The questions travelers actually Google before they arrive — and the answers you'd get from a friend who lives on Lake Travis.
Getting there & around
Logistics
How was Lake Travis created?
The Lower Colorado River Authority began building Mansfield Dam in 1937 at a planned 200 feet, but catastrophic flooding in July 1938 forced a redesign to 278 feet before the dam was finished in 1942. The lake covers 19,297 acres and is part of the Highland Lakes chain on the Colorado River.
What's the closest airport to Lake Travis?
Austin-Bergstrom International (AUS) is the nearest with regular commercial service, about 30 to 45 minutes depending on which part of the lake you're headed to.
Groceries, gas, urgent care
Essentials
Where's the closest grocery store to Lake Travis?
H-E-B on Ranch Road 620 South in Lakeway, open daily from 6am to 11pm.
Where's the closest emergency room to Lake Travis?
Baylor Scott & White Medical Center — Lakeway's emergency room, on Medical Parkway — a 106-bed, full-service hospital serving the lake's east end.
Where to eat
Food & drink
Where can I eat at Lake Travis?
The Oasis on Lake Travis, the largest outdoor restaurant in Texas, is built into a bluff 450 feet above the water for sunset views. Beachside Billy's, at Volente Beach Resort & Waterpark, covers casual family dining on the lake's northern arm.
What's worth doing
Things to do
Is Lake Travis part of a chain of lakes?
Yes — it's one of the Highland Lakes, a chain fed by the Colorado, Llano, and Pedernales rivers that also includes Lake Buchanan, Inks Lake, Lake LBJ, Lake Marble Falls, Lake Austin, and Lady Bird Lake.
On the water & on the trail
Outdoors
Where can I rent a boat at Lake Travis?
More than 50 rental operators work the lake. Lake Travis Marina and Riviera Marina are closest to downtown Austin; VIP Marina Lake Travis covers the northwest side; Keep Austin Wet runs one of the largest party-boat fleets, based in Volente.
What is Devil's Cove?
A boat-only cove on the lake's north shore with no road or beach access — Lake Travis's best-known floating party spot, where hundreds of boats tie together on summer weekends between Memorial Day and Labor Day.
Seasons & weather
When to come
When's the best time to visit Lake Travis?
Memorial Day through Labor Day for full marina hours and the lake's peak party scene at Devil's Cove. Spring and fall bring milder weather with a much quieter lake.