When asking yourself about something to do near me in Austin with a group of friends or family, consider
Caven Lacrosse and Sports Center at Clark Field

Why Caven Lacrosse and Sports Center at Clark Field is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
The Caven Lacrosse and Sports Center at Clark Field is a premier sports and recreation facility located at 1910 San Jacinto Blvd. in Austin, Texas, offering a dynamic and versatile environment perfect for meeting up with friends and engaging in various athletic activities. Renowned for its extensive 2.5 acres of synthetic turf and a 444-yard recreational jogging track, this center provides an inviting space for casual play and serious training alike. The facility is enhanced by amenities like the THRIVE 450 outdoor gym, day-use lockers, drinking fountains, vending machines, and restrooms, ensuring a convenient and comfortable experience for all visitors. Its four lighted outdoor basketball courts and four lighted pickleball courts extend opportunities for play well into the evening under security lighting from dusk to dawn. The center also features a wireless scoreboard and a lightning detection system for safety. The newly added pedestrian bridge over Waller Creek beautifully connects the center with the larger Recreational Sports Center, fostering accessibility and community interaction. Access to the facility is exclusive to current University of Texas students and persons with active RecSports memberships or day passes, creating a focused athletic community. Given its comprehensive features and scenic location, it’s an ideal spot to gather with friends for sports, fitness, or just to enjoy the vibrant university sports atmosphere.
Here's what people think of Caven Lacrosse and Sports Center at Clark Field
As of recent, Caven Lacrosse and Sports Center at Clark Field holds a 4.6-star rating based on 142 reviews.
Reviewers consistently highlight the Caven Lacrosse and Sports Center at Clark Field as a well-maintained and versatile facility that elevates the recreational sports experience at the University of Texas. Users appreciate the quality synthetic turf and the availability of diverse sporting options including lacrosse, basketball, pickleball, soccer, and more, which cater to a wide range of interests. Positive feedback often underscores the convenient amenities such as water refill stations, secure lighting for evening play, and the engaging outdoor gym which together create a comprehensive environment for fitness and recreation. Several reviewers commend the facility for its accessibility and the ease of use due to the location of lockers and restrooms. The pedestrian bridge linking the center to the Recreational Sports Center is also noted as a thoughtful feature enhancing connectivity. On the other hand, some negative reviews mention that access restrictions limit usage to university students or pass holders, potentially excluding broader community engagement. A few users point out that parking can sometimes be challenging, and that facility hours vary according to the academic calendar, which might require planning visits carefully. Overall, the majority of reviews emphasize the facility's role in fostering a supportive and active community for UT students and sport clubs, with a strong focus on quality and safety. The Caven Lacrosse and Sports Center remains a valued hub for recreational and competitive sports, with community feedback reflecting its success as a well-loved resource.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Abel Frag
Great for students and visitors. Evening matches are a fun and cool way to spend time with friends. People will often join you with whatever thing you were playing (Soccer, for example). Parking is not that expensive, and I think after certain hours is free, need to check again.
semere Chimar
The Running track is amazing. It is so nice for people they have knee pain. The air is cold during the night and there is good blowing of air this place is good for doing sport.
William White
I used this track and the calisthenics bars as someone who lived in the local community for over a year before I was told that I was not allowed to use them any more after the protest concerning Palestine in the spring for 2023. That was rather annoying but after the protests subsided the hall monitors stopped accosting my workouts.
Josh Giffin
Nice outdoor sports facility, the jogging track was great. The soccer looked fun.
Jessica Moore Bonner
Good place to get in some lunch time exercise. But it's not well shaded and it has a lot of Astroturf that gets very hot, very quickly. I wouldn't recommend this as a primary exercise location, but it's great as a secondary when you just don't have that much time to commit to a workout.
Abel Frag
Great for students and visitors. Evening matches are a fun and cool way to spend time with friends. People will often join you with whatever thing you were playing (Soccer, for example). Parking is not that expensive, and I think after certain hours is free, need to check again.
semere Chimar
The Running track is amazing. It is so nice for people they have knee pain. The air is cold during the night and there is good blowing of air this place is good for doing sport.
William White
I used this track and the calisthenics bars as someone who lived in the local community for over a year before I was told that I was not allowed to use them any more after the protest concerning Palestine in the spring for 2023. That was rather annoying but after the protests subsided the hall monitors stopped accosting my workouts.
Josh Giffin
Nice outdoor sports facility, the jogging track was great. The soccer looked fun.
Jessica Moore Bonner
Good place to get in some lunch time exercise. But it's not well shaded and it has a lot of Astroturf that gets very hot, very quickly. I wouldn't recommend this as a primary exercise location, but it's great as a secondary when you just don't have that much time to commit to a workout.
Abel Frag
Great for students and visitors. Evening matches are a fun and cool way to spend time with friends. People will often join you with whatever thing you were playing (Soccer, for example). Parking is not that expensive, and I think after certain hours is free, need to check again.
semere Chimar
The Running track is amazing. It is so nice for people they have knee pain. The air is cold during the night and there is good blowing of air this place is good for doing sport.
William White
I used this track and the calisthenics bars as someone who lived in the local community for over a year before I was told that I was not allowed to use them any more after the protest concerning Palestine in the spring for 2023. That was rather annoying but after the protests subsided the hall monitors stopped accosting my workouts.
Josh Giffin
Nice outdoor sports facility, the jogging track was great. The soccer looked fun.
Jessica Moore Bonner
Good place to get in some lunch time exercise. But it's not well shaded and it has a lot of Astroturf that gets very hot, very quickly. I wouldn't recommend this as a primary exercise location, but it's great as a secondary when you just don't have that much time to commit to a workout.
How to reach Caven Lacrosse and Sports Center at Clark Field
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Why Caven Lacrosse and Sports Center at Clark Field may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at this place with your friends?
Caven Lacrosse and Sports Center at Clark Field is an exceptional destination for gathering your friends and enjoying a dynamic, active day outdoors. Its reputation, reflected by a strong 4.6-star rating from over 140 reviews, speaks to the quality and enjoyment visitors consistently experience. The facility stands out because of its expansive, high-quality synthetic turf fields, which provide a perfect playing surface regardless of weather. This makes it a reliable venue for sports enthusiasts looking to avoid the common issues of muddy or uneven natural grass fields. Beyond the quality playing surface, the surrounding environment is inviting with mature trees and proximity to Waller Creek, which adds an element of natural beauty and shade, enhancing comfort during extended visits. The combination of modern amenities, such as excellent lighting for nighttime activities and well-maintained bathrooms, with an inviting outdoor atmosphere ensures that groups can convene comfortably. Additionally, the venue’s versatility supports a wide array of activities, meaning your group can tailor the day to everyone’s interests, all in one location. Altogether, it makes Caven Lacrosse and Sports Center a brilliant choice for making memories and fostering camaraderie with friends or family.
What activities can you enjoy at Caven Lacrosse and Sports Center at Clark Field?
Caven Lacrosse and Sports Center offers a diverse selection of activities that cater to all kinds of sports and fitness preferences, making it an inclusive hub for social meetups. Clear highlights of the facility include its state-of-the-art synthetic turf fields spanning 2.5 acres, which are big enough to host large team sports such as lacrosse, soccer, ultimate frisbee, and basketball. These fields are always in excellent condition due to regular maintenance, ensuring safe and high-quality play. In addition to field sports, there are four outdoor lighted basketball courts and four lighted pickleball courts, giving groups options for fast-paced, energetic games or more leisurely rallies under lights. For those interested in fitness beyond traditional sports, the THRIVE 450 outdoor gym is a unique feature that offers outdoor gym equipment stations spread around the perimeter of the field. This allows visitors to work out in the fresh air while others are playing games on the turf. Running and walking enthusiasts also benefit from a 444-yard jogging track around the field, which, while having a unique non-oval shape, offers an excellent space for both casual strolls and intense cardio sessions. This wide variety of activities means groups with mixed interests and skill levels can all find something to enjoy, making it perfect for group meetups.
Why is Caven Lacrosse and Sports Center ideal for group meetups?
Caven Lacrosse and Sports Center stands out as an ideal location for group meetups due to its ample space coupled with well-organized facilities designed to accommodate both large and small groups comfortably. The synthetic turf fields are spacious and versatile, enabling multiple teams or groups to practice and play simultaneously without feeling crowded. The facility’s layout, including separate courts for basketball and pickleball, significantly reduces wait times and increases the opportunity for everyone to participate actively. The lighting provided by high-quality security lights means meetups can extend into the evening, allowing for flexible scheduling and accommodating those with busy daytime agendas. Moreover, the presence of essential amenities such as restrooms, drinking fountains including bottle-filling stations, day-use lockers, and vending machines ensures convenience for groups who plan to spend several hours on-site. The pedestrian bridge over nearby Waller Creek and the surrounding mature trees further enhance the social atmosphere, creating pleasant spaces to relax and socialize between games or workouts. The centralized location on the University of Texas campus also makes it easily accessible for locals and visitors alike. These combined features create an environment where friends and family can connect through sport or casual recreation without the typical hassles seen at many public outdoor venues.
What are the unique features of the Caven Lacrosse and Sports Center?
Beyond its sports facilities, Caven Lacrosse and Sports Center boasts several unique features that elevate the typical recreational experience. One such feature is the THRIVE 450 outdoor gym, an innovative space equipped with a range of fitness stations designed for bodyweight exercises and strength training in an outdoor setting. This gym allows visitors to enjoy the benefits of being outside while engaging in comprehensive workouts that complement their sports activities. The running track around the field has a distinctive shape and is surfaced with recycled rubberized material, which is gentler on joints compared to running on hard pavement, making it an appealing option for runners concerned about impact. The center also includes a wireless scoreboard and a flag plaza, adding to the professional feel of the venue during organized matches or tournaments, which can amplify the excitement of game days. Safety is a priority here with a lightning detection and warning system installed, helping to protect visitors from unexpected weather hazards and allowing them to play with peace of mind. Additionally, the site’s location near Waller Creek offers a scenic natural backdrop that contributes to a more refreshing and relaxing atmosphere rarely found at urban sports complexes. These thoughtful, specialized facilities ensure that whether you come for intense competition or casual sports enjoyment, the experience is top-tier.
How accessible and convenient is Caven Lacrosse and Sports Center for visitors?
Convenience and accessibility are among the strong points of Caven Lacrosse and Sports Center that make it an excellent venue choice for group meetups. The facility is situated at 1910 San Jacinto Boulevard on the University of Texas campus in Austin, Texas, which is centrally located and well-connected by public transportation and roadways. Parking options in the vicinity facilitate easy arrival, although visitors are encouraged to check specific parking arrangements as this is a campus location. The facility is designed to be welcoming to a wide audience, but access is controlled and generally available to current UT students, those holding a RecSports membership, or those who purchase a day pass, which helps maintain a safe, managed environment. Operating hours vary according to the university’s academic calendar, allowing the center to balance busy periods with quieter times, which can be great for groups seeking less crowded conditions. With clean restrooms, secure locker options, and multiple water stations, the center emphasizes visitor comfort and health, while nearby amenities and the pedestrian bridge enhance movement around the area. Security lighting extends usability into the evening, ensuring groups can enjoy their meetup regardless of the season or time of day. This blend of accessibility, convenience, and thoughtful design makes Caven Lacrosse and Sports Center a hassle-free, enjoyable place to meet up with friends for shared physical activities.
What makes playing sports at Caven Lacrosse and Sports Center special?
Playing sports at Caven Lacrosse and Sports Center is special because it combines professional-level facilities with a warm, community-centered atmosphere. The synthetic turf is a major highlight, providing a premium playing surface that stays consistent and safe under various weather conditions, unlike natural fields that can become muddy or uneven. This reliable surface encourages all players, from casual participants to serious athletes, to perform their best without worrying about footing or damage to the field. The lighting system allows games and practices to happen after dark, turning the space into a lively hub even in the evening hours. The availability of multiple sports options like soccer, lacrosse, basketball, and pickleball caters to different tastes and skill levels, encouraging inclusivity and participation for everyone. Many visitors also appreciate the facility’s cleanliness and attention to detail, from well-maintained fields to the supplemental fitness stations and jogging track, which contribute to a holistic sports experience. When combined with the scenic setting near Waller Creek and shaded by mature trees, these factors transform ordinary sports outings into memorable events that promote health, fun, and camaraderie among friends and fellow athletes.
In summary, Caven Lacrosse and Sports Center at Clark Field provides an outstanding venue for groups seeking a versatile, well-equipped, and scenic place to meet, play, and stay active. It combines quality sports facilities, innovative fitness features, and convenient amenities to create an inviting environment suited to all ages and interests. Whether you’re planning a friendly soccer match, a competitive lacrosse practice, or a casual run with friends, this center delivers a comprehensive experience that fosters connection and wellbeing. The excellent upkeep, thoughtful design elements, and natural surroundings make it a top choice for hosting recreational gatherings that leave everyone energized and satisfied.