Arrive at the southern entrance and park across from the lake (Lone Shadow Trail to Lazy Forest Drive). There are many lake access points along with a small pier/dock great for observing the lake and waterfowl. The trail leading around the perimeter of the lake is great for this as well, and the forested area up near Northeast Lakeview College has a few lake access points as well. For birdwatching, follow the trails that stay nearest to the lake forming a large circle around it.

Assorted waterfowl, especially autumn through spring. Many cormorants call the lake home alongside ducks, geese, coots, sandpipers, and more.

Created in the 1971 from property donated by a developer Llyod Denton and currently serving as a major flood control project, the Live Oak main park has its primary entrance off Welcome Dr. and Leafy Hollow. The park area was petitioned to become a Texas Historical Site in 1979 because of an old Indian Camp Site that was located in the park. Records of the archeological dig remain in the records of the city. A total of approximately 75 acres, this park features several amenities including a football field, basketball court, skate spot, three baseball fields, multiple playscapes and a disc golf course. A 2014 bond project provided lights to all ball fields as well as a trail that circumnavigates the lake to make a path of nearly 2 miles long in entirety. The entrance to the lake and pond area at the main park is Lone Shadow Trail to Lazy Forest Drive and is the home to a tranquil spot and a location for picnics, walks, or fishing.