Gorgeous, untouched nature is at your fingertips. Hop in the car and take a leisurely drive to Cedar Creek, Texas. Soon, you’ll reach McKinney Roughs Nature Park, and the surrounding views will wash away your worries. Enjoy scenic trails, tranquil waters, and exhilarating zip-line adventures. You can do almost anything at this epic nature park near Austin.

This little-known nature park is full of stunning sights.

capitollover/TripAdvisor Discover 1,100 acres of pristine nature at McKinney Roughs Nature Park. This hidden oasis is taken care of by the Lower Colorado River Authority, and there’s something for everyone to enjoy. A quick 13 mile drive east from the Austin Bergstrom International Airport will lead you somewhere unforgettable.

First, stop in at the visitor’s center.

capitollover/TripAdvisor Here, you can get information regarding the trails, facilities, and exhibits. Chat with the friendly staff and pick their brain about the lush vegetation and wildlife. There’s no shortage of excitement to uncover at McKinney Roughs Nature Park.

Stroll through the science center and learn about this Central Texas gem.

capitollover/TripAdvisor In addition to the interesting exhibits and displays, the science center hosts special programming for field trips and corporate team building events. Here, you can listen to the experts explain why the “river is the reason” for this incredible park system.

Soak up the sunny skies by floating on the river.

management/TripAdvisor The glistening water and verdant trees make an excellent backdrop for your kayaking adventures.

With over 18 miles of trails, McKinney Roughs Nature Park is full of shimmering sights.

management/TripAdvisor There are four different ecosystems in these 18 acres. Here, you can stroll past a Post Oak Savannah, a Blackland Prairie, an East Texas Piney Woods, and a riparian zone all in one day!

The wildflower meadows and rolling canyons are full of beauty.

capitollover/TripAdvisor You can’t find views like these anywhere else. Keep your eye out for rare wildlife. Bald eagles are known to soar overhead.

You can take your trip to the next level by enrolling in one of their special programs.

McKinney Roughs Nature Park/Facebook McKinney Roughs Nature Park regularly offers Texas outdoor survival classes where you can learn from the experts. Keep your eye out for upcoming sunset float trips and stargazing parties. Nature is best enjoyed with a large community.

If you’re feeling adventurous, you can soar above the trees at Zip Lost Pines.

Zip Lost Pines/Facebook Embark on a canopy zip line tour and experience the region from above. An expert guide will ensure your safety and excitement at all times.

McKinney Roughs Nature Park is a thrilling excursion for the whole family.

McKinney Roughs Nature Park/Facebook You can find this gorgeous place at 1884 Hwy 71 West in Cedar Creek, Texas. Entrance costs $5 for adults (children 12 and under are free). McKinney Roughs Nature Park is open every day from sunrise to sunset. To learn more, visit their website or Facebook page.

Have you experienced McKinney Roughs Nature Park yet? If you need more nature in your life, visit these 10 secret spots in Austin.

capitollover/TripAdvisor

Discover 1,100 acres of pristine nature at McKinney Roughs Nature Park. This hidden oasis is taken care of by the Lower Colorado River Authority, and there’s something for everyone to enjoy. A quick 13 mile drive east from the Austin Bergstrom International Airport will lead you somewhere unforgettable.

Here, you can get information regarding the trails, facilities, and exhibits. Chat with the friendly staff and pick their brain about the lush vegetation and wildlife. There’s no shortage of excitement to uncover at McKinney Roughs Nature Park.

In addition to the interesting exhibits and displays, the science center hosts special programming for field trips and corporate team building events. Here, you can listen to the experts explain why the “river is the reason” for this incredible park system.

management/TripAdvisor

The glistening water and verdant trees make an excellent backdrop for your kayaking adventures.

There are four different ecosystems in these 18 acres. Here, you can stroll past a Post Oak Savannah, a Blackland Prairie, an East Texas Piney Woods, and a riparian zone all in one day!

You can’t find views like these anywhere else. Keep your eye out for rare wildlife. Bald eagles are known to soar overhead.

McKinney Roughs Nature Park/Facebook

McKinney Roughs Nature Park regularly offers Texas outdoor survival classes where you can learn from the experts. Keep your eye out for upcoming sunset float trips and stargazing parties. Nature is best enjoyed with a large community.

Zip Lost Pines/Facebook

Embark on a canopy zip line tour and experience the region from above. An expert guide will ensure your safety and excitement at all times.

You can find this gorgeous place at 1884 Hwy 71 West in Cedar Creek, Texas. Entrance costs $5 for adults (children 12 and under are free). McKinney Roughs Nature Park is open every day from sunrise to sunset. To learn more, visit their website or Facebook page.

OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article.