South Llano River State Park opened in 1990. The land was a generous donation from Walter Buck, who first moved to the property in 1910.
The park is known for the South Llano River which flows through the park.
Location
1927 Park Road 73, Junction, Texas 76849
Cost
The entry fee for South Llano River State Park is $5 per person over the age of 13. There is free admission for people ages 12 and under.
There are additional fees for overnight stays which vary depending on the type of campsite.
To save money when visiting South Llano River State Park, I recommend looking at a Texas State Parks Pass. The pass costs $70 a year. The benefit of the pass is that it allows the pass holder, and any passengers in their vehicle to enter the park without paying the day use fee.
Reservations
Reservations can be made in advance online. Reservations can be made for campsites or for day use. Reservations should be made as soon as you know your plans.
This is a popular park that often reaches capacity, even for day use. If you do not have a reservation you may be turned away at the gate.
Staying at South Llano River State Park
Campsites
Hike in primitive campsites are $10 per night. They have a picnic table and there is a composting toilet in the area. The hike is at least 1.5 miles.
Walk in campsites with water are $15 per night. These campsites have a picnic table, a fire ring, and water in the area. There is a chemical toilet.
Campsites with electricity are $20 per night. They have a picnic table and hookups for water and electric. There are bathrooms with showers in the vicinity.
Restrooms in South Llano River State Park
The main camping loop has a restroom with a shower. There are also some chemical toilets.
Hiking Trails
There are over 22 miles of trails in the park.
Frontera Trail is 4.0 miles and the longest and most difficult trail in the park. It is suitable for hiking or biking.
Mid-Canyon Trail is 2.5 miles long and has good nature viewing.
West Canyon Loop Trail is 2.4 miles long and goes through a canyon.
What is there to do at South Llano State Park?
You can fish in the South Llano River. Fishing licenses are not required for fishing from the shores of a state park.
Swimming is allowed in the river. There is a dedicated swimming area in the park. Dogs and glass containers are not permitted in the swimming area.
You can tube the river. Tubes can be rented from the park.
You can kayak or canoe. If you do not have your own, there are local outfitters that offer rentals and shuttle services.
Go stargazing. The park is an International Dark Sky Park.
Try you hand at nature photography or going birding. The park is known for turkeys.
Dogs at South Llano River State Park
South Llano River State Park allows dogs into the park. Dogs must be on a leash in public areas of the park including on hiking trails. Owners must clean up after their dogs.
Dogs are not allowed inside any of the buildings, including the bathrooms.
Dogs are not allowed in the dedicated swimming area.
What to do near South Llano State Park
Junction, Texas
Junction, Texas is 6 miles from the park. Junction is the county seat of Kimble County, Texas and has a population of 2,500 people. Visit Kimble County Historical Museum or eat at Lum’s BBQ.