You don’t have to book a vacation to the Cayman Islands in order to enjoy a taste of tropical bliss. A supremely stunning getaway sits just one hour outside of Austin. At Palmetto State Park in Gonzales, the trees are verdant, the water glistens, and the sunsets are serene. Explore the swamps and paddle along the river; this place will make you want to soak up every last drop. This underrated state park near Austin will make you feel like you’re hiking through the tropics.

Even the roads shimmer with beauty.
Palmetto State Park - Texas Parks and Wildlife/Facebook
Before you even reach your destination, Palmetto State Park will dazzle you. The views from Park Road 11 are beyond gorgeous. Shady trees arch over the roadway and seem to welcome you to this hidden getaway.
You'll want to savor every moment.
Gary Tindall/AllTrails
Exploring Palmetto State Park is a true escape. Lush swamplands and rippling rivers are just the beginning.
There's no shortage of adventure.
Palmetto State Park - Texas Parks and Wildlife/Facebook
This jaw-dropping wonderland spans 270.3 acres and has five magnificent trails. Bathe in the forest light and set your mind at ease. When you're strolling through this exhilarating landscape, nothing in the outside world matters.
The Ottine Swamp Trail will make you feel like you entered another world.
Mark Hansbauer/AllTrails
This 1.2-mile loop takes you on a wooden boardwalk across tranquil swamplands. This breezy trail is perfect for all skill levels.

Related Stories

The Riverfront State Park Near Austin That You'll Want To Visit Time And Time Again

The Riverfront State Park Near Austin That You'll Want To Visit Time And Time Again

 A Weekend Trip To This Amazing Waterfall State Park Near Austin Is All You Need This Summer

A Weekend Trip To This Amazing Waterfall State Park Near Austin Is All You Need This Summer

 This Little-Known Campground Near Austin Is Perfect For A Fall Getaway

This Little-Known Campground Near Austin Is Perfect For A Fall Getaway
On this trail, dwarf palmettos are almost everywhere you look.
Mark Hansbauer/AllTrails
These strikingly beautiful plants will catch your attention. It's no wonder the park was named after them.
It's not every day that you get views like these.
Palmetto State Park - Texas Parks and Wildlife/Facebook
Stare in awe at the majestic San Marcos River.
E/Flickr
This calm river is ideal for canoeing. If you don't have your own gear, pedal boats, fishing boats, and kayaks are available for rent inside the park.
You could spend an entire weekend absorbing these wonderful surroundings.
Mark Hansbauer/AllTrails
Cozy up in a rustic cabin or pitch a tent under the stars. No matter how you choose to spend the night, you'll be so glad you did.
Nights at Palmetto State Park are especially enchanting.
Palmetto State Park - Texas Parks and Wildlife/Facebook
Glistening constellations and shimmering skies have never looked this good. You'll want to stargaze all night long.

Palmetto State Park is located at 78 Park Rd. 11, South Gonzales, TX 78629. The park is open daily. Office hours are 8:15 a.m. to 4:45 p.m. Monday through Sunday. Entrance fees are $3 for adults, and children under 12 are free. For more information, visit The Palmetto State Park website or Facebook page.

If you need even more time in nature, visit these 8 underrated state parks near Austin.

OnlyInYourState may earn compensation through affiliate links in this article. As an Amazon Associate, we earn from qualifying purchases.

Related Articles