Emma Long Metropolitan Park

Location and Contact

1600 City Park Rd, Austin, TX 78730, USA

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Phone: +1 512-974-1831

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Also known as City Park, Emma Long Metropolitan Park encompasses 1,000 acres along Lake Austin. The main attractions include a sandy beach, a mile of lakefront, and abundant open spaces perfect for games like football or Frisbee. Additionally, there’s a small swimming area protected from boat traffic, which can be significant on summer weekends. The park occasionally hosts large festivals and events, so it’s advisable to call ahead for a quiet getaway.

Scenic Drive

The drive from central Austin to Emma Long Park along RM 2222 is best enjoyed at a leisurely pace. Moreover, the winding roads demand caution due to numerous twists and turns. As you travel west, the hills become more prominent and the views more stunning. The off-white limestone cliffs contrast beautifully with the greenery of cedar and oak trees. While some hillsides feature luxurious homes, others remain untouched by development. However, due to limited safe stopping points, passengers may find the views more enjoyable than the driver.

Facilities

With 68 barbecue pits, the park is ideal for family or group gatherings. Additional facilities include:

• 151 picnic tables
• 66 campsites
• Three sand volleyball courts
• A basketball court
• A fishing pier
• Restrooms near the waterfront concession stand

Many campsites along the water are shaded by towering larch, pecan, and cottonwood trees.

What to Do

Spot Wildflowers and Wildlife: In spring, areas of blooming bluebonnets, Indian paintbrushes, and other wildflowers flourish. The forest edges are excellent for birdwatching, and you might even see the highly endangered golden-cheeked warbler. At night, the coo-like calls of barred owls resonate throughout the park. Red-tailed hawks and turkey vultures are also commonly observed.

Play a Sport: The grassy area between the woods and the water is roughly the size of a football field, making it perfect for sports like football or soccer. However, be aware of nearby campers as night falls.

Cast a Line: Fishing for bass is a popular activity on the lake. Currently, the record for a largemouth bass caught on Lake Austin is 16.03 pounds, with the heaviest fish recorded being a smallmouth buffalo weighing 70.5 pounds. While fishing from a boat may provide better odds, many record holders have caught fish from the shore or pier.

Go Hiking: For those who enjoy group hikes, checking Meetup.com for scheduled hikes and birdwatching outings at Emma Long is recommended. Many of these groups meet early to avoid crowds. Additionally, there are informal fun runs organized regularly. If you are interested in geocaching, several groups hide small items around the park for others to find using clues and GPS. Make sure to leave the area around any stashed item looking natural, as part of the challenge is the hunt itself.

Turkey Creek Trail

Popular among dog owners, this leash-free, 2.5-mile trail crosses a creek and traverses a dense forest. Even in summer’s heat, the dense canopy offers a cool retreat for hikers and dogs alike.

Ensure that your dog is comfortable around other animals before visiting, as the winding trail may cause dogs to appear unexpectedly. For excitable dogs, it may be prudent to use a leash until they acclimate. Always carry enough water for both you and your pet, as there are no restrooms along the trail.

Bike and Motorcycle Trails

Separate from the dog trails, Emma Long Park features nine miles of trails designed for mountain bikes and motorcycles. While the climbs are generally manageable, riders should anticipate a bumpy journey with obstacles such as random rocks and rough limestone steps. Additionally, exposed tree roots can pose hazards to inattentive bikers.

Where to Eat Nearby

After a day of activities at Lake Austin, consider these nearby eateries:

Ski Shores Cafe: A long-standing favorite, Ski Shores serves casual fare right on the lake, offering a relaxed environment for families. Expect a lively atmosphere on weekends, with live music in the evenings.

Hula Hut: This multi-level eatery serves a unique blend of Polynesian and Mexican cuisine. With outdoor seating by the water and an energetic weekend vibe, it’s a perfect spot to enjoy delicious food while onlookers create a vibrant scene.

Abel’s on the Lake: Known for its hearty burgers and breakfast items, Abel’s balances affordability with generous portions. Additionally, the fresh oysters on the half shell are a highlight.

Mozarts Coffee Roasters: Famous for its freshly roasted coffee and spectacular desserts, Mozart’s features a dog-friendly patio right on the lake, complete with Wi-Fi for those wanting to work in a beautiful setting.

County Line on the Lake: This rustic BBQ joint offers a family-friendly atmosphere with sizable portions. The pork ribs and brisket are local favorites, while the tranquil lakeside setting enhances the dining experience.

Plan Your Visit

Hours: 7 a.m. to 10 p.m.

Location: 1600 City Park Road, Austin, TX 78730

Admission and Camping Fees: Entrance fee: $5 Monday through Thursday, $10 Friday through Sunday and holidays; primitive camping: $10 per night; waterfront campsite with water and electricity: $25 per night

Note: Be advised that although some camping facilities exist, the park is minimally staffed at night with priority focus on daytime hours. Should an emergency arise, the FastMed Clinic nearby is an option for non-urgent care, while 911 is the go-to for emergencies. For groceries, a 7-11 is located a few miles away, and there is a large HEB grocery store in central Austin for stock-up before heading to the park.