Best parks in Austin: find options near you

My husband and I visited this park on a whim during our last trip to Austin to celebrate family. This park has been glued to my mind since we left.

It wasn’t too hot, despite being summer in TX, thanks to the glorious amounts of shade in each area. I loved how grounding it was to be fully immersed in nature while walking the trails, exploring the creek, or diving into the swimming hole. Others at the creek were polite and considerate, adorably sectioned off into each their own little slices of heaven.

Something that especially stuck out to me was how the limestone (I think?) rock structure (forgive me, I’m no geologist) serves as a natural “built in” diving board/ladder. There’s a short cliff like ledge that hangs over the water, perfect for cannonballs. It’s mostly solid besides a couple scattered holes sitting in the perfect spots for climbing back up to the stable ground above. While it’s not particularly my kind of fun, it’s a joy watching families splash in together and climb up to do it all over again.

Regrettably, we didn’t time manage well enough to spend as many hours here as I would have liked. Now that we know it’s here though, we will come back with plans, booking an entire day, at least, to explore all this park has to offer! Or as much as we can at the very least. 😀

Will update with more love/pictures when we take our next trip to Austin in October

An amazing trails, it’s easy to get around and has such beautiful sites, it was my first hike and I loved every bit of it. It also gives a history as you go through and it’s really lovely so alhamdulillah for this trial. I felt safe and the people on the trails are very kind esp the workers. Thank you it took the onion creek trail ( for hiking and bikes )

We had a great visit, even though were rained out most of the visit. The part is great in it’s location if you want to see Austin, but definitely still feels “away”. The campground were very nice and the access to Onion Creek to play in the water is wonderful. Unfortunately, we did not get to check out the trails. The staff, facilities, visitors center and all else was great. We’ll be back for a visit with better weather!

Jeremiah was incredibly kind and went above and beyond to get my kids, puppers and me a last-minute campsite reservation, even though they were about to close. The entire staff was nothing short of awesome. We had a great camping experience and felt very safe, especially with the nightly patrols.
The campsite itself is truly beautiful, with plenty of room and a wonderful campfire area. We especially loved the gorgeous Onion Creek swimming hole and waterfall. Overall, it was a fantastic experience that I hope others get to enjoy!

I had wanted to test my camping gear for a while and didn’t know McKinney Falls state park was available right in my back yard! The staff was super friendly, the showers and bathrooms were clean (as clean as a park restroom can be) and the site offered no issues. Also the price to camp was really cheap! I’ll definitely be back and going to try and plan a friends cabin weekend here at some point. Highly recommended and a heartfelt good job to the rangers and staff of the park!

McKinney Falls State Park is a true urban oasis, offering a refreshing escape from the hustle and bustle of Austin without ever having to leave the city. The park’s main attractions, the upper and lower falls on Onion Creek, are a stunning sight and the perfect place to cool off on a hot day. The limestone ledges and flowing water create a beautiful and rugged landscape that feels a world away from the city.
Beyond the falls, the park boasts nearly nine miles of trails for hiking and biking, catering to all skill levels. The paved Onion Creek Hike and Bike Trail is a great option for families with strollers or those looking for an easy, scenic ride. More adventurous hikers can explore the Homestead Trail, which winds through historic ruins, including the remains of Thomas F. McKinney’s homestead and gristmill. The park is also home to “Old Baldy,” a magnificent bald cypress tree estimated to be over 500 years old.
With its well-maintained campsites, cabins, and a variety of activities like fishing, birding, and geocaching, McKinney Falls is a fantastic destination for a day trip or an overnight stay. The park’s blend of natural beauty, historical significance, and diverse recreational opportunities makes it a gem for both locals and visitors. It’s a highly recommended spot for anyone looking to connect with nature right in the heart of Austin.

If you’re visiting Austin and want the perfect mix of adventure, history, and chill vibes, McKinney Falls State Park is it. Tucked just minutes from downtown, this 744-acre paradise feels like a world away.

We camped right inside the park (highly recommend!), and it became our home base while we explored all things Austin. After a day packed with city sights, nothing—and I mean nothing—beat cooling off in the waterfalls. Imagine the Texas heat, then suddenly you’re floating in crystal-clear creek water surrounded by limestone rocks and shaded cypress trees. Absolute bliss.

The falls themselves? Straight out of a postcard. Upper Falls is serene, perfect for relaxing. Lower Falls has deeper pools for swimming and a more rugged vibe—great for photos and quick dips.

Bonus: there are trails, ancient rock shelters, and even ruins of a historic homestead to explore. It’s nature, history, and camping magic all rolled into one.

Gourgous

Mount Bonnell Park is a remarkable destination that offers something for everyone. With its well-maintained walking trails, stunning panoramic views of the city, and proximity to nature, it provides an ideal setting for families seeking outdoor recreation. The park is clean, accessible, and thoughtfully preserved making it a top recommendation for anyone looking to enjoy quality time in a scenic and serene environment.

Covert Park at Mount Bonnell is an absolutely spectacular park to visit. It offers sweeping views of the Colorado river and the skyline of downtown Austin- breathtaking!. There are about 50-60 steps you have to ascend in order to reach the top. There are many trails and look out points once you reach the top. Great place to visit. No ticket is required plus there is parking available

Top views in all of Austin. Unbelievably beautiful homes, scenery and topography. You can see it all from here, the Colorado river, Downtown Austin to the end of the sunset.

When we went there weren’t many people on a Sunday. Thankfully, bc there isn’t a whole lot of space to walk around or to take pictures.

Best views in Austin! They open at 5:00 a.m. so it gets packed early because people try to show up to watch the sunrise and it’s worth it! NO restrooms

Crowd start coming around 7am for sunrise, and I love that there were cops around. Nice running route, good for training since it’s hilly and of course it’s a nice spot for sunset and sight see,. beautiful view and a very short hike.

Loved this walk up some steps to a scenic view of Austin. The trail continues on either side with continual views of the city. A good quick stop! Parking is right by the trailhead.

I absolutely adore this park. It’s spacious, lush, and clean. It’s dog-friendly, with a beautiful lake and a variety of geese and other birds. There’s a large picnic area, public restrooms, and a playground for kids. There are also plenty of parking spots available. Occasionally, on weekends and holidays, local musicians perform live music.

It’s a nice medium size park with lake! You can walk around the water area or rest under the trees as they have many benches! If you like birds and you’ll enjoy bird watching since there are many ducks and all kinds of birds there! Come and chill! Cheers

This park is my favorite place to hang out with friends and walk my dog. There’s a beautiful picnic area where we enjoy nice walks, especially when the sun comes out. It also has a great playground for children.

This park is my go-to spot when I need a peaceful walk or a break. There’s plenty of free parking next to the park, including a parking garage. It’s also surrounded by lots of restaurants where you can grab a quick bite or drink. It’s perfect for anyone who wants to relax, take a walk, or spend time with friends.

I had the chance to go to the Water Lantern Festival in Austin here at Mueller Lake Park , and it was absolutely beautiful. Everyone wrote messages, hopes, or memories on lanterns and released them onto the water. When the sun went down and all the lanterns started floating and glowing, it felt magical ,peaceful, emotional, and full of meaning.

It was such a special experience to share with others. Seeing all those lights on the water felt like a reminder of connection, love, and letting go. If you ever get the chance to go, I highly recommend it.

Very chill and walkable park. If you are headed to mueller park the lake. As it’s free.

Lots of ducks and pigeons. Great place for a date or a picnic.

10/10 Ducks

This park is beautiful! The lake/pond has so many ducks and turtles, and the landscaping is perfect for pictures. There’s an area with a vine-covered gazebo with trees and columns, another sculpture-like gazebo thats also great for pictures. There’s an open lawn area with shade trees not far from the water that are perfect for picnics, and then there are picnic tables under trees so it’s comfortable. I’ll definitely come back to this park!

Good Early Morning Austin TX! Everytime I get to walk around Mueller…is a “Day Of Reflection.” I am grateful To GOD for all he continuea to do. I’m pretty sure as A Nation Which Prided Ourselves, as a country where “WE THE PEOPLE” made a choice Our Country. It is as diverse and as Good, or bad…As We Allow Her To Be.

When each of you opens your eyes: whoever or whatever you believe: Mine Is GOD, know that not hating and separating is something We Need, The Entire World….. Needs. ☺️↔️ Love and Respect is The Key. ♥️↔️

Good & Love To The World…. ♥️↔️

Muller Park is a beautiful and peaceful spot, especially at sunset when the sky reflects off the lake, creating a stunning view. The park features short but scenic trails, perfect for a leisurely walk or a quick jog. The lake is home to plenty of ducks, making it a great place for birdwatching or just enjoying the natural surroundings.

While the parking lot is small, finding a spot is usually not an issue on weekdays. On weekends, however, it can get busy, so arriving early is a good idea. Another highlight of Muller Park is its proximity to several excellent restaurants.

If you’re in the mood for fresh seafood, be sure to try the shrimp ceviche at Veracruz Fonda and Bar—it’s incredibly flavorful and pairs perfectly with a refreshing drink.

Zilker Park is truly the heart of Austin! ✨ It’s a beautiful, open green space where you can relax, walk, picnic, or just enjoy the skyline views. The park feels alive with people jogging, playing frisbee, walking their dogs, or simply lounging under the trees. Barton Springs nearby is a refreshing bonus, and the walking trails are perfect for soaking in the natural beauty.

What I love most is how versatile the park is — whether you want a quiet afternoon with a book, a family picnic, or to catch one of Austin’s famous festivals, Zilker has it all. A must-visit if you want to experience the local vibe of the city.

Bellissimo parroco attrezzato e con una pista ciclabile fantastica che dalla città porta ad esplorare tutto il parco!
Zone attrezzate per pic-nic, giochi… sport d’acqua !
Bellissima la zona della piscina naturale dove rinfrescarsi in tutta tranquillità anche con il proprio amico cagnolino!

Ok. Great views, but lots of trash. Not sure why the city neglects this popular site which is visited by many tourist.

I also got the feel that petty crime is rampant. Glass is visible from broken car windows.

Don’t leave valuables in your car.

The city has to do better!

This park really is fun. The flat picnic area is so chill that it just has a great view of the city. Also this place is so fun for kayaking so I’d definitely recommend giving it a try. The river is also really nice to swim in. Overall this place has so much to do so if you like hanging out, give this place a try. Also friendly tip, parking is weird but be sure to check the kiosk if there is free parking or not; saves you a parking ticket. Also also dont forget sunscreen and the bug spray!

This park is prefect for everything like picnic, gatherings, running or walking with or without pets, cycling and party. It have city view as well, River was beautiful had those blue cleared water which you can see through water creatures. Parking lots of parking space and bathrooms are accessible.

I love Zilker!! So many good memories here and with friends. Perfect to hang with friends, walk your dog or go for a walk yourself! Walking around the Lady Bird Lake is nice too.

Great park. These parks attract all forms of life. Be mindful. Anything can happen. Parking and navigating around can be atrocious, so make a plan ahead of time. Having said that, be sure to see the turtles at The Point. Check out ZBG, and the Nature Center is fun for all. BSP and Eliza Springs are home of the Salamander. Simply the best!!!!

Review of the Barton Creek Greenbelt (Mopac Access Trailhead)

The Barton Creek Greenbelt is one of Austin’s most treasured urban escapes, and the trail from the Mopac (Loop 1) parking area is a perfect way to experience it. This out-and-back trail offers a mix of shaded canopy, limestone cliffs, and peaceful creekside stretches, making it a go-to for nature lovers, fitness hikers, and especially dog owners.

Trail Overview
The route begins at the Mopac trailhead, which is easy to access with ample parking most of the year. From there, you’ll follow a winding path into the heart of the Greenbelt. It’s a down-and-back trail, meaning you’ll descend into the Greenbelt early on and face a bit of a climb on the return—more on that in a bit. The trail is moderately trafficked, but it rarely feels overcrowded, and there’s plenty of space for everyone to find a pocket of peace.

7 Falls & Water Levels
A highlight of this section is 7 Falls, a beautiful rock formation with cascading pools. However, water presence here is highly dependent on recent rainfall. After a good rain (typically in spring or fall), the pools fill and offer not just scenery but also a cooling-off spot for dogs. In drier months like late summer, the falls can be bone dry, so check recent weather or water level reports if that’s a must-see.

Dog-Friendly Vibes
This trail is extremely dog friendly. Off-leash is technically allowed in certain parts of the Greenbelt (though always check for updates), and you’ll see many happy pups splashing in the creek or trotting alongside their humans. Just bring plenty of water for both of you in the warmer months.

Best Times to Go
For optimal conditions, aim for early mornings or late afternoons during spring and fall. The Texas heat can be intense in summer, and though the trail has plenty of shade, the climb out can be punishing if you hit it during the heat of the day. In cooler months, it’s a much more forgiving trek and still beautiful, even when the water is low.

The Stairway to the Gods
The final stretch—affectionately known as the Stairway to the Gods—is a steep, rocky incline that hits just when you think you’re done. It’s a solid workout, and your calves will definitely feel it. But once you reach the top, there’s a nice sense of accomplishment—and if you’re using apps like Seek for plant ID or Merlin for bird calls, pausing along the way can be a great excuse to catch your breath.

Final Thoughts
Whether you’re after a solid workout, a peaceful walk with your dog, or a slow-paced exploration with nature apps in hand, the Barton Creek Greenbelt from the Mopac entrance delivers. It’s a little slice of Hill Country beauty tucked right inside the city—and it never gets old.

It’s a great place for a bike. The water is dried out now but it’s still beautiful. Make sure you don’t leave any valuables in the car, there’s plenty of parking but the lot isn’t secured, and there were lots of break ins – you can literally see pieces of car glass on the ground.

Violet Crown Trail and Barton Creek Greenbelt Trail Loop. The combination of the Barton Creek Greenbelt, with the Violet Crown Trail, offer fantastic interactions with nature. Taken all together, it’s about an 8.5 mile loop, but you can go straight to and from Twin Falls and Sculpture Falls. The trails are typically in great shape, but do narrow a bit and can be overgrown if you take a side trail. You may encounter the occasional fallen limb, but the beauty of the area, especially Sculpture Falls and Twin Falls (when they have water) make this a beautiful worthwhile hike. One of my favorites in Austin.

Gorgeous views and a pretty easy hike/run with the proper ankle protection.
Several swimming holes to relax in and tons of shade!
Only thing, better trail markers/maps on the trail would be awesome.

It was a great hike. We hiked about 5 miles and there were easy parts and a little hard parts if you are considering going with your toddler.

Downsides: There was no water to swim in and we had to call 911 to be escorted out by the fire department + the trail was extremely hot

Upsides: We got our steps in

Nature filled, beautiful and sportive trail for all ages !

Mix of everything – trees, creek, waterfalls !

The multiple waterfalls on the trail are very refreshing. You may also walk on the rocks in the middle of the creek.

The trail path is paved but rough for buggies and fancy shoes! Suitable only for walking.

The trail runs for few miles.

Car parking is on the street side but it’s not with heavy traffic. Beware of not leaving valuables in the car.

This park offers beautiful trails that are ideal for walking, jogging, or simply enjoying nature. The paths are well-maintained and scenic, making it a peaceful spot for regular outdoor activity. Please keep in mind that there are a number of off-leash dogs. Additionally, there are occasional issues with pet waste not being picked up, which detracts from the overall cleanliness and enjoyment of the park.

Great playground. 5 lifeguards on duty at the pool. Kids were very safe. Young kids were able to do a swim test in order to dive off the diving board in the deep end (10ft depth).
Friendly staff.

Walnut Creek Metropolitan Park is a wonderful spot for anyone looking to get outdoors and enjoy a bit of nature without leaving the city. It’s one of those places where you can truly unwind, whether you’re walking, biking, or just soaking up the scenery.

The parking lot is well-designed and spacious, making it easy to find a spot early in the morning. However, it’s worth noting that it can get busier as the day goes on, especially after 9 am. Arriving earlier is a good idea if you want a stress-free start to your visit.

The trails are the park’s biggest highlight. There are well-maintained paths for both bikers and walkers, and they weave through some of the prettiest parts of the park. Bikers will love the variety in the trails, while walkers can enjoy a more relaxed pace with plenty of shady spots and scenic views.

The creek access is another standout feature. Walking in the creek is a fun and refreshing activity, especially when the weather is warm. It adds a sense of adventure to your visit and is great for kids and adults alike. The natural beauty of the park, with its tall trees and open spaces, makes the whole experience feel peaceful and rejuvenating.

Walnut Creek Metropolitan Park is one of Austin’s gems, offering a perfect mix of nature and convenience. Whether you’re out for a hike, a bike ride, or just looking for a calm place to relax, it’s a place that won’t disappoint. Just plan to arrive early if you want to avoid the rush!

We went to the park to eat breakfast and the go for a walk. We sat at the picnic tables near the park. It was really peaceful. We then went for a walk on the paved trail. It was pretty busy when we went so it was a little difficult to find parking. There were lots of people walking, riding bikes and dogs on/off leash. The park is really big so we will definitely be going back to explore more areas.

There are so many hidden trails. You could get some good miles in. I usually take my dog on the trails and its the best part of my day.

Came here for mountain biking. The trails are great, and there is also a natural pump track. It would have made for a great ride, but beware, there is no dog leash law at this park. Most dogs are behaved, but people are out there with a pack of 2 to 3 dogs each, so it gets congested, especially the first 3 to 4 miles.

This literally has to be the best park I’ve ever gone to ever very pleased with this find my daughter had a blast never seen a merry go round like the one they have or playscape that’s two stories tall that was so unique in design. Don’t even get me started on the trails that was remarkable mind-blowing I loved how many options and how far and unique and beautiful the trails there was the beauty in that Park is exceptional very well maintained walkways and bike paths and bridges in so many beautiful sights to see while you’re there

If you’re looking for a unique hiking experience, this is the one for you. It’s a shorter hike and you can stop and see the peacocks! The peacock area is super cool and relaxing. Good memory maker!

This was definitely worth visiting. We had a great time. It’s so beautiful and peaceful. I loved seeing the peacocks so close. They were just chilling in the shade. We saw about 6 peacocks and several cute lizards. There were also snapping turtles in the lily ponds that poked their little heads out of the water. We will come back when we visit Austin again.

Visit early morning or late evening. Due to nature of the park, it may be hot. Parking is free and usually not filled out..if it is you can park on the street. This is amazing place to visit with friends and family because it has two different attractions here. One is actual park with peacocks and garden and other one is multiple trails. Directions are bit loose on Trails so take a picture trail maps. One with white door is the entrance of garden while next to borders or through garden is Trails. Trails are bit hard to follow as there aren’t dedicated signs to follow at all times. For example, you can start at one trail however, in the middle the trail, it will split into two ways and you just have to try both and see which one is most utilized or right way to go..however, you will not get lost as people are walking by and trails are short. You will have good view of lake and amazing pictures to take and explore. Bring atleast 3 gallons of water. Rest rooms are actively maintained and water fountain is not available. Portable restrooms are available but as you can guess, they are not that good.

It’s free to visit and see the peacocks in the park!
There’s plenty of parking, and a small path where you can take a nice walk.
It’s really interesting to watch the male peacocks spread their feathers to attract the females.
It’s a great little outing, especially for kids they’ll love seeing the peacocks up close!

This was a fun visit. Our first stop after arriving to Austin . Free to go to. Friendly visitors. Whimsical peacocks roaming freely! They’re pretty calm and you can get close, to observe. There’s a beautiful flower/pond area that was a delight to hang out in.

Also has a trail to romp around in the woods. It will lead you to the beautiful lake. Lots of nature. And right next to the sculpture park. If you time it correctly, you can do both so easily.

Beware if you have a dark car. We were told the peacocks may attack them during mating season. They think their reflection is another peacock and they act territorial.

A nice scenic place to go hiking next to the river in the lush Texas wilderness. Not recommended for strollers or younger children. Will require a bit of effort Ealing across streams and over tree branches. Better to enjoy in cooler weather.
Beautiful peacocks to see and a quaint garden and landscaping as well.

Mayfield Park is a great nature preserve. They have peacocks that roam freely in the courtyard. Don’t get too close to them, but they’re beautiful to see from a distance. One was singing to us early this morning when we saw them. It’s mostly a good nature preserve for young children as the trails tend to be on the shorter side, but the views of the river are interesting. You can walk up to Mount Bonnell and see some of the breathtaking view of the river, too. It would provide a much longer hiking experience.

It’s a beautiful little get away location. We stayed just in front of bathrooms which were left lighted all night. The spot we did was only 1 night, no electricity hook up or water. Their RV locations have 3 or 4 spots where you are allowed to have tents. Nice fishing area and very clean, grass is well maintained.

This place was ok. Nice but ok. Because it’s narrow, with all the jet ski and boats zooming by there are tons of waves depending on your mood that worse, that could be a good or bad thing. Also, the are no grills in the big grassy area before the lake so bring your own. There is plenty of space to grill and they table tables.The entrance to the lake- there is a small drop down after stepping over some branches and twines so young kids and less mobile adults may need some help up and down. There are restrooms and porta potties

A. Well-maintained public access point to lake Austin. Whether it’s for the day or the weekend, malong offers relaxing views in a natural environment.

Lake Austin doesn’t have a no wake rule, which has pluses and minuses. It means you can have jet skis delivered to your camp spot on the water and it means as a swimmer you have to be a little bit more cautious.

I felt safe the whole time. I was swimming and it felt like the boats and other water goers were very sure to give swimmers a wide berth.

Hiking fun with the girl Scouts! The trail is great for anyone without mobility issues. Also, if your knees hurt or you get winded climbing stairs, and your balance is off, then do not attempt this trail.

Gorgeous views… but can we talk about the dog poop bags left everywhere? If you can bag it, you can trash it. Let’s keep these trails beautiful, y’all! This is also an off leash area.

It’s a beautiful place with a flowing river, but sadly, people have made it very dirty. There is black charcoal-like debris scattered along the banks. When boats create waves, this debris floats out into the water, and if you try to enter the river, your legs get covered in the muck both while going in and coming out. So much garbage has been thrown around, and it clearly needs strict vigilance to stop people from polluting it further.

We paid $10 for an entrance ticket, but there was no one to check whether people had actually bought tickets. This place has the potential to be a serene and beautiful destination, but it’s being taken for granted and misused. The boat riders and skiers drive so fast that it disturbs those who come here seeking peace and quiet

This park is great! Idk how I hadn’t been here before. I’m always telling yall my secret spots n I comeback n it’s jumping. This is a great spot to picnic and enjoy a fun day with the family. So beautiful and fun and there’s usually good parking if it’s not too too crowded. Basically one of my fav spots in austin and a great place to bring 1st timers.

Cool playground with several different play styles. Rock climbing, rope climbing, slides, splash pad etc. cute trails to walk with little docks over the lake. Beautiful scenery.

Butler Metro Park is such a gem—like a smaller, more kid-focused version of Zilker. The open grassy fields are great for picnics, playing tag, or just relaxing in the shade. The playground (part of the Alliance Children’s Garden) is huge and super creative, with colorful equipment for all ages and a splash pad to beat the Texas heat.

It’s in a great spot too—right next to Auditorium Shores and not far from Barton Springs. One of my favorite things here is the gorgeous view of the downtown Austin skyline, especially during sunset. You’ll also find swings, shaded seating, and wide open space to just breathe and enjoy the outdoors.

Definitely recommend it for families, visitors with kids, or anyone looking to enjoy a peaceful green space with a great view of the city.
That said, Like many public parks, you might see some unhoused folks around, especially at night, and the restrooms probably aren’t the cleanest (I didn’t use them, but others have pointed that out).

We absolutely love this park. It’s great for big and little kids. The only complaint I have is how upsetting it is to see all the trash floating in the ponds and seeing unsupervised kids fishing the area that’s 99% turtles. One time we left as it was too upsetting to my 2 yr old grandson to see.

Chill park to get a great view of downtown Austin skylines. Nice playground spaces for kids and adults.

This park offers so many different plah areas for kids. There’s so many shades areas and benches, such a nice park to get together with family and friends.

The only downside about this is the parking lot. What’s there for the park itself there isnt too many spots so it fills very fast. A lot of people park there and walk to the restaurants across so definitely have patience if coming here.

Overall, we’ve come here from San Antonio and this is what we’re missing here, a park this great and clean.

Great park for kids and adults. There is a splash pad, rope course that is almost scary tall, some hobbit-style underground tunnels, awesome slides and musical instruments that even the most novice can master without too much effort. There’s also a very peaceful pond and of course the big hill overlooking the whole place and the city skyline. A beautiful spot for a romantic picnic or celebrating a child’s birthday, or even a spontaneous photo shoot. My only complaint is that the public restrooms that are located near the rope course jungle gym thing, are super duper insanely gross. There are porta-potties available in the adjacent parking area, but I didn’t even try those after seeing the condition of the brick & mortar option I literally felt the need to disinfect my shoes before entering my car again.

This metro park is a fantastic spot for families with toddlers and small children! The playground is thoughtfully designed with plenty of activities to keep little ones entertained for hours.

The slides and climbing structures are fantastic, offering fun and safe challenges for kids to explore. The sandy play areas are a huge hit—perfect for digging, building, and just letting kids’ imaginations run wild. The equipment is in great condition as this is a new park from last year, and the whole space feels very child-friendly.

One of the park’s best features is how clean and well-maintained it is. Everything from the playground to the surrounding areas is spotless, making it a joy to visit. Plus, the people here are so friendly—there’s a great sense of community, and it’s easy to strike up a conversation with fellow parents.

Another huge plus is the onsite bathroom, which is clean and conveniently located—a lifesaver when you’re out with little ones!

Whether you’re looking for a quick outing or a longer day of play, this park is a fantastic choice. Highly recommend for families!

Nice trail right by the creek. It was raining when I went so there was barely anyone else there which was lovely and peaceful. It seems like a nice place to bring your family.
It’s a little on the small side and was right next to the street so you can still hear the cars from the trails. Besides that, I enjoyed it here! It was really nice to sit on the rocks and watch the streams (^-^)

Pease Park in Austin, Texas is nothing short of delightful — a green and vibrant gem right alongside downtown. With its gorgeous live oaks, limestone cliffs formed by the Shoal Creek Greenbelt, and 84 acres of thoughtfully designed space, it truly embodies what makes Austin feel like home. 

The recent Kingsbury Commons renovation is a standout feature: this southern hub includes shaded picnic lawns, a modern play area, zip-pockets, and an interactive splash pad featuring dancing water jets—perfect for families on hot days.  Kids and adults alike love the unique Treehouse Observation Pod—a stunning two-story seed‑pod structure you can climb inside or lounge across on a netted floor for treetop views of the hillside and Austin skyline. It’s also ADA accessible. 

Trails stretch northward into quieter zones like Live Oak Meadow, Wooten Woods, and Lamar Terrace—ideal for peaceful walking, birdwatching, or snapping photos of wildflowers and bluff views near the limestone canyon. 

Pease Park isn’t just a space—it’s a vibrant community that hosts beloved local traditions including Eeyore’s Birthday Party every April, lively Pride Picnics each summer, and seasonal fitness and storytelling events. 

Accessibility shines here, with shaded playgrounds, accessible restrooms, crushed‑granite trails wide enough for wheelchair users, ADA‐compliant restrooms and parking, all thoughtfully integrated. 

The Conservancy’s stewardship has also introduced artistic touches like Thomas Dambo’s recycled‑material troll sculpture, owl houses dotting the treetops, and restored historic features including the Tudor Cottage. The project has earned sustainability and architectural awards across Texas. 

Overall, Pease Park offers something for everyone: adventurous kids, families cooking out, dog walkers enjoying off‑leash play in designated areas, nature lovers seeking respite, or folks just strolling the King’s Commons lawn under the canopy of oaks. It’s free, well-maintained, and perfectly balanced between nature, history, recreation, and community—absolutely worth visiting again and again.

My friend and I had a wonderful experience at the park. It was peaceful and well-maintained, offering ample parking space and a sense of security that made us feel comfortable throughout our visit. We enjoyed walking around the park, appreciating its dynamic topography, which added an element of adventure to our exercise routine. The swings provided a delightful opportunity to reconnect with our inner child, making the visit even more memorable. Additionally, the park’s facilities allow you to rent balls for games at the court, adding versatility and fun to the experience. Overall, it’s a fantastic spot for relaxation, recreation, and cherished moments.

I give 5 stars because it was exactly what I needed at the time. Parking was free and easy. I went on Thursday. There was a basketball court with 2 balls available. The hammock had no one on it when I got there! It was perfect. Sno cone truck was super clutch!

May hold luppp this was the HIGH LIGHT OF THE TRIP FREE PARKING AND MAN HOLD LUPPP this place is ducked off in one of the most gorgeous places I have ever seen you see the taco food truck people walking running talking dogs i mean the vibes hella dope than you see grills and people playing basketball camping just amazing amd peaceful happiness was every where the huge TREE HOUSE WOW MAYNE HOLD LUPPP A COUPLE WAS HAVING A DATE AND KIDDS WAS PLAYING WHAT A SIGHT TO SEE this troll was part huge and THE #1 WINNER YEESSSSS SIRRRRRR WOW ALL WOOD MUST SEEE

Pease park is great for the kids, & adults. Everyone loves the treehouse, & now the big troll is another unique feature that is a must-see.
Their playground is nice, & there is plenty of room for activities like playing catch, soccer, etc. They also have a nice basketball court (1/2).
Definitely recommend visiting if you are in town!

10/10 recommend for all ages! We were visiting the area from out of town and could not have been more impressed. The park had so much to offer… multiple play areas for all ages, grass to run, trails to hike, and great picnic areas. Don’t miss out on this park, especially if you have small children. We cannot wait to visit again!