There are a number of great rock climbing spots in Texas, from areas close to popular cities and other spots that are in more remote yet beautiful regions. The Lone Star State is home to many indoor rock climbing gyms. However, there is nothing like getting outside and climbing Texas rock. No matter if you’re a beginner or an expert, there is a rock climbing route in Texas perfect for you. Find your next favorite climbing destination in Texas among these popular outdoor rocking climbing spots in the Lone Star State.
Enchanted Rock State Natural Area
Enchanted Rock State Natural Area kicks off this list because this place is widely known for outdoor recreation. One of the best state parks in Texas, many visitors explore this area year-round, especially to camp and hike up the granite dome known as Enchanted Rock. However, this is also a great destination for rock climbers, especially those who enjoy slab climbing and crack climbing. Even if you are new to climbing, there are a number of climbing guides in the area willing to guide you through the unique climbing options at Enchanted Rock. Enchanted Rock Fissure is a challenging and steep cave that is perfect for seasoned climbers. However Enchanted Rock, sometimes referred to as E-Rock among climbers, is perfect for beginner climbers too.
Barton Creek Greenbelt
The Barton Creek Greenbelt is located just minutes from downtown Austin. This urban rock climbing setting is perfect for city slickers wanting to get some climbing in. With over 30 different climbing routes found throughout the Barton Creek Greenbelt, you’re sure to find a nice piece of limestone rock to explore. Simply called “the Greenbelt” by locals, this area is not only for climbers but also bikers, hikers, and swimmers when the water is high. One of the most popular limestone cliffs to climb here is the Seismic Wall.
Franklin Mountains State Park
One of the most popular attractions in El Paso, Franklin Mountains State Park is a great spot for climbing. And since this is a state park, camping is available here so it’s a great place to stay for the weekend. This state park has designated climbing areas at Sneed’s Cory and McKelligon Canyon.
Tonkawa Falls
Tonkawa Falls, located near Waco, is perfect for bouldering and challenging routes alike. With a variety of routes in varying difficulties, all types of climbers will enjoy a day at Tonkawa Falls. This area offers limestone climbing, and climbing spots run along Tonkawa Creek. Since it’s rarely ever crowded, Tonkawa Falls is great for climbers wanting to seek some solitude.
Mineral Wells State Park & Trailway
For climbers located near Dallas or Fort Worth, Mineral Wells State Park is a great place to hit up for some easy to moderate climbing routes. The climbing area at Mineral Wells may be small but with its proximity to DFW, it sees a lot of action. Known as Penitentiary Hollow, this sandstone climbing spot has 30 routes ranging from 20 to 40 feet. Since this is sandstone rock, top-rope climbing is recommended here.
Eisenhower State Park
Eisenhower State Park is the place to go for bouldering. And since it’s only an hour and a half north of Dallas, it’s a great place for a day trip. Climbers typically refer to Eisenhower State Park simply as “ESP.” Here you’ll find routes perfect for beginners and for more advanced climbers too. The rock here is a mix of sandstone and limestone, so expect brittle holds at this state park. Therefore, don’t leave for Eisenhower without bringing some crash pads.
Reimers Ranch Park
Reimer’s Ranch Park is definitely one of the most popular rock climbing spots in Texas. With hundreds of routes to please all types of climbers, there is no wonder why this place has been called a climber’s paradise. Expect a great view while climbing too, since many of the routes are found along the Pedernales River. This limestone oasis is found only 40 minutes outside of Texas’s capital city of Austin.
Monster Rock
Monster Rock is one of the only privately-owned climbing spots on this list. But don’t let that deter you from exploring this top-notch climbing area that is littered with a number of great routes. Since the climbing area here is small, always contact the owners before setting out to Monster Rock. Monster Rock offers sport climbing on limestone rock. Since it’s in a shaded canyon, climbers are graced with cooler temperatures year-round here.
McKinney Falls State Park
Seasoned climbers will love the steep and difficult bouldering spots found at McKinney Falls State Park, located in Austin. Typical for Texas climbs, this area is limestone rock. McKinney Falls is not for beginners. Expect to experience short yet tricky routes full of thin pockets. There are plenty of challenging climbs here with routes ranging from V5 and up.
Pace Bend Park
For those who want a more unique climbing experience, head to Pace Bend Park for deep-water soloing, which means that climbers rely on water to catch any falls. Now Pace Bend Park is located on Lake Travis. Therefore pay attention to the time of year and water levels because Lake Travis fluctuates throughout the year. Climbers do not need a boat to reach some of the best climbing routes at Pace Bend.
Hueco Tanks Sate Park
As the second El Paso rock climbing spot on this list, Hueco Tanks State Park is arguably one of the best rock climbing areas in the state. Hueco, meaning “hollow” in Spanish, refers to the hollowed depressions found in the rock here. This area has become such a popular climbing destination that Hueco Tanks State Park is actually home to a popular bouldering competition known as Hueco Rock Rodeo.
