Dripping with Kids

Tag: Texas Hill Country

  • Pedernales Falls State Park: Worth the Challenge

    Pedernales Falls State Park: Worth the Challenge

    The trails at Pedernales Falls State Park can be challenging but offer so much reward.

    ✅ Trails for (Older) Children

    ✅ Swimming

    ✅ Bathrooms

    ❌ Playground and Sports Fields

    ❌ Free Admission for Park and Trails

    ❌ Stroller-friendly Trails

    ✅ Reservations (Day Passes) needed

    We are huge fans of the Texas State Parks, and Pedernales Falls is toward the top of the list. We often bring family here when they visit from out of town. While the trails and the bouldering around the Falls can be rigorous and rocky, we’ve managed to enjoy visiting with babies and toddlers, grandparents, and especially with our children at their current ages from 7-17. There is just so much beauty to take in, and the variety of trails makes each visit unique.

    Because of its many draws, Pedernales Falls State Park can get busy on the weekends and holidays. We strongly recommend that you get day passes online at least 48 hours in advance. Passes are $6/adult (ages 13+); children ages 12 and under are free. You can also get everyone in your car in for free year-round with a Texas State Park Pass, which has already saved our family a lot of money in the last six months. The cost of a park pass is $70, but that price will increase on Sept 1, 2024, so snag one today! It might encourage you to visit many more state parks or just return to Pedernales State Park often. It’s so close, and we never tire of it!

    The park is currently open from 8 am to 10 pm, but the campsites are still being renovated at the time of this publication, so no overnight camping until they re-open in the Winter of 2025. There’s no doubt you could enjoy every one of the 14 hours that the park is open each day with so much to do there.

    We’re excited to share what we love about Pedernales Falls State Park and its many trails, located at 2585 Park Road 6026 in Johnson City, TX, only about 30 minutes from Dripping Springs!

    Challenging Trails for Exploring and Hiking

    As mentioned, there are multiple hiking trails in this beautiful park. One trail leads to the grand Pedernales Falls, where you have no choice but to scramble and boulder to explore the area. Another trail leads you to Twin Falls with a beautiful view. One trail leads to an active bird blind and star theater. Yet another leads you to the clear waters of Jones Springs. There are long trails over 5 miles for an intense workout and gorgeous sights, and there are short hikes with a destination at the end. The park even has an equestrian trail, and most of the trails allow for hiking or biking. No matter which you choose, you can’t go wrong, and you’ll be eager to try the next one.

    The park’s trails are primarily rocky and somewhat challenging. The only one we’ve taken that would be stroller- or wagon-friendly is the Star Theater/Bird Blind Trail. If visiting with children who cannot hike at least 1 mile on their own or handle uneven terrain, bring a backpack carrier or be prepared to hold and lift them as needed. The park indicates that most of the trails are “moderate”, so young children can handle them and will enjoy them as well, but from my personal experience, they will need help.

    Although we’ve visited the park several times, there are still a few trails left on our bucket list. Thus far, our favorites are the Pedernales Falls Trail System, Coyote Crossing, and of course, the Swimming Area Trail!

    Swimming!

    Swimming at the park is in the Pedernales River, so the depth and flow are affected by recent rains (or lack of them) in the area. There’s been water every time we’ve visited. Sometimes it’s a slow, shallow flow meant for wading and playing in the mud. Other times, it’s deep enough for the kids to jump in off of large boulders. Occasionally, you can even ride the rapids or small waterfalls.

    All swimming is at your own risk, and the river is subject to flooding. You can check the park’s website or social media pages for updates. Occasionally, swimming is closed due to bacterial levels being higher than normal.

    There are signs to the swimming area and a parking lot just at the top of the trailhead. Keep in mind that the trail to the water is steep and a little slippery. The loose rocks and mud can cause you to slip, and the stairway as well as the large rocks can make traversing down to the shore a bit tricky. You will have to carry your towels and swim stuff down. It is not stroller or wagon accessible.

    Lower Part of Trail to the Swimming Area

    Parking Near the Trailheads

    Remember to get day passes in advance when you know which date you’ll head to the park. Google Maps will take you directly to the park entrance., then check in at the ranger station. Be sure to grab a map. Service in the park is spotty at best.

    Each trailhead has a decent-sized parking lot, and there’s plenty of signage. You will want to move your car to different lots if accessing multiple trails throughout the day.

    Interesting Events

    Birding Hike
    Geocaching

    From star-gazing parties to prehistoric hunting to scavenger hunts, this park has so many events for different interests and ages. We’ve participated in a guided bird-watching hike, geocaching, foraging, and a fire-making event. If you can combine your visit with one of the events, I recommend you set aside time to attend. If you can’t make it for an event on the specific date available, the park rangers are often willing to host that event for your private group. Just reach out directly to plan a group event with them.

    Your children can also borrow an explorer pack with tools and pick up a Junior Ranger book at the check-in station. The kids can work through the pages while at the park and then can earn a badge at the end of your visit.

    Large Grassy Picnic Area

    We always plan time to eat and play in the large, shaded, grassy picnic area. Pack a soccer ball, kick ball, or frisbee along with your cooler of food. There are nice bathrooms and several shaded picnic tables, as well as charcoal grills and a large dumpster for trash. It’s located on the same road that takes you to the swimming area. There are two separate parking lots for the two areas.

    After eating, we often take all or part of the Coyote Crossing Trail because the trail head is at the back of the picnic area. It’s an interesting hike that can lead you all the way to Twin Falls if you’re in for the long haul. Otherwise, it’s just fun for exploring and then turning around.

    Next on our list for exploring Pedernales Falls State Park are tubing or paddling on the river that’s now flowing better than it has in years and venturing out on the Jones Spring Trail to see the stone house ruins and clear springs that tourists flocked to in previous centuries.

    We hope you enjoy Pedernales Falls State Park as much as we do! It is near the town of Johnson City, where you can grab a bite to eat afterward or explore another one of our favorite state parks, LBJ State Park and Sauer-Beckmann Farm. If you’re able, make a whole weekend out of it!

    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 subscribe to this blog so you don’t miss out on the best places to go in the Texas Hill Country!

  • Commons Ford Ranch for a Hike and a Swim

    Commons Ford Ranch for a Hike and a Swim

    Take an easy and free hike to the Colorado River.

    ✅ Trails for Children

    ✅ Swimming

    ✅ Bathrooms

    ❌ Playground and Sports Fields

    ✅ Free Admission for Park and Trails (and free parking)

    ✅ Stroller-friendly Trails

    ❌ Reservations or Tickets needed

    If you’re looking for a short and easy hike that ends with a jump into the water and lounging in the grass, Commons Ford is the place for you and your family. It’s rarely crowded on weekdays and provides the perfect opportunity to spend the day outside. It’s a great place for boating, paddle-boarding, kayaking, fishing, tree-climbing, and playing volleyball too.

    The 215 acres allows for several areas to explore and wander, but this post will focus primarily on the trail that leads to the water and picnic area (“lawn”). We’re excited to share what we love about Commons Ford Ranch located at 614 Commons Ford Ranch Rd on the west side of Austin, TX!

    Trail Options for All Levels

    As mentioned, there are several hiking trails in this large stretch of park land. The trails closer to the water are flat and child-friendly. There are great opportunities for wildflower scavenger hunts and bird-watching along these trails, including signs that inform you on the species you might encounter. We like to take the forks in the trails to see new sights each time we go, with the ultimate goal of ending up at the water’s edge.

    Most or these trails are dirt paths and can be a little rocky. It’s possible to push a stroller or pull a wagon, but there will be some uneven terrain that may require lifting or maneuvering around the dips and obstacles.

    There are additional trails that lead uphill away from the water. They offer beautiful views and other opportunities for wildlife-viewing, as well as a more significant work out. These trails are more rigorous and not stroller-friendly.

    Easy Parking and Access

    First parking option on left side of main road with access to picnic area trail across the street or uphill rocky trail in front of the cars

    Google Maps will take you directly to the park entrance. You can park for free in the parking areas near the trailheads. The location where we often park only has a handful of spots directly off the main park road. Parallel parking is also an option, as well as additional small parking areas as you drive further into the park.

    Trailhead to Picnic Area/Lawn

    The trailheads are easily accessible from the main road, and bathrooms are available at the back of the picnic/swimming area as well as near the barn. I recommend having the trail map saved on your phone to find restrooms and landmarks as you venture out onto the other trails.

    Interesting Sights

    This park is also an historic site. The land was originally settled in 1838 by a man named Dick Preece, who later joined the Texas Rangers. He continued to acquire land in the area and began ranching.

    Preece moved off the property at the end of the 19th century, during which it became a popular tourist attraction luring Austinites by steam ships daily to visit and take a dip in the “medicinal waters”.

    In the early twentieth century, the land became Resaca Ranch, a working cattle ranch that was sold to the city for the purpose of waterfront park land in 1983.

    Today, while visiting Commons Ford, you can see some of the buildings that remain from Resaca Ranch, including a barn, a ranch house, and the caretaker’s house.*

    Large Grassy Picnic Area

    The hike we usually take leads us right to the wide-open picnic area along the water, labeled “lawn” on the park map. It has a low-grade hill, access to more trails, a volleyball net, some shade, a dock, lots of open grassland, and of course, river access. Bring your own picnic blanket, food, balls, and water toys, as well as plenty of drinking water.

    Swimming!

    One of the spots to access the water is a wooden boat dock. Keep in mind that this main swimming area on the Colorado River is shared with boats and can be subject to wake. Kids need to be strong swimmers and have life jackets or tubes when in the water.

    There is another spot for wading and muddy play in the same picnic area. It’s a shallow inlet that gets deeper as you near the main river. This spot is better for weaker swimmers and smaller children, but keep in mind that there will be natural debris and tree branches or roots in the water.

    Commons Ford is in a great location. While it’s tucked back behind residential areas, it’s also very close to a gas station and an Italian restaurant, Patrizi’s. Laura’s Library is also nearby, along with all the other restaurants and shopping options along RM- 2244.

    We hope you enjoy Commons Ford Ranch as much as we do! 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 subscribe to this blog so you don’t miss out on the best places to go in the Texas Hill Country!

    *Source: Austintexas.gov

  • Small Minds Discuss People

    Small Minds Discuss People

    Inspired by the LBJ Ranch and National Historical Park in Stonewall, TX

    I wrote much of the piece below 4 years ago. Now in 2024, we find ourselves caught in another election season, and it seems not much has changed. In fact, the divisiveness and anger may have heightened since 2020.

    My older two children are 13 and 10, one in 8th grade and the other in 5th. At our dinner table, there is often an accusation of a crush, followed by “no way” and reasons why that person would never be the object of my child’s affection. Other times, I hear comments about something ridiculous a classmate did or said at school, accompanied by giggles, or I witness my precious children mocking one another.

    My kids love to talk about people but not always in a kind way, and no matter how often we adults in the room try to steer the discussion toward big ideas, plans, or life lessons, the conversation reverts back to the gossip du jour or mere mockery.

    The discussions held during election season aren’t much better than the childish banter at my dinner table, except that the adults are the ones engaging, rather than stifling, the rude repartee. When I read comments online, listen to a debate on a podcast, or hear the talking points on the news, the issues examined are rarely policy initiatives but rather personal insults about candidates. It seems that we have become a nation that talks about people, often in an unkind way, rather than one that shares ideas and implements them for the good of our country.

    Eleanor Roosevelt once said, “Great minds discuss ideas; average minds discuss events; small minds discuss people.”

    Based on what’s portrayed on the internet and TV, we are a nation of small minds. It’s as if we’ve lost sight of who God created us to be. We are here to build His kingdom, to share the good news, to live by the fruit of the Spirit, and to love first. These are not expectations that can be held for all people, but it’s a standard I would like to uphold for myself, my family, and those who step up to lead communities and a nation.

    This is no easy feat. Passing judgment is a common human trait, and gossip flows easily from most mouths. Angry or hateful messages are rewarded with engagement, clicks, and likes. Emotions are held in higher regard than logical thinking, and strong opinions are more interesting than facts. The nature of our society can be ugly and unkind, focused heavily on how other people behave.

    So, how do we change course? How do we choose a different path than the masses who have infiltrated social media, the city’s streets, and news outlets with angry words about people who are also loved by God?

    Fortunately, I know a place where I can look for answers. Ephesians 4:29 (NIV) provides us with this lesson:

    Do not let any unwholesome talk come out of your mouths, but only what is helpful for building others up according to their needs, that it may benefit those who listen.

    This verse is often repeated and now written in many places in our house. We remind our children of this instruction often when the dinner table discussion veers off course. My prayer for myself, my children, and our nation is that we can use our words to build others up, share ideas, and respect each other, rather than continue to tear down the nation and the people our Father created. Maybe if each of us holds Ephesians 4:29 close to our hearts and draws it from memory on a daily basis, our next election season can reflect the great minds the Lord gave us.

    This week’s devotional is inspired by the LBJ Ranch, Texas White House, and LBJ Airport in Stonewall. They are part of a driving tour, which includes a few stops to visit actual sites where President Johnson and other members of government, including President Truman, met to discuss the future of our nation. Many people have strong opinions about LBJ’s presidency, and while I accept and understand those points of view, I think more about the ideas that were discussed and the reasons behind them. I imagine the critical debates held after our nation was rocked by an assassination that left many Americans grieving and sharing theories (for decades) about what happened. I wonder what the chats were like on the porches and behind closed doors at the Texas White House and in what manner they spoke to each other. I also think about how far we’ve strayed from the intent of our founding fathers and whether we’ve ever *truly* been one nation under God, indivisible, with liberty and justice for all. Can we ever return to civil political discourse and move away from the online forums with angry, anonymous, amateur analysts? Looking back may be our only way to look forward.

  • Which Family Pass Should You Buy?

    Which Family Pass Should You Buy?

    Zoo or Garden Membership? Pogo or City Pass? Theme Park Season Pass? We help you decide.

    Several years ago, I was invited to write an article for the Houston Zoo website and newsletter as the Member of the Month. I’ve never been more excited to work for free! When we lived in Houston, we visited the zoo very often, even just for a quick pizza dinner next to the giraffes. Here is an excerpt from my article:

    My family has had a membership at the zoo for about 7 years. In the first couple years, I pushed a single stroller with my eager and curious daughter, planning each visit around her favorite animals: the elephants, sea lions, and big cats. Soon enough, I was cruising around the zoo with a double jogger, making sure that each visit included a carousel ride, a trip to the playground, many animal sightings, a crawl (or two or three or thirty) through the tunnel in the Natural Encounters house, and a stroll past the monkeeeeeys for my son.

    Now, we go as a family of five with two big kids leading the way and another eager and curious daughter in the single stroller. We never miss the African Forest, which houses my favorite animals, the majestic giraffes. Plus, my husband insists on going through the bug house, despite the terrifying cockroaches, because he was one of the engineers for that exhibit. We all challenge ourselves to see if we can make it to every corner of the zoo. We don’t want to miss anything!

    After submitting that article, not only did we add an additional zoo-lover to our family, but it hit me that the zoo truly was one of our family’s happy places, and we vowed to visit zoos all over the country whenever we travel together.

    However, zoo admissions continue to increase in cost, and many of them have added extra experiences at prices that will take a big bite into the budget.

    There’s good news, though — a zoo membership can make a huge difference! Once we discovered the added benefits of a zoo membership, we took advantage of it as we traveled and as we planned get-togethers with family and friends. It really saved us a lot!

    So, we decided to do a cost-benefit analysis of membership and family pass offerings to help decide which one(s) give a family the most bang for its buck. Is the zoo membership the only one that’s worth its weight in gold for a young family? We had to find out.

    The four options listed below seem to be the most common, at least in our area, and we’ve tried all of them. Continue reading until the end, though, for our reviews on other memberships and passes.

    Membership Options

    What is Reciprocal Membership?

    Paying for one zoo membership not only gets you in for free at that specific zoo for an entire year, but it also gets you in free or 50% off admission to dozens of other zoos and aquariums across the country. Check out this site to see which zoos and aquariums are included. Make sure your home zoo (or the one at which you buy a membership) participates.

    In a two-year span, my family visited the Cameron Park Zoo three times, Houston Zoo at least three times, Fort Worth Zoo, Oakland Zoo, Dallas Zoo, and San Antonio Zoo. Because of our membership benefits, we saved over $400 on zoo visits while traveling, in addition to the savings we were able to pass along to friends through free day passes and inviting them as our guests.

    With most botanical garden memberships, you get free access to other gardens in the American Horticultural Society network. You just show your membership pass at the admission gate of the participating garden. However, if you’re planning to bring the whole family, and you have more than 2 children, reach out to the botanical garden you intend to visit in advance. They may have restrictions on how many children are included with your reciprocal admission.

    We recently purchased a family membership for the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center, and since our purchase a few months ago, we’ve visited the Dallas Arboretum and Zilker Botanical Garden for free, saving us over $50, not to mention the $100 we saved from visiting the wildflower center with friends where we hold the membership.

    The City Pass and Pogo Pass do not offer reciprocal privileges. You must use your pass for specific locations listed.

    What about special events or exhibits?

    Most zoos and gardens have special events for Halloween (Zoo Boo), the holidays (Zoo Lights), and in the spring or summer (Zoobilee), to which members get free or reduced admission. Many also have free yoga classes, education events for children, opportunities for overnight campouts, and toddler/infant socialization times. Additionally, members often get early access once per month that allows entrance prior to the general public and features specific animal talks or classes. Members also get discounts on carousel or train rides and gift shop purchases.

    The City and Pogo Pass usually exclude special events or special exhibits.

    Any other benefits?

    Your zoo or garden membership can be considered a tax-deductible charitable donation going toward animal and habitat conservation. Saving money on family experiences and taxes too… win-win!

    The City Pass and Pogo Pass are not considered charitable donations.

    So, Which One is My Best Option?

    Well, that depends.

    Which attractions are you most likely to visit and how often?

    If you think you’ll visit the zoo at least twice and may visit another one while traveling elsewhere, definitely get a zoo membership to the location you’ll go most often. Be sure that it’s a part of the reciprocal membership program. Same for the garden membership.

    If you’re not into zoos or gardens but prefer indoor activities and sports games, pick the Pogo Pass and be sure to use a discount code before you purchase the passes. You can usually find them on Groupon, by asking friends, or by searching Google. The discount is often 50%.

    Will you be traveling soon and plan to do touristy things?

    If you plan to stay in a big city and hit the most popular tourist attractions, the City Pass or Go City Pass is likely your best bet, UNLESS you’re willing to brave the crowds and schedule your visits around the free or discounted days. Many attractions, especially if they receive tax dollars or donations as part of their operating income, offer a free day each week or month with limited hours. Many theme parks and water parks offer discounts for specific days or hours as well. For example, several water parks reduce their price if you go after 5 pm. These free or discount day options will require advanced research and planning for specific attractions.

    If you visit a location often and/or like to experience the less crowded play places with your family, look for a Pogo Pass for that city. Some include multiple cities on the pass and can be used for an entire year. Therefore, you can travel to multiple destinations at different times and get free admission to fun activities. For example, there is a Pogo Pass that combines Waco, San Antonio, and Austin locations. That could be three different vacations with multiple options for each trip and only spending $50 per person (cost of the pass on a discount) for entertainment at all three locations.

    Other Passes and Memberships

    There are so many additional options for memberships and discounts at attractions and venues, several of which we’ve tried but haven’t consistently used for several reasons. Your family may benefit greatly from them, though.

    Gym or YMCA

    A YMCA membership can be great to have year-round if you plan to enroll your children in the youth programs, camps, or sports and if you enjoy working out at their gyms. The membership can be especially beneficial in the summer because you can take your kids to several different pools throughout the city and even squeeze in a workout while they’re in child watch. We have definitely gotten great value out of a YMCA membership during the summer months.

    Occasionally, gyms will run a special promotion that waives the enrollment fee, which really makes the monthly cost worth it. Currently, YMCA of Austin is offering a 7-day trial membership, and Crunch Gym is South Austin is offering an entire month free, plus no enrollment fee. Crunch has babysitting available but no children’s camps/sports or a pool to offer.

    DWK Recommendation: Sign up for emails from whichever gym or YMCA you’re most interested in so you can be in the know on specials they run on memberships and when they offer free community days or classes. Often, the YMCA will host community swim days or festivals (membership not required). Just ask to be added to the email list or sign up for a trial membership to get your name in the system.

    Museums

    We did not include memberships to museums in the list above because we have not found them to be economical choices for our family. However, if you have a museum that your children love to frequent, it may be worth it for your own family.

    The memberships usually only include the permanent exhibits, which do not change, and can be a bit tedious for my kids to visit often. Also, while the reciprocal membership option (NARM) offers discounts or free admission to other museums when you travel, there is often a restriction that prevents you from using your reciprocal membership at other participating museums within a 15-mile radius of the institution where you hold your membership. That means that we’d have to pay for admission to the other local museums since most museums are close to each other within a “museum district”.

    DWK Recommendation: Just about every museum offers free days weekly or monthly. Otherwise, you can sometimes find discounts available on Groupon or through City Passes. So if there’s a museum we really want to visit, we check out their website to find out which days they offer free admission or search for other discounts online.

    Theme Parks and Water Parks

    Any theme park or water park offers a season pass, and usually there are multiple levels to choose from. We’ve held Six Flags season passes in the past, and while we saved quite a bit from using it that year, it’s not a place we go to often enough to make it worth it every year. So, again, this is dependent on each family’s interest and ages of their children. We’ve made exceptions and found the season pass to be worthwhile, though, when we planned a birthday party at Six Flags. We brought three extra girls to the theme park, and with the benefits that were offered at the time (significant discounts for season pass holder’s guests) and the free parking, we saved more than we spent on the pass for my daughter. It seems the best time to buy a season pass for most of these attractions is during April or May, prior to the busy summer season, or during holiday promotions that will give you admission for the rest of that year and the year that follows.

    DWK Recommendation: If you know your family will visit the theme park multiple times, it’s definitely worth buying the season pass. Otherwise, if we want to go to a theme park, we just look for discounted days or promotions to take advantage of.

    Local Pool Pass

    Most public pools offer a summer season pass with unlimited admission. They can cost anywhere from $125 – $300 for a family. We bought one when we lived in Houston for a neighborhood pool that we knew several friends would visit often. It was an easy and fun way to spend several summer afternoons, especially since we knew we’d see friends at the pool no matter what day we went.

    In Dripping Springs, we found the Springs Family YMCA pool to be the spot where we’d often bump into friends. However, the local city pool was hit or miss, so we have to plan in advance to meet up with friends there. It hasn’t been often enough for us to splurge on a season pass, though, and the city pool doesn’t offer additional benefits such as classes, childcare, the gym, and camp options.

    Also, there are so many wonderful, free or affordable pools and splash pads, river access spots, lakes, neighborhood pools where friends live, and friends’ backyard pools that I don’t think we could even get to every single one of them in a summer. Likely, you won’t be able to either.

    DWK Recommendation: If your family will be home for several days in the summer and will want to swim in a familiar place with lifeguards, a YMCA membership is a good option. If you happen to prefer the neighborhood or city pool, I would just do a cost analysis and determine how many visits it would require before reaching the total cost of the summer pass. Otherwise, just bounce around and enjoy the variety of swimming options in your area.

    With a plethora of passes to choose from, you could potentially end up with too many memberships to take advantage of in a year. We hope this analysis helps you decide where to spend your money in the hopes of saving more in the long run. As always, please feel free to comment and share what works best for your family.

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  • Family Hike at Zilker Botanical Garden

    Family Hike at Zilker Botanical Garden

    Tourist attraction or hike? You decide.

    ✅ Trails for Children

    ❌ Swimming

    ✅ Bathrooms

    ❌ Playground and Sports Fields

    ✅ Free Admission for Park and Trails (and free parking) – on certain days only

    ✅ Stroller-friendly Trails

    ❌ Reservations needed

    Zilker Botanical Garden isn’t just a beautiful tourist attraction; it’s a great place for a family hike. There is so much to see and do along the trails that you can pause your hike for photo opps, play time, a history or horticulture lesson, some animal-watching, and a little shopping.

    The gardens are open every day from 9 am to 6 pm in Spring and Summer and then until 5 pm in Fall/Winter. Check the website for special events and FREE days. You can always get in free if you become a member or if you are a member of another botanical garden, such as the Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center, that’s a part of the AHS Reciprocal Membership Network. Families with Electronic Benefits Transfer cards, WIC cards, STAR cards, CHIP cards, Medicaid cards and MAP identification cards also get free general admission.

    Otherwise, ticket prices are:

    Austin Residents
    Youth – (Ages 3 & 17) – $3
    Adults – (Ages 18 & 61) – $6
    Seniors – (Ages 62 & Over) – $5

    Non-Austin Residents
    Youth – (Ages 3 & 17) – $4
    Adults – (Ages 18 & 61) – $8
    Seniors – (Ages 62 & Over) – $    7

    We’re excited to share everything we love about the Zilker Botanical Garden in the heart of Austin, TX!

    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 a stroller making several stops to check out all of the flora and fauna or you can meander through the miles of trails with changing elevations for a more rigorous hike (and even extend your walk to the hike and bike trail along Lady Bird Lake right across the street).

    Most trails are cement or flattened mulch paths. Some areas have stairs or steep inclines, but there are handicap/stroller-accessible trails nearby that will take you to the same destinations.

    Easy Parking and Access

    Google Maps will take you directly to the entrance. You can park for free in the parking lot after checking in at the ticket station. Then, you can choose a trail that begins right from the parking lot; there are many themed options with signs along the way. Or you can start in the gift shop by grabbing a free scavenger hunt brochure for yourself and the little ones.

    Interesting Sights

    It’s a botanical garden, so there’s plenty to see. You’ll find koi ponds, dino statues and tracks, historic cabins, a vegetable garden, a musical play area, picnic tables, and a perfect view of the downtown Austin skyline.

    If you go during May or June, you can visit the tiny faerie houses and villages. If you visit during the Fall season, you can learn all about butterflies at the Roots and Wings festival. In December, you can celebrate Yule in the Garden and participate in crafts and sing-alongs, and in February, you can attend Dino Days. There are several seasonal and weekly community events year-round to make your hike that much more enjoyable .

    Coffee Truck On-Site

    Before or after hitting your daily step count, stop by the coffee truck situated in the parking lot for your caffeine fix and some lemonade for the kids. You can rest in the shade at the nearby picnic tables while the kids make music for you on the garden-themed percussion instruments.

    Zilker Botanical Garden is right in the heart of downtown Austin, so you can add on paddleboarding at Ladybird Lake, a stroll down South Congress to visit the eclectic shops and restaurants, a visit to one of the highly-acclaimed museums, or listen to live music at one of the many venues in the area. The options are endless.

    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.

  • Anchored ’til the End

    Anchored ’til the End

    Inspired by Inks Lake State Park, a place of natural beauty that’s withstood the test of time and change

    Today, a memory came to mind. It was of the 2019 Christmas program in which my two youngest children, Henry and Georgia, performed at their preschool.

    Georgia was a sheep, and Henry was dressed as an angel. I already assumed upon taking my seat that I would see a very different performance from 4 year-old Georgia than from 2 year-old Henry. This difference was apparent the moment they walked down the aisle toward the stage at the front of the sanctuary.

    Georgia held her head high, looked for us, and then smiled excitedly when she saw us at the edge of our seats. Henry, on the other hand, walked very quickly with his head forward, staring at the back of the friend in front of him. He wouldn’t even look over at us despite how many times and how loudly we called his name.

    As the program started, Georgia sang her lyrics loud and proud, checked to make sure we were recording her, and giggled with the little girl next to her. She excitedly encouraged everyone to “go tell it on the mountain”, and you could see that she had that joy, joy, joy down deep in her heart. She made her mom and dad very proud. 

    Then, there was Henry on the opposite side of the stage, looking more perplexed than I imagined possible for a 2 year-old. He stood there, staring off in the distance, with his hands at his sides, occasionally repeating the final word of a verse one second too late. He was the cutest little angel, but my poor baby just looked lost.

    Then, something unexpected happened. All of his classmates started getting shy or nervous and left the stage to go sit by their teacher on the floor in the audience. 

    But Henry stayed. 

    He didn’t know a single hand motion and only mumbled about one out of every 10 lyrics, but he stayed. He stood there, all by himself, until the end… the only angel left on stage.

    My husband and I wanted so badly to return Georgia’s gazes toward us for attention and pick out her sweet voice among all the loud, singing children, but we were in awe of Henry. We kept a phone pointed at Georgia, recording every second, but our eyes were glued to Henry. We waited in anxious anticipation to see if he would run off like his classmates or if he would suddenly start belting out lyrics he hadn’t practiced. But most of all, as we stared at him with huge smiles on our faces, we felt a sort of pride that didn’t seem to make sense. 

    I imagine God sees all of His children in this way. Some have been practicing their faith for many years. They know the verses; they can go through the motions by memory; and they are comfortable with all eyes on them at the table. These children are incredibly special and set an example for many who may be new to the faith. 

    However, some of His children are at that same table, sitting quietly, wondering what they’re supposed to say, what their next move should be. They’re intimidated by their new circle of friends who have that perfect memorized verse to share in a difficult conversation. They may even think about running away and not returning.

    But they stay.

    They sit at the table, possibly perplexed, but still standing firm in their faith. They’re just so pleased to finally be at that table. I think God looks at these particular children with a different kind of pride, watching and waiting to see that growth that He knows will come. He smiles down and can’t keep His eyes off of His child who will eventually read, practice, share, teach, and serve others in His name. In those early stages, though, the most important thing is that His child hasn’t run away. He or she welcomes God’s love and remains until the end, anticipating all the good that’s to come.

    Yet to all who did receive him, who believed in his name, he gave the right to become children of God — children born not of natural descent, nor of human decision or a husband’s will, but born of God.

    – John 1:12 NIV

  • Best Public Swimming Pools and Splash Pads for Families

    Best Public Swimming Pools and Splash Pads for Families

    Swimming and summer go hand in hand, but if Mom and Dad are going to put in the extreme effort to pack everything a swim day entails, the pool or splash pad has got to be worth it!

    We’ve made a list of our favorite pools and splash pads, including a few we haven’t visited yet. They all made the list because they aren’t too packed (on weekdays); they’re relatively safe for all ages; they’re affordable (often FREE); and they can entertain the kids for hours.

    Pools

    • Deep Eddy in Austin – The shallow area next to a shaded grassy spot makes this pool perfect for moms with littles. However, getting down the steep flight of stairs with all your stuff can be difficult. Be sure to find the ramp that takes you through the back gate. Have your littles wear water shoes because the pool can be slippery on the bottom.
    • Founders Memorial Park Pool in Dripping Springs – The city pool is open to the public most days of the summer. There are resident and non-resident rates, both affordable. We love this pool for families with emerging swimmers. There is a large “baby pool” area roped off with a depth from 1.5 to 2.5 feet, allowing for littles to splash around and play with toys, while older kids swim in the main pool area. Other than this feature, though, there are no bells and whistles at the Founders Pool. Check hours because the swim team meets at this pool.
    • Lakeway Swim Center – This is one of our favorite places to swim. The non-resident price is reasonable, and the pool hosts several special events throughout the summer. This swim center boasts two water slides, a leap pad crossing, a sports pool, shallow beach entry and small splash area, mini slide, shade umbrellas, lounge chairs, separate lap pool, and a concession stand.
    • Rock’N River Water Park in Round Rock – It’s a smaller water park, but with multiple pools, a low admission price ($6–$14), waterslides, and a splash area, it definitely beats the regular neighborhood pool.
    • James Adkins Pool in Kyle – Formerly named the Kyle Community Pool, this aquatic center has plenty of covered seating, including a pavilion, a shallow baby pool area, a basketball hoop, and dive in movie nights. Check the website in advance for open swim times because the swim team practices and competes at this pool.
    • YMCA of Austin Pools – There are several locations, and use of the pools requires a membership, but if you have a friend with one, you can be added on as a guest for a small fee (call the location first to confirm), or you can check when the Y is hosting a community day. On community days and open houses, the YMCA pools are open to the public for free. These are usually on the weekends. Another option is to sign on for a summer membership.

    Splash Pads

    With Nearby Playgrounds

    We hope you have a wonderful summer! Please share any favorite pools or splash pads that we missed.

    Subscribe below so you don’t miss out on future posts about the best places to go in Austin, Dripping Springs, and the Texas Hill Country!

  • Where to Eat with Kids When It’s HOT

    Where to Eat with Kids When It’s HOT

    Kids + dining out + indoor seating = disaster.

    Kids + dining out + outdoor play area = win for all.

    Kids + dining out + summer heat = dilemma. But maybe not.

    The Texas Hill Country is known for restaurants with patios, playgrounds, beautiful views, live music, as well as food and drink menus for every member of the family. The options for spending an evening lingering at the table while kids play freely are endless.

    However, when it’s mid-summer, 100 degrees outside, with no breeze at all, where do we take the kids for a dinner out?

    The following restaurants are some of our top choices for eating out during the HOT summer months in Dripping Springs and the areas nearby.

    Route 12 Filling Station

    Delicious food from fish to pizza, full bar, splash pad, large patio with fans, short walking trail to shaded playground at One Shot Distillery, and in same shopping center as our favorite gift and craft shop, Shabby Wick!

    Hays City Store

    This is a top choice for our family because of the casual and fun atmosphere, great margaritas, live music, misters and shady oak trees, friendly staff, variety of Texas faves on the menu, and room for kids to roam.

    Waterloo Ice House on Escarpment

    Air-conditioned enclosed patio with open doors to playground, large variety of menu options, and casual atmosphere.

    Any Hat Creek Location

    Milkshakes, kid-friendly and GF food options, protein bowls and salads for adults, unique playgrounds, big fans, indoor and outdoor seating, and very casual atmosphere that encourages play.

    The County Line on the Lake

    Beautiful views of the water, breezy shaded patio, excellent happy hour, family-friendly environment, and great party set-ups.

    The Hive Austin

    Multiple shaded hang-out spots that are great for gathering with friends and staying a while, enchanting play areas and garden, easy counter food like pastries, sandwiches, coffee, and bottled beverages.

    Verde’s Mexican Parilla

    Huge enclosed outdoor patio with several fans, even bigger outdoor space for kids with playground and grassy field, delicious food and drinks, patient and kind staff, and welcoming atmosphere.

    Ski Shores Cafe

    Cool and casual restaurant on the lake, fans with misters, game room, live music, and great people-watching.

    One of the greatest pleasures in life is to sit around a table with family and friends without feeling rushed or constantly interrupted. These restaurants provide the perfect atmospheres for enjoying good food and good company while the kids can keep themselves entertained, no matter the weather.

    We’d love to hear your favorite restaurants for a hot summer day. Please share in the comments below.

  • 7 Unique Parks That Are Worth the Drive

    7 Unique Parks That Are Worth the Drive

    “What should we listen to?”

    If I ask this question of my two homeschooled children when we get in the car, they know we will be driving more than 15 minutes to get somewhere.

    We always have a few different books and interesting podcasts to choose from. Currently, we are almost through Farmer Boy, our second time through the second book in the Little House on the Prairie series. We are also in the middle of book #6 in the Boxcar Children series, and we were recently turned on to the Cool History for Kids podcast on Spotify. All have been excellent choices for longer drives.

    We definitely spend a lot of time in the car. Sometimes we drive to a state historic site or farm; sometimes it’s a museum in the city; sometimes it’s a friend’s house in the next town; and sometimes it’s a sibling’s game or competition. But many times, it’s a trip to an interesting park with a unique playground feature.

    When I tell my kids that we’re going to a specific park, the name usually means nothing to them. They want to know which identifying feature that park has so they can draw it up in their memories.

    “Is it the park with the zip line?”

    “Is it the park by the soccer fields?”

    “Is it the park with our favorite climbing tree?”

    Each park or playground has something special about it, but there are a select few that really stand out and are worth that extra time in the car (traveling from Dripping Springs).

    Below, I share with you a list of our favorite “far away” parks as I describe them to my own kiddos.

    1. The One with the Tiger Slide

    *La Verde Park in Kyle, TX*

    The Tiger slide sets this park apart, but it is definitely not the only reason to go. There is also a wonderful sand volleyball court with hammocks along the outside of it, as well as additional seating. There is a beautiful water feature and a splash pad. There are decent restrooms and ping-pong tables (bring your own paddle and balls). There is also a challenging climbing structure with a suspension bridge, as well as plenty of swings and other playscapes. There is something fun for kids of all ages.

    When you’ve had your fill of climbing nets, slides, and sand, you can picnic in the open grassy area or in the shade of the pavilion. Bonus – it’s just five minutes from Costco, so it’s easy to grab a $10 pizza and bring it back to the park to share.

    2. The One with a City Inside

    *Play for All Abilities Park in Round Rock*

    This park north of Austin will keep your children entertained all day long! Not only are there accessible playgrounds with endless surprises, there is an entire mini city that the kids can ride their bikes or scooters through. Their imaginations run wild, and they can even race around a race track as a part of their “drive” through the city. Our kids beg to go here too often!

    3. The One with the Pirate Ship and Mermaid Wall

    *Children’s Park in San Marcos*

    This fully accessible park is unique in many ways. The pirate ship playground is perfect for climbers and hide-and-seekers alike. It inspires kids to role-play and act out scenes at sea, while also challenging them to new heights. Other fun features include obstacle courses, a merry-go-round, zip lines, and unique swings.

    However, in my opinion, the very best feature of all is the nearby river access. You can take a short stroll from the playground to the San Marcos River to swim, float, and speed down rapids. (Bring a tube.)

    There is also a city pool and sports courts/ fields next to the river access. Restaurants and shops are close by as well, and my kids love when we make a surprise trip to Icy Rolls afterward.

    4. The One with the 3-story Slide and Fortlandia Fort

    *Walnut Creek Metro Park in North Austin*

    You will find absolutely everything for the outdoorsy adult, toddling two-year-old, adventurous big kid, or strolling senior at this park. The playground is my kids’ favorite because of the three story slide and the fort they recognize from years ago at the Wildflower Center.

    Soon, we plan to try out the pump track with our bikes and the hiking trails on foot. We’d love to bring our dog for off-leash playtime at the dog park, as well as our swimsuits for a dip in the pool or creek sometime. I highly recommend an early-morning or weekday visit to this park. It can get busy!

    5. The One with the Hill Slides

    *Alliance Children’s Garden in Austin*

    We have only one complaint about this park… the parking! There are a handful of spots in the paid parking lot, so if you intend to park on site, go during a non-busy park time. However, once you ditch your car, you can stay all day at this one!

    We like to set our stuff down in one section, such as the huge climbing net area, and stay for a while. Then, we move to another area, such as the picnic tables and hill slides. Then, we grab our things and move over to the sandbox and tunnels. If it’s hot summer month, we pick up our stuff again and head to the splash pad on the hill.

    Thankfully, the huge central Austin Public Library is within walking distance, and we can grab a bite to eat and cool off while reading a book when we’re done playing. My kids know they are in for a long day when we go to the Alliance Children’s Garden, but it’s always worth it!

    6. The One with the Obstacle Course and Amphitheater

    *Buda City Park*

    One of the most unique features of this park is the huge amphitheater, but more specifically, the events that are held there. They have free concerts, races, and festivals throughout the year. If you plan a visit to Buda City Park, always check the website first for upcoming events.

    But if you prefer to avoid the crowds, there are other excellent reasons to visit – a splash pad that forms a river for toys and boats, an obstacle course with natural beams and climbing structures, the best seesaw around, several basketball courts under a large pavilion, and sand volleyball.

    Also, its location can’t be beat. You can walk from the park into downtown Buda for a meal or a treat, and you can stop at the local library, which hosts several cool events itself, usually daily.

    7. The One with the Water Park

    *Landa Park in New Braunfels*

    We love New Braunfels and Gruene, so it doesn’t take much convincing to pack up for a day trip to these destinations. It’s an even better day trip when we include a visit to Landa Park, especially if it’s during summer when the water park is open.

    In any other season, though, we have a blast on the trails, watching for fish in the river, traversing the firetruck monkey bars, enjoying the playgrounds, climbing the trees, playing a round of mini golf, and riding the train.

    As my youngest children start aging out of typical playgrounds, it’s wonderful to know that there are many parks that can continue to pique their interest and keep them playing for hours on end. Sometimes, it’s simply a special tree that draws them in or just the right climbing wall, but as long as it keeps them in the great outdoors, I’m willing to take on that long drive to get them there.

    Comment below with your favorite park and playground! We’d love to have more options. And if you’re looking for the best playgrounds in the Dripping Springs area, check out this post.

  • Jacobs Well: Not Just a Swimming Hole

    Jacobs Well: Not Just a Swimming Hole

    Unique trails and play areas make this a great family hiking spot in Wimberley, TX.

    In our mission to spend 1000 hours outside as a family every year, we’re sharing some of our favorite hiking spots in this series titled “This Week’s Hike”. Jacobs Well is our latest pick.

    ✅ Trails for Children

    ✅Swimming (during summer only and when water levels are normal)

    ✅ Bathrooms

    ✅ Playground and Open Fields

    ✅ Free Admission for Park and Trails (and free parking)

    ✅ Stroller-friendly Trails

    ❌ Reservations needed

    Jacobs Well is on everyone’s summer bucket list as a favorite Texas swimming hole. The depth and mystery of the well add to the draw of this small town destination.

    However, during the other seasons, this unique 81-acre park is still a great destination for family hikes and outdoor play.

    We’re excited to share everything we love about hiking at Jacob’s Well in Wimberley, TX!

    Short but Interesting Trails along Cypress Creek

    The trails down to the well and along the dry creek bed are not stroller-friendly or wheelchair accessible, but they are manageable for children and adults of all hiking abilities. There are some steep stairs and uneven ground, but there are some fun surprises along the way, such as bouldering and even crawling within a cavern parallel to the creek. You’ll opportunities to extend your hike on flat, elevated ground too. You can also listen to the audio tour on your phone as you hike.

    More Trails

    Additional stroller-friendly trails through the woods can be found between the parking lots. They loop around the park, and there are off-shoots (some with uneven terrain), as well as stops along the way to read informative signs, navigate a labyrinth, and watch for winged friends at the bird blind. My kids enjoyed all of these stops, but what they enjoyed most of all was…

    Geocaching!

    The geocache designers at Jacobs Well take their roles very seriously. These caches aren’t just capsules hanging in a tree. You have to work to find them. If you like treasure hunts and solving clues, you can print the Geocache Brochure ahead of time and use the hints instead of your map to locate the caches.

    Once found, you’ll be required to do additional problem-solving onsite to get full access. We found two caches but didn’t even solve one of the puzzles to open it, so we’ll definitely be back to continue the search.

    Easy Parking and Access

    Google Maps will take you directly to the entrance. In the off-season, you can bypass the check-in station and park in Lot C, near the Hays Master Gardeners’ greenhouse. Right next to the parking lot is trail access and a large play area.

    Play Area, Nature Center, Gardens, and Restrooms

    Leave extra time to explore the gardens, build a teepee, climb the oaks, soar on the swings, scale the spider web net, be a human sun dial, and run in the open field. On selected days, the indoor nature center is also open.

    If you want to make sure you don’t miss anything Jacob’s Well Natural Area has to offer, join a guided tour and hike on Saturday mornings in October through May.

    Shaded Seating Area/Pavilions

    When you need a break from exploring, there are several tables under a covered pavilion, perfect for picnicking or a snack break. There is also a picnic table in the shade on the trail just above the well if you need an additional snack break, as my kids always do.

    Jacob’s Well!

    A Few Facts About Jacobs Well (from the County website)

    • Jacob’s Well Natural Area is a little over 81 acres.
    • Jacob’s Well is an artesian spring that releases thousands of gallons of water a day.
    • Jacob’s Well is the second-largest fully submerged cave in Texas.
    • The source of the water comes from the Trinity Aquifer, which makes its way from an extensive underground cave system.
    • The deepest part of the cavern system is 140 feet deep. The main cavern length is 4,341 feet and the secondary cavern, which branches off the main cavern, is 1,314 feet in length.
    • The water temperature stays a constant 68°F.
    • Jacob’s Well is the headwaters of Cypress Creek, which flows through Blue Hole Regional Park and feeds into the Blanco River.
    • More than 200 Native Indian groups populated Central Texas and were collectively known as the Coahuiltecans. Three of the most prominent Indian tribes that roamed this area are the Tonkawa, Jumano, and the Comanche.

    Even if you check out the well during its aquatic restoration period (non swimming-season), the well is a wonder to look at and hike around. We always spot fish, and because the water is so clear, we try our best to identify them. It’s also fun just to imagine everything down below in the deep cavern.

    Cute Town of Wimberley Just Minutes Away

    Another big benefit to making the trip to Jacobs Well Natural Area is that the adorable and vibrant Wimberley Square is just 10 minutes away. If your legs aren’t too worn out from hiking and playing, stroll the square and enjoy drinks, bites, shopping, artwork, and live music.

    You definitely want to plan a whole day for your visit to Jacob’s Well and Wimberley, but if you’re too beat to hit the town after your hike, we highly recommend taking in a sensational sunset at Shady Llama on Highway 12. Relax in hammocks, taste a few local beers, order snacks from the food truck, and let the kids challenge themselves on the natural obstacle courses. If you’re really lucky, you might spot the llamas that live on the land.

    We never get tired of spending the day in Wimberley with its many beautiful hiking spots, cool swimming holes, unique shops, and lively restaurants, no matter the season. It’s great to know that there are options for outdoor exploring year-round.

    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!

  • Free Hike and Hangout near Austin: Camp Ben

    Free Hike and Hangout near Austin: Camp Ben

    Take a hike. Hang out. Picnic. Swim. Play. All in one quiet spot.

    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 (when water levels are normal)

    ✅ Bathrooms

    ✅ Playground and Open Fields

    ✅ Free Admission for Park and Trails (and free parking)

    ❌ Stroller-friendly Trails

    ❌ Reservations needed

    Camp Ben McCulloch is a local favorite and has been around as a campground and reunion site for many years. It’s the location of an exclusive annual reunion with domino tournaments, picking circles, nightly dances, and lots of late night chats. However, for the rest of the year, this unique parcel of land with Onion Creek running through it is open for public use… for free!

    We’re excited to share everything we love about Camp Ben McCulloch in Driftwood, TX!

    Simple Trails along Onion Creek

    Access trails from any the roads or campsites on the westside within the campgrounds. Just find an opening in the short fence and head slightly downhill toward the creek. There are no marked trails, but there are paths on the banks of the creek that are obvious and easy to follow. When the water is low, you can explore along the creek bed and do a little easy climbing as well. There are several climbing trees, as well as a few tall oaks with boards nailed in them as climbing ladders. All climbing and hiking is at your own risk! Read warning signs.

    Easy Parking and Access

    Google Maps will take you directly to the entrance. You can park for free in designated parking areas or along the roads near campsites. People may be camping, usually in travel trailers, so just don’t disturb them or park in their spaces. There are usually spots open near the pavilion and playground on the east side.

    Shaded Seating Area/Pavilions

    As mentioned, Camp Ben is used as a meeting place for an annual reunion, so there are several picnic tables under a covered pavilion, as well as several tables under beautiful shade trees, perfect for picnicking. There’s a larger pavilion with bench/pew seating and a stage, which makes this hangout spot especially fun for kids or kids-at-heart with big imaginations.

    Playground and Restrooms

    You can’t go wrong with a new well-maintained playground near stocked bathrooms.

    The Creek!

    When water levels in the area are up, Onion Creek is an awesome spot for swimming or just cooling off in shallow water. There is one deep area with a rope swing that’s become a highlight of visits to Camp Ben for many, but the water hasn’t been deep enough to use it in several months. When the water is flowing and the bacteria levels are low, you can find kids flipping off the rope swing, teens floating in tubes, and adults enjoying a cold drink and toes tickling the water while propped up in a camping chair set in the shallow, rocky end of the creek.

    BBQ Across the Street

    Another big benefit to making the trip to Camp Ben is that Salt Lick BBQ Restaurant is right across the highway. Grab some ribs and brisket to go for your picnic at the pavilion or enjoy the sunset after a full day of play while sitting on the patio at Salt Lick. Other excellent spots nearby include Duchman Winery, Vista Brewing, Hays City Store, and Driftwood Dugout.

    The next time you wake up to a beautiful day and no plans, pack a bag, pick up some friends, and head to Camp Ben. If you’re able to go on a weekday, you’ll likely have the place to yourselves. 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!

  • Easy Hike with Reward at the End: Jester King

    Easy Hike with Reward at the End: Jester King

    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.