Adventuring off road has become quite the popular recreational activity in the last few years and it’s no surprise. Taking the adventure off the road challenges you mentally and physically as you navigate the terrain and see a variety of sights while conquering, or at least trying to conquer, the obstacles encountered along the way. We’ve rounded up some of the best and most unique off-roading locations near our Austin apartments so you can plan a day to get outside and have some fun! 

ORVing Near Austin

Hidden Falls Adventure Park

Drive time from Austin: 1 hour

If you’ve been off-roading for awhile you’ve probably heard of or been to Hidden Falls Adventure Park. Here’s your sign that it’s time for a (re)visit! 

This park is probably one of the most well known parks in the area and for good reason. Their expansive trail system can accommodate motorcycles, ATVs/UTVs and full size vehicles. On Friday and Saturday there are extended hours for late night wheeling after dark. With an on-site general store, food truck, restrooms and camping, this full-service park has a little something for everyone and is well worth the visit!

SWR Offroad

Drive time from Austin: 1 hour, 30 minutes

With over 50 trails to choose from, it seems like a no brainer to check this ranch out. These trails fall into the rating categories of easy, moderate and hard/extreme, so there is a little something for everyone. Beginners and experienced drivers alike can have a blast checking out the various steep climbs and rock crawling opportunities. This family-friendly destination has a variety of campsites available ranging from primitive campsites to full RV hookup — when you’re ready to hit the trails, passengers ride for free! Please keep in mind fees are payable by cash only.

Texas Hill Country Overland Route

Drive time from Austin: 1 hour

This point-to-point overlanding trail has it all: expansive views, wildlife, forest, wildflowers and water crossings. This route is considered moderately challenging and is quite remote so plan accordingly. With limited technical obstacles, one rider described this adventure as a “scenic, relaxing and serene weekend.” For more reviews and details on this route visit AllTrails here. Please keep in mind this route passes over private property and be respectful to keep this land accessible for others!

Katemcy Rocks

Drive time from Austin: 2 hours

Pronounced “Ka-TIM-see,” this privately operated adventure park offers a lot of primary trails in addition to individual obstacles and play areas. The owners provide very detailed maps so you can choose your own adventure and try new obstacles or gain confidence on familiar terrain. You can stay onsite in one of their cabins, campsites or RV sites to fully enjoy your weekend away, and concessions are also available onsite if you need to bulk up your snacks or you want to enjoy a meal without all the prep work. Visit their website to check out the upcoming events. 

As with almost all off-roading adventures, conditions can change due to other drivers and weather patterns, so stay alert while you’re out adventuring!

Wolf Caves

Drive time from Austin: 2 hours

With 430 acres of land to explore, Wolf Caves offers unique granite outcroppings and miles of rock crawling waiting to be explored. A visit to Wolf Caves is a full weekend adventure as your entrance fee gives you access to the park all weekend long, with your choice of entering on Friday or Saturday and staying all weekend. While the park is typically closed Monday – Thursday, they may be available to offer special arrangements if you want to visit during these days. During your stay you can reserve a campsite, cabin or full RV site. Paper maps are available at the park and their website offers free downloads for the onX Offroad map. Please keep in mind this park is not for ATVs, SxS, UTVs or motorcycles. 

Off-roading locations can be hard to come by in Texas and most opportunities are on private land. Thank you for being respectful and kind during your visit while also practicing Leave No Trace so we can keep these parks alive! Let us know which park is your favorite and what you would add to this list.

Enjoy!

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Feature photo courtesy Pixabay/RonaldPlett