Bastrop State Park
Bastrop, Texas
The quaint town of Bastrop is located among the enchanted Lost Pines, an ecosystem of over 75,000 acres of loblolly pines. The Lost Pines cover 5 Texas counties, and Bastrop State Park provides protection for the pine forest. Researchers found pollen data showing pines have been in this area for more than 18,000 years, with these pines requiring 30% less rainfall than other loblolly pines in Texas or nearby states.
Located 30 miles east of Austin, Bastrop State Park provides a great escape from the city. Bastrop State Park has plenty for outdoor enthusiasts to enjoy, including camping, hiking, cycling, canoeing, kayaking, swimming, fishing and geocaching. Wildlife viewing will find many birds, white-tailed deer, squirrels, raccoons, armadillos, and opossums. Be on the lookout for the endangered Houston Toad in its sandy soil and pine habitat. The Colorado River runs through the state park, and plenty of vacation rentals on the river outside the park.
Bastrop State Park has been resilient with the fire that affected 96% of the park in 2011 followed by a flood in 2015. However new life emerged and forest rebuilding over the past years has shown how spirited this park is. The Lost Pines Forest Recovery Campaign saw volunteers plant 2 million drought tolerant loblolly pine trees. When visiting the park, you will see old damage as well as new life. This provides a unique experience found nowhere else. While the towering pines will take years to be restored to their former glory, the park has abundant new growth and is a beautiful getaway.
Bastrop State Park has kid-friendly features including swimming pool and playground. Cabins and tent camping are available; book online to reserve in advance. Stop by the state parks store and pick up a free Junior Ranger kit or other unique guest items.
Downtown Bastrop has charming shops, galleries and restaurants. Check their events page for festivals and live music.
Special needs:
Trails are dirt or gravel. Jogging strollers will work for some trails, check with headquarters for any wheelchair accessible trails. Old Cart Paths is an easy trail that is great for strollers.
Know before you go:
Camping sites and cabins fill quickly, so reserve early.Bring insect repellant and sunscreen.
Bring fishing equipment and bait, and some equipment is available at headquarters. No fishing license is required at Lake Mina since it’s a community fishing lake.
Bastrop State Park
100 Park Road 1A
Bastrop, TX 78602
(512)389-8900
https://tpwd.texas.gov/state-parks/bastrop
Click here for Park Map
Click here for Trails Map
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