Lake Travis
Written by Heather Calkins   

Sunset on Lake Travis, Austin, TX

An aqua playground.

Just a short drive from the hustle and bustle of Austin’s city life, Lake Travis offers a seemingly unending list of recreational activities for young and old alike. Created in 1942 with the completion of Mansfield Dam, the lake is actually part of the Colorado River. The south shore of Lake Travis encompasses the small towns of Lakeway and Volente. Further away from Austin, the north shore is enjoying a boom in development as land on the south shore becomes scarcer. Many Austinites are choosing to move to communities such as Lago Vista and Pointe Venture and commute into Austin. On either shore there's always plenty of places and activities to keep you busy on Lake Travis.


It should come as no surprise that fishing is a popular activity on Lake Travis. It is home to healthy populations of largemouth bass, Guadalupe bass, white bass, striped bass, catfish, and sunfish. Be sure to check the statewide regulations for each species. There are several local fishing guides in the area that will help you navigate to the very best fishing spots on the water.  Be sure to check out the Where to Play on Lake Travis section for local businesses that will help you reel in your best catch ever!

With Austin’s varying weather patterns, it is always a good idea to check the lake level before heading out on any watercraft. There are endless coves to explore, some more traveled than others. During the daylight hours, many Austinites like to bring out their mischievous side in Devil’s Cove. On any given weekend in the summer boaters flock to this favorite party spot on the water. Boats tie up to other boats forming long lines that fill the cove from front to back. If you plan on joining the party, plan to bring an anchor, bumpers, plenty of ropes to secure your vessel...and of course, your good-times party vibe!

When the sun sets on Lake Travis, the party moves to the shores. Several of the restaurants on the lake have their own docks, so you can come by land or water to join in the fun. During  much of the summer, Austin’s fabled live music scene is alive and kicking out at the lake as well. So  take a spin around austin.com's Lake Life  section to learn where to make your splash.

Where to Play

Things to Do

 Where to Eat