Lake Travis

Lake Travis is a reservoir in Travis County and Burnet County within the Texas Hill Country, stretching across rolling terrain with numerous coves and rocky shorelines. The deep central section narrows into shallow arms that thread between forested slopes and dry grassland.

The authority completed Max Starcke Dam in 1951 as part of a project to generate power and supply water along the Lower Colorado River. The dam held back the flow and reshaped the existing river valley into a larger basin for the surrounding region.

Families gather along the shoreline and public docks to swim, sail, and waterski during warmer months. Anglers cluster in shallow sections where native species forage in the shifting current.

Public access points such as Johnson Park and Lakeside Park offer ramps and facilities without admission charges. Water levels fluctuate with rainfall, so checking current conditions before a visit helps plan activities accordingly.

Authorities require all boaters to clean, drain, and dry their equipment to prevent the spread of invasive mussels. These regulations apply strictly to stop foreign species from attaching to new shorelines and clogging waterways.

Location: Travis County

Location: Burnet County

Elevation above the sea: 208 m

Part of: Texas Highland Lakes

GPS coordinates: 30.39194,-97.90667

Latest update: December 13, 2025 16:08