Adventures in Burnet, TX

Burnet is a Hill Country hub for family adventure, sitting at the crossroads of some of the best state parks in Texas. Within a short drive you can explore underground caves, swim in a constant-level lake, and scramble over granite boulders - making Burnet an ideal base for a Hill Country family weekend.

What to Do

Inks Lake State Park draws thrill-seeking kids to Devil’s Waterhole - a cliff-jumping and swimming spot where the spring-fed lake stays at a constant level year-round (a rarity in Texas). Beyond the waterhole, families can paddle canoes and kayaks on the scenic lake, hike trails through pink granite terrain, and camp at one of the best campgrounds in the Texas parks system.

Longhorn Cavern State Park takes families underground on guided tours through a massive river-formed cave system. The mile-long walk through cathedral-sized rooms is flat and well-lit, making it accessible for kids ages 4 and up. The cave stays 68°F year-round - a perfect summer escape. Above ground, the CCC-built stone structures and hilltop views are worth exploring.

Reveille Peak Ranch adds a wilder option - rock scrambling, hiking, and mountain biking on private ranchland with some of the most dramatic granite formations in the Hill Country.

Weekend Itinerary

Day 1: Morning cave tour at Longhorn Cavern (book ahead for weekends). Drive 15 minutes to Inks Lake State Park for an afternoon of swimming at Devil’s Waterhole and setting up camp.

Day 2: Full day at Inks Lake - kayak in the morning when the water is calm, hike the Devil’s Backbone Trail for scenic views, and swim until sunset.

Best Time to Visit

Year-round for Longhorn Cavern (the cave is always 68°F). Spring and fall are best for camping and hiking at Inks Lake. Summer is peak swimming season but hot - the water is always refreshing. Bluebonnet season (April) is gorgeous throughout the Burnet area.

Good to Know

Burnet is about 90 minutes northwest of Austin on US 281. The town has restaurants, grocery stores, and gas stations - a good resupply stop before heading to the parks. Inks Lake is $7/day adults, kids free. Longhorn Cavern tours are $18.50 adults, $11 kids 4-11.