Raj Randeri, Chris LeBlanc and Rich Colfack tested their backpacking gear at McKinney Falls State Park. Pam LeBlanc photo

​My backpacking crew is headed east this summer, to hike a section of the Appalachian Trail. I can’t make that trip, since I’m recovering from knee surgery, but I joined the gang for a quick shakeout at McKinney Falls State Park this week.

The 641-acre park, located at the confluence of Onion Creek and Williamson Creek in southeast Austin, makes a nice spot for a quick overnight and gear testing. The campground has some nice shady spots; I like the spots on Grapevine Loop best because they’re tucked in the trees. I’ve got great memories of picnicking at the park when I was a kid, and cyclists and hikers will find 9 miles of trail to explore.

Normally, I’d make a beeline to the Lower Falls, but I’m still on crutches so I skipped it this time. Still, recent rains mean the water is flowing better than it has in a few months. (Don’t expect that to last.)

Visitors hike around the Upper Falls at McKinney Falls State Park on May 24, 2023. Pam LeBlanc photo

There’s better swimming but less dramatic scenery at the Upper Falls, where you can plop yourself beneath a towering cypress tree or leap into the green pool of water. When water is higher, you can jump off a rocky ledge at the swimming area.

The Smith Visitors Center at the park, which closed after flooding in 2013, reopened in October 2021. Visitors will find information about the park’s natural history, plus an observation deck. And on Thursday nights during good weather, the park hosts free line-dancing classes there from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m.

Chris LeBlanc sets up a new ultra-light backpacking tent. Pam LeBlanc photo

During this week’s Wednesday night visit, my friends loaded and unloaded their backpacks, popped up the tents they’ll be using on the trail, and sorted through seat pads, water filters and other gear. We took a slow walk around the campground, then settled in at the picnic table for dinner. (If you’ve read about my backpacking adventures, you probably know I like PackIt Gourmet camp meals the best.)

Rich Colfack, Raj Randeri and Chris LeBlanc walk around the campground at McKinney Falls State Park. Pam LeBlanc photo

Afterward, while my friends zipped themselves inside their tents, I made myself comfortable in Vincent VanGo, my Ford Transit campervan. I missed my tent, but until I’m more mobile the van makes a fun substitute.

McKinney Falls State Park is located at 5808 McKinney Falls Parkway. Admission is $6 for adults and free for ages 12 and under.

Now that summer is here, purchase day passes and book campsites in advance. The park sells out weekends and holidays.

Pam LeBlanc is recovering from knee surgery, so she slept in the campervan. Chris LeBlanc photo

The free Barton Springs shuttle will run from May 27 to Sept. 4. Photo courtesy city of Austin

A leap into Barton Springs Pool can help keep you cool this summer – but first you’ve got to get there.

I prefer traveling by bicycle, but that’s not always possible. If you do park at the pool, you’ll have to pay a $7 fee on weekends and holidays, payable at stations around the park.

Luckily, there’s a cheaper alternative. Visitors who park at One Texas Center parking garage, 505 Barton Springs Road, can hop a free shuttle to the park.

The shuttle runs from 10 a.m. until 6 p.m. every Saturday and Sunday from May 27 through Sept. 4, and on Memorial Day, the Fourth of July, and Labor Day holidays, according to city of Austin officials. You must get the driver to validate your ticket.

The shuttle drops off at the Zilker playground/Barton Springs spillway, a two-minute walk to Barton Springs Pool. No pets are allowed on the shuttle. For more information, go to AustinTexas.gov/Zilker.

Barton Springs makes a fine place to cool off on a hot summer day. Pam LeBlanc photo

My advice? When you get off the shuttle on your way back to your car, zip across the street to Sandy’s for some frozen custard.

And another tip: Buy your tickets to enter the natural, spring-fed swimming pool online in advance. For residents of Austin, admission is $2 for ages 1-11, $3 ages 12-17, $5 ages 18-62, and $2 for seniors. Infants and veterans are free. (Prices are higher for non-residents.) Season passes are $190 for adults.