Elmendorf Lake Park

Elmendorf Lake Park is a 30-acre public space located on the west side of San Antonio, Texas. The park underwent a significant $16.2 million renovation in 2017, which transformed it into a community-building space and local oasis. Situated adjacent to Our Lady of the Lake University, the park offers scenic views of the university's Victorian Gothic buildings reflected in the lake's waters.

The park features two miles of walking trails made of decomposed granite, allowing visitors to stroll, jog, or bike around the water. These pet-friendly paths include bridges that cross the lake, providing access to a small island. The lake itself is home to various wildlife, including a bird sanctuary where up to 1,200 Cattle Egrets have been known to gather on a quarter-acre island.

Elmendorf Lake Park includes ecosystem restoration efforts and educational features. Native plants have been incorporated throughout the park, and educational plaques provide information to visitors. The park also includes rain gardens and bioswales designed to manage stormwater runoff and improve water quality in the lake.

In 2019, a new public pool was added to the park's amenities, complementing the existing splash pad. The park also boasts a large, shaded playground with modern equipment and a soft, squishy ground covering for safety. Adults can make use of workout equipment scattered along the edge of the playground area.

Fishing is permitted at Elmendorf Lake Park without a license requirement. A floating dock in the middle of the lake serves as a popular spot for anglers, with the lake stocked with largemouth bass and catfish. The park is open from sunrise to sunset and offers free parking for visitors.