Pedernales Falls Horse Campground

For Texans, the call of the wild often leads us to explore the diverse and captivating landscapes of our state. The Texas Hill Country, with its rolling terrain, clear rivers, and stunning rock formations, is a perennial favorite for outdoor enthusiasts. If you're an equestrian, a seasoned hiker, or simply someone looking for a serene camping experience away from the busiest crowds, Pedernales Falls Horse Campground, located within the expansive Pedernales Falls State Park in Johnson City, offers a unique and memorable retreat. It’s a place where the natural beauty of the Pedernales River truly shines, providing an ideal setting for both active adventure and peaceful relaxation.

Pedernales Falls State Park, and specifically its dedicated Horse Campground, is designed for those who appreciate a more immersive and less crowded connection with nature. While the main falls area can draw significant crowds, the equestrian and hiking trails offer a quieter perspective, allowing you to truly soak in the tranquility of the surroundings. This campground caters to a specific niche – horse owners seeking rugged trails, but also appeals to hikers looking for extensive paths and campers who value a natural, unblemished environment. It’s a testament to the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department's commitment to preserving and sharing the diverse beauty of our state.

In this article, we’ll delve into the distinct advantages of choosing Pedernales Falls Horse Campground for your next Texas outing. We’ll cover its location and accessibility, the specific services tailored for both you and your equine companions, and the many features and highlights that make it such a beloved spot for those in the know. So, if you're a Texan seeking an authentic outdoor experience, eager to explore miles of trails, or simply looking for a peaceful camping spot in the heart of the Hill Country, read on to discover why Pedernales Falls Horse Campground might be your perfect match.

Location and Accessibility

Pedernales Falls Horse Campground is located within Pedernales Falls State Park, at 2585 Park Road 6026, Johnson City, TX 78636, USA. This address places it squarely in the heart of the picturesque Texas Hill Country, approximately 10 miles east of Johnson City and about 30 miles west of Austin. For Texans, this location offers a fantastic balance of a secluded natural environment and convenient access from major population centers.

Accessing the campground is straightforward, typically involving a drive on well-maintained state park roads. While not directly off a major Interstate, the park is easily reached via state highways that connect to larger thoroughfares like US-290, which links Austin and Fredericksburg, and US-281. This ensures a relatively easy journey for campers traveling with RVs, trailers, and, of course, horse trailers. The drive itself through the rolling hills of the Texas Hill Country is part of the experience, offering scenic views before you even arrive at the park entrance.

The "Johnson City, TX 78636" address means that while the campground itself is nestled in nature, basic amenities are available within a short drive. Johnson City, just 10 miles west, offers grocery stores, gas stations, and local eateries for resupply. For those seeking more diverse options, Dripping Springs, about 13 miles southeast, provides additional art galleries, wineries, and breweries, enhancing the overall visitor experience. This blend of remote tranquility and proximity to necessary services makes Pedernales Falls Horse Campground an ideal choice for Texans looking for an authentic outdoor adventure without feeling completely disconnected.

Furthermore, the park’s location within the larger Pedernales Falls State Park offers immediate access to its diverse geological formations, the iconic Pedernales River, and a wide array of recreational activities. This means that once you've set up camp, the natural wonders and extensive trail systems are right at your fingertips, making the entire park your playground.

Services Offered

• Equestrian Group Camp Sites: The campground is specifically designed for equestrian use. It offers a dedicated "equestrian group camp" area. While not individual sites, it accommodates groups with horses.

• Horse Pens: Within the equestrian group camp, there are "six horse pens" available for containing horses, ensuring their safety and convenience during your stay.

• Water for Horses: "Well water for horses" is provided at the trailer parking area and at the midway point of the equestrian trail, ensuring hydration for your animals during rides and at camp.

• Group Fire Ring: The equestrian group camp includes a "group fire ring," providing a communal space for campfires and social gatherings.

• Portable Toilet: A "portable toilet" is available at the equestrian group camp for convenience.

• Showers and Restrooms (at main campground): While the equestrian group camp has a portable toilet, hot showers and flush toilets are available at the main park campground, usually a short drive away, providing full facilities for personal hygiene.

• Potable Water: Potable water for human consumption is available at the main park campground (not typically at the horse camp itself, according to some sources, so guests should confirm or bring their own).

• Dump Station: A dump station is available within Pedernales Falls State Park for RVers to empty their wastewater tanks.

• Park Store: A park store is available on-site, selling gift items and ice, though it does not serve as a full grocery store.

• Office Hours and Gate Access: The park office is open daily (typically 8:00 AM – 4:30 PM), with gates closing at 10:00 PM and reopening at 8:00 AM. After-hours check-in procedures are in place for reservations.

Features / Highlights

• Extensive Equestrian Trails: The primary highlight is the "10 miles of rugged trail" specifically designed for horseback riding. These trails are described as "very rocky with some steep slopes," requiring riding experience and recommended shoes for horses, offering a challenging and rewarding ride through the Hill Country.

• Away from Crowds: As noted by a customer, the horse campground provides "nice trails and good for hiking while away from the crowds that gather just to see the falls." This offers a more secluded and tranquil experience compared to the more popular areas of the park.

• Scenic Beauty: The park offers "beautiful views" and allows visitors to appreciate nature in a "natural setting, showcasing a peek of Texas before human expansion." This emphasis on untouched beauty is a significant draw.

• Diverse Hiking Opportunities: Beyond horse trails, Pedernales Falls State Park features a variety of hiking trails ranging from easy to challenging, including the "Twin Falls Nature Trail" and the strenuous "Wolf Mountain Trail" that features Arrowhead Pool, ensuring options for all fitness levels.

• Pedernales River Access: While swimming is restricted in the immediate falls area, there is a designated swimming area in the river, accessible via a quarter-mile hike with steep stairs. This offers a refreshing opportunity to cool off in the clear Texas waters.

• Wildlife Viewing and Bird Watching: The park is home to "more than 150 species of birds" and other typical Hill Country wildlife. There's a dedicated "bird blind and butterfly garden" for observation, enhancing the natural immersion.

• Primitive Backcountry Camping: For the adventurous, there are also hike-in primitive campsites available, offering a more rustic camping experience deeper within the wilderness.

• Ranger Programs: The park offers a variety of educational ranger programs, including prehistoric hunting demonstrations, wildlife discussions, and night sky viewing events, adding an educational and engaging dimension to your visit.

• Close to Hill Country Attractions: The park is conveniently located near other popular Hill Country destinations like Fredericksburg (known for its wineries and German heritage) and other state parks, allowing for broader exploration of the region.

Promotions or Special Offers

As a Texas State Park facility, Pedernales Falls Horse Campground operates under the pricing and reservation system set by the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department (TPWD). Specific "promotions" or "special offers" in the traditional sense of private businesses are not typically offered. However, there are established pricing structures and ways to maximize value for Texans:

• Daily Entrance Fee: There is a daily entrance fee ($6 per person aged 13 and older, subject to change) which applies in addition to any facility fees. This fee can be covered by the Texas State Parks Pass.

• Texas State Parks Pass: For frequent visitors, purchasing a Texas State Parks Pass ($70 annually, subject to change) offers significant savings. It waives the daily entrance fees for the pass holder and their guests (up to 15 people in one vehicle), providing free entry to all Texas State Parks for one year. This is the closest equivalent to a "promotion" for regular park users.

• Camping Fees: Camping fees vary by site type. For the equestrian group camp, the nightly rate is $40, in addition to the daily entrance fees. Developed sites with water and electricity in the main campground range from $15-$25 per night. Primitive hike-in sites are typically $10-$15 per night.

• Reservation System: All Texas State Parks use a reservation system for both day passes and campsites. While not a discount, reserving in advance, especially during peak seasons or holidays, is highly recommended to secure your spot and avoid disappointment.

It’s important to note that specific "promotions" beyond these established rates and the State Parks Pass are rare for state-run campgrounds. Visitors are encouraged to check the official Texas Parks and Wildlife Department website or contact the park directly for the most current fee schedule and reservation information.

Contact Information

For reservations, inquiries, or to learn more about Pedernales Falls Horse Campground and Pedernales Falls State Park in Johnson City, Texas, please use the following contact details:

Address: 2585 Park Road 6026, Johnson City, TX 78636, USA

Phone: (830) 868-7304

Mobile Phone: +1 830-868-7304 (This is the same as the main phone number for the park)

Email: Pedernales.Falls@tpwd.texas.gov

Website: tpwd.texas.gov/state-parks/pedernales-falls (Official Texas Parks & Wildlife Department page)

It is highly recommended to call the park office during business hours (typically 8:00 AM – 4:30 PM daily) for specific questions, especially regarding Coggins test requirements for horses, trail conditions (as they may close due to weather), after-hours gate codes for late arrivals, and current availability for the equestrian group camp or other campsites. Reservations for all Texas State Parks are typically made through the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department's reservation system online or via phone.

Conclusion: Why this place is suitable for locals

For Texans who deeply appreciate the natural splendor of the Hill Country and seek an authentic outdoor experience, Pedernales Falls Horse Campground offers a uniquely suitable destination. Its primary appeal for locals lies in its specialized equestrian facilities, extensive trail system, and the opportunity to experience the iconic Pedernales Falls State Park from a more secluded perspective, often "away from the crowds."

The dedication to equestrian activities is a significant draw for horse owners across Texas. The "10 miles of rugged trail" provides a challenging and rewarding riding experience, allowing riders to explore the diverse landscapes of the park on horseback. The provision of "six horse pens" and "well water for horses" ensures that equine companions are well-cared for, making it a truly horse-friendly destination. This specialization makes it a prime choice for Texans involved in equestrian pursuits, offering a dedicated space within a state park that truly caters to their passion.

Beyond the equestrian focus, the campground's setting within Pedernales Falls State Park offers broader appeal to all Texans who value outdoor recreation. The availability of "nice trails and good for hiking" provides ample opportunities for exploration on foot, from the scenic "Twin Falls Nature Trail" to more challenging routes. The chance to witness the dramatic Pedernales Falls and explore the river's swimming areas (with caution for flash floods) provides iconic Texas experiences. For locals, this means having a vast natural playground easily accessible for day trips or longer camping excursions.

Furthermore, the park's commitment to a "very natural setting" and its generally "quiet" atmosphere, as noted by visitors, resonates with Texans seeking a true escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. The opportunity to enjoy "wildlife watching" and "bird watching" adds to the serene experience. While the amenities are designed for a more rugged camping experience, the availability of showers and restrooms within the larger park ensures essential comforts are still within reach. Pedernales Falls Horse Campground is more than just a place to stay; it's an invitation for Texans to connect with the raw beauty of the Hill Country, embrace outdoor adventure, and create lasting memories in a setting that feels authentically Texan.