texas swing dancing. Visit a Tonkawa Indian Encampment, a German Emigrant Farm, a Texian Farm, a Cotton Planter’s Farm and a rural village called Sprinkle Corner all in one day. You can also get tickets for their special event, Pumpkin Nights, which has the entire farmstead lit up with fantastical Halloween decorations and pumpkins everywhere.
Go prehistoric and make your kids’ day by walking a trail to find large dinosaurs and dino clues in the woods. Then, play on the playground, dig for fossils, take hilarious photos, and guard your wallet (from your children) in the expansive gift shop. Drive a little further south and use your dino park wristband to enjoy 10% off lunch along the Colorado River at Neighbors Kitchen and Yard.
One final attraction worthy of this list yet not quite right for the above categories is Fortlandia at the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center. We can’t wait to see the new forts in this highly-anticipated seasonal exhibit!
There’s so much to do in a short amount of time, but hopefully we can make quite a dent in this list. Let us know which is your favorite!
Your itinerary for a weekend in Dripping Springs, TX is righthere!
Just a couple decades ago, Dripping Springs, Texas was practically unknown to the rest of the state. It was one of those small, sleepy towns that attracted songwriters and ranchers but few others had heard of it, despite its natural beauty and proximity to the state capital. But it didn’t take long for it to grow from a vast expanse of ranch land to a booming town, now well-known across the nation.
It seems that our little town was discovered twice… once in 1854 by Dr. Pound and two other families trekking across the Indian-filled frontier… and then again in the early part of this century by the many city-dwellers looking for a taste of country life with all the conveniences of a big city nearby.
Dripping Springs still has that wonderful small town feel, but it’s growing rapidly. Not only has it become a destination for young families, empty-nesters, and young professionals to settle down, it now has a huge tourist draw as well.
You might ask, “What’s the draw of Dripping Springs?” Recently, The Drip has been penned by the Texas Legislature as the Wedding Capital of Texas. Our small town hosts more than 3,500 weddings per year in over 35 unique venues within a 15 mile radius, from rustic barns to a former Vietnamese temple.
We are also home to dozens of micro-breweries, famous distilleries, and family-owned wineries, most of which are kid-friendly and showcase the beauty of the oak trees and rolling hills in this part of Texas.
Dripping Springs is also considered the “Gateway to the Hill Country” because of its easy access to nearby towns that make up this region of central Texas. From DSTX, you can easily travel south to the adorable town of Wimberley for unique swimming holes and a meandering square of shops and art galleries. You can take a scenic drive between rolling hills along back country roads to the historic town of Gruene for some boot-scootin’ and delicious barbecue. Or you can head further west to make your way onto the Hill Country Wine Trail and end up in the quintessential German town of Fredericksburg. In fact, there are dozens of day trips or short road trips easily taken from Dripping Springs that offer a window to Texas’s remarkable history and the variety of cultures in our great state.
But those interesting nearby towns are not the feature of this post. Dripping Springs gets all the glory here, and if you’re looking for an amazing weekend in The Drip with your family, we’ve got your weekend itinerary planned out. Fair warning, though: After a weekend here, you’ll probably want to move to our sweet town too.
Friday in Dripping Springs
Start your afternoon at the shops on historic Mercer Street, and try to find the dripping springs that our town was named after. Hint: look for a hidden staircase among the downtown shops. Read about the town’s history while on the path.
Then, take the kids to one of Dripping’s family-friendly breweries or distilleries to get a taste of the talent that has flocked here from all over the world. Your family could linger for hours at one venue, enjoying the open green space, live music, unique food offerings, and playground. Or you could bounce around to a few before settling in for the night. Just please be careful and designate a driver because our roads are winding, and this is a dark sky community without street lights. (Click the hyperlink above for specific reviews of each of the following.)
Jester King Brewery and Kitchen
Treaty Oak Distilling
Family Business Beer Co
12 Fox Beer Co
Fitzhugh Brewing
Vista Brewing
Dripping Springs Distillery
Quick tip: Be sure to be outside at sunset. The Texas Hill Country boasts some of the best sunsets in the South!
Saturday in Dripping Springs
If you’re visiting the Hill Country, exploring the great outdoors is a must. Two of our most famous natural spots are Hamilton Pool Preserve and Reimers Ranch Park. You can visit both in the same morning as they are just down the road from each other. Hamilton Pool requires reservations, and you may need to verify before you go whether the swimming hole is open. Regardless of whether you get to take a dip, the 50 foot waterfall at the bottom of the natural staircase and the caverns behind it are definitely worth the visit. Bring your camera!
Afterward, head to Reimers Ranch Park for a little bit of easy climbing, cave exploration, hiking, (rocky) beach bumming, and swimming or wading in the Pedernales River.
If Hamilton Pool is booked or if you find yourself with a little extra time, Westcave Outdoor Discovery Center is another option for a fun and informational guided hike down to a beautiful grotto and limestone cavern. It’s also along Hamilton Pool Road. Call to make reservations before you go.
After all of that hiking and exploring, settle in at Hamilton Pool Vineyards and Farm for a glass of wine and some snacks at the bistro.
For dinner with the kids, stop in at Route 12 Filling Station on Hwy 12 and Fitzhugh Road. In the hot months, which are most of them, there is a splash pad for the kiddos, but the playground and large patio are open year-round. There’s a variety of delicious food for even the pickiest eaters.
Another dinner option in the area is Verde’s Mexican Parilla, which also has a huge covered patio, as well as a playground and fenced-in grass area for the kids to play. The menu is unique, and every single appetizer is worth trying. The food is phenomenal.
Quick tip: If you still have any energy left at the end of the day, check out Hudsons on Mercer for great live music or the Mercer Street dance hall for a little boot-scootin’.
Sunday in Dripping Springs
For those looking for a church option, there are several in town that will welcome any and all guests with open arms. Check out device times online.
For those looking for a relaxing coffee break, make your way to Mazama or Rolling in Thyme and Dough for a relaxing atmosphere and yummy goodies.
Then, head to one of the favorite playgrounds in the area, such as Founders Park, where your kids can enjoy multiple playscapes and view the first homestead built in Dripping Springs by Dr. Pound, as mentioned in the first couple paragraphs of this post.
When you’ve built up an appetite, make your way to a nearby local favorite, Get Along Grill, or try out some famous Texas barbecue at The Salt Lick, known for family-style dining and byob.
Quick tip: Book your next trip to the Hill Country before you leave. You know you’ll be back!
For additional hiking options in the area, check out This Week’s Hike, and to find more ideas on how to make the most of each season in the Texas Hill Country, see our bucket lists!
Summer can be a season of unpredictability when you have kids. You never know how each day will turn out, but that summertime spontaneity may be exactly what we all need right now.
It’s summer and time for wandering.
Kellie Elmore
Each summer day has the opportunity to be free, fun, and fabulous, but parents have to be ready for the long days, high temps, and complaints of boredom.
I recommend starting with this Mom’s Survival Guide to Summer before you launch into June. Take a little time to plan ahead so this summer will be the best yet!
1. Get your mind and your heart in the right place each morning.
If ever there is a time to get into the routine of spending the early part of your morning in God’s Word, in peaceful meditation, in a yoga squat, or in reflective journaling, summer IS IT! These long days require mental, emotional, and physical endurance. The best way to prepare is to ground yourself before tackling it all. My favorite place to do this is on my back porch with a cup of coffee.
Keep a plastic bin, large bag, or sturdy basket full of essential summer items in the back of your car so that you can be ready for anything summer’s spontaneity throws at you. Check the link above for a list of items.
3. Stash a Favorite Places List in your car or purse.
Have a list readily available of at least 7-10 free or cheap familiar places that you and your kids already love. When you all need to get out of the house or you’re looking for a quick stop between errands, just refer to the list. Ideas include favorite playgrounds, hiking trails, river access point, patio restaurant, splash pads, or library.
The good news is that if you’ve already packed your car with your summer essentials kit, you should be prepared for any and every spontaneous stop.
4. Create a Summer Bucket List.
Your bucket list is a separate list of new-to-you places worth planning ahead for and inviting friends along. You can access the 2023 Hill Country Summer Bucket listfor a variety of ideas.
Remember to add library programs to your calendar so your kids can learn a new craft or skill for free. You’ll have to plan ahead for these because many require pre-registration (and showing up on time.)
5. Squeeze in adult time.
Set specific date nights for you and your spouse as you plan your summer. Schedule a few moms’ nights out for mid-week escapes. Hold those dates sacred, and don’t let lack of a babysitter cause you to cancel. There are plenty of family-friendly hot spots where you can enjoy time with another adult while the kids are occupied on a playground or in a sandbox nearby.
5. Have indoor play kits ready.
Use toys or craft items you already have to create themed kits for indoor play time. Tuck them away in your closet or garage until a rainy or super hot day. A few kit ideas include:
– Dress up play with costumes and accessories
– Puppet theater with an old sheet, socks or paper sacks, random crafts, and markers
– Bring a board game to life – for example, make a kit with Candyland, multiple colored construction paper sheets to spread throughout the house, and a wrapped treat for making it to the end.
– Indoor scavenger hunts with prizes (use picture flashcards for littles)
– Car racing kit with some painters’ tape and hot wheels
– Kids’ scrapbooking kit – include printed photos from the last year, scrapbook papers, stickers, felt, and markers
– Fort-building kit – sheets and throw pillows (stock up at a thrift store) , clothespins, flashlights, new board books, and a few stuffed animals
6. Plan a short trip.
Not comfortable with flying right now? That’s ok. Road trips are all the rage. Book a house on the beach or explore an historic town nearby. Be sure to choose a location that has plenty of outdoor activities.
But if you want all the fun of a vacation yet don’t want to spend extra cash on staying overnight, day trips are still a fantastic option and will feel like a great escape.
6. Put those kids in camp.
Our favorite type of camp is Vacation Bible School. They’re usually free or really cheap and offer a couple hours of good clean fun. They fill up quickly, though, so get your kids registered ASAP.
Wherever this summer may take you, I hope you feel empowered and prepared for anything with this Mom’s Guide to Summer! Don’t miss out on future posts about family fun in Texas this summer, travel tips, and the best road trip destinations… subscribe below!
In our mission to spend 1000 hours outside this year, we’ve decided to revisit some of our favorite hiking spots and seek out new ones as well. We’ll be sharing one with you every week in our series titled “This Week’s Hike”.
✅ Trails for Children
✅ Swimming (seasonal)
✅ Bathrooms
❌ Playground and Sports Fields
❌ Free Admission for Park and Trails
(Cash ONLY for admission – $5/person 12+)
✅ Stroller-friendly Trails and Bike Trails
❌ Reservations needed
On the famed Hamilton Pool Road in Dripping Springs, just a few miles from one of the most popular travel destinations in our area, lies a beautiful and diverse park that offers river access, a cave, miles of trails, and additional surprises for visitors of all ages. We’re excited to share everything we love about Milton Reimers Ranch Park!
The Beach!
Public access to the Pedernales River with opportunities to swim, float, kayak, fish (white bass), and cliff jump is one of the top reasons to visit Reimers Ranch Park. You can park at the top of the hill and get a short hike in (300 yards) before jumping in the water to cool off. The beach area extends as far as the eye can see and allows plenty of space to claim your spot. Be sure to brings chairs or picnic blankets, along with water shoes, because it’s a pebble beach, and those little rocks get hot! Also, the park (and beach area) can close due to capacity limits, so be sure to arrive early or near dinner time to ensure a spot.
Variety of Trails
There are primitive, equestrian, hike and bike, and multi-use trails, as well as paved roads for every type of transportation and level of hiking experience. The multi-use trails offer little shade so be sure to prepare by wearing sunscreen and a hat, as well as packing extra water.
Rock Climbing and Bouldering
Whether you’re a novice boulder-jumper or experienced rock climber, Reimers Ranch offers multiple locations to practice. Some of our favorites are just past the cave (see below) and across the river from the beach. There are also additional climbing areas marked along the main road, none of which we’ve attempted yet.
Cave Exploration
Upon entering the park, ask for directions to the canyon or cave. (You’ll get a kick out of its name!) If no one is there to guide you, travel along the main road until you reach the parking lot for the “Rock Climbing Trailhead”. There is a covered pavilion and several picnic tables, as well as bathrooms.
To find the trailhead, follow the path between the bathrooms southbound on foot. About 100 yards along the path, you’ll see a small temporary sign that guides you to a rocky stepped trail down toward the creek. Follow the trail to the right to get to the cave and additional interesting trails.
The trail to the canyon requires a bit of traversing and may be difficult for young children or elderly hikers. Along the trail to the canyon, you’ll find multiple streams for wading, as well as climbing opportunities.
Beautiful Wineries and Fun Breweries Nearby
After a full day of swimming, biking, climbing, and/or hiking, travel just a bit further to discover one of Dripping Springs’ finest vineyards: Hamilton Pool Vineyard and Farms. Also, just a 10-15 minute drive away are several breweries with more than just a cold beer to offer. Check out our favorites!
Whether you’re a Dripping Springs resident or visitor, there’s no doubt you’ve heard of Hamilton Pool Preserve, and while it’s a beautiful site, you definitely don’t want to miss the equally beautiful sights at Reimers Ranch Park just down the road.
Follow @dripping_with_kids on Instagram or this blog so you don’t miss out on the best places to go in the Texas Hill Country! We’d love to hear about your favorite spots too.
In our mission to spend 1000 hours outside this year, we’ve decided to revisit some of our favorite hiking spots and seek out new ones as well. We’ll be sharing one with you every week in our series titled “This Week’s Hike”.
✅ Trails for Children
✅ Bike Trails
✅ Equestrian Trails
❌ Swimming (seasonal)
❌ Bathrooms
✅ Playground
✅ Free Admission for Park and Trails
✅ Stroller-friendly Trails
❌ Reservations needed
In the heart of Dripping Springs and about 25 minutes west of Austin, you can find a variety of trails for both novice and advanced hikers, biking enthusiasts, and horseback-riders! We’re excited to share everything we love about Dripping Springs Ranch Park!
The Trail System
Set on 130 acres, the DS Ranch Park has a variety of trails for a quick walk or for a full afternoon of adventure. The longest trail is 6.2 miles, and it’s shared by bikes, hikers, and horses. Most trails are easy enough for children to traverse, and visiting the pond is a special treat. You can easily get lost meandering through the beautiful trees, rolling hills, and alongside farmland.
P.S. Wear sunscreen and bug spray!
Wildflowers Everywhere
Visiting the Ranch Park in Spring adds an added feature: Texas Wildflowers. Be prepared to stop for several photo opportunities.
Bird-Watching
Discover the wooden bird blind with views of the pond so you can watch the ducks, along with other local bird species. (Follow signs along the trail to get to the right spot.) The bird-watching area has several feeders in the trees, as well as a book to help you identify the winged visitors.
Fun Playground
There’s a cute playground near the back parking lot at the main trailhead. My kids love the play structures, but they enjoy climbing on and jumping from the boulders just as much. This playground made our list of the best in Dripping Springs.
Amazing Breweries and Distilleries within 5 Minutes
Quench your thirst and fill your belly after a long hike at one of these amazing local hotspots.
Attend a Unique Event
The Ranch Park hosts horse shows, rodeos, monster truck rallies, vintage shopping days, and galas. Check out the calendar to see if you can make a full day out of your visit with a hike or ride and then a little extra fun.
Follow @dripping_with_kids on Instagram or this blog so you don’t miss out on the best places to go in the Texas Hill Country! We’d love to hear about your favorite spots too.
In our mission to spend 1000 hours outside this year, we’ve decided to revisit some of our favorite hiking spots and seek out new ones as well. We’ll be sharing one with you every week in our series titled “This Week’s Hike”.
✅ Trails for Children
✅ Swimming
✅ Bathrooms
✅ Playground
✅ Reservations needed
❌ Stroller-friendly Trails
❌ Free admission
Just north of San Antonio, east of Boerne, and about an hour from Dripping Springs sits one of our favorite state parks and the location of This Week’s Hike! We’re excited to share everything we love about Guadalupe River State Park:
The River
In the summer, it’s the perfect swimming hole. In the winter, it’s fun for skipping rocks and trying to traverse temporary rock bridges without falling in. During any season, this spot on the Guadalupe River is the start of a 5-mile paddling trail for kayakers, tubers, and paddle-boarders. (Check water levels before dropping in though.)
Easy to Moderate Trails
On the south side of the River, all the trails are easy to moderate, which is perfect for a family with young children. I would not recommend strollers for these trails. We tried that once, and there was more stroller-carrying than stroller-pushing. Our younger kids could easily handle the Turkey Sink Trail, the Bald Cypress Trail, and the Scenic Overlook Trail. The trails vary in length throughout the park from .2 miles to 2.8 miles.
The Views
There are multiple cliffs and a scenic overlook to get great views of the River below and the surrounding Hill Country.
A Story Walk
Currently, there is a story walk on the Discovery Center Loop trail. Getting to the next page in the book was a great motivator for my 3-year-old to keep hiking.
The Discovery Center
Unfortunately, the Discovery Center is currently closed, but it’s definitely worth visiting when it re-opens! (Pics taken in 2019.)
More Challenging Trail Options
The Bauer Unit on the north side of the river, which requires a drive from the state park entrance to another entrance about 6 miles away, offers 8 miles of more challenging/remote trails, as well as a visit to the historic Bauer House.
Guided Tours
On Saturday mornings only, guided walks through the Honey Creek State Natural Area are available, and they start inside the park at the Rust House.
A Small Playground
Near the bathrooms by the River, there is a small playground with a couple swings, two fireman’s poles, and an old metal slide. It was enough to keep my 5-year-old from wanting to leave the park.
Clean Bathrooms and Changing Areas
The park has recently remodeled the bathrooms and changing areas in the river -access parking lot.
The Wildlife
Visit the bird blind to check out the many flying Texas species that frequent the area, including the Barred Owl. There are also equestrian trails for horse-lovers and free fishing equipment you can check out from the ranger station. On our recent trip here, an armadillo scurried right in front of us searching for his next dig site.
Great Towns Nearby
After a visit to the park, you can take the short drive into San Antonio to stroll the Riverwalk or enjoy dinner at the Pearl District. An even closer option is the cute small town of Boerne where you can do more hiking along a river or enjoy a beautiful evening on one of their local restaurant patios.
If you haven’t already, we encourage you to visit Guadalupe River State Park the next time the sun is shining! Also, if you’re into camping, it appeared that the park has several beautiful spots to pitch your tent.
Follow @dripping_with_kids on Instagram or this blog so you don’t miss out on the best places to go in the Texas Hill Country! We’d love to hear about your favorite spots too.
