Water, water, water!

The lakes surrounding Austin add charm and beauty to the city. In addition to supplying Austinites with water sports and recreation the lakes are surrounded by a number of scenic parks. Most parks on Lake Travis and Lake Austin feature a boat ramp, some parks also include camping and overnight stay facilities.

Lake Travis and Lake Austin are only two of the seven lakes that make up the Highland Lakes system. The Highland Lakes begin 85 miles Northwest of Austin with Lake Buchanan, followed by Inks Lake, Lake LBJ, Lake Marble Falls, Lake Travis, Lake Austin and finally directly through downtown Austin is Town Lake. The lakes were created by a series of dams, these dams were built to allow water control for the lower Colorado River. Prior to the construction of the the dam system, surrounding cities and land suffered through 15 major floods from 1843-1938. After completion of the series of dams, the levels of the lakes can be monitored and modified to achieve the necessary water levels. The lakes also provide necessary water power for the Town Lake

City of Austin and surrounding cities. Along the lakes and dams are a series of parks, wildlife areas and recreation facilities.

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