Burnet (pronounced BURN-it) is the county seat of Burnet County and the closest town of any size to Lake Buchanan (pronounced buck-AN-an). It’s a good place to stop for picnic supplies and sunscreen products during summer visits (there are few facilities once you leave the city limits) but is also home to several good historic attractions of its own. Outdoor activities including hunting, fishing and birding are popular throughout the year here.
Attractions
Canyon of the Eagles Lodge and Nature Park. This 900-acre park serves as an ecotourism destination for all types of travelers, both two- and four-legged, whether it’s strolling on marked nature trails, birding, butterfly watching, fishing, kayaking, or even enjoying the stars at an observatory. Info: 16942 RR 2341; canyonoftheeagles.com. Fee.
Hamilton Creek Park. Tucked in a residential area, this quiet park lines both sides of Hamilton Creek. Wide sidewalks along the creek make this a nice place for a dog walk (but be aware that there are usually numerous ducks in the creek if your dog is particularly reactive). Info: one block west of US 281 on Jackson St. Free.
Highland Lakes Air Museum. Located at the Burnet Municipal Airport off US 281 just south of Burnet, you and your dog can stroll the grounds of this museum for a look at World War II airplanes, tanks, and more. Operated by the Highland Lakes Squadron of the Commemorative Air Force. Info: 2402 S. Water St.; www.highlandlakessquadron.com. Free for grounds only.
Inks Lake State Park. Our dogs just love this state park for one special reason: the lake. With its crushed granite floor, the lake waters are, for this part of the state, very clear. Irie and Tiki love wading in the shallow waters, swimming in the deep waters, and just hanging out in the peaceful park (which can get busy in peak times). The 1,200-acre park offers camping, lakeside picnicking, and plenty of wildlife viewing opportunities. Info: 3630 Park Rd. 4 West; www.tpwd.state.tx.us. Fee.
Lake Buchanan. Contained by one of the largest multiple-arch dams in the world, this lake located west of Burnet covers 23,000 acres and spans more than 30 miles. A favorite with anglers, the northeast side of the lake offers one of the best opportunities to spot the American bald eagle from November through March.
- Black Rock Park. This Lower Colorado River Authority park offers overnight accommodations for pet families but it’s also popular as a day-use park. Bring your fishing gear, swimming shoes, or birding binoculars to enjoy a day of fun on the shores of the expansive lake. Dogs are welcome on leash throughout the park. 3400 RR 261. Fee
- Cedar Point Recreation Area. Located on the northern shore of Lake Buchanan, this 400 acre tract offers hiking, camping, picnicking, wildlife viewing, fishing and a boat launching facility. 545 Ranch Rd. 3014, Tow.
Longhorn Cavern State Park. Although dogs aren’t permitted in the cavern itself or in park buildings, this small park still makes a nice stop for a stroll or a picnic. We especially enjoyed our visit during spring bluebonnet season. There’s no admission fee for just visiting the park (only for cave entry). Info: Six miles west of US 281 on Park Rd. 4 at 6211 Park Rd. 4 South. www.tpwd.state.tx.us . No fee for just coming in park (only for taking cave tour or camping).
Dog-Friendly Accommodations
Canyon of the Eagles Resort. Tucked in a 940-acre private nature park owned by the Lower Colorado River Authority, this lodge offers a whole menu of outdoor fun for you and your dog, from long walks on 14 miles of hiking trails to a game of Frisbee to waterfront fun (including dog-friendly canoeing). The resort offers guest rooms in buildings designed after 1920s-style Hill Country homes, each with porches and rocking chairs. The rooms include plenty of niceties but don’t look for a television set; the lodge knows that guests come here for the natural surroundings and outdoor fun. Guests also can visit the Eagle Eye Observatory, which is open several evenings per week for sky viewings. Info: 16942 RR 2341; canyonoftheeagles.com
Canyon of the Eagles RV Park and Campsites. Along with the beautiful resort, the Canyon of the Eagles Park also offers an RV park with 23 sites (back-in sites only) as well as camping areas. Dogs are welcome on leash no longer than six feet long. Info: 16942 RR 2341; canyonoftheeagles.com