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Austin, Texas / Parks and outdoors

Hippie Hollow Park

Nestled on the rugged limestone shores of Lake Travis, Hippie Hollow Park is the only legally recognized clothing-optional public park in Texas, offering scenic swimming, sunbathing, and hiking for adult visitors.

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Hippie Hollow Park
LoneStarMike, CC BY 3.0

What is Hippie Hollow Park known for?

Hippie Hollow Park is widely known as the only legally recognized clothing-optional public park in the state of Texas. Located on the shore of Lake Travis, it is a popular spot for swimming, hiking, and sunbathing.

How much does it cost to visit the park?

Day-use admission is $8 per person for adults (ages 18 to 61) and $3 per person for seniors aged 62 and older. Admission is free for disabled veterans, and please note that entry fees are payable by cash only.

What are the hours of operation?

The park is open every day from 9:00 a.m. to 8:30 p.m. New entries close 30 minutes prior to closing, meaning the last admission is at 8:00 p.m.

Are kids or pets allowed at Hippie Hollow Park?

No, entry to the park is strictly restricted to visitors who are 18 years of age and older. Additionally, pets are not allowed in the park.

What should I check before going?

Use Gyde for context, then check official sources for current hours, tickets, construction, and closures.

What to know

Hippie Hollow Park is a unique destination situated on the scenic shores of Lake Travis in northwest Austin, approximately a half-hour drive from the downtown area. Spanning half a mile of shoreline, this heavily-used park attracts more than 100,000 visitors each year. It holds a distinct place in the state's recreation system as the only legally recognized clothing-optional public park in Texas. The site's history dates back to 1941, when it opened as McGregor Park following the construction of the nearby Mansfield Dam. During the 1950s and 1960s, the area's remote location along the lake's northern shore made it a popular destination for skinny-dipping, which inspired its famous 'Hippie Hollow' nickname. Although the land is owned by the Lower Colorado River Authority, it has been leased to Travis County since 1983. Following clean-up efforts and modest improvements, the county officially reopened the site as a public park in 1985. Unlike traditional sandy beaches, the park features a steep, rocky shoreline characterized by rugged limestone steps leading down to the water. Visitors frequent the park to enjoy outdoor activities such as swimming, sunbathing, and hiking along the steep slopes. To maintain a safe and respectful environment, Travis County has implemented strict regulations. In 1995, the Commissioners Court passed an ordinance restricting park entry exclusively to adults aged 18 and older. While clothing is optional and nudity is acceptable, lewd behavior is strictly prohibited. Additionally, visitors must remain clothed in the parking lot, pets are not allowed, and taking photographs requires explicit permission from other guests.

Visitor tips

  • Bring cash to pay the entry fee, which is $8 for adults and $3 for seniors aged 62 and older.
  • Ensure everyone in your group is at least 18 years old, as minors are strictly prohibited from entering.
  • Plan your arrival before 8:00 p.m., as the park closes to new entries 30 minutes before its 8:30 p.m. closing time.
  • Leave your pets at home, and remember that you must remain fully clothed while in the parking lot.

Nearby context

Located in northwest Austin's scenic Lake Travis area, Hippie Hollow Park is situated just over a mile north of the popular Oasis restaurant. This rugged, hilly neighborhood is famous for its dramatic lakeside cliffs and panoramic sunset views, making it a favorite escape for locals and travelers seeking outdoor recreation away from the urban core.

Sources

Evidence and links