Emma Long Metropolitan Park
A sprawling 1000+ acre park on Lake Austin, offering a sandy beach, hiking trails, picnic spots, and camping.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Fewer crowds, lower entry fee
Emma Long Metropolitan Park
Best Time
Fewer crowds, lower entry fee
Highlights
Must-see attractions
A sprawling 1000+ acre park on Lake Austin, offering a sandy beach, hiking trails, picnic spots, and camping.
"Offers relaxing views in a natural environment, perfect for a day or weekend getaway."
🚗 Weekday Visits Save Money
Entry is $5 M-Th and $10 F-S. Weekdays offer a more relaxed experience and lower cost. :moneybag:
🥾 Water Shoes are a Must
Protect your feet from sticker burrs and ants on the trails and beach. :athletic_shoe:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
Sandy Beach & Swimming
Lake Austin waterfront
Enjoy a sandy beach area perfect for swimming and wading, offering a taste of the coast in Austin.
Scenic Hiking Trails
Throughout the park
Explore over 12 miles of forested trails with beautiful views of Lake Austin.
Picnic & BBQ Areas
Various locations
Spacious areas with picnic tables and BBQ pits, ideal for family gatherings and cookouts.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Beat the Crowds & Costs
Pack Smart for Lake Fun
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Weekday Visits Save Money
Entry is $5 M-Th and $10 F-S. Weekdays offer a more relaxed experience and lower cost. :moneybag:
🥾 Water Shoes are a Must
Protect your feet from sticker burrs and ants on the trails and beach. :athletic_shoe:
☀️ Limited Shade on Beach
Bring an umbrella or canopy for sun protection on the sandy beach area. :umbrella:
💳 Credit Card Entry
The park's entry machine only accepts credit cards. :credit_card:
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Weekday Visits Save Money
Entry is $5 M-Th and $10 F-S. Weekdays offer a more relaxed experience and lower cost. :moneybag:
🥾 Water Shoes are a Must
Protect your feet from sticker burrs and ants on the trails and beach. :athletic_shoe:
☀️ Limited Shade on Beach
Bring an umbrella or canopy for sun protection on the sandy beach area. :umbrella:
💳 Credit Card Entry
The park's entry machine only accepts credit cards. :credit_card:
🐶 Leash-Free Dog Area
A portion of the park is designated as an off-leash area for dogs. :dog:
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Emma Long Metropolitan Park is a well-loved public access point to Lake Austin, praised for its natural beauty and relaxing atmosphere. Visitors enjoy the sandy beach, swimming areas, and extensive hiking trails. However, some note the waves from boat traffic can be significant, and litter can be an issue on trails.
"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."
Barbados Pearl
"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."
Suzanne Acosta
"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"
kayla ross
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Emma Long Metropolitan Park is located at 1600 City Park Rd, Austin, TX 78730. It's accessible by car and offers ample parking, though it can fill up quickly on busy days. Public transportation options are limited, so driving is generally the most convenient way to reach the park.
Yes, there is parking available. The cost is $5 per vehicle from Monday to Thursday and $10 per vehicle from Friday to Sunday. The entry machine is credit card only.
Reservations are recommended for weekends, as the park can get very busy. It's best to check the official park website or call ahead for the most up-to-date reservation information.
From downtown Austin, take TX-360 N (Capital of Texas Hwy) to City Park Road. Turn right onto City Park Road and follow it to the park entrance. The park is situated on Lake Austin.
While the park offers beautiful views, some trails can be challenging for those with mobility issues due to stairs and uneven terrain. The beach area is more accessible, but be mindful of the drop-off when entering the water.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
The entrance fee is $5 per vehicle from Monday to Thursday and $10 per vehicle from Friday to Sunday. The payment machine only accepts credit cards.
Reservations are recommended for weekends and holidays, as the park can reach capacity. It's advisable to book in advance to guarantee entry.
The park is generally open from 7 AM to 10 PM daily. However, it's always a good idea to check the official City of Austin Parks and Recreation website for any seasonal changes or special event closures.
No, the entry machine at Emma Long Metropolitan Park only accepts credit cards. Make sure to have a credit card ready when you arrive.
While there aren't specific discounts mentioned, visiting on weekdays offers a lower entry fee compared to weekends.
🎫 🏊 Onsite Experience
Yes, there is a sandy beach area between two wooden docks that is designated for safe swimming and wading. 
Yes, there are restrooms available within the park. Some reviews mention porta-potties as well.
You can enjoy swimming, sunbathing on the beach, hiking the numerous trails, picnicking, BBQing, fishing, and camping. Boat docks are also available.
Shade is limited on the sandy beach area. It's recommended to bring your own umbrella or canopy for sun protection.
Yes, dogs are allowed, and a portion of the park is designated as an off-leash area. However, remember to clean up after your pet.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
Yes, there are BBQ pits and picnic tables available throughout the park. Some areas have grills, but it's advisable to bring your own if you plan on grilling in the larger grassy areas before the lake.
Absolutely! Emma Long Park is a great spot for picnics and BBQs. You can bring your own food, drinks, and grilling supplies to enjoy a meal outdoors.
There are no restaurants located directly inside Emma Long Metropolitan Park. It's recommended to pack your own food or dine at nearby establishments in Austin before or after your visit.
Many visitors enjoy classic picnic fare like sandwiches, salads, and BBQ items. Given its Austin location, carne asadas are also a popular choice for gatherings.
There are no concessions or stores within the park. It's best to bring all the food and drinks you'll need for your visit.
📸 📸 Photography
The sandy beach area with Lake Austin in the background offers great photo opportunities, especially during sunrise and sunset. The hiking trails also provide scenic vistas of the lake and surrounding nature.
The park's natural setting on Lake Austin makes it a potential spot for wildlife photography, though sightings can vary. Keep an eye out for birds and other local fauna.
Early mornings and late afternoons offer the best lighting for photography, with softer light and beautiful golden hour hues. Sunsets over Lake Austin can be particularly stunning.
Generally, personal photography is allowed. However, commercial photography or videography may require permits, so it's best to check with park authorities if you plan on professional shoots.
A versatile lens like a 24-70mm is great for landscapes and general shots. If you're interested in wildlife, a telephoto lens could be beneficial. Don't forget a wide-angle lens for expansive lake views.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
+1 Don't forget to pack sand toys and floats to maximize the fun. The park also has plenty of picnic tables and BBQ pits, making it perfect for a family cookout. While some trails can be challenging, there are easier paths suitable for shorter family strolls. Remember to bring plenty of water and snacks, as there are no concessions on-site. 💰 Budget Travelers
Packing your own food and drinks is essential, as there are no restaurants or stores within the park, saving you money on dining out. The park offers a lot of free activities like swimming, hiking, and picnicking, making it a great value for a day of outdoor fun.🐶 Pet Owners
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Navigating Lake Austin Access
+1 It's important to note that Lake Austin does not have a 'no wake' rule, meaning boats and jet skis can create significant waves. While this can be fun for some water sports, swimmers should be extra cautious and aware of their surroundings. Beyond the beach, the park features boat docks and piers, allowing for easy access for boaters and those looking to fish. Some reviewers mention feeling safe as a swimmer, with other water users generally giving swimmers a wide berth.
For those planning an extended stay, camping spots are available, with some RV locations also allowing tents. These spots offer a unique opportunity to wake up right on the water. Remember to check the park's specific regulations regarding water access and safety, especially during peak seasons or when water levels might fluctuate.
Exploring the Trails of Emma Long
However, it's crucial to be prepared for the trail conditions. Some Reddit users have highlighted that certain trails can be physically demanding, involving stairs and inclines that might be difficult for individuals with mobility issues, knee pain, or balance concerns.
Beyond the physical aspect, hikers should also be mindful of the environment. There have been mentions of dog waste bags being left on trails, which detracts from the natural beauty.
Family Fun and Camping
Bringing sand toys and floats can enhance the experience for younger visitors. Beyond the beach, the park's picnic and BBQ areas are perfect for family gatherings. With tables and grills available, it's an ideal spot for a relaxed outdoor meal.
The numerous trails also offer opportunities for family hikes, allowing everyone to explore the natural beauty of the park together. For families looking for a more immersive experience, camping is an option. The park offers RV spots and areas where tents can be set up, allowing families to spend a night or weekend surrounded by nature.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit