Oh, Austin. From your people to your outdoor spaces to your laid-back vibe, it’s no wonder people are flocking to our town in droves. For parents, a great way to get out of the house is by exploring parks with our kids. That said, it can be easy to go to the same parks over and over again. Why not try to mix it up and try out a new park? We’re going to highlight our favorite parks in different parts of the city. Here are our top 5 parks in north Austin and the northern suburbs:
Brushy Creek Lake Park – 3300 Brushy Creek Road (Cedar Park)
There is a lot to explore at Brushy Creek Lake Park. The setting is really beautiful. In the spring, you can enjoy a view of wildflowers, which line the trails that wind around the lake and to nearby Champion Park. In addition to the very-popular free splash pad that’s open during the summer, there are several playrounds, a sand volleyball court, a fishing pier and even bocce courts. The trails are stroller and bike-friendly, although you’ll probably want to use a jogging stroller to navigate the crushed granite path (the trail is paved in some areas but not all).
Northeast Metropolitan Park – 15500 Sun Light Near Way (Pflugerville)
Northeast Metro used to just be a place for sports teams to play, but now the park also has a BMX racetrack, a skate park and a splash pad ( the latter of which is open from May 1 until September 30). The BMX racetrack opened in 2015 and is one of the few to meet the new UCI specifications, as well as all USA BMX requirements. The skate park has two bowls and is much less crowded than its Austin counterpart, close to House Park. The park also has a two-mile concrete sidewalk along Gilleland Creek for biking, jogging or taking a stroll in cool weather.
Play for All Abilities Park – 151 North A.W. Grimes (Round Rock)This park, which was designed for children with special needs, has quickly become a favorite for all families. There is plenty for kids to enjoy, from swings to a “rock band pod” to a playscape to swings and even a life-sized “downtown” for pretend play. Read all about it here.
Springwoods Park – 9117 Anderson Mill Rd.
This small park is tucked in a neighborhood and sheltered by mature oak trees. In addition to plenty of fun playgrounds, a sand volleyball court, a large field and a nice gazebo. There are also trails running through the park. Read all about it here.
Southwest Williamson County Regional Park – 3005 Co. Rd. 175 (Leander)
This large park has plenty of sports fields, but also the Quarry Splash Pad, which is open during the summer months until Labor Day. In addition to a playscape, the park also has a crushed granite hike and bike trail and is home to the Cedar Rock Miniature train. The park also has a disc golf course. Check out a map of the park here, read about the Quarry Splash pad here and read about the Cedar Rock Railroad here.
What’s your favorite park in north Austin?
