Hippie Hollow Park

Contributor Review – Candice Pelton
Local Expert. Visited 2024

We recently spent a sunny day at Hippie Hollow Park, and it was an unforgettable experience. Nestled on the shore of Lake Travis, about a 30-minute drive from downtown Austin, this park is a haven for naturists. It's the only legally recognized clothing-optional public park in Texas, and it's easy to see why it's one of the most popular nude beaches in the US.

Getting there was straightforward. We took a scenic drive through the Hill Country and arrived at the park with its spectacular views of Lake Travis. The entrance fee is $8 per person, cash only, so make sure to have some cash on hand for Travis County Parks. The cash-only payment was a bit of a hassle, but once we got in, it was definitely worth it. Once we parked, we had to keep our clothes on until we hit the walking trail, but the anticipation made the experience even more exciting.

The park's atmosphere is incredibly welcoming and laid-back. As we walked down the steep, rocky path to the shoreline, we saw a mix of regulars and first-time visitors. Since it was the holidays, the vibe was much younger than we expected. Everyone was friendly, and it didn't take long to feel at ease. The area designated for naturists starts a bit further down the trail, marked by a few signs. The vibe is very relaxed, and it felt great to be part of such an inclusive community.

The shoreline is rocky and steep, so wear Crocs or something similar so you can get grip. We found a spot to lay our towels and set up our chairs, surrounded by the beautiful scenery of Lake Travis. The water was crystal clear and perfect for swimming. However, getting into the water requires navigating over some rough terrain, so we were glad we had brought our water shoes.

One of the highlights of Hippie Hollow is the friendly and diverse crowd. During our visit, we noticed a mix of younger couples, single men, and groups of friends. There were a few textiles (clothed visitors) around, but the majority of people were fully embracing the clothing-optional policy. We went completely naked, but there were plenty of women who were topless only or wearing bikinis, and no one cared either way. The park is patrolled by officers who ensure everyone’s safety, which made us feel secure.

We spent most of the day sunbathing and swimming. The rocky terrain meant there wasn't much sand, but it also meant we didn't have to deal with sand getting everywhere. The lack of natural shade meant we were glad to have brought an umbrella. The sun can be intense, so sunscreen is essential.

One of the unique aspects of Hippie Hollow is the presence of party boats that anchor just outside the swimming area. Around midday, we floated out on our rafts to join some of the boaters. They were incredibly welcoming, offering us drinks and snacks. Some were even selling booze to people on rafts—we got a can of beer for $2! Bargain! It was a fantastic way to socialize and meet new people.

As the afternoon went on, the park got busier, especially near the water. Despite the crowd, it never felt overwhelming. The friendly atmosphere and the stunning views of the lake made for a perfect day. We did see a few officers patrolling, ensuring that everyone was following the rules, which include no lewd behavior and no glass bottles.

One thing to note is that the terrain can be challenging, especially if you're not used to rocky areas. We saw a few people struggling with flip-flops, so definitely opt for more secure footwear. The park doesn't allow pets or anyone under 18, which is disappointing if you want to bring the whole family. Thankfully for an '18+ only' destination we didn't see any bad behaviour on the beach or walking trails. This place is a legit nude beach.

Overall, our day at Hippie Hollow Park was a wonderful escape. The combination of beautiful scenery, friendly people, and the freedom of being clothes-free made it a unique and enjoyable experience. Whether you're a seasoned naturist or just curious, Hippie Hollow is a must-visit spot in Austin. Just come prepared for the rocky terrain and bring plenty of sunscreen, and you're sure to have a fantastic time.