Emma Long Metropolitan Park

Description:

• More than 1,100 acres of woodland and a mile of shore along Lake Austin make Emma Long Park -- named after the first woman to sit on Austin's city council -- a most appealing space. Water activities revolve around two boat ramps, a fishing dock, and a protected swimming area, guarded by lifeguards on summer weekends. This is the only city park to offer camping, with permits ($6 for open camping, $15 utility camping in addition to entry fee) available on a first-come, first-served basis. If you hike through the stands of oak, ash, and juniper to an elevation of 1,000 feet, you'll get a view of the city spread out before you. Note that the park closes whenever its maximum capacity is reached.

• © Frommer's 2013