With a visit to the Lyndon B. Johnson State Park and Historic Site, visitors can glimpse what life was like for the president’s grandparents and parents after they moved to this place.
Visit the Sauer-Beckmann Living History Farm on your own to meet park rangers tending the farm and preparing their meals in 1914.
You can also experience the park’s Visitors Center, 1.2 miles of walking paths, herds of American bison and Texas longhorns. You will also see dozens of varieties of wildflowers, creeks, and historic cabins in addition to sports facilities and even an Olympic-sized swimming pool, which is open each summer.
Here in Lyndon B. Johnson State Park & Historic Site, nature mixes with the past in the heart of Texas Hill Country.
Visitors staying at StayOnera in Fredericksburg find that this park makes for an enjoyable day trip with plenty to see and do.
1. What You’ll Find at the Lyndon B. Johnson State Park & Historic Site
En Lyndon B. Johnson State Park & Historic Site near the Pedernales River in Texas Hill Country allows visitors to experience history, culture, and nature.
The park serves as a reminder of President Lyndon B. Johnson’s personal history since he was from the nearby town.
As you go, you’ll realize how attached he was to the land and how much he cared about preserving it for those to come.
The role the Park played in Canadian history
President Johnson felt that knowing our past helps us plan for the future. The mission of the park focuses on this idea.
The area maintains and displays the environment, culture, and way of life that influenced Johnson’s political thinking as a younger man.
Many exhibits and presentations represent the time when the president lived, linking visitors to life in 20th-century rural Texas and the history of the White House.
Here, you are able to follow in Johnson’s footsteps, view the scenery he admired, and learn about his favorite customs.
2. Planning Your Visit to Lyndon B Johnson State Park and Historic Site
Planning a trip to Lyndon B. Johnson State Park and Historic Site is easy, affordable, and fun.
This is all the information you should know before you start your trip.
Lyndon B. Johnson State Park & Historic Site Entry Fee
The Lyndon B. Johnson State Park & Historic Site is free for all people. Visitors to this park can enjoy its attractions without spending extra money.
- There may be a small fee or the need for reservations for certain special guided tours, ranger events, or events that occur during a certain time of year.
- Visit the website of the TPWD to learn about activities being scheduled.
- If you intend to go to the LBJ Ranch within the Lyndon B. Johnson National Historical Park, remember to book beforehand.
Lyndon B. Johnson State Park & Historic Site Operating Hours
You can visit the park any time since it is accessible all year. It is open each day from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM.
- Sauer-Beckmann Living History Farm operates from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM.
- For crowded weekends and spring wildflower season, it’s best to arrive early.
Cerrado: Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Day, and New Year’s Day
How to get there
The park is situated at 199 Park Road 52, next to Stonewall, TX 78671, on the way to Stonewall from US-290.
- It takes approximately one and a half hours to drive west on US-290 from Austin, and one and a half hours to drive west on US-281 N and US-290 W from San Antonio.
- It takes roughly 3.5 to 4 hours to go to the park from Houston as well.
- It’s a great day excursion from StayOnera in Fredericksburg, which is only a 20-minute drive away.
Ubicación: 199 Park Road 52, Stonewall, TX 78671, United States. Mapa de Google
Parking
On-site parking is free, and GPS directions that include the entire park name will lead you directly to the gate.
- You can park your car without charge and difficulty. When it gets very busy, guests find additional parking behind the Visitor Center area and Sauer-Beckmann Farm.
Accessibility
If you have any type of mobility difficulty, notify the staff ahead and they will guide you through areas supporting your needs.
If you find it easier, you can bring a wheelchair or scooter to get you around—much of the area is level, yet the stretches to the farming areas and wildlife can be long.
Best time to visit Lyndon B. Johnson State Park & Historic Site
From March to May, Texas bluebonnets and different wildflowers begin to bloom. This is a photographer’s ideal spot.
- The October to November season is excellent for hiking, as it’s neither too hot nor too cold, and the colors are beautiful outside.
- At dawn and dusk, you have the best chances of seeing white-tailed deer, bison, and Texas longhorns.
- If you want to avoid big crowds, visit on a weekday.
- If you’re visiting Texas during the summer, don’t forget sunscreen, a hat, and plenty of water.
3. Must-See Highlights in the Lyndon B. Johnson State Park
En Lyndon B. Johnson State Park and Historic Site is a place one must come to visit at least once.
To help you make your experience more enjoyable, here are some must-see highlights.
The Sauer-Beckmann Living History Farm
People enjoy visiting the Sauer-Beckmann Farm, where the staff demonstrates how daily farm activities were done a century ago.
- At the festival, the actors dressed as settlers work with animals, use old cooking techniques, produce their butter, and handle traditional tools for their main tasks.
- All the work shown is happening, just as it did on an Ohio farm a hundred and more years ago.
- Visitors at this living museum can learn in an interactive way.
- Both young and older guests can view blacksmiths at work, see sheep shearing (only when available), or feed some of the chickens.
- Many children and families have a wonderful time and learn a lot about farm life on the farm tour.
Beautiful Nature Trails
Those who enjoy nature will find several short and moderate walking trails that pass through the Hill Country’s scenic areas.
- During spring, you’ll find open, flower-covered meadows, groves of oak trees, and quiet areas near the river where you can stop and rest.
- During the hike, signs provide details on the plants and animals that live here and the many events from the history of the park.
- There’s a lovely stroll along the Nature Trail Loop where you can see the Pedernales River. You can spot birds and take pictures along the way, since there are plenty of benches for enjoying the scenery.
- Nature transforms during the year, and bluebonnets bloom in spring, followed by a deep gold color in the fall.
Wildlife spotting
There will be Texas Longhorns, bison, and white-tailed deer found on Wildlife Pastures.
- What makes the park unique are the wildlife enclosures that showcase Texas Longhorns and American Bison, both once close to disappearing from the wild in Texas.
- The elk can be spotted in large enclosures that border the trails and picnic sites.
- In the early hours or just before dusk, white-tailed deer are often seen going about their lives in groups.
- These enclosures were made since Johnson was passionate about conservation and managing land.
- Even if you aren’t fond of rodeos, you can still appreciate these animals for the interesting and beautiful way they reflect Texas’s past.
Picnic Areas
Large open fields and covered picnic tables can be found all across the park, making it the ideal place to have a relaxed lunch or let the kids run around.
- Families or larger parties may find many picnic spots useful because they are close to parking lots and facilities.
- In addition, guests can use the seasonal swimming pool, and during some seasons, the park organizes programs such as wildflower walks, stargazing, or junior ranger activities for kids.
Visitor Center
At Lyndon B. Johnson State Park & Historic Site, the Visitor Center introduces visitors to the career, character, and environment of the President.
- Visit displays that highlight President Johnson’s upbringing on a farm, his path to becoming President, and all he achieved in office.
- You can see pictures of Lyndon Johnson, things from his election, and timelines to realize Lyndon Johnson’s importance in the Hill Country.
- At the museum, you can find replica furniture from the Johnson family ranch, as well as period outfits, indicating what it was like to live and work alongside him.
4. Lyndon B. Johnson State Park and Historic Site Photos
The park has various beautiful spots for those who love photography. Venture out during the first and last times of the day for the best lighting.
- No visit to nature is ever the same, because different seasons have their colors and moods.
- Against a backdrop of wildflowers and farmhouses, the landscape shares a story of what Texas is all about.
Tips that can help photographers take better photos.
- Shoot at dawn or dusk for a soft, golden light that enhances the texture in the scenery.
- Use a zoom lens to take pictures of white-tailed deer, bison, or any birds quietly.
- Specific to the seasons, we see wildflowers in spring, green pastures in summer, gold colors in fall, and foggy, moody air in winter.
- When doing long exposure or still images at the farm or at the visitor center, you can use a tripod.
5. Make It a Weekend: Stay Near the Park in Style
After spending the day learning and exploring nature, it’s nice to come back and relax, which StayOnera in Fredericksburg helps you do.
- To stay minutes from the park, the StayOnera offers comfy glamping sites along with cozy cabins secluded from town.
- During your stay, you can experience the outdoors while being surrounded by rustic design and modern touches.
- Some rooms provide private spots for people who want to see the stars.
6. Combine with Other Nearby Attractions
Transform your state park visit into an intricate Hill Country expedition that spans the entire day! Guests residing at StayOnera can follow this proposed schedule:
Morning: Lyndon B. Johnson State Park & Historic Site
Begin your exploration with several hours at the Sauer-Beckmann Farm alongside the visitor center and nature trails.
Midday: Wildseed Farms
Located merely five miles east of the park stands the country’s most extensive operational wildseed farm. Traverse the agricultural expanses while selecting seeds before dining at the on-site café.
Afternoon: Becker Vineyards
Situated less than 10 minutes from the park, this celebrated winery presents tasting experiences alongside views of lavender fields and grapevines, providing a serene post-nature walk destination.
Evening: Fredericksburg Main Street
Wander through streets filled with German bakeries and antique stores alongside galleries and live music venues. The park lies at a distance of 16 miles, which translates to an approximate travel time of 20 minutes.
7. What Visitors Are Saying
Here’s a summary of what guests enjoy about the Lyndon B. Johnson State Park and Historic Site from current reviews online:
“The living history farm was amazing — it’s like traveling back in time. The interpreters even cooked on a wood-burning stove!”
— ★★★★★ TripAdvisor Review
“Beautiful grounds, great trails, and we loved seeing the bison and longhorns up close.”
— Google Review
“A hidden gem! We came during wildflower season, and it was absolutely breathtaking. The kids loved the farm animals.”
— Yelp User
“A great mix of history and nature. It’s peaceful, educational, and perfect for families.”
— ★★★★★ Google Review
Conclusion | Lyndon B. Johnson State Park & Historic Site
The Lyndon B. Johnson State Park & Historic Site is so much more than a park!
It is an education into the life of a U.S. president, the history of Texas, and the wonders of the Hill Country.
Whether you will be there for a few hours or a full weekend escape, plan your visit with a stay at StayOnera to make your visit even more enjoyable.
Scheduling your stay at StayOnera, a short drive away in Fredericksburg, provides the comfort, style, and distance while exploring all the best the area has to offer.
So pack your camera, wear your walking shoes, and get ready to immerse yourself in one of Texas’s most rewarding destinations.
Plan your visit today, and be sure to schedule your stay at StayOnera for the ultimate Hill Country experience.
FAQs | Lyndon B. Johnson State Park & Historic Site
1. Is there an entrance fee to Lyndon B. Johnson State Park & Historic Site?
No, admission to Lyndon B. Johnson State Park & Historic Site is completely free for all visitors. However, certain special events or guided tours may require a small fee or a reservation.
2. What are the operating hours of the Lyndon B. Johnson State Park?
The park is open daily from 8:00 AM to 5:00 PM, while the Sauer-Beckmann Living History Farm operates from 10:00 AM to 4:00 PM. The park is closed on Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Day, and New Year’s Day.
3. What can I do at Lyndon B. Johnson State Park & Historic Site?
Visitors can explore the Sauer-Beckmann Living History Farm, enjoy walking trails, spot Texas Longhorns and bison, relax at picnic areas, swim in the Olympic-sized pool (summer only), and visit the Visitor Center museum.
4. Where is Lyndon B. Johnson State Park located?
The park is located at 199 Park Road 52, Stonewall, TX 78671, in Texas Hill Country—just a 20-minute drive from Fredericksburg and easily accessible from Austin, San Antonio, and Houston.
5. Is the park wheelchair accessible?
Yes. Much of the park is flat and accessible. Visitors with mobility challenges are encouraged to notify park staff in advance for additional support or guidance.
6. When is the best time to visit Lyndon B. Johnson State Park?
The best time to visit is during spring (March–May) for wildflowers or fall (October–November) for hiking and colorful foliage. Wildlife like deer and bison are most active at dawn and dusk.
7. Can I see wildlife at the park?
Yes! The park features wildlife enclosures where you can view Texas Longhorns, American Bison, and often white-tailed deer in their natural setting, especially early or late in the day.
8. Are there any nearby attractions worth visiting?
Absolutely! Visitors often pair their trip with nearby gems like Granjas de semillas silvestres, Becker Vineyards, and Main Street Fredericksburg—all within 20 minutes of the park.
9. Can I bring kids to the park?
Yes, it’s a very family-friendly destination. Kids enjoy the living history farm, nature trails, wildlife viewing, and picnic areas. Seasonal junior ranger activities y hands-on exhibits make it fun and educational.
10. Where should I stay near Lyndon B. Johnson State Park?
For a comfortable, stylish stay close to the park, StayOnera in Fredericksburg offers luxury glamping sites and cozy cabins—just a 20-minute drive away in the heart of Hill Country.