Longhorn Cavern State Park

Longhorn Cavern State Park, outside of Burnet, Texas, is home to a geological wonderland that’s fun for the whole family to explore! 

The land was acquired from private owners around 1930, and the CCC (Civilian Conservation Corps) developed the park and surrounding structures. Since then, the State Park has been overseeing caverns. 

Visitors may choose between three tours:

1. Walking Tour
2. Wild Cave Tour
3. Gemstone Mining

Check out my pricing breakdown below to see discounted bundles perfect for any budget.

The Walking Tour is the most popular and lasts about 1.5 hours. Guests will descend 52 wide and well-lit stone steps to the start of the journey, where the pathway is wide and easy to traverse. What appealed to me was that the cavern was spacious and didn’t make me feel trapped. I only had to duck for a few lower sections. Additionally, lighting throughout the cave showcases the geological wonders and eliminates the gloom customarily associated with caverns.

Tour guides are knowledgeable, friendly, and eager to share stories about the cavern. I learned how it was formed and the history behind the Native Americans who called them home. I even discovered that Confederate soldiers stored gunpowder in the caves during the Civil War. 

The underground trail is a dried river bed about 1.1 miles in length. While hiking boots aren’t required, the terrain can be wet in spots, so wear something comfortable with excellent traction. 

Parents with infants are encouraged to visit, and the park even allows strollers in the cave. Yes, you read that correctly: strollers are allowed! You’ll have to carry strollers down the stone steps, and they advise using those with soft wheels to navigate the stone pathway. If you prefer using a backpack, watch out for low ceilings if your child rides high on your back. 

Fun Facts and Cool Features 

For the adventurous or avid spelunker, sign up for the Wild Cave Tour. This 3-hour adventure takes you into the heart of the cave system void of man-made lighting and paths. You’ll don a safety helmet with light and follow your guide through the labyrinth of undeveloped lower-level caverns.

Most of the trek is through large areas tall enough to walk upright. But be advised that you need to be able to crawl on your hands and knees through narrow passages. 

The guides for this adventure are reassuring, knowledgeable, and experienced, helping novices have a successful hike. 

Unlike the Walking Tour, the Wild Cave Tour has an age restriction and shouldn’t be considered by those who are claustrophobic. 

Driving into the park, I couldn’t help but notice the wondrous stone buildings dotting the premises. The CCC built these structures in the 1930s, and they are used today as a visitors center, a museum, and other park-related businesses. Because these buildings are above ground, they’re free to explore, with many offering signage explaining their rich history.  

I also found archways that made it feel like I was stepping back to a bygone era where manual labor created stone walls and removed tons of silt from the caves. 

Next, I explored many trails sweeping the park that allowed for a pleasant stroll. And with the plethora of grassy areas and stoney outcroppings, it was the ideal place for a picnic or a rest. 

Getting There

Longhorn Cavern State Parks is at 6211 Park Road 4 S in Burnet, Texas. 

From Burnet, head south on HI 281 for 3 miles and turn right onto Park Road 4 S. Follow PR 4S for 6.5 miles until you reach the park entrance. 

Cost

Above-ground activities at the park are free during regular business hours. Cave tours are as follows:

• Bronze Bundle Walking Tour (Ages 4-11) from $28.25
• Bronze Bundle Walking Tour (Ages 12+) from $32.25

• Cavern Walking Tour (Ages 4-11) from $18.25
• Cavern Walking Tour (Ages 12+) from $22.25

• Wild Cave Tour (Ages 8+) from $100.25
• Wild Cave Tour Bronze Bundle (Ages 8+) from $19.25