Longhorn Cavern State Park
🦇 Trusted Guide to Texas Hill Country’s Ancient Cave – Updated 2025
Half a Billion Years Underground
Deep beneath the Texas Hill Country south of Burnet, Longhorn Cavern extends through 500-million-year-old Ellenburger limestone — one of the oldest exposed geological formations in the state. Unlike the typical drip-formed stalactite caves, Longhorn Cavern was carved by ancient underground rivers that dissolved and sculpted the rock into vast rooms, smooth-walled passages, and dramatic formations. The 645-acre park above preserves the cave’s entrance alongside the remarkable Civilian Conservation Corps architecture from the 1930s, when CCC Company 854 excavated tons of silt and guano to make the cave accessible to the public. Today, guided tours reveal a cave with a colorful past — from Comanche shelter to Confederate gunpowder factory to outlaw hideout.
Cave Tours
The main guided cave tour lasts approximately 1 hour and 25 minutes, following paved pathways through the cavern’s most impressive chambers. Highlights include the Grand Hall — a massive room where the cave’s history as a dance hall in the 1930s becomes believable — and formations shaped by water rather than the slow mineral dripping typical of most show caves. The cave maintains a constant 68°F temperature year-round, making it a welcome escape from Texas summer heat. Photography is allowed, and the cave’s unique formations provide dramatic subjects.
CCC Legacy
The Civilian Conservation Corps transformed this site between 1934 and 1942, and their stone masonry work is among the finest CCC craftsmanship in Texas. The entry building, observation tower, and stone walls blend seamlessly into the limestone landscape. A short walk around the surface reveals interpretive signs explaining the CCC’s extraordinary effort to excavate thousands of cubic yards of cave fill.
Practical Tips
- From Austin (65 miles): Take US-183 North through Cedar Park to Park Road 4 South
- Entry fee: Cave tours start at $18.95 adults, $10.95 children (4-11)
- Reservations strongly recommended — book online at visitlonghorncavern.com
- The cave is a constant 68°F — bring a light jacket even in summer
- Wear closed-toe shoes with good traction — some cave floors can be slick
- This is a day-use park — no camping, but Inks Lake State Park is just 6 miles away with excellent camping and swimming
- Combine with Inks Lake State Park for a Highland Lakes weekend — cave tour in the morning, swimming and kayaking in the afternoon
- The “Wild Cave Tour” (when available) takes adventurous visitors into undeveloped sections — ask about availability
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
Longhorn Cavern 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.
