Inks Lake State Park is a great spot to take advantage of the beautiful Texas landscape and explore the outdoors. 

Less than an hour and a half outside of Austin – to the Northwest – sits Inks Lake State Park (which is also a ten minute drive from Longhorn Cavern State Park). Here, visitors will find a wonderful place to swim and hike the day away. The park features nine miles of trails, including the family-friendly Pecan Flats (3.3 miles). Paddle boats, canoes, kayaks, life vests, and paddles are all available to rent here too. Water lovers should note that even scuba diving is allowed in certain areas of the lake, and there’s a no-wake zone to support paddlers too.

This park is not only a great spot to spend an afternoon on the water, but a beloved camping locale for Austinites looking to retreat from city life for a couple days. Over 200 campsites are available, but reservations fill up fast. Reservations for entry – even day use – are currently required.