Descritopn:  Longhorn Cavern State Park, south of Burnet in Burnet County, is 645.62 acres classified as a scenic park in the rugged Hill Country. Longhorn Cavern was acquired in 1932 - 1937 from private owners. It was dedicated a state park in 1932, was opened in 1938 and was dedicated as a natural landmark in 1971.

The cave was first formed when the ground levels of water began to drop. As this downward movement occurred, the water began to dissolve the limestone. This downward drainage continued until great underground stream beds were cut out of solid rock. It is this unusual combination of dissolving and cutting by water that makes Longhorn Cavern one of the most unique caves of the world.

History: The cave has been used as a shelter since prehistoric times. Among legends about the cave is one that the outlaw Sam Bass hid a $2 million cache of stolen money inside. Confederates made gunpowder in the cave during the Civil War. Legend also says Texas Rangers rescued a kidnapped girl from Indians in the cave.

Important information: The cave is 68 degrees year round. The park offers guided tours that last approximately 1 hour and 25 minutes (a 1 1/4-mile round trip). For your safety and comfort, low-heeled shoes with rubber soles are recommended. Open every day except Christmas Eve and Christmas Day. Visitor Center opens at 9 a.m. daily. The first tour leaves between 10 and 11 am (call ahead). Tours are conveniently scheduled throughout the day. Call (877) 441-CAVE (441-2283) for current tour times.

A Geology Program - Developed by a qualified geologist for persons of at least 8th-grade age, this program includes a brief explanation of the complex geology of the Texas Hill Country and how it relates to Longhorn Cavern. A cavern tour and a field trip are included.

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The short program includes a lecture plus the cave tour. The long program will includes a lecture, a field trip to the Kingsland Scenic Overlook, Inks Lake State Park and the Devils's Waterhole, plus the cave tour.

Hours: Open daily from dawn to dusk. Closed Christmas Eve, Christmas Day and during Public Hunts. Busy Season: March - August.

Admission fees: do apply, see Park website for details.

<!--2005 TPWD photo by Michelle LaPoint -->