Inks Lake State Park
You stand at the edge of a 40-foot cliff, pink granite warm beneath your feet, looking down at water so blue it doesn’t seem real. Below, swimmers bob in a natural pool carved into ancient stone. This is the Devil’s Waterhole—Texas Hill Country’s most famous swimming hole—and the cliff you’re standing on has been launched from by generations of thrill-seekers. You take a breath and jump.
Welcome to Inks Lake State Park, a 1,200-acre gem in the Highland Lakes chain where pink granite outcroppings tumble into constantly full waters. Unlike other Highland Lakes that fluctuate with drought and demand, Inks Lake maintains a near-constant level year-round, making it one of the most reliable water recreation destinations in Central Texas. Whether you’re cliff jumping at Devil’s Waterhole, paddling between granite shores, hiking 9 miles of Hill Country trails, or camping lakeside, Inks Lake delivers the quintessential Texas outdoor experience.
What Makes Inks Lake Legendary
Devil’s Waterhole
Famous swimming hole with cliff jumping up to 40 feet off pink granite.
Constant Water Level
Unlike other Highland Lakes, Inks maintains full level year-round.
Pink Granite
Ancient pink granite outcrops create stunning landscape contrast.
Lakeside Camping
Camp right on the shore with water access steps away.
Devil’s Waterhole
The Devil’s Waterhole is Inks Lake’s crown jewel—a natural swimming area carved into pink granite with cliff jumping opportunities ranging from beginner ledges to a heart-pounding 40-foot drop. A short, scenic hike leads to this legendary swimming hole.
| Devil’s Waterhole Info | Details |
|---|---|
| ⬇️ Cliff Heights | Various; up to 40 feet |
| 🏊 Swimming | Allowed; deep natural pool |
| 🚨 Lifeguards | NONE on duty |
| 🚶 Access | Short hike from main park area |
⚠️ Cliff Jumping Safety
- No lifeguards on duty—swim and jump at your own risk
- Check water depth before jumping (levels vary)
- Never dive headfirst
- Start with lower ledges before attempting higher jumps
- Rocks can be slippery—wear water shoes
Swimming & Water Activities
Beyond Devil’s Waterhole, Inks Lake offers abundant water recreation throughout its constant-level waters:
- 🏊 Swimming: Multiple access points along shore
- 🛶 Kayaking/Canoeing: Rentals available at park
- 🏄 Stand-Up Paddleboarding: SUP rentals available
- 🚤 Boating: Boat ramp access; water skiing permitted
- 🤿 Scuba Diving: Allowed in designated areas
- 🎣 Fishing: Bass, catfish, sunfish
💧 Why Inks Lake Stays Full
While other Highland Lakes (like Lake Travis) fluctuate dramatically with drought, Inks Lake maintains consistent levels because it’s used as a “pass-through” lake for the Highland Lakes system—water flows in from Lake Buchanan and out toward Lake LBJ, keeping levels stable.
Hiking Trails
The park offers 9 miles of hiking trails that wind through shady oak forests and over rocky pink granite hills with scenic Hill Country vistas:
| Trail | Highlights |
|---|---|
| 🪨 Devil’s Backbone Trail | Granite outcrops; connects to Devil’s Waterhole |
| 🌲 Pecan Flats Trail | Shaded forest; easier terrain |
| ⛰️ Valley View Trail | Hill Country vistas; moderate difficulty |
Pink Granite Geology
The distinctive pink granite that defines Inks Lake’s landscape is part of the Llano Uplift—a dome of ancient Precambrian rock that rose to the surface some 1.1 billion years ago. This same geological formation creates the famous pink granite at nearby Enchanted Rock. The iron-rich feldspar gives the stone its characteristic pink hue.
Camping
| Camping Option | Details |
|---|---|
| 🏕️ Lakeside Sites | Prime locations directly on water; most popular |
| 🔌 Sites with W/E | Water and electric hookups available |
| ⛺ Primitive Sites | Walk-in tent sites; more secluded |
| 🏠 Cabins | Climate-controlled; lakeside options |
📅 Reservations Essential
Inks Lake is one of Texas’s most popular parks, especially in summer. Reserve well in advance—lakeside sites book months ahead. Weekends and holidays fill quickly year-round.
When to Visit
☀️ Summer (June – August)
Peak season. Water activities at their best. Devil’s Waterhole most popular. Hot (95°F+). Highest crowds—arrive early for parking. Water temperature comfortable for swimming.
Best for: Swimming, cliff jumping, kayaking, camping
🌸 Spring (March – May)
Excellent. Warming temperatures. Wildflowers on trails. Water activities beginning. Fewer crowds than summer. Comfortable hiking weather.
Best for: Hiking, wildflowers, comfortable weather
🍂 Fall (September – November)
Great shoulder season. Heat easing. Water still warm enough for swimming. Crowds declining. Pleasant camping weather. Fall foliage in November.
Best for: Balanced experience, fewer crowds
❄️ Winter (December – February)
Quiet. Water too cold for most swimmers. Excellent hiking conditions. Fewest crowds. Holiday weekends still busy.
Best for: Hiking, solitude, camping without heat
Practical Information
| Item | Details |
|---|---|
| 🎟️ Entry Fee | $7/adult (13+); free for children under 13 |
| 🏕️ Camping | From $20/night + utility fees |
| 🛶 Rentals | Canoes, kayaks, SUPs available |
| ⏰ Hours | 8 AM – 10 PM daily |
Getting There
- 📍 Address: 3630 Park Road 4 West, Burnet, TX 78611
- 📍 From Austin: ~60 miles northwest via TX 1431 or US 281
- 📍 From San Antonio: ~90 miles north
- 📍 Nearby: Longhorn Cavern State Park (~5 mi), Enchanted Rock (~25 mi)
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Devil’s Waterhole safe for kids?
The swimming area is suitable for supervised children. However, cliff jumping should be limited to competent swimmers, and the higher ledges are not appropriate for young children. No lifeguards are on duty.
Does the lake ever get low?
Unlike Lake Travis and other Highland Lakes, Inks Lake maintains remarkably consistent levels year-round due to its role in the Highland Lakes water system. This is one of its biggest advantages.
Can I bring my own kayak/canoe?
Yes! There’s lake access for personal watercraft. The park also rents kayaks, canoes, and SUPs if you prefer not to bring your own.
How far is the hike to Devil’s Waterhole?
It’s a short, scenic hike from the main park areas. Most visitors can reach it in 15-20 minutes at a casual pace.
🪨 Pink Granite, Blue Water, Perfect Days
Inks Lake is Texas at its summertime best: pink granite cliffs tumbling into crystal blue water that never drops, no matter how dry the year. Launch yourself off 40-foot ledges at Devil’s Waterhole. Paddle between ancient stone outcrops. Camp at the water’s edge and fall asleep to lake sounds. This is the Highland Lakes at their most reliable—and most beautiful.
📍 Address: 3630 Park Road 4 West, Burnet, TX 78611
📞 Phone: (512) 793-2223
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a reservation to visit Texas state parks?
Day-use reservations are now mandatory at popular parks including Enchanted Rock, Garner, Pedernales Falls, and Palo Duro Canyon. Make reservations through the Texas Parks & Wildlife reservation system before visiting.
How much is a Texas State Parks Pass?
The Texas State Parks Pass costs $70 per year and provides free entry for the pass holder and all vehicle occupants at all Texas state parks. It is one of the best-value annual passes in the country.
What are the best state parks near Austin, Texas?
Popular state parks near Austin include Enchanted Rock (1.5 hours), Pedernales Falls (45 minutes), McKinney Falls (15 minutes), and Inks Lake (1.5 hours). All require advance day-use reservations on weekends.
Can I swim at Texas state parks?
Yes, many Texas state parks offer excellent swimming. Popular swimming spots include the spring-fed Frio River at Garner SP, Pedernales Falls, and Hamilton Pool Preserve. Some parks have designated swimming areas with no lifeguards.
Explore More Texas State Parks
Inks Lake State Park is one of many outstanding state parks in Texas. Discover more parks in our Best State Parks in Texas guide, or use our Park Finder to search by activity, location, or features.
