Inks Lake State Park is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts, located in Burnet, Texas, just an hour northwest of Austin. The park offers a variety of activities, including camping, hiking, fishing, and water sports, making it a must-visit destination for nature lovers.
Camping and Lodging Options
Inks Lake State Park boasts nearly 200 campsites and 22 cabins, two of which are ADA-accessible. Many of the campsites are located lakeside or have easy access to the lake, providing stunning views and easy access to the water. The park also features several playgrounds and a group picnic pavilion that can be rented for events.
| Camping Type | Number of Sites |
|---|---|
| Campsites | 200 |
| Cabins | 22 |
| ADA-Accessible Cabins | 2 |
Fishing and Water Sports
Inks Lake is home to a variety of fish, including sunfish, catfish, and several species of bass. The park has two fishing piers, fish cleaning stations, and a boat ramp, with fishing equipment loaners available. A fishing license is not required to fish from a pier or the shore in a state park.
For water sports enthusiasts, Inks Lake offers swimming, boating, water skiing, scuba diving, and paddling. The park rents a variety of watercraft, including paddle boats, canoes, single and double kayaks, and stand-up paddleboards. All boat rentals are $20 for the first hour and $10 for each additional hour, with rentals available daily from 8:30 am to 3 pm, and all boats due back by 4 pm.
Hiking and Trails
Inks Lake State Park offers 9 miles of hiking trails, including the Pecan Flats trail, a self-guided 3.3-mile trail perfect for families. Visitors can also explore Devil’s Waterhole, a small canyon with scenic waterfalls upstream of the lake when Valley Spring Creek is running.
Educational Opportunities
Inks Lake State Park is a Texas Aquatic Science Certified Field Site, making it an excellent destination for teachers and students alike. The park also offers ranger programs, including nature walks, geology hikes, canoe tours, and other programs, as well as a Junior Ranger Program for children.
Nearby Attractions
In addition to the activities and amenities within Inks Lake State Park, visitors can also explore a variety of nearby attractions, including:
- Longhorn Cavern State Park
- Inks Dam National Fish Hatchery
- Buchanan Dam
- Vanishing Texas River Cruise
- Balcones Canyonlands National Wildlife Refuge
- The Great Texas Wildlife Trails: Stone Bluffs Loop
Visitor Information
Inks Lake State Park is open daily from 8:30 am, with closing hours varying. It’s recommended to call the Park Store at 512-793-2033 for current hours. Visitors should also be aware of construction taking place directly adjacent to the West Loop Camping Area, which is expected to complete by the end of May 2024.
Conclusion
Inks Lake State Park is a true gem for outdoor enthusiasts, offering a wide range of activities and amenities in a beautiful natural setting. Whether you’re looking to camp, fish, hike, or enjoy water sports, this park has something for everyone. Plan your visit today and experience the beauty and adventure of Inks Lake State Park.