Camping at Emma Long Metropolitan Park in Austin

Camping at Emma Long Metropolitan Park offers a unique escape into nature just minutes from downtown Austin, Texas. This expansive park provides visitors with a serene environment complete with beautiful landscapes, access to Lake Austin, and numerous recreational opportunities. It’s an ideal spot for families, groups, or solo adventurers looking to experience the outdoors while still being close to the city’s amenities.

Adventure Guide To Camping at Emma Long Metropolitan Park

1. Campsites
The park features over 90 individual campsites, many of which are equipped with picnic tables, fire pits, and access to restrooms and showers. What makes these sites special is their proximity to Lake Austin, allowing campers to enjoy water activities such as swimming and fishing right from their campsites.

2. Water Activities
With direct access to Lake Austin, visitors can indulge in various water activities including kayaking and paddle boarding. The calm waters make it perfect for beginners, while more experienced paddlers can navigate to various inlets. Rentals are available on-site, ensuring you have everything needed for a day on the water.

3. Hiking Trails
Emma Long Metropolitan Park offers several scenic trails that range from easy to challenging. The Wild Rose Trail is particularly notable, providing stunning views of the lake and ample opportunities for wildlife observation. The diverse flora and fauna make hiking here a memorable experience, especially during the spring bloom.

Local Insights

Emma Long Metropolitan Park has a rich history, originally established in the 1930s. It remains a significant recreational spot for residents and visitors alike, offering a blend of natural beauty and outdoor activities that reflect Austin’s vibrant culture.

Visitor Tips

Best Times to Visit: Late spring and early fall are ideal for comfortable temperatures and beautiful scenery.
What to Bring:
- Camping gear (tent, sleeping bags)
- Water recreational equipment (kayaks, paddle boards)
- Sunscreen and insect repellent
Driving Directions: From downtown Austin, take Shoal Creek Blvd, turn onto 2222, and follow signs to the park. The drive takes about 20-30 minutes.

Adventure Map

Reviews

Cinella Reyes5 months ago

Everything was great. We visited on 4th of july. Had to purchase tickets 2 weeks in advance. There's plenty of green space n trees to set up your picnic and/or bbq. You probably will have to walk a bit for parking. But we dropped off our items then went to park. The park was clean, had showers. However the restrooms were under construction and had to use portopotties, which was not our favorite, obviously. The sandy area has no shade, so I'd suggest bringing ur own umbrella. The sand is a bit gritty, we all wore water shoes, so wasn't a big deal. We had an enjoyable family day and will be back to visit again soon!

Miguel Alexander5 months ago

Great place for little ones and family BBQ. Our two year old was able to sit calmly on the edge of the water with mama. Get there early to claim a good spot (prefer wake only zones so the water is more calm). Also consider bringing a picnic table or canopy to cover. Bring your own food and water and you’re set for the day. $10 entry fee and make sure you book only for weekends.

avi odenheimer5 months ago

Great park, reserve at least a week in advance to make sure you get a ticket. I wish there was less loud music and smoke or maybe have a designated area for food cooking. Nonetheless we had a great time and my 4 year old loved it.

Ciara Lindley6 months ago

I have grown up going to Emma Long and I'm glad to see lots of improvements over the years. The beach area is clear (you can swim anywhere really), and the sand, shells, docks, and gentle water is perfect for the kids (although being a narrow lake the boats coming by can make some waves). There are ropes and buoys that separate each area as it gets deeper but it really is quite shallow until the end of the dock. The water is refreshing, not too cold or too hot. There are large trees and picnic tables along the shoreline. We used to bring our jet skis here and post up along a spot on the shore and just chill with the family and friends - bring extra tables, chairs, blankets, portable grill, wagon, towels, food, drinks, sports balls (there is a sand volleyball area as well), etc. The bathrooms have been renovated not too long ago and are nice and spacious. There are also outside areas to rinse feet and shower after swimming. It costs $5 on weekdays to enter per vehicle, and $10 on weekends with online reservations ahead of time during the summer months and holidays. Check the website ahead of time so you're not surprised. We got there at 8:45 this morning and not a soul in sight and when we left around 12 there were a good few families but not crowded by any means (weekends can be PACKED). There is also camping in the park and hiking trails, and boat ramps. Because the water on Lake Austin is monitored and leveled by releasing the dam, there is always the same amount of water, just sometimes it can be colder or warmer depending on when the dam has been released and obviously time of year. Definitely worth a visit or 10, and don't forget to check out Ski Shores Cafe on the water about 7 minutes away for another local Austin spot.

Oscar Torres2 weeks ago

Been here a few times. Always super chill and great views when you hike the trails. Just wish the showers had warm water when you camp in the cold. It was working in the women's restrooms but not the men's. Also the women's restrooms stall doors don't close. Everything else is good

Camping

Camping at Emma Long Metropolitan Park in Austin