Whether you’re looking for a romantic getaway or just a fun day trip, Hill Country Texas has everything. From wildflowers to caves, wineries to national parks, the area is flush with color and breathtaking scenery.
Spring brings out the best of Texas’ unique flowers, including bluebonnets and Indian paintbrushes. Head to the picturesque towns south and west of Austin during this time to see the blooms in their full glory.
Marble Falls
With its lakefront location on the Highland Lakes, Marble Falls is a popular vacation destination for those looking to get away from the hustle and bustle of big Texan cities. This laid-back town is perfect for a weekend getaway filled with fun activities, scenic hiking trails, and state parks.
The city has plenty of things to do for families, such as visiting a LOCAL BERRY FARM. Here you can pick your own berries, savor an ice cream, and enjoy other family-friendly activities like barrel train rides, a petting zoo, and live music.
INKS LAKE STATE PARK
Located in the Highland Lakes chain of seven lakes surrounded by granite hills, Inks Lake State Park is a great day trip from San Marcos River Resort. It offers 1201 acres of recreational facilities that are adjacent to the Colorado River.
There’s a lot to do here, including 9 miles of hiking trails. It also has a scenic viewpoint 1,000 feet above the water for a stunning view of Texas Hill Country.
Another fun activity is to take a cave tour at Longhorn Cavern State Park. It’s less than a mile from Inks Lake and is the perfect side trip for campers!
BALCONES CANYONLANDS
The Balcones Canyonlands National Wildlife Refuge is a scenic hill country haven northwest of Austin. Established in 1992, it protects habitat for two endangered songbirds and numerous other wildlife species.
The refuge has a variety of outdoor activities, including ranger-led programs throughout the spring, summer and fall. The preserve is also home to a number of unique plant species. These include Texabama croton and canyon mock-orange.
LONGHORN CAVERN
Located just under 90 minutes from Austin, Longhorn Cavern State Park offers a one-of-a-kind experience in the Hill Country. It features a guided tour that focuses on the unique geological formations of the cave.
The limestone earth in the area was formed 280 to 300 million years ago during an upheaval called the Llano Uplift. This caused faults in the rock, which allowed water to flow into the caverns. It also cut underground streams into the rock, forming the stunning tunnels that we can explore today.
EAGLE EYE OBSERVATORY
Escape from the bright lights of big cities and stargaze at Eagle Eye Observatory. This 950-acre park is far away from light pollution and its dark skies make it ideal for stargazing.
The Eagle Eye Observatory features modern telescopes that offer research-quality views of the moon and the stars. Staffed by qualified astronomers, the observatory is open during published afternoons and evenings, weather permitting.
BEAR KING BREWING
If you’re into craft beer and enjoy a laid-back atmosphere, you’ll want to check out Bear King Brewing. It’s located just off Main Street in Marble Falls and is fairly new to the Hill Country brewery scene. It features a massive 5,500 square feet taproom and restaurant, with indoor seating for 200+ guests, an open-air beer garden, patio games, and live music.
PERISSOS VINEYARD
Perissos Vineyard is a family-owned vineyard and winery in the heart of the Texas Hill Country. The 16-acre property is located in decomposed granite soils, a unique terroir that allows for superior wines.
This family-friendly winery makes wines from thirteen varietals, most of which are grown in their 16-acre vineyard. Their wines are available at several locations across the state.
Make San Marcos River Resort Your Home Base in Texas Hill Country
With so much to see and do around the area, you’ll be happy and relaxed knowing you have a great resort to hang your hat during your Texas Hill Country adventures. San Marcos River Resort has great TENT CAMPING spaces, RV SITES with full hook-ups, TREEHOUSE RENTALS, and RUSTIC CABINS for you to enjoy. Come stay with us!
