Spring Break in Texas Hill Country: A Fun Camping & Hiking Trip
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Looking for fun things to do during Spring Break in Texas Hill Country?
I got you covered here. Our family went to Texas Hill Country for a spring break more than once. In this article I will share with you the one year we did a few hikes, a history tour, played in the water, stargaze, and slept in a tent.
Most of the time we based our vacation to Texas Hill Country in Fredericksburg, and so was this camping and hiking trip. We wanted to stay in one of the state parks near Fredericksburg, but they were all fully booked.
Fortunately we know of a place that always has spaces for last minute tent campers. It’s only 10 minutes away from downtown Fredericksburg, has hot showers, and only $10 nightly. A place called Lady Bird Johnson Municipal Park.
This Spring Break in Texas Hill Country itinerary began from our house in the south of Fort Worth. If you live in the Dallas/Fort Worth area you are in luck. If not, you can always follow this itinerary once you are in Fredericksburg.
Since this is a camping and hiking trip and you will visit a few state parks, you must reserve your day passes or campsite in advance.
We went before Covid where everyone could come on the day they wanted to visit the park without reservation. But even so, we didn’t get to enter Enchanted Rock on our first attempt.
Also, since we decided to make the trip a week before Spring Break, all campsites in Texas State Parks near Fredericksburg were fully booked.
Apparently, camping and hiking during Spring Break in Texas Hill Country is a favorite thing to do.
A Fun Spring Break in Texas Hill Country
Assuming you have camping gears, you are ready to go. If you don’t, and this will be your first camping trip, I suggest you rent camping gears from places like REI. Don’t spend your money right away to buy all kinds of gear. Maybe camping is not your thing.
If you don’t feel like camping, you can always stay in the hotel. Fredericksburg has so many hotels to choose from. Go find them here.
Next, let the fun spring break in Texas Hill Country begin.
DAY 1 – Home to Fredericksburg for Spring Break in Texas Hill Country
In my opinion, no better way to get to Fredericksburg than the back road. You will drive through small Texas towns and stop at so many interesting places along the way.
You will drive on US-67 S to US-281 N before turning to TX-16 S/N State Hwy 16 to Fredericksburg. Sometimes you will see bluebonnets when driving from Cleburne to Glen Rose at this time.
As always, our family’s first stop on the way to Fredericksburg is Wiseman House Chocolate in Hico. It is right at the corner of the traffic light after you pass historic downtown Hico on the left. They have all kinds of homemade chocolate and they put samples for customers to taste. Mmm… delicious. My favorite is Almond Toffee Crunch. You will love this stop.
Then we cross the street to Koffee Kup Family Restaurant which was rating #3 in Texas Country Reporter for the best pies in Texas. Our son loves their giant donut that tasted like it was from my mother’s kitchen.
If you like popcorn, you must stop at Hico Popcorn Works in the downtown area. Their caramel jalapeno popcorn is yummy!
During the trip, we drove to the giant spur art about a ¼ mile up north from Koffee Kup, which was actually a custom made gateway for a ranch.
Then continue driving past Hamilton, Goldthwaite, San Saba, and Llano. Make a quick stop at interesting places between Fort Worth and Fredericksburg at these small towns.
When we got to downtown Llano I saw a Rural Road 152 sign and asked my husband to turn that direction. It was on my to-do list after I searched the internet. It is said as one of the scenic drives that will “take your breath away” between Llano and Fredericksburg during spring time. Well, it was not! I think our spring break trip was too early for bluebonnets and the wildflowers. The road took us to Mason, then we turned around toward south of Fredericksburg.
I wrote a special post on things to do in Llano that you may want to check. You can spend some time in Llano on the way home, or save it for another trip.
After pitching your tent or checking in at the hotel, go downtown for a little shopping or window shopping. However, note that most stores in Fredericksburg are closed at 5pm.
Or, just have a light supper at the campsite and relax.
When we were there, sunset was beautiful and when night fell, we could see the moon, Jupiter, Orion Belt, Big Dipper, North Star, Sirius, and thousands of stars very clear above. Bring your telescope with you.
DAY 2 – Hiking at Colorado Bend State Park
Today you will visit Colorado Bend State Park in Bend, near San Saba. From Lady Bird Johnson Municipal Park it takes around 1.5 hours drive. It’s going back to where you drove yesterday.
You will hike to Gorman Falls, one of the most popular spots in Colorado Bend. In fact, one of the most popular waterfalls in Texas. The hike is a 3-mile round trip over rough and rocky terrain. Be sure to wear your hiking shoes, or sturdy walking shoes. I saw visitors in their flip flops, and it’s not recommended at all. Don’t forget to bring plenty of water.
Then go to Spicewood Springs for some swim. If the water is still cold on your visit, rent a kayak. Or, you can always add another trail to explore.
When we visited Colorado Bend, we started our day by hiking the Cedar Chopper Loop. The plan was to have a picnic lunch at Dogleg Canyon, turn around, and continue driving to Gorman Falls trailhead.
After lunch at the Dogleg Canyon, we wanted to hike a bit more, then a bit more, and we ended up at the river. When we looked back to where we came, we chose to hike the flat River Trail rather than climbing to where we started. We checked the map and it showed that the River Trail would take us to Gorman Falls. It was a long and tiresome hikes, and my husband didn’t make it to Gorman Falls because he had to pick up the car.
Don’t make the same mistake on hiking to Gorman Falls like us. Although, it’s another experience in itself.
Back to downtown Fredericksburg, stop at Clear River Ice Cream. You deserve a sweet treat after a hike at Colorado Bend.
Then drive to Pioneer Museum and Vereins Kirche.
If you are too tired to cook supper, try German food in one of the restaurants in town. I like Spicy Texas Schnitzel at The Auslander. Your dog can sit with you at their biergarten in the back.
DAY 3 – Lyndon B. Johnson State Park & Historic Site and Pedernales Falls State Park
On the third day of your Spring Break in Texas Hill Country, it’s more of a history tour. Your first stop is Lyndon B. Johnson State Park & Historic Site. It is located in Stonewall on US-290 E, about 30 minutes drive from the campground.
In this park you will learn a lot about our 36th president: his birth, childhood, political career, retirement, and death. Also, how was life back in the early 1900-s.
First stop will be the Visitor Center. You will see President Johnson memorabilia from his time in the office, and learn about the land and the people that helped shape his world view. There’s also a short film on LBJ and the park.
You can shop for souvenirs, books, and other items at the park store. And don’t forget to obtain your driving pass to LBJ Ranch which is your next stop.
LBJ Ranch is located across the Pedernales River, and is part of the Lyndon B. Johnson National Historical Park. You will do a self-guided tour and will visit LBJ’s old school, family cemetery, and his reconstructed birthplace.
Then you will stop at the ranger station. Here you will see more of the history of the president as well as his private jet and cars collection, including his white Lincoln convertible and Amphicar.
The Texas White House where he did his political activity during his presidential is located just next door. We didn’t do the house tour because the wait line was long and we still had to go to 2 other places. And now, the White House is closed for tours because of construction issues.
If you travel with children, they can do the Junior Ranger Program at LBJ National Historical Park.
Next, you will visit Sauer-Beckmann farm. This is a living history farm, located near the Visitor Center. Rangers and volunteers wore period clothing, did the farm and household chores as they were done back in the 1900s. It’s a good place to teach children about farm living at the beginning of the 20th century in Fredericksburg.
On the way to Pedernales, stop at LBJ’s boyhood home and the Lyndon B. Johnson National Historical Park Visitor Center in Johnson City.
Then have lunch in the city. I like street tacos at East Main Grill in the Old Lumber Yard Complex. If you want something fast, there are Subway and Dairy Queen. Dairy Queen is located at the intersection to Pedernales Falls State Park.
Pedernales Falls State Park is the last destination for today. Go straight to Pedernales Falls Trailhead at the end of the park. You can’t swim there, but you will be mesmerized by the falls and the potholes.
You can also do some hikes and drive to the swimming area (check the park and trails maps.) Don’t forget to pack your swimsuits. You never know whether the water is warm enough for swimming or not. We didn’t bring ours and it was in the 80s!
Back at the campsite and enjoy the night sky until it’s time to sleep.
DAY 4 – Enchanted Rock State Natural Area, Inks Lake State Park, and home
Last day of your spring break in Texas Hill Country. You will go to Enchanted Rock and hike the famous Summit Trail. As I wrote this post, you are still required to reserve day passes for weekends, school breaks, and holidays visit.
Get the earliest passes, because it gets hot fast at the summit. Also, it’s easier to find a parking space near the trailhead.
But first, grab some pastry from the Old German Bakery & Restaurant. Address is 225 W Main St. It’s on your way to Enchanted Rock.
Many people hike the Summit Trail to the top (1,823 ft.). The distance to the summit is .8 mi with challenging difficulty. It would take around 45 minutes to reach the top, but you will make lots of stops. The views and the rock formation are just amazing. One thing to remember, hiking this trail is like climbing the stairs of a 30- or 40- story building. But it’s worth it!
Once you get to the summit, enjoy your time. There are at least 4 things to do at the top:
- looking for vernal pools,
- seeing part of Fredericksburg,
- exploring the rock formations all over the top,
- and of course, climbing the rocks with your own risks.
Then go down from a different side that will take you to Echo Canyon Trail. The difficulty of Echo Canyon Trail is moderate-challenging. If you still have the energy, keep going on Echo Canyon Trail, then turn to Base Trail. From Base Trail either you turn to Turkey Pass Trail or keep going and turn to Loop Trail. Both trails will take you back to where you start (the parking.)
It’s time to go home, and you will drive through Llano again. By this day, bluebonnets are probably blooming along the road. That’s what happened to us. The roadside between the park (RR 965) and highway 16 to Llano looked pretty with bluebonnets blooming on both sides of the road. But, the road is full with no stop signs.
In Llano you may want to have lunch at Cooper’s BBQ, like we did. It was delicious! Excellent barbeques! It’s not cheap, though. You have to prepare $$ for each one in your group.
From Llano takes a different way home. Go through Burnet, the Bluebonnet Capital of Texas. Hopefully the Bluebonnets and Indian Paintbrushes are blanketing the roadsides by this time.
In Burnet you will visit one more state park and make a short hike. Drive to Inks Lake State Park and hike to Devil’s Waterhole area. A cool spot that you may want to play in the water one more time before ending your camping and hiking adventure during spring break in Texas Hill Country.
Don’t forget to check your watch! You still have another 3 hour to drive until you get home.
So, what do you think? Have you ever visited one, two, or all of the places I mentioned above?
If you haven’t been, you will enjoy your camping and hiking trip during spring break in Texas Hill Country like we did. Texas Hill Country is just a beautiful destination in Texas.
This is really helpful. Will check your post too about the things to do in Llano since we might have a chance to visit soon. It would be nice to learn more about President Johnson and see his car collection. Bookmarking your post for future reference.
Spring Break in the Texas Hill Country is a perfect idea for hiking lovers. I had no idea that Texas offers so many beautiful and exciting states parks!. I love the idea of taking canoeing by the Devil’s Hole at Inks Lake SP. Also, Pedernales Falls and Gorman Falls are so incredible.
Let’s just say Texas is full with surprises! 🙂
Sounds like a fun and inexpensive holiday while still being close to town. I was surprised to hear that the town’s shops close at 5pm. But maybe that’s the draw, just to be in nature.
Yes! It is definitely affordable. Most of the stores in small towns Texas closed at 5pm. I think it’s to give employees time to take care of their family.
Ah! I totally need to explore Texas more. I’ve only ever been to Dallas. And you’re right about gear. REI is one of the best places to get the right stuff. Looks like such a lovely trip!
You totally need to come back to Texas. Fredericksburg is a Texas wine country. Maybe you can arrange a honeymoon trip here. 😉
Love that you included camping with exploring Texas Hill Country. I have fond memories of stargazing with my Dad when I camped as a child. You found a great variety of things to do, like hiking and canoeing, and of course, stopping for ice cream! I think outdoor vacations are the best, keeping you in touch with nature and unplugging from our phones and electronics.
We like nature and outdoor things. And Texas Hill Country has best spots for it.
Hi your blog is amazing really inspired your content Thank you for sharing. Have a great day
Thank you for stopping by!
I’ve never visited any places mentioned, but pitching a tent and looking at the stars at Lady Bird sounds like a lovely date idea with my boyfriend! Sounds very peaceful and safe during these COVID times
While I love hiking, for the night rest I usually choose more comfortable options. But after reading your post I am inclined to try camping and hiking around Hill Country during Spring Break. Hill county looks stunning and I am sure I’ll love it there, especially the 4 things you did at the top
I am sure you will fall in love with Hill Country. I still like to go back for finding new treasures there.
I’m not much of a camper, but I love hiking and Hill Country looks like a great travel destination. Wiseman House Chocolate at Hico would be my favorite place to visit. What can be better than homemade chocolate?
Hill country is one of the great travel destination in Texas and we still have to visit more towns there. And yes, homemade chocolate is always the best.
What a beautiful part of the country to hike around. I’ve never been to Texas when in the US, so it’s interesting to read about these places. I also like the sound of the places you stopped to eat at, especially that big doughnut, sounds delicious! It was fun to learn about Hill Country and the history behind the places too.
You should plan a trip to Texas next time you come to the US. It’s different than the big cities in the east coast and west coast.
What a beautiful place to hike and camp around. You people seem to have had such a quality family time at the hill country. Your boy looks so happy and cute. Love LBJ and the white building but the best part are the colorful blossoms on the rocks.
Spring time is always a great time for visiting Hill Country and the weather is always nice. So, everyone is happy!
This sounds such a fun trip. You totally had me with chocolate and pies on day one lol. The idea of the Coopers BBQ would keep my partner happy too,. Thanks for sharing.
When I think about this trip, I realized it was a fun one and I love it!
We spent time driving around Texas Hill Country last year. It is a beautiful area. Unfortunately we never had time to visit the LBJ National Park, we should have after reading your information. Thanks for your photos and information on this area.
I hope you will get a chance to visit Texas Hill Country again, so you can stop at LBJ NP.
Such a interetsing post. Definitely not a place I reckon I’ll ever get to experience. Sorry the scene drive didn’t turn out to be as breathtaking as poeple said. Hate building up that expectation only to be disappointed. The one room school is so cool. Not something I have ever come across! Can’t believe its still there. Pedernales Falls State Park looks lovely. Wading is better than nothing I suppose. And those flowers…. so gorgeous!
Bluebonnets are the flowers that we Texan wait every year. It’s just it don’t always blooming during Spring Break. Most of the time is after the Spring Break. lol.
What a fantastic vacation you all had, its easy to see from the smiles in your photos! I definitely would’ve wanted to go for a swim in Pedernales Falls, that looked like a lot of fun. Glad you could still take a dip even though you didn’t have your swimsuits!
We always talked about going back to Pedernales for swimming but there are other places that we haven’t visited yet. So, maybe one day we will get to swim there.
What a great trip to take a family! I am always on the lookout for great family travel destinations. That chocolate house sound incredible! I would definitely enjoy that stop. 🙂
Thank you, Leah!
I was planning a trip to the LBJ museum later this summer and this looks like a great itinerary for when I’m in Texas. The Wiseman Chocolate House also looks like an enjoyable stop. Never heard of it but it certainly is my kind of tourist stop from the sounds of it.
You will enjoy it. Don’t forget to visit the vineyards if you like wine.
Oh, what a fun time with the family amidst the nature. The hiking trail to the waterfall does seem scary, but well worth the view. So lucky to have spent the night camping and stargazing, that is definitely something I would enjoy thoroughly.
Looks to be a very fun vacation for a family to go on. Plus it is very educational. I did not know there was Park and “White House” for Lyndon B. Johnson.
It is fun for a family vacation. I encourage my friends to go there because it’s not only fun, but closer to home and affordable. Too bad, most of them still think that’s not the place for vacation. 🙁 And yes, We try to put an educational part during our travel time. I never heard about the Texas White House either until I searched places around Hill Country for our Spring Break.
Texas Hill Country is an amazing place to explore during the vacation. Fredericksburg is an adventurous place to spend time watching stars while camping. And I would love to taste almond toffee crunch at Wise house chocolate and the caramel jalapeno popcorns at Hico popcorn works.
You won’t be disappointed at all.
What a great way to spend your break! I love exploring, and really appreciate the fact that you didn’t let any last minute obstacles deter you. That giant spur really is something i must go see for myself 🙂
Thank you! We really enjoyed our break. Another one is coming soon, but nothing is set yet.
Awwwwwnnnnnn. Little one is so adorable and I think he had the best of fun from the camping and hiking. I also liked that it was a family trip, it’d have been boring if it were solo. Thanks for shareing your experiences at Texas Hill Country and it’s environs.
Yes, he had fun in the trip! It’s something that our family like to do.
That looked like a really fun trip. We love “big” things so the spur looks like a great photo opportunity.
The enchanted rocks remind me or some formations we saw in Tanzania. Must feel much safer without the lions everywhere.
Thanks for sharing. Keep travel blogging. Adventure is better shared with friends!
We were actually see the same spur at somebody’s ranch on the way to Fredericksburg. But the “no trespassing” sign kept us driving. Haha…
I love Hill country and hiking. Your blog is so informative. I enjoyed reading it. The photos look so inviting. Looks like you had an awesome time.
Thank you! We did have an awesome time and never get bored of Hill Country. In fact, we just went there again during Thanksgiving Break.
It looks like you had an amazing experience, and I’m sure your son had a lot of fun, especially in the House Chocolate! 🙂
Haha! Who can resist chocolate? Now we always stopped there every time we drove pass the area.
I’d never heard of any of these places before! Looks like a great place to spend in the outdoors. I especially loved the bluebonnet and indian paintbrush flowers, they are just too beautiful!
Now that you’ve heard about these places, you know where to go when an opportunity takes you to Texas. 🙂 Bluebonnet and Indian paintbrush are beautiful wildflowers. In fact, Bluebonnets is Texas’ state flower. They only appear in spring time and it depends on the volume of rain we got during fall/winter.
While I’m not much of a camper and hiker, Hill Country looks stunning and worth a visit. I can just imagine all of the stars that you witnessed and all of the lovely wildflowers that were on the side of the road. Canoeing by the Devil’s Hole looks like fun!
Yes, Hill Country is beautiful. And you can always stay in hotels or pretty B&Bs spread all over the area.
Hill Country looks quite interesting and it seems you guys had a wonderful trip
Yes, it is! We like going there and there are more things or places that we haven’t done or seen yet. That’s our to go place. Only 3,5 hours from home.
This looked like such a fun experience. I enjoyed reading it. I particularly liked the image of the rock formation. That is sooo cool!
I’m glad you enjoyed reading it! It’s funny, most of my North Texan friends don’t know about all these places though we only live around 3,5 hours from there.
Looks like a beautiful day to be outside- love the ability to learn while also enjoying the outdoors!
I agree. And that’s how we travel. We’re not only enjoying the nature, but always learned something.
I am not much of a camper but this looks a really fun weekend for the family. Love your details about the camping ground and where to get a coffee on the way there. Thanks for sharing
You are welcome! I realized how family liked to go to these places.