Top Nature Spots in Austin

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1

Barton Springs Municipal Pool rating icon 8.6

2131 William Barton Dr, Austin, TX 78746, USA copy icon
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Popularity in Country: 576 of 3727
Popularity in Category: 25 of 137
Popularity Worldwide: 3651 of 29088
Hot Springs & Pools
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Zachary January 29, 2025

I recommend going early, like around 8 AM. It gets packed quick, and you’ll want to snag a good spot by the pool. The vibe is way chill in the morning.

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Kevin January 13, 2025

Watch out for the strict entry rules! I learned the hard way that they don’t allow glass containers. Next time, I’d bring a reusable plastic bottle instead.

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Daniel November 3, 2024

Plan to stay for sunset; it’s stunning and really worth the wait. The pool has this magical feeling as the sun goes down, and it gets a bit quieter too.

2

Hippie Hollow Park rating icon 6.3

Hippie Hollow Park, 7000 Comanche Trail, Austin, TX 78732, USA copy icon
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Popularity in Country: 1500 of 3727
Popularity in Category: 518 of 1406
Popularity Worldwide: 10386 of 29088
Beaches
Parks
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Edward November 2, 2024

Get there early, around 9 AM, to snag a good spot and enjoy the peaceful vibe before it gets crowded. Trust me, it's worth it!

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Justin October 22, 2024

I recommend exploring the trails around the park – they're often overlooked but offer some stunning views and a nice escape from the crowds

3

The Mayfield–Gutsch Estate rating icon 6.1

Mayfield Park and Nature Preserve, 3505 W 35th St, Austin, TX 78703, USA copy icon
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Popularity in Country: 1623 of 3727
Popularity in Category: 175 of 421
Popularity Worldwide: 11235 of 29088
Nature Reserves
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Benjamin March 9, 2025

I recommend visiting early in the morning, around 8 AM. The weather is cooler, and the wildlife is more active – you might catch the peacocks right outside!

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Brandon January 30, 2025

Make sure to wear good shoes. Some trails have rocky patches and you'll need solid footing. I learned the hard way when I slipped once.

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Tyler December 18, 2024

My advice is to take your time and explore the trails. There’s so much beauty to soak in but I rushed it and missed some awesome spots along the way.

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Elizabeth October 15, 2024

If you can, bring a picnic! The grounds are so peaceful, and there are nice spots to chill. It won't cost you much and adds to the whole experience!

4

Mount Bonnell rating icon 6

Mount Bonnell, Austin, Travis County, Texas, 78731, United States copy icon
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Popularity in Country: 1648 of 3727
Popularity in Category: 74 of 180
Popularity Worldwide: 11825 of 29088
Mountains
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Nathan January 21, 2025

Check the weather before you go. It was super sunny when I visited, and there’s not much shade, so bring a hat or sunscreen.

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Edward November 11, 2024

If you're on a budget, pack a picnic! There are plenty of spots to sit and enjoy the scenery without spending money on snacks at nearby shops.

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Ronald November 4, 2024

get there early—like around 8 am—to beat the crowds and catch the sunrise. it's way less hectic and the views are breathtaking!

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Tyler November 2, 2024

Wear good shoes! The path can get a bit steep, and I slipped a little. You'll appreciate a solid pair while tackling those steps.

5

McKinney Falls State Park rating icon 5.7

McKinney Falls State Park, 5808 McKinney Falls Pkwy, Austin, TX 78744, USA copy icon
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Popularity in Country: 1774 of 3727
Popularity in Category: 526 of 1227
Popularity Worldwide: 12558 of 29088
Parks
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Kevin March 15, 2025

Make sure to allocate some time for the visitor center. It had some cool exhibits and helpful staff – I learned some interesting history about the park!

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Eric February 12, 2025

Check the weather beforehand. I didn’t realize it was going to rain, and I ended up getting caught without proper gear. A poncho would have been a lifesaver!

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Maria December 11, 2024

Bring a picnic! There's plenty of shady spots by the falls to relax and enjoy some food. I saved a lot by packing lunch instead of eating at nearby restaurants.

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Jane November 15, 2024

I suggest arriving right when the park opens at 8 AM. It was so peaceful and I got some great photos before the crowds rolled in.

6

Barton Creek Greenbelt rating icon 5.7

3755 S Capital of Texas Hwy b, Austin, TX 78704, USA copy icon
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Popularity in Country: 1772 of 3727
Popularity in Category: 539 of 1227
Popularity Worldwide: 12570 of 29088
Parks
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Matthew April 11, 2025

Be prepared for some elevation changes if you want the full experience. I wasn't ready for the steep bits, so maybe look for trail maps online ahead of time

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Justin April 9, 2025

I suggest packing a picnic and enjoying it near the water. There are some lovely spots where you can relax – just watch out for any hungry squirrels!

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Michael January 7, 2025

I recommend wearing good hiking shoes because the trails can be rocky and muddy, especially after rain. I found it tough at times, but a solid pair of shoes made a big difference!

7

Muller Lake Park rating icon 5.7

Mueller Lake Park, 4550 Mueller Blvd, Austin, TX 78723, USA copy icon
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Popularity in Country: 1768 of 3727
Popularity in Category: 538 of 1227
Popularity Worldwide: 12463 of 29088
Parks
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David April 6, 2025

Bring a reusable water bottle! There are plenty of spots to fill up and it’ll save you money instead of buying drinks

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Samuel February 9, 2025

Check out the local food trucks nearby! I grabbed a quick bite after my walk, and it was delicious without breaking the bank.

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Jane January 26, 2025

Wear comfortable shoes! The trails are nice but can be a bit uneven in places. I learned that the hard way.

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Daniel November 12, 2024

I suggest visiting Muller Lake Park in the early morning around 8 AM. It’s less crowded and you can enjoy the peaceful vibe before the day heats up.

8

Sculpture Falls rating icon 5.4

Barton Creek Greenbelt Trail, Austin, TX 78746, USA copy icon
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Popularity in Country: 1869 of 3727
Popularity in Category: 147 of 314
Popularity Worldwide: 13368 of 29088
Waterfalls
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Maria January 19, 2025

I think visiting late in the afternoon, around 4 PM, gives the best light for photos. The golden hour makes the place look amazing! I wish I would have planned for that instead of mid-day.

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Lucas January 6, 2025

Definitely wear good water shoes. The rocks can be slippery, and you don’t want to risk a fall while trying to enjoy the beauty of the falls. I almost slipped and it was scary

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Joseph October 31, 2024

Pack a picnic! There are some great spots to chill and enjoy the view of the falls. I brought snacks and it made for a nice break before heading back.

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Mark October 24, 2024

My advice is to check the weather before you go. If it’s been rainy, the water can be really high and not as beautiful. I went during a wet spell and the flooding wasn’t ideal!

9

Auditorium Shores at Town Lake rating icon 5.2

Auditorium Shores at Town Lake Metropolitan Park, 800, Austin, Travis County, Texas, 78704, United States copy icon
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Popularity in Country: 1909 of 3727
Popularity in Category: 587 of 1227
Popularity Worldwide: 13834 of 29088
Parks
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Donald March 22, 2025

Parking can be tricky, especially during weekends. I suggest getting there before 10 AM or using rideshares to avoid the hassle.

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Edward January 30, 2025

The sunset view from the shores is amazing! Try to be there around 6:30 PM to catch those gorgeous colors reflecting on the water.

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Samuel December 24, 2024

Pack a picnic. There are plenty of nice spots to chill and enjoy some food. Restaurants nearby can be pricey, so save those bucks.

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Mark December 7, 2024

If you can, check out the free yoga classes on Sundays at 10 AM, it's a fun way to relax and meet locals. Just bring your mat!

10

Zilker Botanical Garden rating icon 5.1

Zilker Botanical Garden, 2220 Barton Springs Rd, Austin, TX 78746, USA copy icon
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Popularity in Country: 1985 of 3727
Popularity in Category: 89 of 184
Popularity Worldwide: 14147 of 29088
Botanical Gardens
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Daniel March 25, 2025

If you like certain plants or areas, take your time there. I rushed through some sections, only to realize later I wanted to linger more in the rose garden!

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Patrick March 21, 2025

Bring a picnic! There are some lovely spots to sit and enjoy a snack among the flowers. Just make sure to pack out what you pack in to keep the place nice.

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Robert October 29, 2024

If you're visiting Zilker Botanical Garden, try to get there around 9 AM when they open. The morning light is beautiful for photos and it’s less crowded. I really enjoyed walking around without feeling rushed.

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