Walter E. Long Metropolitan Park

Walter E. Long Metropolitan Park is Austin's largest park, spanning approximately 3,695 acres in the eastern part of the city. The park is centered around Lake Walter E. Long, also known as Decker Lake, which covers about 1,165 acres. This man-made reservoir was created in the 1960s to serve as a cooling pond for a nearby power plant.

The park offers a variety of outdoor recreational activities for visitors. The lake is a popular spot for fishing, with anglers often catching species such as largemouth bass, catfish, and sunfish. Boating is also permitted on the lake, with a boat ramp available for public use.

Surrounding the lake are extensive green spaces that provide opportunities for picnicking, hiking, and wildlife observation. The park's diverse ecosystem supports a range of flora and fauna, making it an interesting destination for nature enthusiasts.

In recent years, there have been discussions and plans to further develop the park's facilities and amenities. The City of Austin has been working on a vision plan to enhance the park's offerings while preserving its natural features.

It's worth noting that as of October 2024, the boat ramps at Lake Walter E. Long were closed due to low water levels and planned infrastructure upgrades to Decker Dam. However, shore-launched watercraft such as canoes and kayaks can still access the lake, and other park amenities remain open.