7 Best Staycation Destinations In Llano County

Llano County makes a great destination for a refreshing staycation. A scenic region located in the heart of the Texas Hill Country, Llano County is well known for its rolling hills, naturally beautiful landscapes, and rich cultural heritage. Local Texans looking for a relaxing staycation as well as tourists looking for an authentic Texas experience can all enjoy what Llano County has to offer. But for people living in Llano County, a staycation here is truly something special — what’s better than taking a deep dive into the beauty and adventure available in your own neighborhood?

One of the biggest draws of Llano County is the abundance of natural beauty in the area. Staycationers can explore miles of hiking and biking trails, fish in blue lakes and rivers, or even just relax and take in gorgeous views of the Texas Hill Country. Llano County is also home to many charming small towns to visit, each with its own unique attractions and activities to discover. For those in search of a relaxing mini getaway or an adventurous weekend close to home, Llano County has lots to offer. Here are some of the best staycation destinations in Llano County:

Llano itself is a historic town with a rich cultural history. Here, visitors can learn about local history at the Llano County Historical Museum, or take a leisurely stroll through the town’s lively historic downtown area to visit unique boutiques, restaurants, shops, and art galleries. Llano hosts several events and festivals throughout the year that are lots of fun for families, including the Llano Crawfish Open, Llano Earth Art Fest, and the Llano Country Opry.

Sunrise Beach Village is a small waterfront town located on the shores of Lake Lyndon B. Johnson, known locally as Lake LBJ. The town is a popular hot spot for swimming, boating, fishing, and jet skiing, and also features multiple parks and nature trails on its shores. Visitors can stay at vacation rentals on the shore like Lake LBJ Resort & Marina, which also features a pool and a restaurant.

Kingsland, a Llano County town located on the banks of Lake LBJ, is a popular destination for all kinds of water-based activities and sports. Here, staycationers can rent boats or jet skis to explore the lake, or fish for largemouth bass, sunfish, and delicious catfish. The town is also home to multiple golf courses, including the exquisite Lighthouse Country Club, and hosts the annual Kingsland AquaBoom, which is a lively Fourth of July celebration that features live music, food, and a fireworks show.

Another presidentially named lake, Lake Buchanan boasts several small Llano County towns along its shores. Buchanan Dam is a scenic small town situated on the lake that offers a variety of exciting opportunities for outdoor recreation. Visitors can enjoy fishing, boating, and water sports on the lake, as well as exploring shoreside parks. There are also several wineries and vineyards just outside of town where visitors can take tours and do tastings. For anyone who wants to enjoy sunny days out on the water and scenic views of Texas Hill Country, Lake Buchanan is the perfect staycation destination.

A staycation along the Llano River is popular among residents of Llano County, especially during the warmer summer months. Here, residents enjoy swimming, tubing, kayaking, fishing, canoeing, and many other water-based activities. This gorgeous river runs through the heart of Llano County and boasts miles of natural beauty. Llano River is enveloped by scenic hills and is full of tranquil spots for picnicking and spending time with friends and family. Situated along the river, Badu Park is a particularly popular spot for swimming, fishing, and picnicking. The park is even home to a waterfall, swimming pool, and multiple open-air picnic areas with grills and tables. Visitors have access to rental kayaks and canoes to adventure on the river, and can take a stroll along the park's smooth walking paths. The beauty of the Texas Hill Country is on full display here, and is a staycationer’s dream.

Often overlooked but full of quirk and character, the tiny town of Castell is located on the banks of the Llano River and is known for its German heritage, small population, and scenic beauty. Visitors can explore the town's historic buildings, including the 1880s-style Castell General Store, or enjoy water activities in the river. Castell is home to a multitude of seasonal events, including a Fourth of July celebration and a music festival, and there are cabins for visitors to rent out so they can get the full Castell experience.

For those who prefer to rough it outdoors, the nearby Enchanted Rock State Natural Area is an incredible staycation destination. This natural area is popular for hiking and camping and features a 425-foot tall pink granite dome that offers sweeping views of the surrounding area. Campers can hike to the summit of the dome, go rock climbing, or sit down and enjoy a picnic in one of the park's campsite areas.

Llano County is filled with hidden gems and fun places to visit that are rich in history, culture, adventure, and natural beauty. For those who are passionate about outdoor activities, shopping and dining, or even exploring local historical landmarks and museums, it’s hard to run out of things to do in Llano County. For anyone looking to make Llano County their permanent place of residence or invest in Llano County real estate, local realtor Rodney Topper is a helpful resource who can find the perfect property. With years of experience in Llano County, Rodney has unmatched knowledge of the local area and market and makes navigating the buying and selling processes smooth.