Discovering History and Nature: A Day Trip to Lyndon B. Johnson State Park and Historic Site

When you embark on a Texas Hill Country getaway, you'll find rich history and natural beauty in every corner of Central Texas, making it a fun and fascinating region to explore when you stay with us at Hotel Giles. One gem that's not to be missed is the Lyndon B. Johnson State Park and Historic Site, encompassing 700 acres and offering a captivating blend of history, nature and relaxation. Named after the 36th President of the United States, this site provides a unique opportunity to step back in time and gain insights into one of the most influential periods in American history.

Start your journey at the Visitor Center, where friendly park rangers are ready to guide you through the exhibits that chronicle the life and legacy of President Lyndon B. Johnson and the land and people that shaped his world view. From his early years in the Texas Hill Country to his presidency during a pivotal era in American history, the museum showcases photographs, artifacts and multimedia presentations that offer a comprehensive look at this remarkable leader.

Self-guided tours of the adjacent LBJ Ranch begin at the Visitors Center. The ranch, where President Johnson was born, lived, died and was laid to rest, is across the Pedernales River and is part of the Lyndon B. Johnson National Historic Park. Please note, the Texas White House complex is currently under rehabilitation; however, the driving tour of the LBJ Ranch will remain open to the public, and visitors can enjoy stopping at points of interest such as LBJ’s birthplace, the one-room school that four-year-old Lyndon attended in 1912, and the Johnson family cemetery where he and Lady Bird Johnson are buried.

One highlight of the Lyndon B. Johnson State Park is the Sauer-Beckmann Living History Farm. Step back in time as costumed interpreters bring to life the early 20th-century farmstead, showcasing the daily activities of a Texas-German family during this period. From tending to crops and milking cows to working the blacksmith shop, the farm provides a hands-on encounter with history, allowing you to touch, feel and immerse yourself in rural Texas life at the turn of the century. Tours are self-guided, but rangers are on-hand to answer questions.

There are several historic cabins within the state park that were once home to German farming families. Next to the Visitors Center is the Behrens Cabin, complete with period furnishings. You can tour the two-room dogtrot cabin that was built by German immigrant H.C. Behrens in the 1870s. Discover another cabin by taking a short walk down a scenic trail to the west. That's where you'll find the Danz family log cabin, built in the 1860s.

After immersing yourself in history, take a moment to breathe in the fresh Hill Country air and marvel at the picturesque surroundings that frame the footsteps of a former president. The state park's beautifully landscaped grounds along the Pedernales River are the perfect spot for a leisurely stroll, birdwatching or a peaceful picnic. A 1.2-mile Nature Trail winds through a forested area, passing by Texas longhorn cattle, and leading to the east end of the park and the American bison pasture. These animals have played a part in the park's history, and the local wildlife continues to be an important attraction for visitors. The park is also famous for its wildflower display, with bluebonnets and Indian blankets filling the open spaces each spring.

Whether you're a history buff, nature lover or simply seeking a peaceful retreat, the Lyndon B. Johnson State Park and Historic Site offers an enriching experience for guests of Hotel Giles. Immerse yourself in the legacy of a great leader and the beauty of the Texas Hill Country for a day you won't soon forget.