The dam is always closed, and "they" will never let you on it.

However, that is irrelevant, because the viewing takes place in an scenic
overlook area adjacent to the dam. It consists of a large (~800' diam.),
paved circular drive overlooking the down-stream face of the dam.

The scenic overlook area is open 24/7, the dam security people are used to
astronomers setting up there, and they're friendly. As urban/suburban
viewing sites go, it's probably one of the safer ones due to their presence.
The site has an almost perfectly unobstucted horizon. The down sides are
suburban-intensity light pollution from Austin's light dome (milky way
visible but dim), and occasional lights from non-astronomers driving through
the overlook. Most Friday nights you will find a fairly large crowd there,
with a dozen or so scopes set up.

Jim

"jojo" wrote in message
y.com...
Hi,

My question is regarding Mansfield Dam as
I keep getting conflicting information.

Some say the dam was closed to foot traffic after 9/11 and never reopened.
Some say if you go on the right night (which night would that be?)
or have a telescope with you "they" will let you on the dam.

Can anyone here update me on this?

I am looking for a relatively dark location, not to far away from where I
live.
I have tried 2 fields here in Round Rock. One I was asked to leave by the
police
(what on earth can be harmful about a girl with a telescope?) and one was
a
rewrite
of the "attack of the killer fire ants". Texans will understand how
painful
that trip was.

Thanks,

jojo