Fishing is a popular attraction at many Austin-area lakes.
Countless tourists head to Austin, Texas each year to take in the historical sights and Austin's vibrant nightlife scene. However, the area is also home to a plethora of outdoor activities revolving around a number of state parks and lakes surrounding the state capital.
Lake Travis
One of the largest man-made lakes in Texas, Lake Travis was created in the late 1930s with the construction of the Mansfield Dam.
There is over 270 miles of shoreline around the lake creating a beachfront for swimming, boating and fishing. There are over a half dozen marinas at the lake including Braircliff Marina, Easy Street Marina, Emerald Point Marina and Hurst Harbor.
Among the lodging options are a number of top resorts including Barton Creek Resort & Spa and Hyatt Regency Lost Pines which give visitors access to the lake's world-class golf courses and a cowboy-flavor of amenities.
Lake Travis sits 20 miles to the west of Austin and is easily accessible from any hotel in the Austin area.
Walter E. Long Lake
For visitors to the Austin area who are looking for lake within the metropolis, Walter E. Long Lake sits roughly 15 miles east of the downtown area. The lake is maintained as part of the Austin Parks Foundation and is a popular fishing, boating and picnic spot for Austin residents.
There are a number of picnic areas at the park where visitors will have access to volleyball courts, barbecue pits and picnic shelters. The park also has three reservation-only areas for large groups and events.
The lake is also open to swimming, however, there are no lifeguards on duty. For boaters there is on-site kayak rentals. Motorboats are permitted on the lake.
The Austin Parks Foundation charges an $8 fee to enter the grounds.
Lady Bird Lake
Previously known as Town Lake, Lady Bird Lake is directly downtown in the city of Austin. This six mile long lake is home to local canoeing and kayaking, and sports a number of jogging and hiking trails around the water. The city prefers that the lake waters stay calm and tranquil, therefore jet skis and motor boats are not allowed on the lake.
Although swimming is also prohibited in the lake, visitors and locals can take a refreshing dip in Barton Springs Pool. The pool gets its water from the natural springs of Barton Springs, which flow directly into Lady Bird Lake.
The most popular trail in Austin is the Lady Bird Hike and Bike Trail which is 10.1 miles, but has a number of different starting points, and diversions to challenge joggers and bikers of any endurance.
The lake is also home to many music concerts including the Austin City Limits Music Festival, which performs at the Auditorium Shores, an outdoor concert facility.
The lake was renamed Lady Bird Lake in 2007 in honor of former first lady Lady Bird Johnson.
