Things to do
Top Attractions
Explore the Enchanting North Shore
No matter how you prefer to explore — with binoculars, paddle, boots, or athletic shoes — the North Shore offers visitors of all ages and interests a treasure trove of experiences. We invite you to explore the North Shore and discover just how exciting and enticing being slightly off the beaten path can be!
Balcones Canyonland National Wildlife Refuge
The Balcones Canyonland National Wildlife Refuge is aflutter with more than 280 species of birds! With 10 miles of hiking trails suitable for both novice and experienced hikers, visitors can enjoy a close experience of the best kind! Observation stations for wildlife and stunning sunsets provide ample opportunities for your camera and binoculars. The refuge’s main mission is to provide a haven for two unique species of birds, the endangered Golden Cheek Warbler and the Black Capped Vireo. Conservation efforts also help protect all wildlife and the water quality of Lake Travis, which serves as the drinking water source for Austin and the North Shore.
Plan Your Visit:
Trails:
- Amphitheater Trail
- Pond and Prairie Trail
- Creek Trail
- Rimrock Trail
- Shin Oak Trail
- Indian Grass Trail
- Quarry Canyon Trail
- Boulder Trail
- Cactus Rocks Trail
- Vista Knoll Trail
- Ridgeline Trail
- Post Oak Trail
- Entrance Trail
- Bird Blind Trail
- Pollinator Path
Arkansas Bend Park
Arkansas Bend Park was totally revamped and reopened in 2019. It’s a remarkable lakefront park with excellent facilities for camping, picnics, fishing, hiking, and swimming. Reservations are highly recommended as the 18 fully equipped campsites are always in demand. Two boat ramps, one of which is ADA compliant, and a courtesy dock are featured when lake levels permit.
Plan Your Visit:
Turkey Bend Recreation Area
Turkey Bend Recreation Area is a beautiful pet-friendly park operated by the Lower Colorado River Authority, providing excellent campsites, fishing, swimming, and restroom facilities.
Plan Your Visit:
Jonestown Parks
Jonestown offers five different parks, complete with picnic tables and BBQ pits. Be sure to bring your hiking boots to take advantage of the gorgeous trail accessible from Jones Brothers Park and Fireman’s Park. Parking is available, free of charge to residents and $20 per vehicle for non-residents.
Parks:
- Jones Brothers Park
- Fireman’s Park
- Shady Park
- Pecan Park
- Veteran’s Memorial Park
Boating and Swimming
The North Shore is blessed with miles of shoreline, much of it on private property, but all the public and County parks will beckon you with refreshing, cool water to float your boat! Whether we’re talking about a paddleboard or a yacht, the North Shore of Lake Travis rewards visitors with breathtaking sunsets, good fishing, and safe swimming.
Golfing
The North Shore is a premier destination for golfers, whether golfing with a club or a disc. Some might even venture to say that the North Shore’s gradual development was spurred on by the swinging of clubs! Today, there are several options to choose from.
Lago Vista Golf Course
Just 30 minutes Northwest of Austin, the Lago Vista Golf Course welcomes golfers of all skill levels to enjoy a great day on the links, with spectacular views of Lake Travis, a great environment filled with birdsong and grazing deer ending up with a nice cold brew and an ample menu from the Bunker Grille.
Point Venture Golf Course
This beautifully maintained 9-hole golf course is nestled among scenic trees with songbirds heralding your progress on the links. The views are spectacular, and the play is challenging even without sand traps or water hazards. Prefer 18-holes? No problem! Stop at the Caddie Shack, grab a cold beverage and something from the food truck and play the course again.