White Tailed Deer
ParkTexas, US
Pace Bend Park
Pace Bend Park, a crown jewel of the Texas Hill Country, offers a captivating escape where rugged limestone cliffs dramatically meet the tranquil waters of Lake Travis.
About
Pace Bend Park, a crown jewel of the Texas Hill Country, offers a captivating escape where rugged limestone cliffs dramatically meet the tranquil waters of Lake Travis. This expansive Travis County Park, covering 1,368 acres, is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts seeking both adventure and serenity. With its diverse ecosystems, including scenic lake shorelines, dense woodlands of Ashe juniper and Texas live oak, and open grasslands adorned with Texas bluebonnets and firewheel, Pace Bend is a true natural masterpiece. It's a prime destination for those looking to immerse themselves in the raw beauty of Central Texas, providing breathtaking vistas and a rich tapestry of flora and fauna.
The park's interior is diligently managed as a wildlife preserve, accessible only by foot, bicycle, or horseback, offering an intimate encounter with its wild inhabitants. Visitors can explore miles of multi-use trails that wind through the hills, providing excellent views and opportunities to spot a variety of wildlife. Keep an eye out for White-tailed Deer, Gray Fox, and Coyote, which are frequently observed. The skies are alive with birds like the Northern Cardinal, Scissor-tailed Flycatcher, Great Blue Heron, and the vibrant Vermilion Flycatcher. Enthusiasts can also marvel at the intricate patterns of the Common Buckeye and Pipevine Swallowtail butterflies or search for the well-camouflaged Ornate Tree Lizard.
Whether you're cliffside admiring a stunning sunset over Lake Travis, paddling through a secluded cove, or simply enjoying a peaceful picnic amidst the distinctive Texas Persimmon and Twisted-leaf Yucca, Pace Bend Park promises memorable experiences. It’s a place where the grandeur of nature encourages exploration and appreciation, offering a diverse range of activities from thrilling cliff jumping to tranquil birdwatching. This park is not just a destination; it's an invitation to connect with the wild heart of Texas, leaving visitors refreshed and inspired by its enduring beauty. Explore the grounds like a pro—download the Snappit app to instantly identify animals and plants.
Pace Bend Park holds a history that is intertwined with the natural landscape it preserves. The park was formerly known as Paleface Park, with "Paleface" being a nickname for the cliffs found within its boundaries, reflecting the area's striking geological features. Over time, it evolved into the Travis County Park it is today, offering public access to its extensive shoreline and interior wilderness.
What to do here
Swimming (designated areas like Mudd Cove, Kate's Cove, Gracy Cove), boating (two main boat ramps at Collier Cove and Tatum Cove), kayaking, and fishing.
Trail Exploration: Hike, mountain bike, or horseback ride along the extensive network of trails.
Camping: Choose between improved campsites with water and electrical hook-ups or primitive sites scattered along the shoreline.
Wildlife Observation: Look for White-tailed Deer, Coyote, various birds, and smaller creatures.
Photography: Capture the stunning landscapes, lake views, and diverse wildlife.
Cliff Jumping: Popular in some areas, but exercise extreme caution and check water levels due to the presence of Zebra Mussels.
Seasonal info
Summer: Expect high temperatures; focus on water-based activities. Lake Travis levels can fluctuate, so check current conditions.
Spring/Fall: Mild weather makes it ideal for hiking and camping. Wildflowers are abundant in spring. Bird migration can bring additional species.
Winter: Generally mild, good for hiking and solitude. Check for burn bans if planning campfires.
Accessibility
The park features a six-mile paved roadway that loops around its perimeter, making many areas accessible by vehicle. However, the interior is managed as a wildlife preserve and is only accessible by foot, bicycle, or horseback. Information regarding specific wheelchair accessibility on trails is limited, but trails vary in difficulty from flat to steep and rocky.
Don't miss
1
Lake Travis Shoreline and Cliffs
Over nine miles of shoreline, with dramatic limestone cliffs offering breathtaking views, particularly on the west side.
2
Scenic Trails
Numerous trails for hiking, biking, and horseback riding, including popular routes like Wookie Way, Pack Trail, and Graceland.
3
Wildlife Viewing
The interior wildlife preserve is home to many species, including deer, various bird species, and smaller mammals.
4
Sunsets
The west side of the park is particularly famous for its impressive sunset views.
Wildlife you might spot
8Each card links to a full Explore page with photos, traits, and fun facts.
Snap map for this place
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Good to know before you go
Bring Cash
Park entry and amenity fees at Pace Bend Park can currently only be paid with cash.
Make Camping Reservations
For improved campsites, reservations are highly recommended, especially during holidays and summer weekends, as they tend to fill up quickly.
Wear Appropriate Footwear
Many trails are rocky and uneven, so sturdy hiking boots or shoes are advisable.
Stay Hydrated and Protected
Bring plenty of water, especially during warmer months, and use sunscreen and hats, as shade can be limited in some areas.
Respect Wildlife and Trails
The interior is a wildlife preserve; stay on marked trails where applicable and avoid disturbing animals. Practice Leave No Trace principles.
Check Lake Levels and Burn Bans
Before planning water activities, check current Lake Travis water levels. Always confirm burn ban statuses if you intend to have a campfire.
Frequently asked questions
- Pace Bend Park offers a wide range of activities including camping (improved and primitive), swimming, boating, kayaking, fishing, hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding on its extensive trail system. Visitors can also enjoy wildlife viewing and photography, especially from the dramatic limestone cliffs overlooking Lake Travis.
- Yes, Pace Bend Park offers both improved and primitive camping options. Improved campsites, primarily located on the east side near Levi Cove, provide water and electrical hook-ups, showers, and restrooms. Primitive campsites are numerous (over 300) and scattered along the shores of Lake Travis, often including a picnic table, grill, and fire ring, with pit toilets available. Reservations are highly recommended for improved sites, while primitive sites are often first-come, first-served.
- Yes, there are entry fees, which generally need to be paid in cash. Glass containers, public display of alcohol consumption, and tobacco products are prohibited in Travis County Parks, including Pace Bend. Pets must be kept on a leash no longer than six feet and under direct control. Quiet hours are enforced from 10: 00 p.m. to 7:00 a.m. Ground fires are permitted in designated areas as conditions allow, but cutting or gathering firewood is prohibited. Always check for burn ban statuses before your visit.
Recent snaps at this place
Nov 23, 2025
Nov 23, 2025
Nov 11, 2025
Oct 28, 2025
Oct 28, 2025
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