Did you know that Longhorn Cavern wasn’t formed by the typical dripping water process like most caves? Instead, this remarkable underground wonder was carved by an ancient river that flowed through limestone about 500 million years ago. This unique formation process created the stunning, smooth-walled passages that make Longhorn Cavern State Park one of Texas’ most fascinating natural attractions.
Getting There & Planning Your Journey
Longhorn Cavern State Park is nestled in the heart of the Texas Hill Country, approximately 98 km (61 miles) northwest of Austin and 169 km (105 miles) north of San Antonio. The park’s address is 6211 Park Road 4 S, Burnet, TX 78611.
Plan Your Trip to Longhorn Cavern
Ready to explore this underground wonder? Book your transportation now and start your Texas adventure!
If driving from Austin, take US-183 N to TX-29 W, then follow Park Road 4 to the cavern. From San Antonio, take US-281 N to TX-71 W, then to Park Road 4. The park is well-signposted, making it easy to find once you’re in the area.
Best Time to Visit & Weather Tips
One of the most remarkable aspects of Longhorn Cavern is its consistent year-round temperature of approximately 18°C (65°F), regardless of the weather outside. This makes the cavern itself a perfect destination in any season.
Seasonal Considerations:
- Spring (March-May): Ideal time with mild temperatures and wildflowers blooming in the park
- Summer (June-August): The busiest season, with the cave offering a cool escape from Texas summer heat
- Fall (September-November): Pleasant temperatures and fewer crowds
- Winter (December-February): Lowest visitation, offering a more private experience
What to Pack:
- Light jacket or sweater (the cave stays 18°C/65°F year-round)
- Comfortable, closed-toe shoes with good traction
- Water bottle (especially for hiking the above-ground trails)
- Camera (flash photography is permitted in most areas)
- Sunscreen and hat for the outdoor portions of your visit
Pro Tip: Book your cave tours in advance, especially during summer months and holidays when they frequently sell out. The first tour of the day typically offers the most peaceful experience.
Cave Tours & Underground Experiences
The heart of any visit to Longhorn Cavern State Park is exploring the magnificent cave system. Several tour options are available, each offering a unique perspective of this natural wonder.
Walking Tour
This 1.5-hour guided tour takes you along developed paths through the main portions of the cavern. You’ll see the Hall of Marble, the Indian Council Room, and the Crystal City while learning about the cave’s fascinating geological and human history.
Price: Adults $18.95, Children (4-12) $14.95
Wild Cave Tour
For the adventurous, this 2-hour expedition takes you off the developed paths to explore the cavern’s lower levels. You’ll crawl, climb, and squeeze through passages not seen on regular tours. Physical requirements apply.
Price: $40.00 per person (minimum age 13)
Blacklight Tour
This unique weekend morning tour equips you with a blacklight flashlight to reveal glowing secrets hidden within the cave walls. The fluorescent minerals create a spectacular light show not visible during standard tours.
Price: Adults $24.95, Children (4-12) $19.95
“We were expecting a small cave and a short tour so we were REALLY impressed by the extensiveness of this cavern, the history, and the 1.5-hour long tour. Our guide was hilarious, welcoming, personable and informative.”
Above-Ground Activities & Attractions
While the cavern is the main attraction, Longhorn Cavern State Park offers plenty to explore above ground across its 261 hectares (645 acres) of Texas Hill Country landscape.
Hiking Trails
The park features several scenic hiking trails that wind through juniper and oak woodlands:
- Backbone Ridge Trail: A 2.4 km (1.5 mile) loop offering panoramic views of the surrounding Hill Country
- Observation Tower Trail: A short hike leading to a historic CCC-built tower with spectacular vistas
- Nature Trail: A family-friendly 0.8 km (0.5 mile) path with interpretive signs about local flora and fauna
Additional Attractions
- CCC Museum: Learn about the Civilian Conservation Corps who developed the park in the 1930s
- Gemstone Mining: Try your luck finding treasures at the sluice ($9.95 per bag)
- Crack-Your-Own Geode: Discover crystal formations inside your very own geode ($14.95 each)
- Picnic Areas: Shaded tables perfect for a family lunch
- Gift Shop: Unique souvenirs, apparel, and educational materials
Explore More Texas Hill Country Adventures
Discover other amazing activities and attractions near Longhorn Cavern State Park!
Where to Stay Near Longhorn Cavern
While Longhorn Cavern State Park doesn’t offer overnight accommodations within the park itself, there are plenty of lodging options in the surrounding area to suit every preference and budget.
Nearby Camping
Inks Lake State Park (13 km/8 miles away) offers over 200 campsites with water and electricity hookups, restrooms with showers, and beautiful lakeside views. Reservations recommended.
Hotels & Motels
The nearby towns of Marble Falls (24 km/15 miles) and Burnet (19 km/12 miles) offer a variety of hotels and motels ranging from budget-friendly to upscale options, all within a short drive of the cavern.
Bed & Breakfasts
The Texas Hill Country is known for its charming bed and breakfasts, many housed in historic buildings with unique character. These offer a more personal experience with home-cooked breakfasts and local knowledge from hosts.
Dining & Local Cuisine
While food options at the park itself are limited to the snack bar offering grab-and-go items, the surrounding area boasts excellent dining opportunities to satisfy your appetite after cave exploring.
At the Park
The Longhorn Cavern Snack Bar offers:
- Hunt Brothers Pizza
- Ice cream treats
- Snacks and jerky
- Cold beverages
There are also several picnic areas throughout the park where you can enjoy a packed lunch amid beautiful Hill Country scenery.
Nearby Dining
Within a 20-30 minute drive, you’ll find numerous dining options in Marble Falls and Burnet:
- Texas BBQ joints serving brisket, ribs, and all the fixings
- Family-owned cafes with home-style cooking
- Tex-Mex restaurants offering authentic regional cuisine
- Brewpubs featuring local craft beers and pub fare
- Upscale dining options with Hill Country views
Local Favorite: Don’t miss Storm’s Drive-In in Burnet, a classic Texas hamburger joint operating since 1950. Their shakes and onion rings are legendary among locals and visitors alike.
Practical Travel Tips
Park Information
- Hours: 9:00 AM – 5:00 PM (6:00 PM during summer and weekends)
- Entrance Fee: No fee to enter the park; cave tours require tickets
- Tour Tickets: Available online (recommended) or at the visitor center
- Accessibility: The walking tour is partially accessible with assistance
- Pets: Welcome in the park but not inside the cavern
Visitor Tips
- The cave maintains a constant 18°C (65°F) year-round
- Wear closed-toe shoes with good traction for all tours
- Bring a light jacket even in summer
- Book tours in advance during peak seasons
- Allow 3-4 hours for a complete park experience
- Cell service can be spotty in the park
Is Longhorn Cavern suitable for children?
Yes, the standard Walking Tour is family-friendly and suitable for children of all ages. The Wild Cave Tour has a minimum age requirement of 13 years. Children under 4 are free on the Walking Tour when accompanied by a paying adult.
How difficult is the Walking Tour?
The Walking Tour involves approximately 1.6 km (1 mile) of walking on developed paths with some stairs. Most people with average mobility can complete the tour comfortably. There are about 52 steps at the entrance and several smaller staircases throughout.
Can I take photographs in the cave?
Yes, photography is permitted and encouraged throughout the cavern. Flash photography is allowed in most areas. Tripods are permitted on the Walking Tour as long as they don’t block pathways.
Plan Your Longhorn Cavern Adventure
Longhorn Cavern State Park offers a perfect blend of natural wonder, geological marvels, and Texas history. From the smooth-walled passages carved by ancient waters to the fascinating stories of Confederate soldiers, prohibition-era speakeasies, and 1930s dance halls, this underground treasure provides an unforgettable experience for visitors of all ages.
Whether you’re crawling through the Wild Cave Tour’s challenging passages, marveling at crystal formations on the Walking Tour, or hiking the scenic trails above ground, Longhorn Cavern promises adventure, education, and memories that will last a lifetime.
Ready to Explore Longhorn Cavern?
Book your complete Texas Hill Country adventure today!
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