What sets Austin apart from other major cities in Texas is its accessibility to parkland. Austinites have access to over 20,000 + acres of parkland. No matter what neighborhood you live in there are plenty of great parks to choose from, regardless if you’re looking for dog friendly, kid friendly, or bike and hike trails. We’ve already told you about North and South Austin parks, so now we’re moving on to West Austin parks!
And here’s some good news! Since August 15, Austin Parks and Recreation have reopened selected park amenities and outdoor facilities. Each facility will operate under reduced capacity and COVID-19 Modified Operating Procedures specific to each site.
Here are the five best West Austin parks!
Commons Ford
Commons Ford Ranch is lakefront park with picnic tables, BBQ pits, fishing, walking trails, waterfalls, and even a boat ramp. What makes this park unreal is its accessibility to water.
Emma Long Metro Park
Emma Long Metropolitan Park is a large municipal park in northwest Austin. The park was originally called City Park before it was changed. The park features open space, camp sites, boat ramps, picnic table sites, and a designated swimming area. It’s a great way to spend a day in the sun!
Mayfield Park and Preserve
The Mayfield Park and Preserve Estate, now named Mayfield Park, is a historic cottage, gardens, and nature preserve in West Austin. Located on a bluff overlooking Lake Austin, it was built in the 1870s and the cottage was purchased by former Texas Secretary of State Allison Mayfield in 1909. Our favorite part of this park is the peacocks. You can find beautiful peacocks throughout the property. It’s definitely a unique spot here in Austin.
Red Bud Isle
This 13-acre recreational spot follows the West Austin trend of providing access to the water. This park has everything from an off-leash dog park and hiking and biking trails. But we here’s what we really love: it has kayaking and canoeing!
Westenfield Park
This park is located at the northern end of a greenbelt. It features a playground, swimming pool, open fields, and tennis courts and marks the northern terminus of the Johnson Creek trail. Though it might be a small neighborhood park, it makes up for its size with all the shaded trees and amenities.
Before you go:
Due to the newest city regulations in regards to COVID-19 many of the parks in Austin are experiencing closures and reduced occupancy. Please visit Austin Parks and Recreations for the latest updates before you make plans to visit a park.
Keep in mind that we are still practicing social distancing and parks can get crowded at various times. Be prepared and respectful of those around you.
Don’t forget the Texas summer essentials; water and bug spray.
