Recreation opportunities around Oak Forest are abundant and diverse. Residents can enjoy the historic charm of downtown Buda, which hosts events like the Wildflower Festival and Movies in the Park. The area is also home to several parks and outdoor spaces, such as the Buda City Park with its basketball courts and rock-climbing wall, and the Buda Sportsplex, offering extensive trails, sports fields, and playgrounds. For those who enjoy golf, the 18-hole Plum Creek Golf Course in Kyle and the Grey Rock Golf Club in Austin are both within easy reach. Additionally, the natural beauty of McKinney Falls State Park, with its hiking and cycling trails, adds to the area's appeal​​.

Daily conveniences are well catered to in Oak Forest, with shopping centers like Kyle Crossing and Southpark Meadows in South Austin within easy reach. The neighborhood also benefits from a variety of dining options, ranging from the Salt Lick Bar-B-Que to Summermoon Coffee Bar, ensuring a rich culinary experience for residents. The accessibility of downtown Austin also means that residents can easily indulge in the city's vibrant retail, dining, and cultural scene​​.

The educational needs of Oak Forest residents are served by the Hays ISD, which includes Carpenter Hill Elementary, Dahlstrom Middle, and Johnson High School. These schools are well-regarded in the community, offering a range of educational programs and activities​​.

Real estate in Oak Forest primarily consists of large, custom-built homes. The architectural styles vary, with traditional and craftsman-style designs being predominant. These homes are often characterized by stone and brick exteriors, expansive patios, and spacious multi-car garages. Many properties feature large lots, often exceeding two acres, and are heavily wooded, offering a sense of privacy and a country-like ambiance. This real estate variety caters to a range of preferences, from those seeking the exclusivity of luxury homes to those desiring a more rustic, country feel​​​​​​.

The appeal of Oak Forest as a place to live is multi-faceted. Its strategic location offers the perfect balance between suburban tranquility and urban accessibility. The abundance of recreational facilities and proximity to natural parks provide a healthy, active lifestyle. The convenience of nearby shopping, dining, and entertainment options ensures that residents do not miss out on the perks of city living. Additionally, the quality of education available in the area and the diversity of real estate options make Oak Forest an attractive location for a wide range of individuals and lifestyles. The combination of these factors creates a community that is not just a place to live, but a place to thrive.