Austin Parks and Recreation Department

Austin Parks and Recreation oversees nearly 20,000 acres of land containing 330 parks. Governor E.M. Zilker.

The year 1875 marked the first gift of land to the City of Austin with specific direction that it be used as a park. Pease donated 23 acres of land around Shoal Creek known as Pease Park. A jewel of the park system, Barton Springs and 35 acres surrounding it was deeded to the City in 1918 by A.J. As Austin grew, so did its desire for parks and recreation facilities. In 1926, The City Council appro  ...