Inks Lake State Park is one of our favorite state parks in the Texas Hill Country.
It is a great place to escape the hustle and bustle of the city and immerse yourself in nature.
The park is filled with countless attractions and things to do, making it a haven for outdoor enthusiasts.
The highlight here is the vast, pretty Inks Lake – a reservoir on the banks of the Colorado River, formed by the construction of the Inks Dam.
The park is located on the east edge of the Llano uplift and has interesting geology.
Also Read: 28 Best State Parks in Texas
Where is Inks Lake State Park?
Inks Lake State Park is located in the northwest part of Burnet County, Texas.
It lies on the north shore of Inks Lake, an 830-acre lake in Burnet, Texas.
The park’s physical address is 3630 Park Road 4 West, Burnet, TX 78611.
To reach the park, take Park Road 4 from Burnet, Texas.
The park is just an hour northwest of Austin, Texas and is a great day trip from the city.
Also Read: 18 Best Things to do in Burnet, Texas
Best Things to do at Inks Lake State Park
Known for its pink granite outcroppings, spectacular Hill Country views, and excellent wildlife, Inks Lake State Park is extremely popular with families.
The park has several amenities including kids play area, boat rentals, picnic pavilion perfect for large groups, as well as park store that sells camping supplies.
Here are our favorite things to do in Inks Lake State Park on your next visit.
Understand the park’s geology and history
Inks Lake State Park is situated on the Balcones Fault Zone and features pink gneiss and granite outcroppings, so it’s a great place to learn about geology.
You can see exhibits related to the park at the Visitor Center and Store.
Park Rangers lead regular interpretive programs that explain how the Inks Dam was built and how the lake was formed.
You can also visit the historic boathouse that was built by the CCC in the 1930s.
Jump in the cool water at Devils Waterhole
Devils Waterhole is the most popular swimming spot at Inks Lake State Park.
Its crystal-clear waters are perfect for a refreshing soak and its rocky outcroppings give you plenty of opportunities to jump into the lake.
On a summer day, you can spot visitors cliff jumping into the swimming hole as well as launching their watercrafts.
You can reach Devil’s Waterhole via the 0.2 mile easy, shaded trail that features a wooden bridge.
There are no lifeguards, so swim at your own risk.
Hike the Pecan Flats Trail
The two-mile Pecan Flats Trail is a great way to explore the natural beauty of the park.
This loop trail takes you through pecan forests and wildflower meadows, past creeks, and along rocky outcroppings.
You will also get amazing views of wildlife as well as the stunning Hill Country from the trail summit.
Take the kids out on the Valley Spring Creek Trail
If you’re looking for a kid-friendly adventure, look no further than the Valley Spring Creek Trail.
This 1 mile out-and-back trail is an easy stroll along a peaceful creek and past wildflowers and wildlife.
It starts from the Devils Waterhole and continues over rocky hills to the creek that runs through granite rocks.
Kids can splash in the Spring Creek and indulge in safe water fun on a hot winter day.
The trail also leads to several secluded picnic areas with stunning Hill Country views.
See the vernal pools on Lake Trail
The Lake Trail is a 1.5 mile loop that takes you around the picturesque Inks Lake.
You will get to see some of the best views of the lake as well as its many colorful rock outcrops and jagged cliffs.
As you hike, keep an eye out for the various wildflowers, vernal pools filled with marine life, deer, and birds.
Enjoy water sports on the lake
Inks Lake State Park offers some of the best water sports in Texas, from kayaking and canoeing to swimming and fishing as well as scuba diving.
You can rent kayaks, canoes, paddleboats and aqua cycles right at the park store.
There’s also a boat ramp if you want to bring your own vessel.
Enjoy paddling on Inks Lake
Visitors can enjoy paddling at the park and take in the beautiful scenery as you make your way around.
The park has a big no wake zone on the lake for paddlers and is perfect for beginners and families.
Go fishing at Inks Lake
Inks Lake is a great spot for fishing, especially if you’re looking to catch some largemouth bass.
You can also try your luck at catching catfish and sunfish here.
The park has two fishing piers as well as fish cleaning station for anglers.
No fishing license needed since its a state park.
See the bluebonnets in the park
Every spring, the park’s hills and meadows are painted in blue with wildflowers like Indian Blanket, phlox, and the famous Bluebonnets.
The best time for viewing the lovely blooms is usually in late March or early April.
Pecan Flats Trail, past the lush forest, is one of our favorite hiking trails in the park to see wildflowers.
Spot the park’s wildlife
Inks Lake State Park is a great spot for wildlife viewing.
The park is home to white-tailed deer, bobcats, foxes, squirrels, raccoons and over 200 species of birds as well.
Keep your eyes open for the rare golden-cheeked warbler or other native species.
See the birds from the bird blind
The park has a nice Bird Blind near the boat ramp where you can view all the birds that frequent the area.
Bring your binoculars and sit in the blind for hours on end to catch a glimpse of these beautiful creatures.
You can also take part in various birding programs offered by the park throughout the year.
Commonly seen birds include great blue herons, egrets, wrens, hawks, and ospreys.
See the view from the Overlook
On Park Road 4, outside the state park, you will find a scenic overlook.
The overlook offers unobstructed views of the lake, Devil’s Waterhole, and is a great place to take pictures.
You can also catch a stunning sunset from here and enjoy some peace.
It’s one of our favorite places in the park.
Camp along the water’s edge
If you’re looking for a camping spot, Inks Lake State Park has plenty of options.
You can choose to stay in one of the 50 campsites with water and electricity or pitch a tent along the lake’s edge for some extra seclusion.
However, the campsites here get booked far in advance – book here.
Inks Lake State Park makes a great day trip or weekend getaway in Central Texas.
So come explore this stunning Hill Country park and all it has to offer!
What are your favorite things to do at Inks Lake State Park? Let us know below.
