Commons Ford Ranch keeps Lake Austin's ranch history visible

Commons Ford Ranch Metropolitan Park is one of those west Austin spots with older layers under the parkland. The City of Austin says Lake Austin runs along the north side of the park, with a boat dock, picnic areas, and swimming.

The park's history reaches back to nearby Santa Monica Springs, a spot used by Comanche and Tonkawa people and, by the 1890s, a popular destination. The land later became a working cattle operation called Resaca Ranch. The city says several Resaca Ranch buildings still stand at the park today, including a barn, a ranch house, and a caretaker's house.

That mix is what gives Commons Ford its character on the Lake Austin side of Travis County. It is parkland you can use now, but it also keeps river, spring, and ranch history in plain view. Check the city page for hours, fees, and access.