If you’re a thrill-seeker craving ghost stories, spine-tingling history, and shadowy legends, haunted road trips near Killeen are sure to stir your adventurous spirit. Central Texas holds secrets from centuries past—abandoned cemeteries, military hauntings, ghost towns, and mysterious apparitions that add a chilling twist to your road trip itinerary.
This guide takes you through the most spine-chilling sites around Killeen—some tied to local lore, others backed by whispered eyewitness accounts. Whether you’re a seasoned paranormal explorer or just looking for a spooky detour, these haunted stops are perfect for your next Central Texas adventure.
Why a Road Trip to Killeen, Texas Should Be on Your Travel List
Killeen’s unique history—steeped in military legacy, frontier settlement, and cultural crossroads—makes it a prime base for exploring Texas’s haunted heartland. From Civil War ghost stories to military legends and unexplained sightings on forgotten roads, this region offers spooky adventures just minutes from town.
Fall is the best time for haunted road trips, with cool breezes, early sunsets, and Halloween energy in the air. Many stops are free, and several spots are open dusk to dawn—ideal for moonlit investigations or ghost-hunting excursions.
Top Places to Visit During Your Road Trip to Killeen, Texas
1. Maxdale Cemetery
Perhaps the most infamous haunted spot near Killeen, Maxdale Cemetery is located near the ruins of a ghost town. Local legends tell of ghostly figures seen roaming the area at night, especially near the iron bridge that once stood nearby. Visitors report feelings of being watched, shadowy figures, and unexplained cold spots.
Address: Maxdale Rd, Killeen, TX
Hours: Open access; best visited before dark
Approx Cost: Free
Famous For: Alleged ghost sightings, haunted bridge lore, and eerie stillness.
For More Info: Visit Website
Tip: Visit in pairs or groups—this rural spot gets very dark and isolated.
2. Belton’s Historic Downtown & Courthouse
Just 20 minutes from Killeen, Belton’s courthouse square is filled with 19th-century buildings and ghost stories. The Bell County Courthouse is rumored to be haunted by a woman in white, while several historic businesses claim unexplained happenings like flickering lights and disembodied voices.
Address: 101 E Central Ave, Belton, TX
Hours: Courthouse open Mon–Fri; exteriors viewable anytime
Approx Cost: Free
Famous For: Apparitions in windows and haunted basement tales.
For More Info: Visit Website
Tip: Join a local ghost tour during Halloween season for storytelling and guided history.
3. Stillhouse Hollow Lake Night Roads
Though the lake is known for its beauty, the backroads leading to Dana Peak Park are rumored to be haunted by the “Lady in the Mist”—a ghostly figure in white that reportedly appears to drivers on foggy nights. Some claim to hear whispers or feel cold drafts near the wooded bends.
Address: FM2410 to Dana Peak, Harker Heights, TX
Hours: Open access roads
Approx Cost: Free
Famous For: Local driving legend and eerie twilight encounters.
For More Info: Visit Website
Tip: Visit at twilight and drive slowly—you may feel more than just the chill in the air.
4. Fort Cavazos (Formerly Fort Hood)
While still an active base, Fort Cavazos is no stranger to paranormal reports. Former soldiers and staff have spoken of ghost sightings in old barracks, unexplained footsteps, and strange occurrences in historic buildings. While access is limited, events or veterans may share spine-chilling stories worth listening to.
Address: Fort Cavazos, Killeen, TX
Hours: Restricted access (open areas during public events)
Approx Cost: Free with ID for authorized visitors
Famous For: Haunted barracks, soldier sightings, and military ghost stories.
For More Info: Visit Website
Tip: Talk to base veterans or attend open days—they often share firsthand spooky accounts.
5. Old Salado Cemetery
Located about 30 minutes north, this historic cemetery is filled with 1800s graves and whispers of haunted voices. Paranormal groups have reported strange EMF readings, orbs in photos, and eerie sensations when walking through alone.
Address: Baines St, Salado, TX
Hours: Sunrise to sunset
Approx Cost: Free
Famous For: Quiet, shadowy graveyard with local legends of ghost children and Civil War spirits.
For More Info: Visit Website
Tip: Bring a flashlight for dusk visits and always stay respectful of gravesites.
Where to Eat on a Road Trip to Killeen, Texas – Local Food Gems
1. Galaxy B&B Coffee Shop
A quirky space-themed café with good coffee and eerie nighttime vibes, perfect after an evening haunt hunt. Their dark roast and star-themed decor set the tone for spooky storytelling.
Address: 719 W Rancier Ave, Killeen, TX
Hours: Mon–Sat: 7am–9pm
Approx Cost: $5–$10
Famous For: Cosmic lattes, moon pies, and local ghost tales.
For More Info: Visit Website
Tip: Ask staff about local ghost legends—they love sharing stories!
2. Black Meg 43
A cozy burger joint with dim lighting, vintage vibes, and comfort food perfect for ghost hunters on the go. Their loaded fries and milkshakes hit the spot after a long night.
Address: 2170 S Clear Creek Rd, Killeen, TX
Hours: Daily: 11am–9pm
Approx Cost: $8–$15
Famous For: Hearty burgers, thick shakes, and late-night fuel.
For More Info: Visit Website
Tip: Great stop before or after visiting Maxdale Cemetery—it’s close by.
3. The Farmhouse in Salado
A peaceful daytime brunch spot to contrast your haunted evening adventures. Their farmhouse skillet and lavender lemonade will calm your nerves after a spooky night.
Address: 11282 FM 2484, Salado, TX
Hours: Tue–Sun: 9am–2pm
Approx Cost: $12–$25
Famous For: Cozy comfort food and country calm.
For More Info: Visit Website
Tip: Ideal for a sunrise breakfast after camping near haunted Salado sites.
Best Places to Stay During Your Road Trip to Killeen, Texas
1. Shilo Inns Killeen
Close to downtown and rumored ghost spots, this comfortable stay is perfect for a restful night—if you can sleep after your haunted adventure!
Address: 3701 S W S Young Dr, Killeen, TX
Hours: 24/7
Approx Cost: $100–$140
Famous For: Spacious rooms and central location for spooky side trips.
For More Info: Visit Website
Tip: Book a corner room for quieter evenings—and maybe more mystery.
2. Airbnb – Haunted Traveler’s Cottage
This pet-friendly Airbnb near Belton claims ghostly activity by former guests. Whether it’s old pipes or something more, it adds the perfect touch of lore to your trip.
Address: Provided after booking
Hours: Flexible check-in
Approx Cost: $85–$120
Famous For: Cozy stay with mysterious creaks and flickering lights.
For More Info: Visit Website
Tip: Bring a journal—you might want to document any eerie moments.
3. The Inn on the Creek – Salado
This charming B&B is historic, elegant, and reportedly haunted. Guests occasionally report unexplained footsteps or voices, especially in the older wing.
Address: 602 Center Cir, Salado, TX
Hours: Check-in 3pm
Approx Cost: $140–$190
Famous For: Riverside charm and subtle paranormal vibes.
For More Info: Visit Website
Tip: Ask for the oldest available room if you’re brave!
Packing Tips / Road Trip Hacks
Flashlight and extra batteries for night visits
Fully charged camera or phone with night mode
Voice recorder for EVP experiments
Journal to log spooky sightings or feelings
Water bottle and snacks for remote locations
Compass or GPS (some haunted spots lack signal)
Blanket for chilly cemetery stops
EMF detector or ghost-hunting app (optional fun gear)
Extra courage and a sense of humor
Local Tips / Seasonal Events
Visit during October for Halloween tours and themed events
Maxdale Road is extra spooky on foggy mornings or moonlit nights
Salado’s Ghost Tours run seasonally—book early in fall
Fort Cavazos hosts historic base tours and occasional open-house events
Many cemeteries are active—be respectful and visit only during allowed hours
Some areas are on private land—always observe posted signs
Conclusion
For the brave and curious, haunted road trips near Killeen offer spine-tingling mysteries, local legends, and ghostly encounters. Exploring eerie cemeteries, historic towns, and shadowy backroads ensures a uniquely thrilling adventure. Gather your courage, set out after dark, and experience unforgettable chills and thrills that only Central Texas’s haunted sites provide.
