If you’re anything like me, you know that Austin isn’t just about live music and food trucks. It’s also a gateway to some seriously stunning natural spots perfect for a variety of outdoor activities, from camping and fishing to swimming and boating. There are a lot of popular swimming holes and you may get worried about all of them being crowded, but if you’re willing to venture out a little further there are so many gems including places where you’ll feel like you have it all to yourself! I’ve had the pleasure of exploring some of the best lakes and parks around Austin, and there are so many gems that get overlooked!
We like to use Recreation.gov (especially the app) to be able to find top spots where nature and fun come together. You’re easily able to find day passes, activities, and even camping spots! Whether you’re planning a trip for next week or next summer, always check the season dates and need to know information for each park.
Stay Safe, Camp Happy
Before you pack your bags and head out, let’s chat about some essential guidelines and safety tips to ensure your adventure goes off without a hitch.
- Guidelines and regulations are your first step: Be sure to check out the specific regulations for each campground on Recreation.gov—think things like campfire regulations, pet policies, and waste disposal instructions. Following these guidelines helps keep the natural beauty intact and ensures everyone has a great time.
- Water safety is crucial: Whether you’re swimming, fishing, or just enjoying the lakeside views, always be aware of the water conditions. Follow posted safety guidelines, wear life jackets if boating, and avoid swimming alone or in unsafe areas.
- Download the Recreation.gov app: This handy tool lets you easily book campsites, check availability, and manage your reservations on the go.
- Some spots might also require an activity pass or use Scan & Pay systems for additional activities. Make sure you’re up-to-date on any permits or passes needed, and use the Recreation.gov app or on-site kiosks for quick and easy transactions.
- Lastly, being a courteous camper goes a long way. Keep noise levels down, respect fellow campers’ space, and always pack out what you bring in. This ensures everyone can enjoy the serene beauty of our parks.
With these practices in mind, you’ll be all set for a fun, safe, and respectful outdoor adventure.
Best Lakes and Parks Around Austin For Camping and More
When you’re looking for awesome lakes and parks near Austin, there are abundance of parks, and US Army Corps of Engineers lake projects, but don’t forget to visit some of the lesser known spots where you’ll often avoid crowds! And, for more info on campsites, fees, and rules, just click on each spot to get all the details.
Georgetown Lake
Just a short 30-minute drive from Austin, you’ll find the stunning Georgetown Lake! This beautiful spot is super accessible and packed with activities for everyone like camping, fishing, swimming, and boating. Depending on when you go the turquoise color of the water really stands out as well as the limestone cliffs that make a scenic backdrop. Georgetown Lake is also the spot of the gorgeous Crockett Gardens! Although it has partially collapsed, it still makes for a beautiful hike (or kayak/canoe ride).
Cedar Breaks Park
Cedar Breaks Park at Georgetown Lake is super easy to get to. This park is a perfect getaway where you can soak up the sun under the shade of beautiful oak and juniper trees. When you’re not camping, there’s plenty to do! Explore the Goodwater Loop Hiking Trail, offering stunning views and great spots for hiking and biking. From Cedar Breaks Park, you can also set off on a 2.5-mile hike to Crockett Garden Falls. The trail features a fun mix of rocky paths and hilly terrain, so be sure to lace up your best hiking shoes!
- Day Passes and Overnight Available
- 59 campsites (each allows one RV, one tent, or two tents)
- Top amenities include: boat ramp, fishing dock, picnic shelters, trailhead parking and BBQ grills. Pets allowed!
- Enjoy activities like: hiking, fishing, paddling, boating, and mountain biking.
Russell Park
Just 25 miles north of Austin, this park features a cozy washed pebble swim beach safely marked with a protective floating pipe, perfect for splashing around with family and friends. Boating is the star attraction here, with a convenient boat ramp that allows you to explore the expansive 1,200-acre lake. For those who enjoy hitting the trails, the San Gabriel River Trail is a must-try! And if you’re into hunting, you can catch small game like dove and squirrel with a permit.
- Day Passes and Overnight Available
- 27 primitive campsites for tent and shelter camping only
- Top amenities include: boat ramp, trailheads and parking, drinking water, electricity, quiet area, bunk beds, and fire pits.
- Enjoy activities like: swimming and water sports, fishing, boating, hunting, hiking, mountain biking, paddling, picnicking, and wildlife viewing.
- Things to note: The Swim Beach and Day Use Area are closed every year from November through February.
Jim Hogg Park
Jim Hogg Park is a standout camping destination due to its scenic waterfront campsites. This means you can enjoy stunning lake views and easy access to all the fun water activities! There are also some pretty stellar hiking trails nearby, allowing you to explore the beautiful Texas Hill Country.
- Day Passes and Overnight Available
- 142 reservable campsites, including five large group camping shelters (double sites permit up to four vehicles, two RVs, and two tents)
- Top amenities include: fishing dock, boat ramp, drinking water, trail, trailheads and parking, and BBQ grills.
- Enjoy activities like: birding, wildlife viewing, hunting, hiking, mountain biking, paddling, fishing, and boating.
Tejas Park
Tejas Park provides an easy river access on the south bank of the North San Gabriel River, perfect for fishing, wading, or floating lazily down the river. The park also features spacious, grassy areas where you can run around, play frisbee, have a picnic, or simply relax under the Texas sun.
- Overnight Available
- 12 primitive campsites and an uncovered Group Area for up to 25 people
- Top amenities include: river access, drinking water, lantern posts, trash collection, vault toilets, tent pad, and grills/fire ring.
- Enjoy activities like: wildlife viewing, hunting, hiking, fishing, camping, mountain biking, paddling, wading and floating.
Belton Lake
Just an hour north of Austin, Belton Lake is your perfect playground for a quick getaway! With 136 miles of shoreline, there’s plenty of space for swimming, kayaking, and paddleboarding. There’s even a waterfall you can access by boat or kayak! Nearby, you can check out the Miller Springs Nature Center for some hiking and wildlife viewing, or visit the historic town of Salado for unique shops, art galleries and local dining.
Westcliff Park
Westcliff Park is located on the stunning southwestern shore of Belton Lake in Texas! Unlike many parks, Westcliff features exclusive access to both a swimming beach and a two-lane boat ramp, so you can easily switch from splashing in the water to cruising on your boat. There’s a playground for the kiddos, making it a great family-friendly destination. Plus, there’s plenty of wildlife to spot!
- Day Passes and Overnight Available
- 31 campsites with 4 primitive tent-only sites
- Top amenities include: boat ramp, playground, shade, picnic table, and fire pit. Pets allowed!
- Enjoy activities like: swimming, fishing, boating, wildlife viewing, and picnicking.
- Things to note: Westcliff Park is closed from October 1 to March 1, but the boat ramp is open year-round. This park closes for the season on October 1.
Live Oak Ridge
Live Oak Ridge Park is set on the beautiful eastern shore of Belton Lake in Texas! Enjoy flat, grassy campsites with some offering gorgeous lake views and others just a short walk away. Springtime is a treat with wildflowers in full bloom, and nearby Miller Springs Nature Area has great hiking trails which offer amazing views and opportunities for wildlife sightings.
- Overnight Available
- 48 campsites, from wooded to sunny
- Top amenities include: boat ramp, campfire rings, hot showers, grills and playground. Pets allowed!
- Enjoy activities like: birding, wildlife viewing, canoeing, hiking, camping, and boating.
White Flint Park
White Flint Park at Belton Lake is a shoreline paradise open year-round! You’ll love how every campsite hugs the shoreline of Belton Lake, giving you stunning views and easy access to the water. There’s a man-made wetland nearby that adds an extra 25 acres of wildlife habitat to explore! With ample opportunities for wildlife viewing and boating, you’ll have endless ways to connect with nature.
- Overnight Available
- 12 sites with screened overnight shelters and 13 RV sites
- Top amenities include: boat ramp, water spigot, shade, picnic tables, and fire pit. Pets allowed!
- Enjoy activities like: canoeing, kayaking, boating, fishing, camping, canoeing, birding, wildlife viewing, and paddling. This park closes for the season on October 1.
Winkler Park
Winkler Park is your cozy escape on the northern shore of Belton Lake in Central Texas! What makes this park special is its primitive charm—there’s no electricity, which means you can truly disconnect and immerse yourself in the great outdoors. Although the campsites themselves aren’t shaded, the perimeter and parts of the shoreline are forested, providing a nice balance of sun and shade. Fishing is a standout here, with the lake teeming with hybrid striped bass, largemouth bass, and catfish, making it a favorite spot for anglers.
- Overnight Available
- 14 primitive campsites available for RVs and tents (nonelectric)
- Top amenities include: campfire rings, BBQ grills, and picnic tables.
- Enjoy activities like: wildlife viewing, fishing, boating, biking, and photography.
Cedar Ridge
At Cedar Ridge, you can jump into a whole bunch of activities! The year-round campground is split into two areas for all your adventure needs. The east side has a fishing dock, swim beach, playground, and basketball court. The west side offers a marina, two large picnic shelters, volleyball courts, a horseshoe pit, and a big cooker for cookouts. And don’t miss spring, when the park is filled with colorful wildflowers!
- Boat Ramp Passes and Overnight Available
- 76 campsites for RVs, tents, and screened shelters
- Top amenities include: marina, playground, fishing dock, and boat ramp.
- Enjoy activities like: swimming, fishing, birding, and boating.
Temple’s Lake Park
This lively park is perfect for families and friends looking to enjoy the great outdoors. With awesome picnic areas, you can set up for a delicious meal while soaking in the scenic views. One of the coolest features here is the man-made waterfall that’s a sight to see from the shore or up close by boat or kayak. It’s a fantastic photo op and a great spot to relax.
- Day Passes Available
- 62 picnic sites and a Group Area called Temple’s Pavillion
- Top amenities include: boat ramp, playground, drinking water, and picnic tables.
- Enjoy activities like: swimming, picnicking, camping, fishing, and boating.
- Things to note: The park is closed for day use from October 1 to March 1.
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Stillhouse Hollow Lake
Stillhouse Hollow Lake is just about a 1-hour drive away from Austin and only 13 minutes from Belton. The lake’s clarity and depth make it a popular spot for scuba diving and swimming. It’s got a nice little sand beach as well as a fun island you can even walk to when the tide is right. The scenic Chalk Ridge Falls is nearby, where you can enjoy stunning waterfalls and a refreshing hike along the Lampasas River.
Union Grove Park
Union Grove Park is your ticket to fun on the southwestern shore of Stillhouse Hollow Lake in Central Texas! You can fish for bass and catfish, relax on the swimming beach, or let the kids loose at the playground. There’s a four-lane boat ramp for easy access to the lake’s 58 miles of pristine shoreline—perfect for some uncrowded fun on the water! Don’t forget your binoculars for some birding—you might spot hawks, Great Blue herons, or even a bald eagle soaring above! While there are currently closures and limited availability, this is a great spot to keep in mind for a future trip.
- Overnight Available
- 30 campsites for RVs, tents, and screened shelters
- Top amenities include: boat ramp, playground, and hot showers.
- Enjoy activities like: swimming, fishing, birding, and boating.
Dana Peak
Dana Peak Campground is perched on a beautiful peninsula along the shores of Stillhouse Hollow Lake in Central Texas! With grassy, lakeside campsites and a four-lane boat ramp, it’s a prime spot for water lovers! I love that you can rent a boat, canoe, or kayak from Stillhouse Hollow Marina if you don’t have your own! You can also hit the water or chill at the sandy beach. Plus, the Dana Peak Trails are just a hop away from the main entrance! Hike through the breathtaking scenery, bike around, or even go horseback riding—just remember to bring your own horse for that!
- Day Passes and Overnight Available
- 30 campsites for RVs, tents, and 8 primitive sites
- Top amenities include: horse hitching post, boat ramp, and fire pit.
- Enjoy activities like: horseback riding (BYOH), fishing, biking, swimming, and boating. This park closes for the season on October 1.
Canyon Lake
Canyon Lake is sometimes considered the Texas Carribean! With clear blue waters thanks to the limestone, it becomes such a popular swim spot! Located between San Antonio and Austin, this beautiful lake is known for its stunning 80 miles of shoreline and has plenty of activities to keep you entertained all weekend. Just a short drive away, you can float down the Guadalupe River, explore historic New Braunfels, or enjoy live music at Gruene Hall.
North Park
Although this area is mainly used for scuba diving certification, North Park at Canyon Lake offers breathtaking views from its limestone bluff and a rocky beach with no designated swimming area—perfect for those who love a bit of adventure! This cozy spot is a paradise for scuba divers, thanks to its clear waters and unique underwater terrain. Since it’s overnight only you’ll find less crowds!
- Overnight Available
- 20 tent only campsites (nonelectric)
- Top amenities include: campfire rings, scenic overlooks, drinking water, pit toilets, tables and benches, and grills.
- Enjoy activities like: scuba diving, and picnicking.
- Things to note: Open only on weekends from April through September
Potters Creek Park
Potters Creek Park is located on the northern shore of Canyon Lake with easy access to clear, inviting waters and beautiful nature trails. Open year-round, the park is less commercialized than some other spots, allowing for a more peaceful experience. While swimming is a highlight, there’s so much more to do! The lake and nearby Guadalupe River have you covered. You can also hike, bike, or even horseback ride along the five scenic trails.
- Overnight Available
- Over 100 RV sites and 10 tent campsites, with overnight screened shelters and a Group Area
- Top amenities include: cooking area, boat dock, boat ramp, boat trailer parking, lights, water spigot, and accessible occupant message. Pets allowed!
- Enjoy activities like: swimming, educational programs, wildlife viewing, hiking, fishing, and boating.
Cranes Mill Park
Cranes Mill Park is situated on a stunning peninsula along the southwestern shore of Canyon Lake, halfway between Austin and San Antonio. What truly makes Cranes Mill Park special is its abundant wildlife! The park’s undeveloped land provides a natural habitat for various species, making it a great place for wildlife watching.
The park also stands out for its breathtaking sunrises over Canyon Lake and spectacular sunsets behind the Guadalupe River. And don’t miss the nearby marina for extra boating excitement!
- Overnight Available
- 30 RV sites and 34 tent sites
- Top amenities include: river access, hot and cold showers, fishing pier, boat dock, boat ramp, drinking water, and RV parking. Pets allowed!
- Enjoy activities like: boating, hiking, fishing, wildlife viewing, swimming, kayaking, canoeing, tubing, jet skiing, and horseback riding (BYOH).
Somerville Lake
Conveniently situated between Austin and Houston, Somerville Lake is an ideal destination for a day trip or weekend getaway! Spanning over 11,000 acres, Somerville Lake is known for producing impressive catches, including a record-breaking 13.6-pound largemouth bass!
If you enjoy hiking or horseback riding, the Lake Somerville State Park & Trailway has 20 miles of beautiful trails, including special paths for equestrians to enjoy the beauty of the area on horseback.
Rocky Creek Park
The park is a haven for wildlife lovers, with pelicans and other waterfowl often seen along the shore, making it an ideal location for birdwatching! The park also features nature trails that are perfect for hiking and biking, allowing you to explore the breathtaking Texas landscape. And if you’re lucky, you might spot other wildlife around the lake!
- Day Passes and Overnight Available
- 192 campsites for RVs and tents
- Top amenities include: playground, nature trail, boat ramp, and accessible occupant message.
- Enjoy activities like: boating, fishing, biking, and wildlife viewing – exclusively for registered campers!
Yegua Creek
The Yegua Creek Campground is nestled along the shoreline of Somerville Lake. Yegua Creek is known for its gorgeous picnic spots under shady oak trees, making it a fantastic place to relax and soak up nature. One of the unique features of Yegua Creek is its interpretive trail, which provides visitors with a chance to learn about the local ecosystem while enjoying a scenic walk.
- Overnight Available
- 82 campsites for RVs and tents
- Top amenities include: interpretative trail, playground, fishing dock, BBQ grills, and picnic table..
- Enjoy activities like: fishing, boating, hiking, biking, and wildlife viewing – exclusively for registered campers!
Waco Lake
Waco Lake is the largest lake in the U.S. entirely within one city’s limits! The lake was created in 1963 and has since become a vital part of the local ecosystem, attracting a variety of wildlife! Waco Lake is just a hop away from some amazing attractions. Check out the iconic Dr Pepper Museum, explore the quirky shops at Magnolia Market, or take a stroll across the Waco Suspension Bridge for some Insta-worthy pics.
Midway Park
Just a quick 15-minute drive from downtown Waco, this park is a local favorite for a reason. It’s known for its beautiful picnic spots, playgrounds, and scenic walking trails that wind right along the lake. Dive into the lake’s 79,000 acre-feet of water, where anglers can reel in catfish, crappie, and bass year-round. And if you’re in the mood for some splashing fun, small swimming pools are permitted in the park—just remember to move them around daily to protect the ground!
- Day Passes and Overnight Available
- 37 campsites for RVs and tents, with 11 sewer hookups
- Top amenities include: hot showers, playgrounds, sewer hookups, boat dock, and boat ramp. Pets allowed!
- Enjoy activities like: swimming, boating, fishing, canoeing, kayaking, and wildlife viewing.
Speegleville Park
Speegleville Park sits on the south end of a picturesque cove at Waco Lake and is the go-to spot for gorgeous waterfront sites. The park is also close to the 20-mile Lacy Point Hiking and Biking Trail, which starts just a short drive around the cove from the Lacy Point boat ramp. You can enjoy horseback riding, hiking, and biking on this scenic trail.
- Overnight Available
- 30 campsites for RVs and tents, with 2 screened shelters
- Top amenities include: boat dock, boat ramp, water spigot, picnic tables, campfire rings, and grills. Pets allowed!
- Enjoy activities like: jet skiing, boating, fishing, swimming, birding, and wildlife viewing.
Reynolds Creek
Reynolds Creek is your ticket to outdoor fun on the scenic shores of Waco Lake! With its awesome horseback riding trails and equestrian camping, it’s a haven for horse lovers. Hit the easy 1.2-mile Tejas Nature Trail, or go big with the 20-mile Lacy Point Trail for hiking and biking. Plus, nearby Waco Lake Wetlands offers educational tours through a six-acre aquatic nursery and a chance to see over 130 bird species!
- Day Use (first-come, first-served basis) and Overnight Available
- 51 spacious campsites for RVs and tents, including 10 equestrian sites
- Top amenities include: playground, amphitheater, horse stalls, horseback riding trails, boat dock, and boat ramp. Pets allowed!
- Enjoy activities like: horseback riding (BYOH), equestrian camping, swimming, hiking, fishing, boating, and biking.
- Things to note: Equestrian camping is year-round, while regular camping is available April 1–September 30. This park closes for the season on October 1.
Airport Park
Nestled between the sparkling waters of Waco Lake and the bustling Waco Airport, this year-round campground offers a one-of-a-kind view—catch a glimpse of airplanes taking off while soaking in the lake’s beauty! The water is pretty shallow with a rocky bottom making it perfect for when you want to simply sit back, relax, and enjoy the water. And don’t forget, Cameron Park Zoo is just a short drive away!
- Day Passes and Overnight Available
- 46 campsites for RVs/trailers and tents, with 22 sewer hookups; 14 ten-only sites, a Group Area,
- Top amenities include: picnic shelters, horseshoe pit, gatehouse, water spigot, boat dock and ramp, and full hookups. Pets allowed!
- Enjoy activities like: fishing, boating, swimming, and horseback riding.
Other Best Lake Getaways in Texas
Looking for more lake fun in Texas? Check out Caddo Lake for its charming, swampy beauty and Lake Texoma for some great fishing and boating. There are plenty of other amazing lake getaways across the Texas—read the full article for the complete list!
Best Vacation Spots in Texas on the Water
Ready to cool off in the best water spots in Texas beyond lakes? Check out the top swimming holes and rivers like the Frio River, Jacob’s Well, and the Blue Hole. Click here for the full list of these refreshing retreats!
Keeping Our Texas Waters Safe For Generations to Come
Let’s keep Texas waters sparkling for generations to come! Discover simple ways to help protect our lakes, rivers, and swimming holes. Read more and see how you can make a difference!
Best Lakes and Parks Around Austin: FAQs
What is the nicest lake in Austin?
The nicest lake in Austin is often considered to be Lady Bird Lake. It’s centrally located, perfect for kayaking, paddleboarding, and enjoying scenic trails along its shores.
Where is the prettiest lake in Texas?
The prettiest lake in Texas is Caddo Lake, famous for its beautiful cypress trees draped in Spanish moss and its serene, picturesque bayous, located on the Texas-Louisiana border.
What is the most beautiful part of Austin Texas?
The most beautiful part of Austin, Texas, is often considered to be Barton Creek Greenbelt, which features stunning trails, trees, and swimming holes, making it a perfect spot for nature lovers. Additionally, the views from Mt. Bonnell and The Oasis on Lake Travis are also highly regarded for their breathtaking scenery and panoramic vistas of the city and surrounding landscapes.
What is the cleanest lake in Texas?
Lake Mackenzie is recognized as one of the cleanest lakes in Texas, known for its clear waters and beautiful scenery. It’s a great spot for activities like fishing, boating, and camping, making it a hidden gem in the Texas Panhandle.
Another clean lake is Lake Amistad, located in the Amistad National Recreation Area. It features clear blue waters and stunning views, often compared to a tropical paradise. Canyon Lake is also famous for its remarkably clear waters, which have gained popularity on social media for their vibrant blue color.
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Best Lakes and Parks Around Austin: Final Thoughts
Alright, friends, it’s time to get outside! The lakes and parks around Austin are full of fun and adventure. Georgetown Lake is great for picnics and water activities, while Belton Lake offers a chill vibe for swimming and hiking. Don’t miss Canyon Lake, perfect for water sports and stunning views! Imagine a weekend filled with laughter, sunshine, and maybe even a campfire under the stars—sounds amazing, right?
Before you head out, check Recreation.gov for info on reservations and camping sites. It’s super helpful for planning a smooth and enjoyable trip!
Last Updated 3 months ago by Jessica Serna | Published: September 25, 2024
