Elizabeth Milburn Park and Pool has a little bit of everything for the entire family. For South Austinites, this is Cedar Park’s version of Dick Nichols District Park.
Milburn Park has tennis, volleyball, basketball courts, soccer fields, a covered pavilion that can be rented for occasions, a one-mile path around the perimeter of the park, two playscapes, a rock-climbing feature, BMX tracks, and a large city pool. Anytime that we come here, I am always struck by how large this park is, and how well it is integrated into the surrounding neighborhoods.
The Community Garden
First, the kids and I were greeted by this lovely little community garden right next to the parking lot.
After we peered through the fence at the garden plots, we noticed the cheeky sculpture of Rock, Paper Scissors.
Playscapes
Any parent will appreciate that the two playscapes are close enough to keep your eyes on both at the same time.
I love the smaller playscape for toddlers. The structure is low enough to the ground so that if a toddler were to tumble off accidently, he or she would not get that hurt.
I found that the larger playscape is large enough for an adult to climb up with a younger child who might like to give this one a go. There are only two sets of swings, two buckets for the smaller kids and two swings for the bigger kids. When the park gets crowded, there can sometimes be a wait for the swings (especially the bucket ones).
It’s nice that the majority of the playground area is covered with large oak trees for plenty of shade in the hotter months.
Basketball and Volleyball
I keep plastic pails and shovels in my car for impromptu drop-ins to parks like this so the kids can enjoy the giant sandbox when no one is playing volleyball. Plenty of people can play at the same time on the huge basketball and volleyball courts.
The Pool
Often early in the morning and in the afternoon after school, swim teams are practicing at the Milburn Pool. We have seen them swim even in the middle of winter so presumably, the pool is heated for that. We have been to this pool a few times, and though it does not quite have all the amenities at the newer Veterans Memorial Pool, this one still has quite a bit to offer the smallest kids.
I love that the pool has three zones that suit everyone’s needs. For instance, there is a beach area with water playscape, a lap pool, and a large chute slide. The chute slide does not quite have the thrilling edge that the Rock ‘n River pool in Round Rock, however, I would still say it is great fun.
In addition, parents will appreciate that there are large shade awnings that provide relief from the sun over the many lounge chairs around the perimeter of the pool.
Call (512) 401-5530 to find out admission prices and hours.
Pavilions and Picnic Tables
Plenty of park benches and covered picnic tables are placed throughout the park. I have found that we can easily spend an entire morning here. However, if the kids get hungry, there are quite a few fast food and sit down restaurants within one mile down Cypress Creek Rd towards Lakeline Blvd. Or, you could bring a picnic lunch.
I very much appreciate that there are restrooms on-site as well. However, the water fountains never seem to work. If you are coming here, I would recommend bringing water.
BMX Tracks
I packed our bikes so the kids could try riding on the BMX tracks. We quickly learned these are not quite for beginners. Therefore, helmets are a must here! You should probably bring elbow pads too while you’re at it.
We saw several very experienced kids riding here that were so much fun to watch, but my kids got discouraged very quickly as they had never tried BMX before and couldn’t do all the crazy high jumps like the other kids.
If you are an experienced BMX rider, this is the place to go! Above all, it was a large and very cool course though and we will be back to practice!
Rock Climbing Wall
My kids loved the huge free standing rock climbing wall at this park and they spent a lot of time on it. However, it’s definitely for intermediate to advanced climbers.
Austin Active Kids Opinion
We always have the best time at this park. Here’s what my 11-year-old had to say: “It’s great for all ages. Be sure to bring a bike!” Similarly, my 8-year-old said, “Go there if you’re good at biking. Go there if you like to climb!” In addition, my 3-year-old said, “I liked crossing that bridge thing.” In conclusion, it was a big hit all around!
Outing Time
I can spend an hour here, even up to five hours! I could definitely spend the whole day here if I brought along enough food and drinks.
Reminders
This park is huge so you definitely want to be prepared to stay for a while. There are restrooms near the pool. I would bring sand toys for the volleyball courts so if no one is playing, your kids can dig in the sand. Bring any type of sports balls you want! Bring your bikes and helmets for the BMX track. Also, pack plenty of food and water. And, don’t forget swimsuits and towels if it’s summer.
Location
1901 Sun Chase Blvd, Cedar Park, TX 78613
Hours
6 a.m. – 8 p.m.
