Rowing Dock is located on the west side of Zilker Park at 2418 Stratford Drive in Austin, Texas. We’re about a 10-minute drive from downtown Austin and are adjacent to the Hike-and-Bike Trail at MoPac.

Rowing Dock has a small free parking lot available on a first-come, first-serve basis, directly in front of our location. It does fill up quickly on weekends. In that case, drivers can park at two nearby public lots directly East of our location: underneath Mopac Bridge on Stratford Drive or at the Stratford Gravel Lot (both are within a 5-10 minute walk). If parking on the weekends at the Stratford Gravel Lot, you can use promo code FREE2STRATFORD for two hours of free parking in the Park ATX app. Otherwise, parking is $3/hour on weekends at the Stratford Lot. If you are driving, please do not leave any valuables in your car due to the increase in theft in Zilker Park.

Rowing Dock is open every day, weather permitting. Hours vary by season, and the last boat rental is typically one hour to one hour 15 minutes before closing.

When you arrive, you’ll complete a waiver and our staff will fit you with a life jacket, and review basic paddling and safety instructions before you head out on the water.

Most visitors paddle west toward Barton Creek for calmer water, scenic views, and a quieter experience. Paddling east toward downtown Austin offers skyline views and more activity on Lady Bird Lake.

Rowing Dock will continue to operate in mild rain and wind. In the case of heavy downpour, thunder or lightening, or heavy winds, Rowing Dock will either pause rentals or close depending on the forecast. If Rowing Dock is closed due to weather, we will post this status as a banner at the top of our website.

Wear comfortable clothing you don’t mind getting a little wet (swimsuits or athleisure wear). Bring sunscreen, water and a hat. You may also bring a towel and slip on shoes which can be stored in our open cubbies during your rental.

No. We have open cubbies to store your shoes, towel, and other items. We strongly suggest leaving all non essential items and valuables at home. Splash bags are available to rent for small items like cash, credit cards, and your ID. If you must bring other items, medium and large dry bags are available to rent. DO NOT LEAVE VALUABLES IN YOUR VEHICLE. Leave valuables at home or take them on the water with you in a dry bag.

Pricing depends on the boat selected and the timeframe you’re out on the water. We offer 1-hour, 2-hour or all-day rates depending on your preference. If you don’t know how long you’ll be out, you can choose our 1-hour option, and any additional time will be pro-rated by 30 minute increments and billed upon your return.

Due to the quantity of watercraft we have available to rent, there are rarely waits to rent. In the case of a short line, you can expect to wait 15 minutes during Summer weekends.

We are busiest in the middle of the afternoons on Summer weekends. To avoid a wait, join us anytime during the week or before noon on weekends. If there is a wait, don’t stress! It is typically quite short and gives you enough time to check out our merchandise.

Nope, come on down anytime, weather permitting. We’ll get you on the water in no time!

Yes! Most of our customers have never paddled before. Lady Bird Lake is an ideal place to try, as the waters are calm and there are no motorized vessels allowed. Once you get checked in, let a team member know it’s your first time paddling and they’ll be sure to give you more tips to make sure you’re feeling confident before departing.

Children of all ages are welcome on the water, with a parent or guardian. Those 15 or younger must have a parent or guardian on the water with them.