Want to know a secret about a lakeside community just northwest of Austin? It’s called Hudson Bend. This census-designated place offers a unique blend of history recreation and residential charm.
Hudson Bend’s story begins in the early 1850s. Wiley Hudson an Arkansas emigrant secured a land grant in 1854. His farm sat near a bend in the Colorado River. The area became known as Hudson Bend. By 1860 four families called Hudson Bend home.
Farmers relied on three river fords. These were Marshall Ford Watkins Ford and Sylvester Ford. They crossed the Colorado to grind corn at Anderson Mill. By the 1890s Hudson Bend boasted a school and a church. Later the school merged with Teck School.
Originally Hudson Bend encompassed about 4000 acres. It thrived as a farming and ranching community. This lasted well into the 20th century. The construction of Marshall Ford Dam now Mansfield Dam and Lake Travis changed everything in the early 1940s. Hudson Bend lost nearly half its land. A cemetery was even relocated to Teck.
Slowly agriculture gave way to residential development. Lakeside recreational businesses sprung up. Marinas and lodges became common. Developers like S. C. McIntosh Hugh Webb and Jesse James created subdivisions in the 1940s. These were Hudson Bend Colony No. 1 and Hudson Bend Colony No. 2.
A volunteer fire department formed in the 1950s. A garden club also took root. As new residents arrived civic organizations emerged. In 1978 Hudson Bend earned a Texas Historical Marker. This recognized its role in local development.
By the end of the 20th century retirees and Austin commuters populated Hudson Bend. In 2000 the population was 2369. Today Hudson Bend continues to evolve. It is known for its casual atmosphere and waterfront recreation. Many residents enjoy lake access from their properties private parks and marinas. Public access is available at nearby LCRA Mansfield Dam Park.
The community has a wide range of subdivisions. These include Apache Shores Barton Creek Lakeside and Emerald Point. Emerald Point has the only full-service marina on Lake Travis. It has an on-site maintenance crew.
Living in Hudson Bend offers a mix of tranquility and convenience. The streets are walkable. State Route 360 connects Hudson Bend to Downtown Austin. While Austin public transportation doesn’t reach Hudson Bend getting around is manageable.
Hudson Bend is served by the Lake Travis Independent School District. Students attend Lake Travis Elementary School Hudson Bend Middle School and Lake Travis High School. The Lake Travis Community Library in Lakeway also serves the area.
Hudson Bend offers a variety of activities and attractions. Paradise Cove Marina has over 200 wet slips. Mansfield Dam Park features campsites a climbing boulder and swim areas. Lakeway City Park has walking trails a dog park and picnic areas.
For dining Canyon Grille serves American cuisine with daily specials. Lake Travis Biergarten offers a German-style beer garden experience. Grill On Tex Mex provides Tex Mex favorites.
Hudson Bend provides a unique lakeside lifestyle. It combines historical roots with modern amenities. It’s a place where community and recreation meet.