THE HIGHLAND LAKES CHAIN

Running through the heart of Central Texas, the Colorado River’s dams have provided some of the best fishing, boating, and recreation in Texas by forming a chain of lakes in Burnet and Llano counties.
 
Starting in Llano County, Lake Buchanan, the largest of the five, acts as a reservoir for the entire region. Lake levels fluctuate with the seasons, depending on rainfall or drought conditions. The Lower Colorado River Authority, which operates the dams along the Highland Lakes chain, stores water in Lake Buchanan while also generating electricity at the dams.
 
Next comes one of the smallest yet most picturesque of the lakes, Inks Lake. On its shores are the popular Inks Lake State Park and Longhorn Cavern State Park. Park Road 4 is a winding, tree- and wildflower-lined road to both parks and the lake.

Lake LBJ, one of the three biggies in the chain, is a recreational paradise. It can always be depended upon for great boating and fishing. The shoreline is dotted with lakeside homes, granite gravel beaches, granite rock formations, marinas, restaurants, resorts, and golf courses.

Lake Marble Falls, another small but popular lake, has its own personality. Fed by Lake LBJ and Backbone Creek, the lake is lined with stunning cliffs and beautiful parks and walkways. The US 281 bridge connects the south part of the city to its older, more established northern section. The lake is great for boating, family outings, fishing, and swimming.
 
Lake Travis connects Marble Falls to Austin by water, weaving in and out of rolling hills covered in cedar, mesquite, and oaks. A large lake with a variety of tributaries feeding in, the lake’s personality changes as it leaves the quiet of the Highland Lakes and moves east through Blanco and Travis counties.
 
Deciding which lake is right for your vacation/staycation will take some research. Start right here on 101HighlandLakes.com then hit the road for a great experience on the water.