Lake Austin

Lake Austin

Formed between the Mansfield and Tom Miller dams, Lake Austin travels 20.25 miles and covers 1,830 surface acres. The high limestone walls are a unique feature of Lake Austin. Because the lake is long and narrow, and the wind is often deflected by the cliff walls, this lake is a favorite among water skiers. Since the water is the bottom water from Lake Travis, Lake Austin water temperatures tend to be cooler than other lakes. The true die-hard skiers will brave the cold temperatures just to be able to ski the "glass" like water near the Mansfield dam. Me, I'm too much of a baby, I have to have the water temperature just right before I will get out and ski. Usually from May until the end of September is my season.

Looking North up Lake Austin from Mount Bonnell

Looking South down Lake Austin from Mount Bonnell

On Lake Austin are seven public parks and/or boat launches that are maintained by either Travis County of the City of Austin. Emma Long is the only park to allow camping, but they also charge a fee.

Commons Ford Metropolitan Park
Off Bee Caves Road on Commons Ford Road
263-5478
No fee
One of the newest park's on Lake Austin

Emma Long Metropolitan Park (City Park)
1600 City Park Road, off 2222
346-1831
Open at all times
Fee
3 miles of shoreline. The park includes: boat ramps, picnic facilities, fishing and swimming. This is the Austin's oldest and biggest city park. Camping is permitted.

Fritz Hughes Park - 5 acre park
Off RR 620, just before Mansfield Dam
Open daily
Free
Includes a playground, picnic tables, restrooms, sports courts and a boat ramp (off Low Water Crossing Road).

Loop 360 Boat Ramp
5020 Capital of Texas Highway (Loop 360), under the 360 bridge.
Open daily
Free
I personally would not call this a park area. I call it "the place where everyone and his/her boat gets launched onto the lake" area. Boat traffic is very intense and congested at this boat ramp. Be patient.

Mary Quinlan Park - 6 acre park
Off RR 620 at the end of Quinlan Park Road (5.5 mile road)
Open daily
Free
Day-use park. Facilities include: another busy boat ramp, swimming area, restrooms and picnic facilities. Pets must be on a leash.

Selma Hughes Park - 5 acre park
Off RR 620 (past FM 2222), take Quinlan Park Road South for 4-5 miles to Selma Hughes Park Road
Open daily
Free
Swimming is allowed. Boat launch, picnic and restroom facilities are available.

Walsh Boat Landing
1600 Scenic Drive
499-6700
Just above Tom Miller Dam, near the Hula Hut restaurant. Public boat ramp, picnic and restroom facilities. Day use park.

back to experienceaustin.com