Longhorn Cavern State Park
Explore a vast, ancient river-carved cavern with fascinating history and unique formations. A cool escape near Austin.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more intimate experience.
Longhorn Cavern State Park
Best Time
Fewer crowds, more intimate experience.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Explore a vast, ancient river-carved cavern with fascinating history and unique formations. A cool escape near Austin.
"The tours are excellent and very informative, making it a great place for the whole family!"
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
The walking tour involves stairs and some uneven terrain. Good walking shoes are a must for comfort and safety.
💧 Bring Water (for outside)
Only plain water is allowed inside the cave. Stay hydrated before and after your tour, especially during warmer months.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Grand Ballroom
Main Cavern Chamber
Marvel at this vast chamber, a testament to the erosive power of ancient underground rivers.
The Bridal Chamber
Cavern Formation
Admire delicate stalactites and stalagmites in this beautifully sculpted section of the cave.
Tricolored Bat Habitat
Specific Cavern Areas
Learn about the unique ecosystem and the only known Texas home for these fascinating bats.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Your Tour in Advance
+1Dress for the Cavern's Cool Climate
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
The walking tour involves stairs and some uneven terrain. Good walking shoes are a must for comfort and safety.
💧 Bring Water (for outside)
Only plain water is allowed inside the cave. Stay hydrated before and after your tour, especially during warmer months.
📸 No Flash Photography
Photography is allowed, but flash is prohibited to protect the cave's delicate ecosystem and bats.
⏳ Allow 90 Minutes for Tour
The guided walking tour is approximately 1.5 hours long and packed with fascinating information.
Tips
from all over the internet
👟 Wear Comfortable Shoes
The walking tour involves stairs and some uneven terrain. Good walking shoes are a must for comfort and safety.
💧 Bring Water (for outside)
Only plain water is allowed inside the cave. Stay hydrated before and after your tour, especially during warmer months.
📸 No Flash Photography
Photography is allowed, but flash is prohibited to protect the cave's delicate ecosystem and bats.
⏳ Allow 90 Minutes for Tour
The guided walking tour is approximately 1.5 hours long and packed with fascinating information.
🚗 Day Trip from Austin
Located just over an hour from Austin, it's a perfect destination for a day trip or weekend getaway.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise Longhorn Cavern State Park for its well-maintained facilities and engaging guided tours. Guides are frequently highlighted for their knowledge, humor, and ability to make the experience enjoyable for all ages. While some find the formations less dramatic than other caverns, the unique history and cool underground environment make it a worthwhile visit.
"We visited the caverns this weekend, and as someone who loves nature, these are a must. The history and wonder while wandering through the caves is unmatched. Learning about the formations, and use of the minerals by prehistoric men, as well as First Americans, was awesome.
Our tour guide was Jim - a very witty, knowledgeable and funny gentleman who kept the group engaged and entertained. He is very passionate about his job and the preservation of the caverns. I highly recommend him as a guide!
The grounds at the park are well kept, and the love and dedication of the rangers and staff is apparent. If you enjoy a fun adventure, then I cannot recommend Longhorn Caverns enough!"
Nicole Q.
"My experience was amazing. Definitely deserves a five out of five stars if not more. The trails were beautiful and the caverns were inexplicably gorgeous and jaw-dropping. My tour guide for the caverns was Jim and I was highly impressed by his energy, humor, intelligence, and charm. He is extremely enthusiastic and makes learning fun for not only the kids but the adults as well. He was always cracking jokes and complimenting everyone, as well as giving the group “pop quizzes” to make the experience interactive. The way he explains things sticks with you. I would recommend this location any day for all ages and I would recommend Jim to anyone who is looking for a tour guide who makes the experience fun and memorable!"
April Jones
"We visited Longhorn Cavern State Park, and it was such an amazing experience! This place is very well maintained, clean, and beautifully organized. The tour was excellent and very informative.
You can choose between a lighted tour or a dark (wild) cave tour. If it’s your first time, I definitely recommend starting with the lighted one it’s fascinating and perfect for all ages. Later, if you want something more adventurous, you can try the darker, deeper exploration tour.
It’s a great place for the whole family! The walking tour lasts about an hour and a half, but it’s so interesting that time goes by quickly. The prices are reasonable, and the park is located very close to Austin, which makes it a perfect day trip.
We had an exceptional guide, Jennifer, who was absolutely fantastic friendly, funny, very knowledgeable, and super patient with the kids. She made the whole experience even better.
If you’re looking for something different to do near Austin, I totally recommend visiting Longhorn Cavern State Park. I’ll definitely come back and bring any friends or family who visit it’s a fun and unique place to explore!"
Abigail Silva
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Longhorn Cavern State Park is located about an hour's drive north of Austin, Texas. Take US-183 North towards Burnet, then follow the signs for Park Road 4 South.
Public transportation options are very limited for reaching Longhorn Cavern State Park. It is best accessed by private vehicle.
From Dallas, it's approximately a 3.5-hour drive. From Houston, expect a drive of around 3 hours. The park is conveniently located in the Texas Hill Country.
Yes, the park offers decent parking facilities for visitors arriving by car.
Absolutely! Longhorn Cavern State Park is a popular day trip destination, especially from Austin, due to its proximity and engaging tours.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The primary cost is for the guided tours. Walking tours are typically around $24 per person, but prices can vary. It's always best to check the official park website for the most current pricing.
Yes, it is highly recommended to book your walking tour tickets in advance, especially during busy seasons or weekends, to guarantee your spot.
The park's operating hours can vary seasonally. The cave tours have specific schedules, and it's advisable to check the official park website for the most up-to-date information on tour times and park hours.
Yes, Longhorn Cavern offers a standard 'Walking Tour' which is well-lit and suitable for all ages. They also offer a more adventurous 'Wild Tour' for those seeking a hands-on, less-developed cave experience.
Typically, the main cost is for the guided cave tours. While there might be a nominal park entrance fee, the tour tickets are the primary expense for experiencing the caverns. Confirm with the park's official site.
🎫 🧭 Onsite Experience
The cavern maintains a cool and consistent temperature of approximately 68°F (20°C) year-round, offering a refreshing escape from the Texas heat.
Photography is permitted inside the cave, but flash photography is strictly prohibited to protect the cave's delicate formations and its inhabitants, like the tricolored bats.
Some visitors have noted that video recording may be restricted inside the caverns, possibly for safety or preservation reasons. It's best to confirm this rule with park staff upon arrival.
Comfortable walking shoes are essential. Given the consistent 68°F temperature, wearing layers or bringing a light sweater is recommended, especially if you tend to get cold.
The lighted walking tour is generally considered family-friendly and suitable for all ages. The 'Wild Tour' is more adventurous and may be less suitable for very young children.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
The park typically has a gift shop that also sells snacks and drinks. However, for full meals, visitors often plan to eat before or after their visit in nearby Burnet or Marble Falls.
You can bring food and drinks to consume in designated areas outside the cave. However, only plain water is permitted inside the caverns during tours.
The gift shop usually offers a selection of typical park snacks, such as chips, candy, and beverages.
Yes, the nearby towns of Burnet and Marble Falls offer various dining options, from casual cafes to local eateries, perfect for a meal before or after your cave exploration.
While not explicitly detailed in all sources, many state parks offer picnic areas. It's a good idea to check with the park directly or look for signs upon arrival.
📸 📸 Photography
Photography is allowed, but flash is strictly prohibited. This rule is in place to protect the cave's delicate formations and the resident tricolored bats.
Tripod usage rules can vary. Given the no-flash rule and the nature of guided tours, it's best to confirm with park staff if tripods are permitted to avoid any issues.
The 'Grand Ballroom' and 'Bridal Chamber' are often highlighted for their impressive formations. Your guide will likely point out the most photogenic areas.
While cameras are allowed, some visitors have expressed disappointment about restrictions on video cameras. It's wise to check the latest park regulations regarding equipment.
The cave is lit with artificial lighting for the walking tours, which can be sufficient for non-flash photography. However, the low light conditions can make it challenging for some shots.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Remember to dress in layers as the cave is a cool 68°F year-round, which can be a welcome relief from Texas heat but might be chilly for little ones. Comfortable shoes are a must for navigating the cave's paths and stairs. While photography is allowed, no flash photography is permitted, so ensure your camera is ready for low-light conditions. Booking tours in advance is a smart move to avoid disappointment.
💰 Budget Travelers
To maximize savings, consider packing your own snacks and drinks for before or after the tour, as park concessions can add up. While there's no public transport, if you're road-tripping, the park is an affordable and memorable stop. Visiting on a weekday can also mean fewer crowds and a more relaxed experience without additional cost.
💑 Couples & Day-Trippers
Combine your visit with nearby attractions in the Texas Hill Country, such as wineries or other state parks like Krause Springs, for a full day of exploration. Booking your tour in advance ensures a smooth experience, allowing you to focus on enjoying the subterranean wonders together.
+1Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
The Geology and History of Longhorn Cavern
The history of the cavern is as rich as its geology. It has served various purposes throughout time, from a hideout for outlaws to a speakeasy during Prohibition. In the late 1930s and early 1940s, the Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) played a significant role in developing the cavern for public access, including the construction of some of the initial infrastructure.
Today, Longhorn Cavern State Park offers guided tours that delve into both its natural wonders and its human history. Visitors can learn about the cave's formation, its unique inhabitants like the tricolored bats, and the stories that have unfolded within its depths over centuries. The park aims to preserve this natural and historical treasure for future generations.
+1Navigating the Cave Tours
For the more adventurous, the 'Wild Tour' offers a different perspective. This tour explores less-developed sections of the cave, often requiring more physical exertion and a willingness to get a bit dirty. It provides a more hands-on and rugged experience, allowing visitors to see the cave in a more natural state. It's important to note that the cave's consistent temperature of 68°F means it can feel cool, so dressing in layers is recommended for any tour.
When planning your visit, remember that booking tours in advance is highly recommended, as they can sell out. Comfortable walking shoes are essential due to the stairs and varied terrain within the cave. While photography is allowed, flash is prohibited to protect the cave's delicate environment.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit