I recently wrote a blog post on the Best Day Trips from Austin, TX, but realized not all of them are social distancing friendly. So, I decided to write a new post that lists day trips from Austin during COVID that follow social distancing! I am not trying to encourage people to go out right now if they don’t feel safe, but if you are going a little stir crazy and looking to get out for a bit, here are 15 social distancing day trips from Austin, TX to try:
Day Trips from Austin during COVID that follow Social Distancing
NOTE: Most state parks are open for day visits and limited camping. Advance day pass and overnight reservations are required. Reserve them online or by calling (512) 389-8900. For most up to date info, check city and state guidelines and regulations.
Want to get wild? Visit the Natural Bridge Wildlife Ranch to see over 500 animals from more than 40 different exotic, native and endangered animal species from across the globe!
Photo from their Facebook page. Distance from Austin: A little over an hour south
Rent a Boat on Lake Travis, TX
Rent a boat and spend a day at the lake with your family!
Distance from Austin: About 40 minutes away
Blue Hole in Wimberley
The Blue Hole Regional Park, located in Wimberley, is just a short drive South of Austin and a great place to get away from the city! It’s a beautiful hidden gem (see my Instagram pic below). Check their website for the most up to date info on hours and tickets. Again, just remember to keep your distance from others.
Distance from Austin: About 45 minutes
Hidden Falls Adventure Park is a rugged trail park for off-roading vehicles. They have dirt bike, ATV/UTV, and full-size vehicle trails! Check out their website for more info, pricing, and waivers!
Distance from Austin: about an hour northwest
Krause Springs
Krause Springs is a camping and swimming hole about 30 miles northwest of Austin. As long as it’s not too crowded, this is a good option for a social distancing day. Below photo by Brian P. Barnes.
Distance from Austin: about 50 minutes west
Jacob’s Well near Wimberley, TX
Jacob’s Well Natural Area, a swimming hole in the Hill Country, reopened to the public on June 1 and is following social distancing guidelines. It’s a great place to go on a hot day for a swim! Reservations are required.
Distance from Austin: about 55 minutes southeast
Pedernales Falls State Park
Only an hour drive from downtown Austin, Pedernales Falls is a favorite park to swim, bike, and hike in among Texans! You are required to book an advance reservation right now to ensure social distancing.
Photo by Travis Witt. Distance from Austin: about 1-hour east
The Exotic Zoo Resort is home to over 600 animals and is open for drive-throughs right now. Here you can see everything from zebras, to wallabies, and even yaks! There are so many cool animals to see, making Exotic Resort Zoo a great addition to the list of social distancing day trips from Austin!
Photo from their Facebook page. Distance from Austin: a little over an hour
Pick your own produce at Sweet Berry Farm in Marble Falls! Check their website for most up to date info on when they are open.
Distance from Austin: a little over an hour
At McKinney Falls State Park, you can do it all: hike, bike, fish and swim! Check out their interactive trail maps.
Photo above by Larry D. Moore. Distance from Austin: About 15 minutes southeast
Enchanted Rock
Enchanted Rock is a great choice for anyone looking for an outdoorsy day trip from Austin — there are over 11 miles of trails! You do have to pay an entrance fee and can make a reservation online beforehand.
Distance from Austin: 1 hour and 45 minutes west
Canyon Lake
Canyon Lake is another great lake to day trip to from Austin! Rent a boat and spend the day relaxing on the water.
Distance from Austin: 1 hour and 20 minutes southwest
In Palmetto State Park you can swim, tube, fish, canoe, and more! Advanced reservations are required and it is recommended that you wear a face mask.
Distance from Austin: about 1 hour southeast
Touring Longhorn Caverns is a great day trip idea! Entry to the park grounds is free; entry to the cavern is by paid guided tours. Photo below from their website.
Distance from Austin: 1 hour and 15 minutes northwest
Hope these Social Distancing Day Trips From Austin ideas help! Have a suggestion? Let me know in the comments or send me a DM on Instagram! I will update this list as I learn more.
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xx Chels
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