Parks & Recreation

No one who has stood on the edge of a Hill Country pasture in springtime could deny the beauty of Central Texas, but even long after the riot of colorful wildflowers is gone there is much to admire in the landscape of the Hill Country. Familiarity breeds admiration and learning about the particulars makes both residents and visitors appreciate the whole. Central Texas is not only home to some of the world’s intriguing and delicate fauna and flora but is also a land where residents enjoy a generally benign climate. This is a place where Christmas Day may be celebrated with a walk in the sun along Lady Bird Lake or a swim in Barton Springs Pool. Life, for much of the year, is lived outdoors in Austin. Though Austin’s nightlife and music scenes are touted, it is also the city’s fondness for outdoor activities and an abundance of parks, greenbelts, and preserves that give Austin a reputation as a livable city. Pockets of greenery are fiercely defended against the pressures of urban sprawl. The Highland Lakes, which bring nature into the heart of the city via Lady Bird Lake, serve as a natural lifeline between the Hill Country and the city dweller. The city also rises to the modern challenge to provide its citizens with something to do on the weekends other than mow the lawn. There are 5K runs, 10K runs, marathons, bicycle races, kite-flying contests, and rugby games. There are rocks to be climbed and Frisbees to be thrown. This chapter offers a look at area parks and gives an overview of the many recreational activities popular in Central Texas. It is divided into four general sections: Parks, Nature Preserves, Recreation, and Water Sports.