Those who visit Central Texas quickly discover that this region of the Lone Star State takes its outdoor recreation very seriously.  

The city of Bastrop fits into this tradition thanks to its unique forest ecosystem, the presence of the Colorado River, and its many hiking and biking trails complete with beautiful nature views.  

If you’re determined to spend as much time outside as possible during your Bastrop visit, check out these al fresco activity recommendations.  

Hike and Bike Through Bastrop’s Landscape 

To fully enjoy Bastrop’s outdoor landscapes, lace up your hiking boots or hop on a mountain bike.  

Bastrop State Park, spanning more than 7,400 acres, features over seven miles of trails and access to the striking Lost Pines, a rare 13-mile loblolly pine forest believed to date back to the Ice Age. Trails wind throughout the park and into the forest, offering an immersive way to take in the area’s natural beauty. 

The Lost Pines forest also extends into McKinney Roughs Nature Park, which offers a range of outdoor adventures for all levels. For an aerial perspective, Zip Lost Pines provides guided zip line tours focused on safety and education. Visitors can also enjoy horseback riding, kayaking and rafting on the Colorado River, and UTV tours highlighting local plants and wildlife, with overnight stays available in on-site bunkhouses and dormitories. 

Paddle the Colorado River 

One of the longest rivers in Texas, the Colorado River is a defining feature of Central Texas, and Bastrop offers easy access for getting out on the water.  

The El Camino Real Paddling Trail covers about 6 miles from Fisherman’s Park to the Colorado River Refuge, with highlights including calm, easy-to-navigate waters, views of the historic Old Iron Bridge, and opportunities to spot native plants and wildlife along the way. 

At the Colorado River Refuge, the trail’s endpoint, visitors will find a serene park with post oak groves, scenic cliff and river views, and two miles of trails that showcase these natural surroundings. 

Swim and Fish in Bastrop’s Lakes 

When temperatures start soaring in Bastrop, it’s important to seek out opportunities to cool down. Lake Bastrop, the city’s largest public lake, makes this task simple. Both the Lake Bastrop North Shore Park and the Lake Bastrop South Shore Park welcome swimmers of all ages.  

But swimming and boating aren’t the only activities possible at Bastrop’s lakes. Fishing is heartily encouraged at Lake Bastrop, which contains catfish, bass, perch, and crappie depending on seasonality.  

Another destination for fishing and angling is Lake Mina, a half-acre lake in Bastrop State Park. This body of water doesn’t require a fishing license and visitors are welcome to keep up to five of the fish that they catch (which might include catfish and largemouth bass).  

Picnic, Relax, and Play 

If you’re heading to Bastrop to kick back, relax, and have some playful fun, there are plenty of outdoor experiences that will make it happen for you.  

Bastrop’s public parks have many outlets for laidback enjoyment; Bastrop State Park contains picnic lawns and a unique geocaching program suited for kids and adults alike; Fisherman’s Park includes picnic tables, BBQ pits, a playground, and a splash pad; Bob Bryant Park is celebrated for its river views and fishing access, its shaded playground, and its disc golf course; and Ferry Park is a charming and petite park right next to Bastrop’s historic downtown with picnic tables, a swinging bench, and a newly updated playground.  

The Bastrop Botanical Gardens are a must visit for anyone curious about native Texan plants and flowers; this space features expertly tended flower beds, herb and vegetable gardens, a rock labyrinth, butterfly gardens and pollinator gardens, and an outdoor tea room.  

A popular pastime for Bastrop locals and visitors in search of R&R is birding, and because this town is home to 366 distinct bird species, birders won’t have any shortage of sightings. Consult our birding guide for key advice on how to best enjoy this hobby in Bastrop.  

Speaking of hobbies, avid golfers flock to the Lost Pines Golf Club at the Hyatt Regency Lost Pines for its 7,200 yard course that uses the natural terrain of this region of Texas to create challenging and exciting drives and games. In addition to golfing on the main course, visitors can use the Lost Pines Golf Club’s fully equipped practice facility (with driving ranges, chipping greens and bunkers, a practice putting green, and a short game area) to sharpen their skills. This club also benefits from beautiful Colorado River views.  

Enjoy These Seasonal Outdoor Events 

Bastrop’s event calendar always includes outdoor happenings, and planning a trip around one such event can lend some structure to your open air Bastrop adventure.  

The Bastrop Homecoming and Rodeo from July 28 to August 1 is a prime example; this blockbuster event at Mayfest Park combines a full scale rodeo (with barrel racing, a calf scramble, mutton bustin’, team roping, and bull riding, among many other activities) with live music, food and drink stands, a cake auction, a Texas Hold ‘Em tournament, and a parade that runs through the streets of Downtown Bastrop.  

Serious runners and those who like to support them should consider visiting Bastrop in time to attend the Labor Day Trail Challenge. On September 5, McKinney Roughs Nature Park will host a series of runs and races like a 5K, a 10K, a half marathon, a full marathon, and a 1-hour Carpe Diem Endurance Challenge.  

All of the routes run through the park’s scenic trails and provide views of the Lost Pines, the Colorado River, wildflower patches, and much more. 

Tips for the Perfect Day Outdoors 

Outdoor living looks and feels good in Bastrop, but it’s important to come prepared. Follow these tips for a safe and enjoyable outside experience: 

  • Make sure to check the weather forecasts both in advance and on the day of your outdoor plans. Weather can change quickly in this part of Texas, so it’s always best to be as prepared as possible. 

  • To get the most out of Bastrop’s trails and terrain, you’ll need a supportive pair of shoes that offers enough ventilation to combat Central Texas’ heat and humidity.  

  • Trail, river, and lake conditions can vary daily, so before you head to one of Bastrop’s parks, check the park website to stay ahead of potential closure announcements.  

  • Don’t forget to hydrate! Most of Bastrop’s parks include water fountains, so carry a reusable bottle with you and fill it up whenever you have the opportunity.  

Bastrop’s outdoor experiences are among the most special things to do in this region of Texas, so feel free to start planning your visit!  

Use our Events calendar, our Places to Stay recommendations, and our Trip Planner to put your itinerary together, and we look forward to seeing you soon.