STATE AND NATIONAL PARKS IN THE HIGHLAND LAKES REGION OF CENTRAL TEXAS |
| LONGHORN CAVERN STATE PARK - BURNET, TEXAS |
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. Price: Facilities: Facilities include a gift shop, a full service deli and snack counter, a picnic area, and 2 miles of hiking trails. The park is open for day-use only. It is operated by concessionaire, Longhorn Cavern, Inc. An exhibit of Civilian Conservation Corps work done in the Texas State Parks System is on display in the original administration building; no fee. Flora/Fauna: The terrain consists of hills and sandy, red, black waxy soils; cedar, and other trees. Elevation: Elevation ranges from 779 to 1585 feet. Weather: Average rainfall is 30.4 and January minimum is 33 degrees and July maximum is 98 degrees. Area Attractions: Nearby parks include Inks Lake and Pedernales Falls State Parks; Enchanted Rock State Natural Area; and the Lyndon B. Johnson State Park and Historic Site. |
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Revised May 06, 2006 |
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