Lake Austin

«Lake» Austin is actually PART of the Colorado River. Other than rain, it gets its water from Lake Travis, beginning at the Mansfield Dam and extending all the way past the iconic Pennybacker Bridge down to the Tom Miller Dam. A constant flow from LT ensures that LA maintains the same constant water levels year-​round.
Because of the vastness of Lake Austin, essentially meandering down the Colorado River (something like 20 miles long!), there are several different areas, with different landscapes with some areas better suited for certain lake activities than others — while all are great.
The «top“of Lake Austin, right by the Mansfield Dam, is a fantastic spot for paddle boarding, kayaking, and swimming. Boats are not allowed in this particular area, so the water is not choppy at all and is extra cool in temperature from the direct LT flow — so refreshing on the 100+ degree Texas scorchers. It is also very clear — you can see all the way to the bottom on most days!
Other parts of Lake Austin are also conducive to personal water sports; however, are better for larger watercraft and great for fishing enthusiasts. The lake has been stocked with catfish, largemouth bass, and a few other varieties. Don’t have a boat? No problem. Have actually had decent success while doing some shore fishing (catch & release; that’s just me). And water-​skiing — weeeeeeeeh!
Lake Austin also backs up against several great parks for playing with the D.O.G., friends, kiddos, and maybe even a little picnicking or grilling (e.g., Mary Quinlan Park, Fritz Hughes Park, etc.).
So, whatever area you choose to visit, or whatever you choose to do, just remember to bring drinking water, sunblock, and maybe some bug spray… and just have fun! ;)
[155 in 2015]