This section chronicles adventures away from home and includes some Americana.

Tuesday, April 22, 2008

Pedernales Falls State Park - Near LBJ Ranch

Pedernales Falls State Park

2585 Park Road 6026
Johnson City TX 78636
830/868-7304

Park locator map



Water is the central attraction of many Texas state parks - often just a lake, with no special interest beyond general fishing, boating and swimming, but Pedernales Falls is much more dramatic. The park contains 8 miles of the Pedernales River as it meanders through the limestone hill country of the Edwards Plateau northwest of Austin, and includes the falls where the waters drop 50 feet over successive limestone layers via an impressive series of cascades and pools. The river flows through a shallow, rocky canyon with much pleasant scenery and plenty of places to explore - there are hiking trails, swimming pools and abundant nature.

History: Pedernales Falls State Park, 5211.7 acres, in Blanco County east of Johnson City, was acquired from private owners in 1970 and was opened to the public in 1971. It is located along the banks of scenic Pedernales River. This area, formerly the Circle Bar Ranch, typifies the Edwards Plateau terrain.

WARNING - The Pedernales River running through the park can flash flood with little or no warning. The water in the river can rise from a placid stream to a raging torrent in a few minutes. If you are in the river area and notice the water beginning to rise, you should leave the river area immediately. Flash flooding is a common phenomenon in the Texas Hill Country, and park visitors are encouraged to be alert to weather conditions.


Pedernales Falls
with average waterflow.

Flash flooding at Pedernales Falls.
Picture was taken 5 minutes after the previous one

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