Considering it’s the fourth largest city in Texas, you might be surprised that there are many lakes in Austin. High structured buildings and nightlife usually capture the eyes of many. However, it’s no competition to the natural scenery. Austin has been widely recognized as an eco-friendly city. Visit one of these lakes to see for yourself.

Lakes in and around Austin

Lake Austin

Lake Austin is one of the lakes that flows out from the Colorado River. Most of the shoreline around Lake Austin is privately owned. Luckily, you can still access entry to the shore banks at certain points. And there are two public boat ramps available for use as well. This is a perfect lake if you want to rent a boat for the day!
Where: 1600 Scenic Dr, Austin, TX 78703

Lake Travis

Lake Travis is a huge lake. There is no single point of access. That’s why there are many things to do on and off of it. From kayaking, boating, floating in a tube, and more – it’s easy to forget time and spend the whole day on this lake.
Where: 1499 Graveyard Point Road, Lakeway, TX 78734

Lady Bird Lake

Lady Bird is among the popular lakes in Austin. You’re not allowed to swim or go into the waters of this lake. But there are still a variety of water activities for anyone to try. If you don’t want to rent any sort of paddle or fishing rod, then you can also hike or bike the trails off the shoreline.
Where: 2418 Stratford Dr, Austin, TX 78746

Mueller Lake

Located in Mueller Lake Park you can find a 30-acre area of greenery. You can’t do water activities on the lake. However, there’s a weekend farmers market with tons of trails to walk or bike on. The trails surround the lake, that way you can still have a beautiful view of it.
Where: 4550 Mueller Blvd., Austin, TX 78723

Lake Lyndon B Johnson

Commonly known as LBJ, this lake allows swimming and fishing. It’s just an hour northwest of the city, which isn’t too bad considering the lake is over 21 miles long! 
Where: 1924 Ranch Rd 1431, Kingsland, TX 78639

Lake Marble Falls

If you’ve put it together, this reservoir was formed with the help of the Max Starcke Dam. This view is worth the visit, especially that it is only an hour drive from Austin. And if you head to Lakeside Park, you’ll be able to access the Falls to swim, enjoy a game of tennis, or grill out on the BBQ pits. 
Where: 305 Buena Vista Dr, Marble Falls, TX 78654

Lake Pflugerville

This lake is a part of a park that has a 3-mile trail, playground, pavilion, and more. On the water, you can fish, swim, take a canoe out or even rent a boat for the day! It’s not the largest body of water, but it still makes for a great lake day.
Where: 18216 Weiss Lane, Pflugerville, TX 78660

Lake Walter E. Long

Lake Walter sits along a local park too. This greenery features boating, jet skis, even sand volleyball courts, and more. If you’re into fishing, largemouth bass and hybrid bass can be found here.
Where: 6614 Blue Bluff Road, Austin, 78724

Lake Kyle

Kyle isn’t too far of a drive from Austin. Here you can catch and release fish or just enjoy the view. 
Where: 700 Lehman Rd, Kyle, TX 78640

Meadow Lake Park in Round Rock

Meadow Lake Park is a large Round Rock community park that stretches across 76.50 acres of land. This park rests along the reservoir, which provides for a beautiful view. The 1.35 miles of trail welcomes runners, walkers, and bikers looking for a stroll or a quick workout. Meadow Lake Park offers a playscape and two horseshoe pits for those looking to get a game in. Other park amenities include a picnic shelter, eight picnic tables, three barbecue grills, and a drinking fountain.
Where: 2901 Settlement Dr, Round Rock, TX 78665

Whew, that was a lot! Remember, most of the lakes in Austin have rental spots or a place to grill out. With plenty of choices in or around the city, you can now plan the perfect lake day.

Did Marble Falls sound like a fun day away? Check out our article on a few parks in Marble Falls here.