Among the charming small towns scattered across the Texas Hill Country, one gem stands out: Kingsland, Texas. Looking for the best things to do in Kingsland, TX? Great rivers and lakes snake up and around the county, transforming the hillside into a bountiful area enriched with history and adventure.
Kingsland remains a place filled with stories, historical railroads, and beautiful sites visitors come to explore. It sits right by Lake LBJ and is between two rivers, the Llano and the Colorado. This is a great spot in Texas for enjoying the lake and all the fun activities that come with it.
It’s not surprising that more and more people are visiting Kingsland, TX. It’s a wonderful spot where you could end up wanting to stay, right where the rivers meet and the bluebonnets bloom in the heart of Texas!
What is Kingsland Texas Famous for?
Kingsland, Texas, is a great place to visit, especially if you like being outdoors. It is located right next to a beautiful lake called Lake LBJ and offers a haven for water enthusiasts, boasting excellent fishing, boating, and swimming opportunities.
This small town also has a cool history, with old buildings like the Antlers Hotel. And if you like biking, you can check out Spider Mountain, which is the only place in Texas where you can ride your bike up a mountain on a lift!
Go for a Swim
Llano Slab, also called “The Slab,” is located along the Llano River. It is one of the great rivers that runs through Kingsland. This is an absolute must when looking for things to do in Kingsland, TX, with its crystal-clear waters flowing over giant granite slabs (the origin of its name).
Llano Slab beckons visitors and locals alike to refresh and cool off, or simply to lounge and relax on the stones.
Rent a Boat
Looking for a way to explore the many lakes and rivers in Kingsland? Splash Boat Rentals is one way to beat the Texas heat. To really experience Kingsland, TX, you’ve got to leave the shore and head out onto the waters of Lake LBJ.
Believe us, the best way to see it all is by going on a boat ride and exploring the waters of the Colorado River and the Lano River. Splash Boat Rentals provides its customers with a variety of watercraft, such as jet skis, ski boats, and paddle boards, to name a few.
Once you’re set to put your boat in the water, make your way to Kingsland Community Park. They have a new boat ramp open to the public for launching. The park also offers boat docks, a spot for fishing, places to have a picnic, and games like washers and horseshoes, all set among beautiful oak trees!
Or Rent a Cool Car
Other modes of transportation don’t stop here. Polaris Slingshot Rentals offers a fun way to explore by providing a three-wheeled motorcycle to cruise around the streets of Kingsland.
Play Golf
The stunning Texas Hill Country is an ideal setting for a game of golf, and in Kingsland TX, you have two different courses to pick from.
Legends on Lake LBJ can be found in a gorgeous lakeside community by Lake LBJ. An added bonus of the Legends golf course is the option to stay right there, with The Legends Villas. They offer all the comforts for a relaxing getaway in Kingsland, Texas.
Or, you can also check out Lighthouse Country Club. Tucked in the picturesque Texas Hill Country, the Lighthouse Country Club boasts an 18-hole course by the edge of Lake LBJ.
A standout feature of this Kingsland, Texas, course is its scenic view of Packsaddle Mountain, a historic Texas site known for marking the site of the last significant battle with Native Americans in the region
Catch Some Fish
Spending a day fishing is a favorite activity in Texas Hill Country and especially in Kingsland, Texas. With Kingsland’s convenient access to Lake LBJ, the Llano River, and the Colorado River, visitors have a selection of waters for their fishing adventures.
Anglers often enjoy fishing around the numerous boat docks on this fabulous lake, but remember to keep an eye out for swimmers!
Spot the Coolest Murals
Kingsland Texas, is home to several captivating fun murals that are definitely worth stopping by to see. The perfect representation of this Hill Country town is painted on the side of the Kingsland, TX Chamber of Commerce office.
This particular mural showcases the ‘lake life’ of Lake LBJ and the Kingsland community, designed by artist Crystal Nobles.
There’s also an eye-catching mural at Prosperity Bank in Kingsland, TX, which is a detailed map of the Highland Lakes region. It beautifully shows how the Highland Lakes are connected, highlighting the links between the beautiful Lake LBJ, the rivers in Llano County, the neighboring lakes, and the great city of Kingsland, TX, itself.
Try Some Paddle Boarding
Stand-up paddle boarding is another delightful lake activity to try while in Kingsland, TX. For beginners, it’s best to choose a quieter spot on the lake, away from the bustling main waters. These calmer areas, free from waves, will make it easier to get the hang of standing up and savor the experience on the board.
Don’t worry if you don’t own a board – you can ask at nearby marinas and boat rental places about renting one for your Kingsland visit
Camp & Swim
Long’s Fish and Digs is the perfect combination of camping and adventure. This little camp site along the Llano River is open all year. Long’s Fish and Digs remains a local favorite spot, with lakes dispersed throughout, providing the perfect place to fish, swim, or explore for the day.
Go Shopping
If you’re on the hunt for distinctive gifts or keepsakes, make sure to check out the Kingsland House of Arts and Crafts. It is a nonprofit showcasing the creations of local artists, with more than 99% of their items being locally sourced.
For those with a passion for vintage home décor, Duo Trading Co. is a must-visit. It’s a treasure trove of eye-catching and one-of-a-kind pieces for your home, all beautifully arranged.
Don’t miss out on The Treasure Nook either, another great spot for vintage enthusiasts. This shop features a collection from over 60 vendors, offering a variety of antiques and vintage consignment goods.
Explore Nearby Burnet
Don’t hesitate to explore Burnet, just a mere county over from Kingsland. As close as it is to Kingsland, Burnet has its own distinct beauty and endless sites to wander through, like the Longhorn Caverns or Inks Lake State Park. Burnet encapsulates both a historical and whimsical essence with its sites, antique stores, and Falkenstein Castle.
Read more to know the best things to do in Burnet TX.
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Where to Eat in Kingsland TX
When visiting Kingsland, TX, a key element of the adventure is finding the perfect spot to dine. Fortunately, this charming town boasts a variety of fun restaurants. Kingsland does not only offer mouth-watering dishes but also provides memorable, unique experiences with their mouth-watering food and scenic views
Hooper’s
Located in the railroad district near the Colorado River lies Hooper’s. It is the original house that served as the setting for the iconic 1970s film The Texas Chainsaw Massacre! The house has since been transformed into an elegant restaurant, an emblem of High Hill hospitality cuisine
Guests can explore the building and view the original staircase and the notorious door that Leatherface, the chainsaw-wielding character, famously came through.
Boat Town Burger Bar
This popular spot in Kingsland, TX offers mouth-watering burgers, appetizers, and delightful craft cocktails. You can savor all that against the scenic view of Lake LBJ! Both locals and tourists head to Boat Town on weekends to soak up the energetic vibe, complete with live music beneath the Texas sky.
Boat Town is also known for hosting different events year-round. It’s an excellent way to spend the day while savoring the views and the delicious pub-style food.
Patio 2900
Right beside Boat Town Burger Bar, you’ll come across Patio 2900. While both spots offer stunning views of the lake, Patio 2900 specializes in serving up mouth-watering pizzas rather than burgers. The charming touch of a miniature surfboard beside the mural really pulls you into the artwork! Once you’ve picked out your delicious pizza, step outside to enjoy the views.
The bonus of dining at this location is the added perk of experiencing the happenings at Boat Town simultaneously! This guarantees a splendid evening in your Texas Hill Country travel adventure.
Lazy Heron Coffee House
Need a place to unwind while absorbing lakeside views and enjoying a steaming cup of coffee? Stop by Lazy Heron Coffee House, locally-owned and operated by a lovely family whose goal is to provide “high quality handcrafted beverages” in a peaceful lake atmosphere.
Where to Stay in Kingsland TX
Antlers Inn
Back in the 1900s, the Antlers Inn originally began as a hotspot for railroad travelers to stay. The Inn closed down and reopened in the late 1990s, then fully transformed into the historic landmark hotel that it is now. Over the years, it has held a part of Kingsland’s history, maintaining its atmospheric Victorian-style estate.
The Antlers Inn uniquely offers guests different lodging options to choose from, such as standard hotel rooms
located inside the building, cabin cottages, or train cars that are fully furnished. Whether you simply tour the grounds or decide to book a stay, the Antlers Inn is a fantastic place to feel like a time traveler, or rather, a train traveler.
Tiny Home Rental in Kingsland TX
If you’re looking for something more quaint and private, check out some vacation rentals in Kingsland. It comes with a rooftop and a beautiful interior that makes for a wonderful stay!
Valentine Lakeside Resort
Valentine Lakeside Resort is situated along the scenic Llano River banks. It has been a cherished part of the Kingsland landscape since the 1950s. Choosing to stay at Valentine Lakeside gives you the option of 19 different guestrooms, each with varying bedroom counts but all enjoying a fabulous lakeside setting.
Not only does the resort offer cozy cabins, but it also provides RV spots with full hookups, complemented by a convenient bathhouse. Your stay promises unforgettable sunrises and sunsets, the opportunity to paddle in canoes or kayaks, swimming adventures, or simply unwinding beneath the lush pecan trees.
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Top Things to Do in Kingsland TX: Final Thoughts
Kingsland offers a slice of Texan paradise that blends natural beauty with rich cultural experiences. Whether you’re teeing off on a sunset-lit golf course, savoring local flavors by the lake, or finding hidden treasures in charming shops, the memories you create here will last a lifetime.
So pack your bags, gather your sense of adventure, and make your way to Kingsland. It is a great time to explore a place where the rivers flow, the bluebonnets grow, and the genuine Texas spirit welcomes you with open arms.
Last Updated 10 months ago by Jessica Serna | Published: November 28, 2021
