JOHNSON CITY, Texas — The scenery is so breathtaking, it's almost like it's fake, but Pedernales Falls State Park is very real.
Before 1970, it was a working ranch. Now, it is 5,200 plus acres or trails, riverbank and campsites that thrill people.
Even in the dead of winter, the parking lots, trails and riverbank are busy with people just looking to get away, if only for a few little while, and enjoy what is some of the most beautiful land in the Texas Hill Country.
The Pedernales River runs along the north-east edge of the park, and in the summer, the water is lined with people swimming, tubing and wading, just to beat the heat.
Year-round, there are almost 20 miles of hiking and mountain biking trails, 10 miles of equestrian trails and 14 miles of hiking trails to get your exercise or keep you warm.
Pedernales Falls also has lots of picnic areas and campsites, including some primitive campsites that could have you walking two miles or more, just to get there.
Others are easy enough to back in your RV, hook up the water and electricity and catch a show or movie.