Lady Bird Lake, located in the heart of Austin, Texas, is a popular urban reservoir ideal for water sports enthusiasts. Nestled along the Colorado River in Travis County, this roughly six-mile-long lake spans over 400 acres and is part of the city’s vibrant outdoor scene. Its calm, steady waters make it perfect for a variety of non-motorized water activities that attract both locals and visitors alike.

Because motorized boats are not allowed, Lady Bird Lake offers a peaceful and safe environment for kayaking, paddleboarding, canoeing, and rowing. The lake is dotted with rental shops and rowing clubs such as The Rowing Dock, EpicSUP, and the Texas Rowing Center, where you can easily rent equipment or take lessons. The calm waters between the Longhorn Dam and Tom Miller Dam create excellent conditions for beginners and seasoned paddlers to enjoy the lake year-round.

Competitive water sports also thrive here, with local dragon boat teams and rowing clubs regularly practicing and holding events on the lake. The wide, open stretches of water and accessible shoreline make it a favorite training spot for athletes and recreational paddlers alike. Numerous launch points around the lake ensure easy access for everyone to get out on the water quickly.

Austin Skyline across Town Lake

Beyond the paddling, the lake’s scenic surroundings add to the overall experience. After a day on the water, visitors often relax along the Ann and Roy Butler Hike-and-Bike Trail or take in the spectacular sight of the famous bat colony emerging from under the Congress Avenue Bridge at dusk. Lady Bird Lake perfectly combines water sport excitement with Austin’s natural beauty and lively culture.

Planning on bringing your boat to Texas lakes?

Clean, Drain and Dry your boat to prevent the spread of zebra mussels and other invasive species.

Hacienda on Lake LBJ

Lake LBJ - Kingsland, TX

This vacation lake house has it all! Great water, boat dock with electric lift, waterfront deck, large covered porch facing the lake, game room, foosball, air hockey, fireplace, BBQ, 2 fire pits, and more. 2, 849 sq. ft. with 4 bedrooms, 2.5 baths, sleeps 14 in beds.

 

Llanorado Lodge

Lake LBJ - Kingsland, TX

Eight cabins at this lakeside resort await you. Located in Kingsland, Texas within walking distance of downtown. Covered boat docks for your boat, an all-weather fishing house, bait sales and more.

 

Lake LBJ Yacht Club and Marina

Horseshoe Bay, TX

Whether you're looking for a jet ski, fishing boat, a boat for water skiing or tubing, or a pontoon boat that will hold 10 people, Lake LBJ Yacht Club & Marina has it all. They also have boat slip rentals, cabins, and a restaurant. Check them out!

 

Lake LBJ Real Estate - MLS Search

The Highland Lakes Area - TX

Giles Summerlin with RE/MAX of Marble Falls specializes in Lake LBJ Real Estate and Texas Hill Country Lake Living.