Junction: Rivers, Culture, and Recurring Events

Junction brings together river scenery, local history, and recurring events. When planning an overnight stay in Junction, you can choose a destination based on whether you are primarily interested in paddling, cultural history, or a specific date. These different themes lead to different sides of the town, without requiring you to work through a long list of attractions.

Rivers and Paddling

The South Llano Paddling Trail is described as a six-mile route on the spring-fed South Llano River. The river features calm pools, rapids, and flowing stretches. Junction City Park is designated as an access point for the trail. If you are interested in a trip, this gives you a specific point of reference for planning in Junction.

The confluence of the rivers offers another point of reference: below the dam in Junction, the South Llano River meets the North Llano River; together, they form the Main Llano River. A canoe trip on the Main Llano begins below the dam at City/County Park. Check river conditions before setting out. The information about the South Llano Paddling Trail and the canoe trip’s starting point refers to different stretches of river and should not be confused when planning.

Nature and Activities in Town

Schreiner Park, also known as Junction City Park, is located within the city on the South River and has a boat ramp and a swimming area. The baskets at the Junction disc golf course are located along the Llano River in City Park. Fly fishing is another activity of interest to visitors: the rivers that flow through Junction offer opportunities for it. As fishing regulations can change, it is a good idea to check the current rules before fishing.

For another look at the landscape in the surrounding region, South Llano River State Park is designated as an International Dark Sky Park. This is a distinct regional point of interest alongside the activities on the rivers in Junction. When planning your trip, you can distinguish between an interest primarily in the waterways in town and one that also includes a designated protected area in the wider region.

History and Culture in Junction

Junction was founded in the spring of 1876. The O.C. Fisher Museum is located in the Kimble County Library. The library’s O.C. Fisher Wing contains papers belonging to Congressman Fisher, furniture from his office in Washington, D.C., paintings, and other memorabilia. In the same library, Kimble Krafter's Korner showcases a different local artist each month. History and changing art exhibits thus offer different cultural points of interest.

The town’s local business and sports history is also tangible: Holekamp's Junction Warehouse received the “Texas Treasure” designation. This recognizes that the same business has been operated by the same family at the same location for at least 75 years. The Junction Golf Course was built by volunteers in 1927 as a nine-hole course and is located at the foot of Lovers Leap.

Festivals and Seasonal Dates

Several events give a stay a seasonal focus. The Sunset Easter Event takes place every year on the Saturday before Easter at the foot of Lovers Leap Hill. In the Easter Pageant, local amateur actors reenact the crucifixion and resurrection of Christ. Check the event date for the relevant year before traveling, especially if you plan to visit Junction specifically for Easter.

The Summer Classic Rodeo Parade takes place annually on Saturday morning at 10 a.m. and starts at the intersection of 4th and Main Street. Holiday Lights on the Llano features illuminated trees each year from November 1 through January 1 in Junction City Park on the banks of the Llano River; the exact dates may vary. A farmers market is also held on Saturdays on the lawn in front of the Kimble County Courthouse during the growing seasons. Check the dates for the relevant year if a festival or market is an important reason for your trip.

For a broader travel overview: Kimble County.