About Zilker Park
Park History
Known as the crown jewel of Austin’s park system, Zilker Park is the oldest metropolitan park in Austin and was named for Andrew Zilker, who began donating parkland in 1917. His contributions culminated in the 1934 gift of the site where the Girl Scout Cabin is now located, at which time the park was officially named Zilker Park. Zilker was a relative newcomer to the area, considering that Native Americans gathered at the natural cold springs there for thousands of years. Zilker Park was added to the National Register of Historic Places as “Zilker Park Historic District” in 1997.
Photo: Barton Springs Pool. PICA 01009, Austin History Center, Austin Public Library.
An Urban Oasis
Photo by Siglo Group.
Just two miles from downtown Austin, Zilker is an urban oasis for Austinites from all parts of the city. It is situated on 351 acres of public land over the Edwards Aquifer and within the Colorado River corridor, at the juncture where Eanes Creek, Barton Creek, and Barton Springs flow through the park and into Lady Bird Lake. Zilker Park’s ecosystem supports a mix of woodlands, meadows, and riparian lands that are home to over 600 plants and animals. It is up to each of us to help steward its ecological treasures.
Recreation
Zilker Park has something for everyone! For children who play in the park or participate in its camps and programs, Zilker Park is a place of magic, fun, and discovery. For everyone, it’s a treasured outdoor space to make memories, recreate, and escape the stresses of urban life. From hiking, kayaking, stand-up paddleboarding, swimming in Barton Springs Pool, and attending special events; to strolling through Zilker Botanical Gardens, playing on the playground, participating in sporting leagues, or just hanging out on the Great Lawn.
The Stories of Zilker Park
Zilker Park is Austin’s oldest metropolitan park, and if you spend a day exploring the park, you’ll uncover many of its stories. Yet, Zilker Park also has a history of discrimination against non-whites and lower-income citizens. Zilker 351 supports a welcoming park culture that ensures access, equity, and inclusion for everyone who visits the park. Zilker Park belongs to ALL Austinites.