Commons Ford Ranch Metropolitan Park

Commons Ford Ranch Metropolitan Park is a 215-acre park located in Austin, Texas. The park offers visitors a diverse range of natural landscapes and recreational opportunities. It is situated along the Colorado River, providing scenic views and access to Lake Austin.

The park features three distinct regions: a prairie, a canyon, and a chaparral area. The prairie section is a restored native grassland that supports a variety of wildflowers and grasses, making it an excellent spot for wildlife observation, particularly birdwatching. During winter months, it becomes a popular location for spotting Central Texas wintering sparrows.

A trail system winds through the park, allowing visitors to explore its various ecosystems. The Waterfall Trail leads hikers up a canyon to a set of falls, offering a picturesque natural feature within the park. Commons Ford Creek runs through the center of the park, adding to its natural beauty and ecological diversity.

The park has historical significance, with several structures remaining from its time as a working cattle ranch in the early 20th century. These include a ranch house, a caretaker's house, and a barn, providing glimpses into the area's past.

Commons Ford Ranch Metropolitan Park is open daily from 5:00 AM to 10:00 PM, providing ample opportunity for visitors to enjoy its natural beauty and recreational facilities throughout the year.