 The Park's History
The park is named for Thomas F. McKinney, who came to Texas in the early 1820s as one of
Stephen F. Austin's first 300 colonists. Sometime between 1850 and 1852, McKinney moved to
Travis County and his property on Onion Creek, where he became a prominent breeder of race
horses with his own stable and private track. He built his large two-story home, stone
fences, and the first flour mill in the area with slave labor.
Park Activities
Preserved in the park are the ruins of his trainer's cabin and the stabilized ruins of his
own homestead. Camping, hiking, mountain biking, road biking, picnicking, fishing,
and wildlife observation are other activities. Swimming is now allowed in Onion Creek;
call 512/243-1643 for current creek conditions.
 The Park's Facilities
Park facilities include screened shelters with bunk beds (no mattresses); campsites with
water; campsites with water and electricity; walk-in water sites (200 yards in with a
picnic table, a fire ring, a grill, and water in area); picnic sites; an interpretive
hiking trail, approximately 3/4 mile long; 3.5 miles of paved trails; 4 miles of multi-use
trails for hiking and mountain biking; an interpretive center with an exhibit room and
audiovisual room; a sponsored youth group area; and a group camp which includes the
screened shelters located next to the dining hall; the dining hall (capacity 80) may be
rented separately for day use. There is also an amphitheater that seats 50 people. |
