Great Hills Neighborhood Park

Natural Oasis

Positioned in northwest Austin, Great Hills Neighborhood Park spans a generous 85 acres within the Bull Creek Watershed. It's one of those lesser-known parks where you can escape the city buzz while technically still being in the city.

The park's natural area is home to all sorts of Texas native plants and critters. If you're into birdwatching, you can find plenty to add to your list here. Keep your eyes peeled for crawfish darting around in the creeks, and if you're lucky, you might spot turtles sunning themselves during certain times of the year.

Trails and Recreation

With about 1.7 miles of maintained trails crisscrossing the park, plus some unmarked paths for the more adventurous, there's plenty of ground to cover. The trails meander through a surprisingly diverse landscape - you'll find yourself walking along winding slopes one minute and crossing bubbling streams the next.

While the trails aren't particularly challenging, do watch your step on sections with loose rocks. The good news? Much of the path winds through shaded woods, making this a refreshing hike even during Texas summer heat.

If you're looking to level up your outdoor workout, check out the outdoor exercise equipment. Need a spot for a small gathering? The park offers a covered 20 x 30 foot pavilion with picnic tables that's yours to use on a first-come basis.

Family-Friendly Features

Kids will make a beeline for the playscape area complete with swings, slides, and climbing structures. The sand pit is especially popular with the younger crowd - just be prepared to shake out some shoes afterward!

You'll discover benches scattered within the park and a spacious green area that's great for spreading out a picnic blanket. It's an ideal setup for families: the little ones can play while older kids and adults can hit the trails.

Wildlife Conservation

This park goes beyond just preserving green space. Look for chimney swift towers near the playground and bat nesting boxes by the Floral Park trailhead entrance - both supporting local wildlife populations. Native plant gardens dot the landscape, adding splashes of color while providing essential habitat.

During blooming seasons, the park transforms into a photographer's dream. The lush greenery and seasonal flowers create natural backdrops worth capturing.

Good to Know

Plan ahead: there are no restrooms on site. You'll need to keep your furry friends leashed, and the park has a strict no-glass, no-motorized vehicles, and no-alcohol policy.

Parking is street-side only. As for trash, receptacles are limited to certain areas (mainly at one end of the trail), so you might need to carry out what you carry in. A small price to pay for maintaining this natural retreat.