A Guide to All of the Public Parks on Lake Austin

Emma Long Metropolitan Park

Features:

• Beach and Swimming Area: The park features a sandy beach area along Lake Austin, where visitors can relax and swim. It’s an excellent spot for families to spend a day by the water, enjoying the sun and lake views.
• Picnic Areas and Barbecues: Emma Long Park has numerous picnic tables and pits. These areas are perfect for family gatherings, casual get-togethers, and outdoor meals.
• Hiking Trails: The park offers several hiking trails that wind through its wooded areas, providing hiking and nature walk opportunities. The trails vary in difficulty, catering to both novice hikers and seasoned enthusiasts.
• Boat Ramp and Dock: Emma Long Park has a boat ramp and dock, making it easy for visitors to launch their boats, kayaks, or paddleboards. The lake is ideal for water activities, and the park’s facilities ensure a convenient experience.
• Sports Facilities: For sports enthusiasts, the park includes sports fields and courts for activities like soccer, volleyball, and basketball. There’s also an off-leash dog area where pets can run and play freely.
• Activities: Emma Long Metropolitan Park is a versatile location offering activities for all ages. Visitors can spend a day swimming in the lake, hiking the trails, barbecuing, or engaging in various sports. The park's ample space and diverse amenities make it a go-to destination for outdoor fun.

Common Ford

Features:

• River Access: The park offers direct access to Lake Austin, providing opportunities for fishing, kayaking, and paddleboarding. The calm waters and scenic surroundings make it a great spot for water-based activities.
• Trails and Green Spaces: Common Ford features several trails that wind through the park's natural landscape. These trails are ideal for walking, jogging, or simply enjoying the outdoors. The park's green spaces are well-maintained, providing ample areas for picnicking and relaxation.
• Fishing Areas: The park is known for its excellent fishing spots. Anglers can try their luck catching various fish species, and there is plenty of space to set up along the shoreline.
• Wildlife Viewing: The park’s natural setting makes it a great place for wildlife viewing. Birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts can enjoy observing local wildlife in their natural habitat.
• Activities: Common Ford is perfect for those who appreciate nature and prefer a quieter, more laid-back park experience. Fishing, kayaking, and hiking are popular activities, and the park’s peaceful environment makes it a great place to unwind and enjoy the beauty of Lake Austin.

Quinlan Park

Features:

• Playground: Quinlan Park includes a modern playground equipped with swings, slides, and climbing structures. It’s a popular spot for families with young children to enjoy some outdoor playtime.
• Picnic Areas: The park has designated picnic areas with tables and grills, making it ideal for outdoor meals and family gatherings.
• Boat Ramp: Quinlan Park features a boat ramp for easy access to Lake Austin. Whether you’re launching a boat, kayak, or paddleboard, the ramp provides convenient access to the water.
• Walking Trails: The park includes walking trails that offer pleasant strolls with lake views. These trails are perfect for a leisurely walk or a brisk jog.
• Basketball Court: For sports enthusiasts, Quinlan Park has a basketball court where visitors can shoot hoops and play a game with friends.
• Activities: Quinlan Park offers a range of activities suitable for families and individuals alike. There's something for everyone, from playground fun and picnicking to boating and basketball. The park’s well-maintained facilities and scenic views enhance the overall experience.

Lady Bird Lake-Lamar Beach Metro Park

Features:

• Lamar Beach: The park includes a section of Lamar Beach, a popular spot for swimming and relaxing by the water. The well-maintained beach area provides a great place to enjoy the lake.
• Walking and Biking Trails: Lady Bird Lake-Lamar Beach Metro Park features a network of walking and biking trails that connect to the larger hike-and-bike trail system around Lady Bird Lake. These trails offer scenic views and a chance to explore the park’s natural surroundings.
• Sports Facilities: The park has sports facilities, including tennis courts and a sports field. These amenities cater to a variety of recreational activities and sports.
• Playground: The park includes a well-equipped playground for families, where children can enjoy swings, slides, and climbing structures.
• Picnic Areas: The park features picnic areas with tables and barbecue grills, providing outdoor dining and gathering spaces.
• Activities: Lady Bird Lake-Lamar Beach Metro Park offers a variety of activities for visitors of all ages. Enjoy a swim at Lamar Beach, take a walk or bike ride along the trails, play a game of tennis, or have a picnic with family and friends. The park’s recreational facilities and beautiful lake views make it a popular destination for locals and visitors.

Jessica Hollis Park

Features:

• Scenic Lake Views: Jessica Hollis Park offers beautiful views of Lake Austin, providing a tranquil setting for visitors to enjoy. The lakeside location is perfect for relaxing and taking in the area's natural beauty.
• Picnic Areas: The park includes several shaded picnic areas with tables and grills. These spots are ideal for family gatherings, casual meals, and outdoor picnics.
• Playground: The park features a well-maintained playground with modern equipment. It’s a popular spot for children to play, with swings, slides, and climbing structures.
• Walking Trails: Jessica Hollis Park has paved walking trails that wind through the park, offering a pleasant space for walking, jogging, or strolls. The trails are accessible and provide scenic views of the lake.
• Fishing Access: For fishing enthusiasts, the park provides access to Lake Austin for a relaxing day of fishing. The calm waters and scenic surroundings make it an enjoyable spot to cast a line.
• Activities: Jessica Hollis Park is an excellent location for a range of activities. Enjoy a picnic with family, let the kids play at the playground, take a peaceful walk along the trails, or spend some time fishing by the lake. The park’s serene atmosphere and scenic views make it a great place to unwind and connect with nature.

The Charm of Lake Austin Parks