Benable — create shareable lists of things you recommend!
E.g., products you love, local businesses, travel recs - you can add anything to a Benable list!
Paw‑approved parks, trails, and patios for the perfect Central Texas adventure.🐾
20
items Exploring Central Texas is always better with a furry sidekick! As a dog parent, I’m always on the hunt for spots where my girls are welcome. From scenic trails and splash‑worthy parks to pet‑friendly patios and quirky Hill Country gems, these are (s...
Map
Sections
2
Dog Parks & Trails
Pet Friendly Human Spots
Dog Parks & Trails
For pups who love to sniff, splash, and explore! These are my go‑to spots in Central Texas for leashed walks, off‑leash play, and scenic nature strolls. From shady trails to wide‑open dog parks, these spots are perfect for stretching legs—yours and t...
Off‑leash dog paradise with water access for pups to splash. Shady trails make summer walks bearable. Pro tip: Bring a towel and keep an eye on water levels after rain.
RED BUD DOG PARK
Huge fenced dog parks, shady walking paths, and water fountains for pups. Pro tip: The Sky Bridge makes for great photos with your dog!
Phil Hardberger Park Conservancy
Huge open space for off‑leash running and social dogs. Pro tip: They have separate sections for small and large dogs.
Bark Park
My local haunt! Large, grassy dog park with shaded areas and separate sections for big and small pups. Close to the river for pre‑ or post‑walk fun. Pro tip: Mornings are best to avoid the afternoon heat, and weekends can get busy with local pups.
San Marcos • Dog Park
Long scenic trail perfect for dog walks, with creek access for water‑loving pups. Pro tip: Early mornings and evenings are less crowded.
Brushy Creek Regional Trail
A quieter section of St. Edwards Park offering about 2.5 miles of mostly shady, on‑leash hiking along Bull Creek—beautiful limestone pools and wildflowers make pups happy. Pro tip: Park near Spicewood Springs and skip the crowds early—this stretch is...
Upper Bull Creek Greenbelt Trail, Texas
About 2.5 miles of off‑leash hiking through woodland, creek crossings, and fern‑lined oases. Plenty of spots for pups to splash and sniff around. Pro tip: Water levels vary—skip the slickest parts after rain and come early on weekends to beat the cro...
Turkey Creek Trail, Texas
A newly opened 1.3‑mile shaded trail that’s part of a future San Antonio–Austin greenway. Quiet, peaceful, and perfect for local walks with your pup! Pro tip: Access via River Recharge (Lisa Lane) or Ringtail Ridge trailhead. There's a helpful map at...
Limestone Link Trail
Pet Friendly Human Spots
Because adventures are better together! These are my favorite Central Texas restaurants, breweries, and hangout spots where pups are welcome, and humans can relax, eat, and enjoy the day. Perfect for when you want to sip a coffee, grab a burger, or c...
A dog park meets beer garden. Humans get drinks and snacks, dogs get playtime with supervision. $5 day passes; bring proof of vaccinations.
Yard Bar
Scenic, shaded trail around the lake; dogs love the smells and activity. Pro tip: Go early in the morning during summer to avoid the heat. Or just go in fall like a reasonable human in Texas.
Austin's Hike & Bike Trail at Lady Bird Lake
Dogs are welcome on the huge patio, and they even have a dog‑friendly sausage on the menu. Pro tip: Sunday brunch with live music is extra fun with dogs.
Banger's Sausage House & Beer Garden
Pet‑friendly trails and campgrounds with water views and swimming spots. Pro tip: Dogs must stay leashed, but there are plenty of shady picnic spots to relax.
Inks Lake State Park
Small, cozy brewery with a pet‑friendly patio and great sour beers. Pro tip: Go in the evening when it’s cooler, and bring a portable dog water bowl.
Blue Owl Brewing
A laid‑back Hill Country burger and BBQ spot where dogs are welcome on the patio. Live music nights make it extra fun. Pro tip: Try to snag a shady spot and bring a water bowl for your dog.
Pecan Grove Store
Outdoor bar with incredible Hill Country views, llamas on site, and plenty of room for dogs to hang out with you. Pro tip: Bring a blanket or lawn chair for sunset—it’s one of the prettiest spots in Central TX.
The Shady Llama
A great urban park for dog walks with a dedicated off‑leash area and a loop around the lake. Farmer’s markets on Sundays make it a fun outing. Pro tip: Check out the dog‑friendly patios at nearby restaurants for a post‑walk snack. (Shout out to BD Ri...
Mueller Lake Park
Leashed dogs can explore scenic trails, limestone ledges, and splash in the shallow creek areas. Pro tip: Go after a light rain for pretty waterfalls—but watch your pup on the slick rocks!
McKinney Falls State Park
Spacious park with walking trails, shady spots, and plenty of room for leashed dogs. Seasonal events like outdoor concerts are also dog‑friendly. Pro tip: Stroll the Garrison Road Trail along the creek, then grab a treat at nearby dog‑friendly patios...
Buda Amphitheater & City Park
Entirely off‑leash loop (~4 miles) through shaded forest and creekside trails—a local favorite for laid‑back dog hikes. Pro tip: Stick with the Four Corners + Shady Trail loop for creek access and scenic shade. The full park is larger, but this loop ...
Onion Creek and Homestead Trail Loop
Wide open fields, miles of wooded paths, and a large designated off‑leash area—you can let pups run free for about 200 acres north of the creek. Pro tip: Best early mornings midweek when it’s cooler and less crowded. Parking is free but fills up fast...
Walnut Creek Loop