The 10 Best Free Tennis Courts in Austin, Texas
Last updated: November 2025
Looking for truly free, public Tennis Courts in Austin? While the major centers like Caswell charge court fees, the city is full of neighborhood gems where you can play for free. This list highlights the most reliable parks—from the Hyde Park charm of Shipe to the iconic riverside courts at Austin High—where you can rally first-come, first-served.
How we picked these free parks
- Free, public access: Neighborhood parks with no reservation fees.
- Lighting: Most options listed have lights for evening play (crucial for Austin summers).
- Reliability: Parks known for decent nets and playable surfaces.
Top 10 Free Tennis Courts in Austin
1) Austin High Tennis Center (Lady Bird Lake)
The Icon. These 8 courts sit right next to the hike-and-bike trail. While it serves the high school during the day, it opens to the public for free on evenings and weekends. It’s arguably the most scenic place to play in the city.
2) Shipe Neighborhood Park (Hyde Park)
The Neighborhood Gem. Located in historic Hyde Park, Shipe has two intimate, lighted courts. It has a fierce local following, so expect a wait during peak hours. It’s perfect for a social hit before grabbing coffee at Quack’s.
3) Ramsey Neighborhood Park (Rosedale)
The Central Staple. Recently renovated, Ramsey is the heart of Rosedale. The courts are lighted and often busy with a mix of pickleball and tennis players. It’s a great spot if you want to be in the middle of the action.
4) Little Zilker Neighborhood Park (South Austin)
The South Austin Favorite. Not to be confused with the massive Zilker Park, "Little Zilker" is tucked behind Zilker Elementary. It features two courts that are beloved by the 78704 locals for casual evening sets.
5) Little Stacy Park (Travis Heights)
The Tree-Lined Classic. Tucked into the winding streets of Travis Heights, these two courts offer decent shade compared to other parks. The lights make it a go-to for late-night summer hitting.
6) Dick Nichols District Park (Southwest)
The Spacious Option. If you are further south, Dick Nichols offers a great escape. The courts are set back from the road, lighted, and generally have better availability than the central parks.
7) Beverly S. Sheffield Northwest District Park (Allandale)
The North Austin Hub. With 4 courts, this is one of the larger free facilities. It sits next to a pool and pond, making it a great weekend destination for a long practice session.
8) Givens Recreation Center (East Austin)
The Eastside Choice. Two solid, lighted courts in a large park setting. It’s a reliable spot for East Austin residents who want to avoid the congestion of downtown.
9) Brentwood Neighborhood Park (North Central)
The Community Court. Brentwood is a very active park. The courts are well-lit and often serve as the meeting point for neighbors. The vibe here is casual and friendly.
10) West Enfield Park (Old West Austin)
The Sunset Spot. Also known as Don Baylor Park, this is a quiet spot west of MoPac. It’s a fantastic place to catch a sunset while serving, though parking can be tight.
Peak times & etiquette
- Go early or late: Sunrise and post-8pm windows are best in warm months.
- Rotate fairly: When a queue forms at free Tennis Courts in Austin, play one set or hit for 30 minutes, then yield the court.
- Pack smart: Bring a small broom or towel to clear leaves, especially in the fall.
Looking for a League?
Once you've practiced at these parks, you might be ready for competition. Read our Guide to Austin Tennis Leagues to find a team.
FAQ — Free Tennis Courts in Austin
Are these parks really free?
Yes. These are public neighborhood parks. You just show up and play. If you want to reserve a specific time, you’ll need to pay at a center like Caswell or South Austin Tennis Center.
Do I need to bring a net?
No, all the parks listed above have permanent tennis nets. However, maintenance varies, so don't be surprised if a center strap is missing occasionally.
When do the lights turn off?
Most park lights in Austin are on timers that shut off around 10:00 PM or 10:30 PM.