Ghostly whispers, forgotten cemeteries, and eerie old buildings—Central Texas is rich with chilling stories, and Round Rock is the perfect launchpad for a haunted road trip adventure. Whether you’re a thrill-seeker or a history buff with a taste for the paranormal, this region offers plenty of spine-tingling destinations that combine Texas folklore, haunted legends, and creepy atmospheric charm.
In this guide, you’ll uncover seven must-visit haunted locations near Round Rock, all within driving distance, perfect for a hair-raising weekend or Halloween-season road trip.
Why Round Rock Is a Great Base for Haunted Road Trips
Round Rock sits at the intersection of frontier history and urban legend, with easy access to some of Central Texas’s most notorious haunted locations. From old cemeteries and abandoned buildings to ghost-ridden roads and haunted halls, the region invites brave travelers to experience Texas’ darker side—without venturing too far from civilization.
Fall is the best time to go: cooler nights, foggy mornings, and Halloween vibes in full swing. Bring your flashlight, camera, and nerves of steel!
Haunted Places to Explore Near Round Rock
1. Round Rock Cemetery – Grave of Outlaw Sam Bass
This historic cemetery is the final resting place of famed outlaw Sam Bass, who was shot during a botched robbery in 1878. Legend says his ghost still lingers, especially near his marked grave under the live oaks.
Address: 300 E Main Ave, Round Rock, TX 78664
Hours: Sunrise to sunset
Approx Cost: Free
Famous For: Ghostly sightings of Sam Bass and mysterious footsteps
For More Info: Visit Website
Tip: Visit at dusk for the full eerie effect—locals report cold spots and flickering shadows.
2. Hairy Man Road
Named after a legend of a wild, hairy hermit who terrorized travelers in the 1800s, this scenic road in Brushy Creek is said to be haunted. Locals claim to hear disembodied screams, rustling in empty woods, and strange taps on car windows.
Address: Hairy Man Rd (Brushy Creek Rd), Round Rock/Cedar Park
Hours: Public road, open access
Approx Cost: Free
Famous For: Eerie drives and local ghost lore
For More Info: Visit Website
Tip: Drive slowly after dark and roll your windows down—if you dare. Many ghost hunters visit during full moons.
3. Georgetown’s Old Williamson County Jail
Just 20 minutes north of Round Rock, this imposing 1888 jail is now home to a museum and rumored spirits of former inmates. Visitors report cold spots, voices, and unexplained footsteps in the empty cell blocks.
Address: 312 S Main St, Georgetown, TX 78626
Hours: Tours by appointment or special events
Approx Cost: $5–$10
Famous For: Paranormal activity in preserved jail cells
For More Info: Visit Website
Tip: Call ahead for haunted history tours around Halloween—they often book fast.
4. The Stagecoach Inn (Salado)
This historic inn, 40 minutes from Round Rock, dates back to the 1860s. Many believe it’s haunted by the ghosts of travelers, Civil War soldiers, and former owners. Doors slam on their own, and voices echo in empty rooms.
Address: 416 S Main St, Salado, TX 76571
Hours: Open for dining and lodging
Approx Cost: Free to visit; $120+ for overnight
Famous For: Paranormal sightings in rooms and dining areas
For More Info: Visit Website
Tip: Stay overnight for a full ghost-hunting experience—or at least enjoy a meal while soaking in the atmosphere.
5. Hornsby Cemetery – East Austin
This cemetery, located in a quiet wooded area near the Colorado River, is one of Austin’s most haunted burial grounds. Visitors report seeing orbs, shadow figures, and hearing cries that seem to come from nowhere.
Address: 1398 Hornsby Cemetery Rd, Austin, TX 78725
Hours: Sunrise to sunset
Approx Cost: Free
Famous For: Civil War-era graves and eerie nighttime activity
For More Info: Visit Website
Tip: Bring a friend and a camera—you may capture more than just headstones in your photos.
6. Baker Theater Ruins – Lockhart
The Baker Theater in Lockhart is a hidden haunt about 45 minutes away. Though long closed, the ruins of the building are said to host the ghost of a projectionist and echoes of past performances.
Address: 100 N Main St, Lockhart, TX 78644
Hours: Exterior only
Approx Cost: Free
Famous For: Ghost lights and whispers from the ruins
For More Info: Visit Website
Tip: Combine this stop with a BBQ trip—Lockhart is known as the BBQ capital of Texas (ghost stories are better on a full stomach).
7. Oakwood Cemetery – North Austin
This massive cemetery houses many of Austin’s early settlers and features elaborate tombstones and reports of ghostly figures wandering the grounds. It’s peaceful by day and haunting by twilight.
Address: 1601 Navasota St, Austin, TX 78702
Hours: Daily, 7 AM – 7 PM
Approx Cost: Free
Famous For: Apparitions and haunted urban legend tales
For More Info: Visit Website
Tip: Check for public ghost tours—local historians often share chilling stories during walking tours in October.
Packing Tips for Haunted Road Trips
Flashlight or headlamp with extra batteries
Camera or smartphone with night mode
Notebook to jot down ghost stories or experiences
Voice recorder or EVP app if you’re into ghost hunting
Comfortable walking shoes for cemeteries and uneven trails
Bug spray and jacket for evening outings
Snacks and water for longer drives or remote stops
Local Tips & Seasonal Advice
October is peak spooky season—most haunted tours and events run then
Many cemeteries close at sunset, so plan visits during twilight
Some locations require permission or tours, especially jails or ruins
Be respectful—haunted or not, many sites are sacred or private
Bring a friend—ghost hunting is better (and safer) in pairs
Final Thoughts on Haunted Road Trips Near Round Rock
From outlaw cemeteries and haunted roads to ghost-filled jails and shadowy ruins, the Round Rock area is surrounded by stories that will chill you to the bone. These haunted sites are more than eerie—they’re also windows into Texas’s complex past and folklore-rich heritage.
So gather your bravest friends, charge your cameras, and hit the road for a spooky adventure filled with mystery, history, and maybe a ghost or two.
