If you’re looking for a fun weekend trip from San Antonio or Austin, Texas, then Lake Buchanan may be just the ticket. We spent two days in the area with our niece and it was lovely. We live in San Antonio so it was an easy drive for us but it would also be an easy trip from Austin. Here’s what you need to know to love Lake Buchanan.
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Lake Buchanan, Texas
When we were originally planning this trip we had planned to go to Inks Lake State Park. However, because of recent flooding we decided to nix that. The flooding meant there would be more debris in lake and swimming wasn’t recommended. Lake Buchanan was a great alternative and I’m glad we didn’t skip it. I would love to go back to the area and hike around Inks Lake in the spring.
If you are planning a trip to the area, be sure to check water levels and watch weather reports for potential flooding.
Where is Lake Buchanan
If you’re going to visit Lake Buchanan, you’re going to need to know where it is. The great thing is it’s nearby the two best cities in Texas (in my opinion). It is only an hour and a half drive from Austin and a little over two hours from San Antonio. Making this a great weekend trip if you’re visiting one of those cities. Or, if, like us, you live in San Antonio, it’s great for a getaway.
When to Visit
I have always said that the very best time to visit the Texas Hill Country is in the spring. The weather is cooler, the flowers are blooming, and the bigger cities aren’t too busy yet. However, the second best time is in the summer. Yes, I said it. I know it’s hot but if you’re wanting to swim, then this time is for you. The rivers and lakes are refreshing and you can really enjoy them to the fullest in the summer. Now, if you’re not into swimming, stick to the spring.
Places to Stay
My personal place to stay whenever I travel is in a VRBO. However, you’ve got options when it comes to places to stay near Lake Buchanan. I’m going to share the exact place we stayed because it was wonderful and when we go back to the area, we will stay there again. Here’s three great options for types of places to stay:
Stay in a VRBO
Find a hotel in the area
Camp or RV on the Lake
What to Do
We were in the area for water activities. We wanted to swim, kayak, and basically just be on the lake. There’s also Inks Lake State Park nearby where you can hike, and you guessed it, be on the lake (just a different one). We didn’t head to Inks Lake because of the recent flooding that had taken place. If you’re visiting in the spring, then Inks lake is a great place for hiking. Summertime hiking is a bit rough in Texas so I’d stick to water activities.
You can rent kayaks at both Lake Buchanan and Inks Lake. If you want to really get out on the lake, I recommend taking a boat ride. There’s a gorgeous waterfall you can see from the boat that’s there year-around. Use Vanishing River Cruises for the boat ride. It can be a little long for kids but you can bring adult beverages and see the waterfall.
For kayaks and other water boats, check with your accommodation, ours had kayaks we could use. Paddle boats can be rented at Inks Lake and Vanishing River Cruises also rents out kayaks and canoes. If you’re into it, there’s a small brewery on Lake Buchanan that you can visit as well. You can literally kayak to it! Finally, make sure you catch a sunrise or sunset over the water.
What to do at Lake Buchanan:
Vanishing Cruises Boat Ride
Visit Inks Lake State Park
Kayak to Buchanan Brewery Company
Why Visit Lake Buchanan
Finally, let’s talk about who Lake Buchanan is for. Honestly, I think everyone. It’s good for couples, families, and groups of friends. If your kids love the water, then it’s for you. The boat ride can be a little boring for them but my niece did love seeing the waterfall and she said the boat was worth that. She’s six.
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