Lake Travis Frequently Asked Questions
How do I get to the lake?
From Austin: Emerald Point Marina is about 23 miles from Austin. To get there, take MO-Pac Expressway/TX-1-LOOP N for 3.9 miles and take the RM-2222/Northland Drive exit. Turn left onto FM-2222/RM-222 and remain on it for a little more than 8.5 miles. Take a left onto FM-620 and follow it for 5.2 miles (you'll pass Mansfield Dam). About a mile past Mansfield Dam, take a right at the Speedy Stop onto Hudson Bend Road. Take Hudson Bend for about 1.5 miles, then take the left fork onto Rocky Ridge Road. Take a quick right onto Hiline Road.
You'll be in the marina complex at this point. Carlos'N Charlie's restaurant will be on your left. Pass it and look for Emerald Point's office on your right. It'll be in front of the Ship's Store.
click here to view a map of the Lake Travis area.
What is there to do at Lake Travis?
Lake Travis is situated within Texas's beautiful Hill Country, within miles of its capital city, Austin, which, for all its size, is as green as the hills that surround it. Lake Travis's lakeshore is filled with parks. The lake itself is popular for watersports of all kinds, including swimming. Houseboats, sailboat and ski boats are all common sights. Windsurfers and waterskiers also love the lake. Fishermen have an abundance of largemouth bass to pursue.
How difficult is driving a houseboat?
Driving a houseboat is different than driving a car, but is not that difficult. The marina staff will walk you through driving the boat when you pick it up. Most people get the hang of maneuvering the boat within a few minutes. Also, as a map is provided on every boat and the lake is set up with mile markers, you're unlikely to get lost.
How do I check availability or reserve a houseboat?
Give us a call at 888-454-8825, and one of our reservation agents will be happy to check availability for you. It's helpful if you already have an idea of when you want to go and what boat you're most interested in when you call.
Alternatively, you can contact us online with your availability request, and one of our agents will be happy to get back to you with the information you need.
How early do I need to reserve?
Earlier is better. If you're planning a trip during a holiday weekend like Memorial Day, it's best to get a reservation six months or more in advance. Mid-week trips or off-season dates are often available as little as a few weeks beforehand.
Are pets allowed?
The fleet at Emerald Point Marina cannot allow pets of any kind. You will need to find alternative accomodations for your pets.
What kind of fish are found in the lake?
Largemouth bass are the popular catch in Lake Travis, but are only one species in the water. Catfish, bluegill, crappie and Guadalupe bass are all present in healthy numbers.
Are there restaurants along the lake shore?
Several restaurants are accessible by boat, among them Carlos 'n Charlies and Cafe Blue. Many other restaurants are close to Lake Travis, but not accessible by boat.
Is there camping along the lake shore?
A number of the public parks alongside Lake Travis offer camping. Pace Bend Park perhaps offers the most camping sites, but Mansfield Dam Park and Sandy Creek Park represent just a couple of the other places you can set down for the night.