Originally known as McGregor County Park, Hippie Hollow Park sits on a steep limestone slope over Lake Travis in northwest Austin. It has been used as a nude swimming hole for years and is now the only legally recognized public park and beach with optional clothing in Texas. It is also one of the most famous Lake Travis beaches.
If you have never been to a nude beach and would like to try it, it’s a good place for your first experience – Hippie Hollow Park Beach offers a safe and comfortable nudist atmosphere. It’s a friendly and scenic recreational destination with its unique character and a true free spirit, and is loved by the gay community!
Access and Parking
Hippie Hollow Park is conveniently located just 20 minutes off Interstate 35. There is a parking lot, where you can leave your vehicle. Entrance with parking costs $15 per carload. Pedestrians and bicyclists can enter for $8. All visitors must be over 18, so don’t plan to visit Hippie Hollow Park with children or younger teenagers. Otherwise, it’s a very welcoming place, which is accessible even for handicaps.
Park Facilities
There are public bathrooms and picnic tables on-site. You’ll hardly find any other amenities or rental services. If you want to have a picnic with hot food, you’ll need to bring your own grill. For outdoor enthusiasts, there are some hiking trails in the park.
Rules and Recommendations
Here, you’re legally allowed to sunbathe and swim absolutely nude. Although nudity is optional, 98% of the visitors prefer to put off their clothes, so get ready to see naked men and women of all ages, even if you yourself prefer to stay in a swimsuit.
Such things as glass containers, overnight camping, bonfires, and fireworks are not allowed. You can’t bring domesticated pets either unless they are used for assistance with a handicap. Alcohol is allowed in a sack or koozie and in reasonable quantities only.
For those with an especially free spirit in them, the park rules directly prohibit public acts of sex in any form. There are police officers on duty for your safety. Don’t forget to bring some sunscreen, snacks, and enough drinking water to stay hydrated.
Swimming Area
The shore is so much rocky that you may want to have a yoga mat or even a chair for sunbathing and relaxation. The plus is there is plenty of shade. The limestone steps leading down to the waterline are quite rugged and you may need to climb a bit in order to access the water. You should be extremely careful on those sharp and slippery stones, and it’s a good idea to bring some water shoes.
There are no lifeguards on duty, so swimming in the clearest blue waters of Lake Travis is enjoyable, no doubt, but at your own risk. There is fish in the water that may slightly nibble your naked body parts, making it difficult to relax when you’re in the lake. If you want to dive, you need to carefully check the area under the water – there may be hidden rocks.
Driving Time
- 30 minutes from Downtown Austin, TX
- 35 minutes from Georgetown, TX
- 1 hour 40 minutes from San Antonio, TX
Hotels and rentals
If you're considering staying for one or even a few nights, there are plenty of options available near the beach. Chose your preferred accomodation type and your favourite room provider:
- Nearby rentals from VRBO.
- Nearby rooms and properties from Booking.com.
Beaches nearby
Additionally, there's a number of beaches near Hippie Hollow Beach (McGregor County Park) which you can visit:
- Bob Wentz Park Beach (1 mile)
- Tom Hughes Park Beach (1 mile)
- Windy Point Park Beach (1 mile)
- Mansfield Dam Park Beach (2 miles)
- Lake Travis Beach (3 miles)