Mills Pond Recreation Area

Mills Pond Recreation Area, tucked away in Wells Branch, Austin, Texas, is an idyllic escape from the hustle and bustle of city life, perfect for those seeking some nature-infused tranquility. With the pond as the centerpiece, the area offers a blend of serene natural beauty and recreational activities.

Walking around the pond takes around 10 to 15 minutes, depending on the trail chosen. The trails are well-maintained, providing an ideal setting for leisurely strolls, rejuvenating runs, or invigorating bicycle rides. The slight variation in the trails gives the place its unique charm that makes every visit refreshing. Additionally, there are two public restrooms with running water, and flushable toilets that are kept reasonably clean.

Adding to the recreational pursuits is the option of fishing. However, I would caution against consuming the fish due to potential runoff water. Nonetheless, it's a pleasant pastime, providing a calming distraction from our daily stresses.

The presence of multiple small streams and creeks enhances the allure of Mills Pond, making the network of walking paths even more visually appealing. Well-placed benches provide perfect spots for peaceful contemplation or casual chats, all while soaking in the area's natural beauty.

For wildlife enthusiasts, the area offers ample opportunities for bird watching and spotting squirrels. It's a total delight to see these creatures in their natural habitat, adding to the overall charm of Mills Pond.

And of course, the area is a haven for dog owners. Walking around the pond with our four-legged friends is a common sight, making the place seem even more welcoming and lively.

In conclusion, the Mills Pond Recreation Area epitomizes the perfect combination of natural serenity and recreational activity. Whether you're a fitness enthusiast, a nature lover or simply seeking a peaceful spot to unwind, Mills Pond holds a special allure that's hard to resist. So go ahead, grab your running shoes, unleash your pet, or bring along your loved one for a soothing walk around the pond. You won't be disappointed.

I discovered Mills Pond back in November while running after moving to the area.

As an avid runner and marathoner, it was such a delightful surprise! The surface is great for a runner.

Unfortunately, late November, I fractured my hip. So, my 🏃‍♀ became less which is not easy for an athlete like myself.

However, I recently had hip replacement surgery. My wonderful friend who flew in to care for me is an athlete as well. I'd told him about this special place in November. So, he was excited to experience it.

He absolutely loved it, too! We enjoyed several different visits while he was here. We decided it will be one of my go-ti places for PT. Adding to its beauty, during each visit, we observed more spring blooming!

He fully understood its tranquility as well.

I'm so grateful Mills Pond is not far. I may not be able to run there from my home quite yet again, but I'm looking forward to that day as one of my goals! Meanwhile, I'll drive there to take in nature's beauty as I continue to recover. 🌞

Nice park in a residential neighborhood. Also connects to another side with a field & playground. Has bathrooms and areas for picnic or BBQ. Has nice trails as well.

Beautiful park, very well kept, the walking track is nice and clean, Trash cans everywhere for minimum garbage, tons of families were having photoshoots cus the weather was really nice, the fishing part however was really disappointing, saw like a dozen people come and go and no fishes were caught by anyone in 3 hours of my time there, probably from the pond works they are doing, limited parking, didn't use the washrooms but they were right there, great neighborhood. Definitely recommended for a walk/stroll.

This place is gorgeous. 😍🤩

My dog had a great walk around the pond. The fall colors are beautiful right now.

Lots of families walking around the pond, people jogging, and walking their dogs. Its clean and nicely laid out. It looks like there's also a disc golf area somewhere, but I didn't go too far today.

This Park is highly recommended for those who have kids, for elderly and for everybody!
I come here often to walk and just love the pond and the lush trees.

Some good carp in here. Haven't been able to catch any bass or catfish, from what I hear the bass people catch tend to be on live baits and somewhat rare, but good sized. Haven't heard anyone say they've caught a cat.

A very interesting park with an extensive trail leading to a beautiful pond. The pond is very picturesque and the fishing pier gives it a very regal look.There are ample photo ops. The kids swings on the way were nice. There was also a large bench swing that my kids really enjoyed. We spent a good 2 to 3 hrs exploring the area and we definetely plan of going back sometime soon.

Fun place to take a 3 year old to learn to fish. You probably won't catch anything but a memory and that is good enough for me.

I've been coming here for 18 years, and it's my favorite park. Great place for a walk/run, an easy bike ride, or just enjoy the beauty of the park has to offer. Also, this park is well kept... kudos to the association or whoever is in charge of the up cleaning of the park.

Beautiful park located in Pfluggervile with awesome views over the lake. Its a small walking park and has very limited parking space with wheelchair accessible parking.
Would suggest to visit over the weekday evening than in weekend due to limited parking space. Its awesome to spend a evening over here.

This is a nice little park for a walk around a lovely pond. The trail was mostly shaded and provided ample walking space as well as beautiful views of the water.

Beautiful park to enjoy an evening walk. You can also go fishing as it says there are catfish and large mouth bass. It is right inside the neighborhood so it is surrounded with very lovely houses.

Incredible park! I highly recommend it. Well maintained. There’s additional street parking around the neighborhood

After checking out a few other parks near me, Mills Pond is my favorite park for jogging. The pond is beautiful and the entire area is lovely. You get the benefit of enjoying both a blue(water) and green (trees, plants, grass) space. Mills Pond is particularly beautiful and serene at sunset. Also, it is well lit! The park is located in a nice, quite residential neighborhood which makes it even more chill. This would be a good picnic spot. You can jog around the pond or take the path past the restrooms for a gorgeous stroll. There's even a swinging bench along the path. During my last visit, I discovered that the path is actually quite lengthy (it does require crossing a street)as it meanders through the neighborhood so I did an out and back while enjoying the beauty of the changing fall colors.

Beautiful little neighborhood park. It's good for bird watching, fishing, and general recreation. It's also a great place to get a great picture of the sunset.

Beautiful park with nice trails. Fishing ponds with two piers. Wonderful turtle life that is fun to observe. Limited parking but usually able to find a spot easily at any time of day.

This is a lovely Park area tucked away in the Wells Branch development. The pond itself is rather large, and offers a fishing pier. There are numerous picnic tables, benches, and other facilities including restrooms and a water fountain. No playscape is provided, however. As part of the area-wide network, there are walking trails that head off in different directions. Fishing is allowed in the pond. Parking is quite limited, unfortunately.

Very cozy and quiet place. The air is very clean, and the view of the lake is amazing. it is very nice to spend time with your family here. Loved watching the ducks and turtles.

This park is fantastic for dogs! You can walk around the pond and let them swim a bit in the water. You can go across Bratton ln to the Willow Bend Dog Park or you can walk down the partly shaded/well maintained trails all throughout Wells Branch.
Also, side note, this is a great place for bird watching, especially during the bird migration seasons.