Inks Lake State Park is a 1,200-acre state park located in Burnet County, Texas, United States, next to Inks Lake on the Colorado River. The park is known for its hilly landscape, with many cedar, live oak, prickly pear cacti, and yuccas. The ground is rocky, mainly consisting of gneiss rock.
The Size of Inks Lake State Park
Inks Lake State Park covers an area of 1,200 acres, making it a sizable state park in Texas. This expansive area offers visitors a wide range of outdoor activities and natural wonders to explore.
Camping and Lodging Options
The park offers a variety of camping and lodging options for visitors:
| Accommodation Type | Number Available |
|---|---|
| Campsites | Nearly 200 |
| Cabins | 22 |
Many of the campsites are located lakeside or have easy access to Inks Lake, providing stunning views and convenient access to the water. Several camping loops also feature playgrounds for families.
Recreational Activities
Inks Lake State Park offers a diverse range of recreational activities for visitors to enjoy:
- Fishing: The lake is home to various species, including sunfish, catfish, and several bass species. The park has two fishing piers, fish cleaning stations, and a boat ramp.
- Hiking: The park features 9 miles of hiking trails, including a trail to the Devil’s Waterhole, a small extension of Inks Lake surrounded by rock.
- Boating: Visitors can enjoy boating and water sports on Inks Lake, with a boat ramp available for launching.
- Wildlife Viewing: The park’s diverse landscape is home to a variety of wildlife, including birds, mammals, and reptiles, making it a popular destination for nature enthusiasts.
- Swimming and Diving: While there is no lifeguard on duty, visitors can swim and dive in the Devil’s Waterhole area of the lake.
Geological Significance
Inks Lake State Park is located in the eastern edge of a Mesoproterozoic exposure within the Llano Uplift. The local rocks are named for the park as the Inks Lake Gneiss, a granitic gneiss dated at 1,232 million years old. This ancient geological formation adds to the park’s unique character and appeal.
Park Hours and Contact Information
Inks Lake State Park is open daily at 8:30 am, with closing hours varying. Visitors can contact the Park Store at 512-793-2033 to inquire about current hours and other information.
In conclusion, Inks Lake State Park is a vast and diverse natural area covering 1,200 acres in the heart of Texas. With its stunning lakeside scenery, abundant recreational opportunities, and rich geological history, the park offers something for everyone to enjoy. Whether you’re a camper, hiker, angler, or nature enthusiast, Inks Lake State Park is a must-visit destination for those exploring the great outdoors of Texas.