Inks Lake State Park
Texas Hill Country gem with stunning pink granite, clear waters, and diverse outdoor adventures.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Wildflowers bloom, pleasant temps
Inks Lake State Park
Best Time
Wildflowers bloom, pleasant temps
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Texas Hill Country gem with stunning pink granite, clear waters, and diverse outdoor adventures.
"Totally rad, everyone should go here! RV and tent spots, dogs ok on a leash, showers, water everywhere to stay cool."
Book Day Use Online
Secure your entry by purchasing day-use passes online in advance, especially for weekends.
Wear Old Shoes for Mud
Be prepared for sticky mud near the lake; wear old shoes that you don't mind getting dirty.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Devil's Waterhole
Southern end of Inks Lake
Iconic swimming spot with towering cliffs for brave jumpers and stunning natural beauty.
Pink Granite Formations
Throughout the park
Marvel at ancient, billion-year-old pink granite and gneiss rocks that give the park its unique colorful landscape.
Hiking Trails
Various locations
Explore 9 miles of trails offering scenic views, diverse flora, and opportunities for wildlife spotting.
Stargazing Opportunities
Open areas, campsites
Experience breathtaking night skies, perfect for astrophotography and observing celestial wonders.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Ahead for Peak Times
Embrace the Water Activities
+1Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
Book Day Use Online
Secure your entry by purchasing day-use passes online in advance, especially for weekends.
Wear Old Shoes for Mud
Be prepared for sticky mud near the lake; wear old shoes that you don't mind getting dirty.
Rentals Available
Kayaks, paddle boats, and fishing gear can be rented at the park store.
Wildlife Encounters
Keep an eye out for diverse wildlife like deer, birds, and squirrels; some may even eat from your hand!
Tips
from all over the internet
Book Day Use Online
Secure your entry by purchasing day-use passes online in advance, especially for weekends.
Wear Old Shoes for Mud
Be prepared for sticky mud near the lake; wear old shoes that you don't mind getting dirty.
Rentals Available
Kayaks, paddle boats, and fishing gear can be rented at the park store.
Wildlife Encounters
Keep an eye out for diverse wildlife like deer, birds, and squirrels; some may even eat from your hand!
Night Sky Photography
The park offers incredible dark skies for stunning astrophotography.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Inks Lake State Park for its beautiful lake, unique pink granite scenery, and abundant outdoor activities like swimming, hiking, and fishing. The park offers well-maintained campsites, friendly staff, and opportunities for wildlife viewing and stargazing. Some minor drawbacks include occasional storm debris on trails and the potential for crowds during peak times.
"This is a pretty area with a beautiful lake. There is a place where you can rent kayaks and also a gift shop. The people I met there were friendly and there is plenty of wildlife including migrating geese, insects such as beetles and some arachnids, and squirrels that will gladly eat a grape from your hand. Not to mention the frogs and the other birds, and the green algae that you can playfully throw at friends in the lake or do scientific experiments on. There is a playground and, frequently, a Kona Ice van passes by. There are community events like a tree leaf identification class for little ones and an eye-opening astronomy gathering where you can see Earth’s moon and the planets. No parking concerns. There is a ranger station if you have any concerns.
One time a severe thunderstorm passed through while we were caught with no shelter except the porch of the kayak place, and hail was falling hard. We survived, of course, and it was an exhilarating experience. The swimming area is very peaceful yet lively, and the hiking trails are sure to clear your mind and contribute to the overall atmosphere. You can even find some interesting plant and animal species on the trail!
A really nice area!"
Google Google
"So glad I stopped here on the way to the Enchanted Rock! All of the state park staff, from the store workers to the rangers were incredibly kind and informative. Veterans get in free at all Texas state parks :)
The store is the best state or national park store I've been to, food, snacks, drinks, souvenirs, maps, guides, fish tackle, firewood, apparel and so much more!
My favorite part of the park was the Bird Blind, where they have seating in an enclosed shack thing with plexiglass windows to view the bird feeding area.
I went on a warm day in December so the birds I saw were Northern Cardinals and by the lake I saw a Black Vulture.
Beautiful sunset and the lake came alive at dusk, boats lit up with Christmas lights, and fireworks from somewhere.
They had plenty of camp spots including a nice selection of basic cabins (shelter w/ fire pit and parking spots, no bathroom). Restrooms by the store.
I wish Oregon state parks had this nice of an operation!"
Petey2time
"Totally rad, everyone should go here! RV and tent spots, dogs ok on a leash, showers, water everywhere to stay cool and keep doggies cool.
Some great lake front sites with lots of privacy and peace, not on display in front of everyone or right next to noisy people.
Lol, funny mud around the lake, your feet will sink down deep into the sand, it is a funny surprise and fun, just be careful, wear old...shoes, lol!"
Tara Pagan
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Inks Lake State Park is located about 50 miles northwest of Austin. The drive typically takes around an hour to an hour and a half, depending on traffic. You can take US-183 North towards Lampasas and then follow signs for the park.
Public transportation options directly to Inks Lake State Park are very limited. It is best to travel by personal vehicle or rental car for convenient access.
The park is open daily from 6 AM to 10 PM. However, camping and cabin guests have access outside these hours.
Yes, the park occasionally hosts special events like midnight or first-day hikes, and educational programs such as tree identification classes. Check the park's official schedule for upcoming events.
The park has a main road that leads to various activity areas, campgrounds, and trailheads. Maps are usually available at the entrance or park store.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
There is a daily entrance fee per adult, which can be paid online in advance or in person at the park headquarters. Fees can vary, so it's best to check the official Texas State Parks website for current pricing.
Yes, you can purchase day-use entry at the park headquarters. However, booking online beforehand is highly recommended, especially on busy days, to guarantee entry.
Texas State Parks Pass holders typically receive free day-use entry to all state parks. Check the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department website for details on pass benefits.
Cancellation policies can vary for camping and cabin reservations. It's advisable to review the specific terms and conditions when booking through the Texas State Parks reservation system.
The daily entrance fee covers parking within the park. There are generally no additional parking fees for day-use visitors.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
Inks Lake State Park offers about 9 miles of hiking trails. Popular options include the Lake Trail for scenic water views and Pecan Flats Trail for a more elevated, hilly walk with viewpoints.
Yes, swimming is a major activity. The park is known for its popular swimming hole, Devil's Waterhole, and has designated swimming areas.
Visitors can enjoy boating, kayaking, canoeing, swimming, water skiing, and fishing. Kayak and paddle boat rentals are available at the park store.
Yes, dogs are welcome in Inks Lake State Park, but they must be kept on a leash at all times. They are allowed in most areas, including campgrounds and trails.
The park is home to diverse wildlife, including migrating geese, various insects, squirrels, frogs, and birds. You might also spot deer and fawns.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
There are no full-service restaurants within the park. However, there is a park store that sells basic camping and fishing supplies, and sometimes a Kona Ice van visits.
Absolutely! Visitors are encouraged to bring their own food, snacks, and drinks for picnics and day use. Many campsites have picnic tables and grills.
The nearest town with grocery stores is Burnet, which is about a 10-mile drive from the park. It's recommended to stock up on supplies before arriving.
Yes, there are numerous picnic areas throughout the park, many with tables and grills, offering scenic spots to enjoy a meal.
Most campsites are equipped with picnic tables and fire rings/grills, making them ideal for cooking meals outdoors.
📸 📸 Photography
The park offers diverse photographic opportunities, from the unique pink granite formations and the clear waters of Devil's Waterhole to scenic overlooks along the hiking trails. The night sky is also exceptional for astrophotography.
Yes, Inks Lake State Park is renowned for its dark skies, making it an excellent location for astrophotography. You can capture the Milky Way, meteors, and satellites.
Sunrise and sunset offer beautiful golden hour lighting for landscape photography. Midday can be great for capturing the vibrant colors of the water and rocks, especially at Devil's Waterhole.
While generally permitted, it's always wise to check with park staff regarding any specific restrictions on photography, especially concerning commercial use or drone operation.
You can photograph the park's unique geological features like pink granite, the clear lake waters, diverse plant life (including wildflowers in spring), and abundant wildlife.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Many campsites are family-friendly, with some offering lakefront access for easy supervision. The park store can be a convenient stop for forgotten essentials. Consider packing plenty of snacks and drinks, as dining options within the park are limited. The chance to see local wildlife like squirrels and birds can also be an exciting educational experience for kids.
💰 Budget Travelers
Bringing your own food and drinks for picnics significantly cuts down on expenses. The park also offers free fishing rod rentals, making it an economical way to enjoy a popular activity. Exploring the hiking trails is free with park admission, providing hours of entertainment without extra cost.
📸 Photography Enthusiasts
The clear waters of Devil's Waterhole provide stunning reflections and vibrant colors, perfect for landscape and action shots. Furthermore, the park's dark skies make it an exceptional location for astrophotography, allowing for breathtaking captures of the night sky.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Exploring Devil's Waterhole
+1While the jumping rocks are a thrill, visitors should exercise extreme caution and assess their own abilities before attempting any jumps. The water depth can vary, and submerged rocks can pose a hazard. It's a fantastic spot for photos, with the vibrant pink granite contrasting beautifully with the clear blue water.
Accessing Devil's Waterhole is part of the adventure. It's typically reached via a short hike from the main park area. The terrain can be uneven, so wearing appropriate footwear is recommended. Even if you're not jumping, it's a picturesque location to relax, swim, and soak in the natural beauty of the Texas Hill Country.
Hiking Trails and Terrain
Popular trails include the Lake Trail, which provides scenic views of Inks Lake, and the Pecan Flats Trail, a roughly 3-mile loop that traverses elevated, hilly terrain south of the lake, offering some nice viewpoints. Some trails, particularly those near the water, may still show signs of storm debris, so hikers should be mindful of their footing.
Many visitors appreciate the opportunity to explore the park on foot, encountering wildlife and enjoying the tranquility of nature. The trails are generally well-maintained, though some sections can be uneven or rocky. Wearing sturdy hiking shoes is advisable, especially if you plan to tackle longer or more challenging routes.
Camping and Accommodations
Reviewers often praise the quality of the campsites, noting that they are generally spacious, well-maintained, and offer good amenities like clean bathrooms with hot water and good water pressure. Some sites are shaded, providing relief from the Texas sun. Dogs are also welcome in the park, provided they are kept on a leash.
Beyond traditional camping, the park may also offer cabins or other lodging options for those seeking more comfort. It's recommended to check the official Texas State Parks website for the most up-to-date information on available accommodations and booking procedures.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit