“Emma Long,” a name echoing through Austin’s history. Who was this woman so important that a sprawling park bears her name? This is Emma Long Metropolitan Park.
Once called City Park, this oasis on Lake Austin transformed in 1984. The Austin City Council honored Emma Long, a pioneering figure in Texas politics. She was the first woman to serve on Austin’s City Council. She later became the first woman Mayor Pro Tem from 1967 to 1969.
But the park’s story began long before its renaming. In 1939, the Civilian Conservation Corps, Company 1805, arrived here. Fresh from their work at Bastrop State Park, they began shaping this land. Their mission was to turn it into a beautiful municipal park.
Imagine them seeding grass and planting trees. They worked tirelessly to protect the lake’s banks from erosion. These men built docks, piers, and even a boathouse. A wooden bathhouse and concession stand were also constructed. Sadly, those wooden structures were lost to fire. Stone replacements stand in their place today.
Emma Long Metropolitan Park is more than just a pretty place. It’s a hub of activity with lots of opportunities. You can enjoy many things here. There are 12 miles of forested trails that wind around Lake Austin. Sixty-eight barbecue pits invite you to cook. One hundred and fifty-one picnic tables offer space to enjoy the food. Sports enthusiasts can find three sand volleyball courts and a basketball court.
Anglers will love the fishing pier. It offers access to the renowned largemouth bass fishing on Lake Austin. The current record? A whopping 28.25 inches, weighing in at 16.03 pounds.
For dog lovers, there’s a 2.5-mile dog-friendly trail. It meanders through dense forests, providing cool shade on hot days. Motorcycle and mountain bike enthusiasts will enjoy nine miles of dedicated trails.
Keep your eyes peeled for wildlife! Spring brings an explosion of wildflowers. You may spot threatened golden-cheeked warblers. Turkey vultures and red-tailed hawks soar overhead. As dusk settles, listen for the calls of barred owls.
Planning a visit to Emma Long Metropolitan Park? The park is open from 7 AM to 10 PM, year-round. There is an entrance fee. It’s $5 Monday to Thursday. It is $10 Friday to Sunday and on holidays. Remember, cash is not accepted. Reservations are required Fridays through Sundays. Dogs are welcome but must be leashed and kept out of the swimming area.
So, as you wander through Emma Long Metropolitan Park, remember its history. Think about the hands that shaped this land. Remember Emma Long, a trailblazer. This park is a testament to her legacy and the enduring power of nature.