With a General Store, Weekly Rodeo, and Riverfront Inn, There’s Nothing Like a Summer Weekend in This Texas Town

Small towns in Texas are some of my favorite places to visit year-round, but especially during the summer. There’s just something about driving down lonely backroads with the sun shining, windows down, and music blasting that makes all of my worries seem so small. If you agree, then you need to plan a trip to the little town of Hunt, Texas, this summer. With a weekly rodeo, a historic general store, and an inn located right on the pristine Guadalupe River, this slice of Texas Hill Country paradise is one of the best summer weekend road trips in the Lone Star State.

Nestled in the heart of the Texas Hill Country, Hunt is a small town of just over 1,300 where the people are friendly, and the pace of life is slow. This community is situated right along the pristine Guadalupe River, making it a popular summer destination.

During the summer months, Hunt's population soars due to numerous sleepaway camps located in town, such as Camp Waldemar. In fact, between campers and their family members, it's estimated that over 3,000 additional people call Hunt home when school is out.

Hunt is best known for being home to Crider's Rodeo & Dancehall, a local tradition for nearly 100 years. And, between Labor Day and Memorial Day, a weekly rodeo is held every Saturday night, followed by live country music on the open-air dance floor.

From bull riding to calf roping to barrel racing, the rodeo is a family-friendly event that's so quintessentially Texas. I can't imagine a better way to spend a summer night under the stars. Crider's also offers a delicious menu of catfish plates, burgers, and more.

No trip to Hunt is complete without stopping by The Hunt Store. Open since 1946, this general store and restaurant is a one-stop shop for travelers who need gas, coffee, toiletries, and/or a bite to eat. The store is home to the Hunt Rock Café, a full-service eatery turning out delicious pizzas, burgers, sandwiches, salads, and the signature menu item known as "French Tacos," which is a burger stuffed inside a flour tortilla. (Editor's Note: Due to flooding in July 2025, the Hunt Store is being rebuilt. However, you can visit The Mini Store in the meantime.)

Of course, you'll need a place to sleep during your weekend trip, and I can't recommend the River Inn Resort enough. This waterfront oasis features 60 individually owned condos, each with its own unique furnishings and décor. Studios and both one and two-bedroom condos are available. What attracts people to the resort is its prime location right on the waterfront. Sidewalks lead directly to the river, and there is even a slide! Amenities also include BBQ grills, docks, and more. Charcoal can be purchased in the main office. (Editor's Note: Due to flooding in July 2025, River Inn Resort is closed as they rebuild. Visit the website for updates.)

Before heading home, be sure to stop by Stonehenge II in nearby Ingram. While not an exact replica of the original, it's pretty close, and the site also features two fabricated Moai, which are the statues found on Easter Island.

Do you think Hunt in the Texas Hill Country is one of the best summer weekend road trips in Texas? And for even more summer excitement, check out our previous article for seven easy-access waterfalls in Texas that are perfect for a summer adventure.