Inks Lake State Park is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts, located just an hour northwest of Austin in the Hill Country of Texas. To get there, take Highway 281 North to Park Road 4, then turn left and follow it for 12 miles until you reach the park. If you’re coming from Burnet, you can also take 29 west for 9 miles to access the park.
Getting to Inks Lake State Park
From Austin
- Take Highway 281 North
- Turn left onto Park Road 4
- Follow Park Road 4 for 12 miles until you reach the park
From Burnet
- Take Highway 29 West
- Drive for 9 miles to reach the park
Exploring Inks Lake State Park
Once you arrive, there are plenty of activities to enjoy both on land and water. The park offers a variety of amenities and facilities for visitors to explore.
Land-based Activities
- 9 miles of hiking trails
- Bird blind
- Volleyball courts
- Picnic areas
- Group picnic pavilion (available for rent)
Water Activities
- Swimming
- Boating
- Water skiing
- Scuba diving
- Fishing
The park also rents out various water equipment, including:
– Paddle boats
– Canoes
– Kayaks
– Stand-up paddleboards
– Life vests
– Paddles
Camping and Lodging
Camping is a popular activity at Inks Lake State Park, with nearly 200 campsites and 22 cabins available for rent. Many of the campsites are lakeside or have easy access to the lake, and several camping loops have playgrounds.
Campsites
- Nearly 200 campsites available
- Lakeside or with easy access to the lake
- Several camping loops with playgrounds
Cabins
- 22 cabins available for rent
Fishing
If you’re planning on fishing, the park has two fishing piers, fish cleaning stations, and a boat ramp. You can even borrow rods, reels, and tackle boxes with hooks, sinkers, and bobbers from the park.
Devil’s Waterhole
Inks Lake State Park is also home to Devil’s Waterhole, a small canyon with scenic waterfalls upstream of the lake when Valley Spring Creek is running.
Park History and Updates
The park has a rich history, with the Civilian Conservation Corps building roads, culverts, a boat house and dock, and parts of Park Road 4 during the 1930s.
When visiting Inks Lake State Park, be sure to check the park’s website for any construction updates or algae bloom warnings. Construction has begun on a new Park Headquarters, which is expected to be completed by the end of May 2024. Visitors should proceed with caution around the construction area and be aware of construction crews and equipment.
Conclusion
Inks Lake State Park is a must-visit destination for outdoor enthusiasts in the Texas Hill Country. With its diverse range of activities, scenic natural features, and rich history, the park offers something for everyone. Whether you’re looking to hike, camp, fish, or simply enjoy the beauty of the lake, Inks Lake State Park is sure to provide an unforgettable experience.