We often get asked what we are doing for fun with our own kids this summer. Having written about local experiences for the past 10+ years, we might seem like we have an inside scoop on secret entertainment options, but during this pandemic we’re all in the same boat. A lot of our normal activities are on pause this year, so when we do leave our homes in search of safely distanced family fun, our activities are pretty simple: parks, picnics and hikes. To avoid crowds and hot summer temps, we often go out early in the morning where we can start our day with some peace and quiet, soaking up the natural beauty of Austin and the surrounding areas.
For the rest of the summer, we plan to spotlight some of our favorite quiet spots, starting with a small little LCRA Park on Lake Austin, Jessica Hollis Park. Read on for the details about this tiny little gem and stay tuned each week for more Do512 Family Park Spotlights.
A Visit to Jessica Hollis Park
Jessica Hollis Park is a small LCRA Park that’s located on the far north shore of Lake Austin, just below Mansfield Dam (14100 Low Water Crossing Rd.). Because of the proximity to the dam, water comes from the bottom of Lake Travis, making it very cold and brisk. If you dip your toes in on the shallow banks or go for a swim or float, this water is sure to cool you down. Our kids compared the ice cold water to that of Barton Springs — very refreshing on a hot day!
We personally love this spot for picnics. You’ll find a few picnic tables and grills set up along the water for a nice outdoor meal. (Note that there is currently a Travis County burn ban in effect.) Bring along your picnic blankets, chairs, cooler, and be sure to pack out all of your trash when you’re done. Take note that the whole picnic area is small and can easily fill up on weekends. As with everything, we suggest going early or on off hours or weekdays to avoid crowds.
Jessica Hollis Park is a perfect location for kayaking and paddle boarding. With a parking lot on site (only $1 per hour), it’s a very easy place to load in your kayak or SUP. There is a temporary pause on watercraft rentals at this park right now, but LCRA says they plan to reopen up weekend rentals soon. (Rental pricing on their website.) If you happen to have your own, of course, you can drop it in at any time. The park is open from dawn to dusk.
This is also a popular spot for fishing! Just bring your rod and bait, and reel ’em in! Do heed signs that warn against fishing from the bridge.
You will notice signs posted regarding safety of the swimming area if the dam should open up. While LCRA Parks does note that this is a nice place for swimming, please just use extreme caution if you should notice the sudden release of water. Also know that jumping from the bridge is NOT allowed. Personally, with younger kids, we think just sitting in the cold shallow water near the shore is perfectly good enough way to splash and play.
Reminders Before You Go: Please keep in mind that this park is very small, so it’s best to go early in the day or have a Plan B in mind if you should arrive and the parking lot is full. With anything, please be safe, use caution near water, and remember to distance yourself from anyone in not in your immediate family. Be good neighbors, pick up after yourselves and help keep Austin looking as beautiful as can be.
Please note that due to COVID-19, in all LCRA Parks, visitors must wear face coverings and should practice social distancing in the parks. No groups larger than five people are allowed, except for families or people living in the same household.
Entry to the park is free, and parking is $1 per hour (12 hours max.) For more info, please visit the LCRA Parks website or call 512-473-3366.
