Mayfield Park and Nature Preserve is a popular attraction in Austin with plenty of amenities. Visitors can try hiking trails, see free-roaming peacocks, swim in the creek, or enjoy the beautiful gardens. This park and nature preserve allows everyone to witness Central Texas’ natural beauty.
Whether you are local, a visitor who wants a glimpse of wild peacocks, or an outdoor enthusiast, you can enjoy this historic park and its unforgettable views. The park is suitable for history lovers, hikers, nature lovers, families, and solo travelers.
A Brief History
Allison Mayfield originally purchased the park in 1909 as a summer home for his family. Over the years, Mayfield Park has welcomed more visitors. After Allison passed away, his daughter Mary took over the property. Site link
Mary and his husband decided to expand the quaint cottage, install water features, construct a stone wall, and design aesthetic gardens. After she passed away, this 23-acre property was donated to the city in 1971. Then, it was named Mayfield Park and Nature Preserve and used as a parking facility.
The historic cottage of the Mayfield family remained on the grounds alongside the koi ponds, stone walls, water features, and picturesque gardens. The park even became part of the National Register of Historic Places list.
What to See and Experience in Mayfield Park and Nature Preserve
Mayfield Park and Nature Preserve is home to 21-acre protected land featuring a creek, lakeshore, and short hiking trails. Since the hiking is considered basic, new hikers will not struggle to complete the trail.
Visitors can also see a vast range of plant species. Reptiles like the Dekay’s Brown Snake and Plain-Bellied Water Snake are often spotted along the lakeshore.
The park facility houses about 18 different peacocks. Black-Shouldered and India Blue are two species that offer a unique experience for visitors and live seamlessly together. These birds roam freely through the ponds and gardens. In some cases, they go to the nature preserve.
The beautiful ponds are home to reptiles, amphibians, fish, and other animals. Mayfield serves as Austin’s koi rescue. So visitors can see colorful and lively koi in each pond. Bird watching is also a popular activity in Mayfield Park and Nature Preserve, where visitors see Great Egrets and Great Blue Herons frequently. Here
Whether you want to explore the park alone or bring your family and friends, this destination will give you an unforgettable experience.
How to Get to Mayfield Park and Nature Preserve
This popular nature preserve is nestled close to the Laguna Gloria Museum. Visitors who want to drive to get there should take the 35th St off Mopac Highway west. After passing Balcones Dr., turn left at a Y. Finally, take Old Bull Creek Road. They will find the park entrance on the left corner.
As with the parking, tourists can park their vehicles on W 35th Street. The parking is free. They can also access restrooms throughout the park.
Nearby Attractions
After exploring Mayfield Park and Nature Reserve, you can try these nearby attractions:
360 Bridge – 4.68 km away
This arch bridge is across Lake Austin, connecting the southern and northern sections of the Loop 360 Highway (Capital of Texas Highway). This road is one of Texas’ most scenic urban drives because of the rolling hills flanking the road and the arched weathering-steel bridge.
Elisabet Ney Museum – 4.4 km away
This museum is housed in sculptor Elisabet Ney’s former studio. It is dedicated to displaying the sculptor’s life and work. Visitors can see a permanent collection of her personal memorabilia and portrait busts.
Mount Bonnell – 0.88 km away
Mount Bonnell is also called Covert Park. This prominent point is near Lake Austin. It provides a perfect spot to view the surrounding hills, Lake Austin, and the city of Austin. It has been a favorite destination since the 1850s and is part of the Recorded Texas Historic Landmark.
The Contemporary Austin-Laguna Gloria – 0.28 km away
This destination was formerly called the “AMOA-Arthouse at Laguna Gloria. It is the site of the iconic Italianate-style villa built in 1916 and the former home of Clara Driscoll. Since it is housed in the Austin Museum of Art, visitors can still see some of its precious collections.
Texas Military Forces Museum – 0.99 km away
This museum is part of the US Army Historic Program. The Texas Military (Camp Mabry) hosted this history museum. It features outdoor and indoor galleries, including:
- More than 50 uniformed mannequins
- 16 macro artifacts
- 16 macro environments
- 36 vehicles
- More than 10,000 artifacts
- 8 dioramas
- Over 20,000 photos
- More than 10,000 books
Zilker Nature Preserve – 4.49 km away
This massive recreational area comprises 360-acre land. Visitors can join different events and recreational activities in this beautiful park. Plus, bike and hike trails are around Lady Bird Lake.
Important Information About Mayfield Park and Nature Preserve
- Address: 3505 W 35th St, Austin, TX 78703
- Phone: +1 512-974-6700
- Website: mayfieldpark.org
- Park Hours: Monday to Sunday – 5:00 AM to 10:00 PM