Feel that need to roam? Check out the rural and beautiful Bastrop County in our Top 10 Outdoor Adventures.
1. Hike the State Parks. Bastrop County has two!
Bastrop County is blessed to have two forested state parks, Bastrop State Park and Buescher State Park where visitors can camp, picnic, swim, ride bikes, hike, fish, or geocache. Both parks were built by the Civilian Conservation Corps in the 1930s, so while you’re there make sure to check out the historical markers and learn more about these beautiful spots.
Though not a state park, McKinney Roughs Nature Park has similar hike and bike trails, and horseback riding year-round.
2. Enjoy the cool waters of the Colorado River.
The Colorado River meanders its way through the middle of the county and the cities of Bastrop and Smithville. Along the Colorado River, there are two designated Paddling Trails, several public intake/outtake points, and a scenic sandy area at the Bastrop County Nature Park to recharge. There are several local outfitters in the area that can assist with kayaks, canoes, or paddleboard rentals and get you launched into the slow-moving waters. Outfitters include Bastrop River Company, Rising Phoenix Adventures, and Smithville Parks & Recreation.
3. Head to the Lake.
The 900-acre, fully stocked Lake Bastrop is perfect for water recreation, fishing, and family fun. The Lower Colorado River Authority maintains two public parks, North Shore Park and South Shore Park on the lake. Both parks provide tent camping, cabins, airstreams, and RV campsites for overnight stays. Visitors also have access to watercraft rentals, hike and bike trails, boat ramps, swimming areas, putt-putt golf, picnic areas, and volleyball courts.
4. Zip over forested areas.
With the Hill Country’s premier zip line tour, enjoy an adventure with a buddy on these side-by-side zip lines at Zip Lost Pines. You can journey down all six stations that get progressively higher and longer or do the half tour. This high-flying, bucket list adventure is open to ages 16 and older.
5. Rawr at the Dinosaur Park.
An easy adventure with an educational experience bonus, the Dinosaur Park has graveled and shaded walking trails with dinosaurs of all kinds and sizes hidden in the trees for those youngsters to spy. Grab the scavenger hunt list before heading out. There’s also a dig pit for younger children, and an indoor visitor’s center and gift shop for a memento your child will treasure.
6. Go Fish. Literally.
Bastrop County has several public and private fishing spots. So grab your fishing pole & bait and treat yourself to a fishing trip. If you swing over to Lake Bastrop you will find catfish, crappie, perch, sunfish, carp, and largemouth bass. Need a lesson? Buescher State Park holds special events where you can learn how to fish. No gear, no problem! Moby Dick’s Private Pond Fishing can kit you out with full gear including the worms. On the Colorado River, get (or gift) special lessons from the knowledgeable Hill Country Fly Fishers.
7. Flock to Birding.
This delightful activity is great for all ages and skill levels. Bastrop County is directly in a migratory path, and with our forests and waters, birds love it as their home or for a quick stop in the spring and fall. We’ve noted the Top 10 Birding Hotspots in Bastrop County with helpful tips to make it a joyful experience outdoors. The city of Bastrop was recently one of the first four designated Bird City Texas recipients by the state, and the county is home to one of 16 Audubon Societies in the state.
8. Swing a club.
With three premier golf courses in the county, the gorgeous manicured greens and challenging courses are a treat to play on. Check out the signature holes at Wolfdancer, ColoVista and Pine Forest golf courses.
9. Go with speed.
The 140-acre Rally Ready Driving School is ready to teach you how to race on unpaved roads. They have all you need to get started, including the vehicles. For those who prefer motorbikes, Murphy’s MX has four tracks including one especially for kids, and set practice times and races. If you’re into your own power and hilly terrain, check out the world-class trails at Rocky Hill Ranch for mountain biking. In Bastrop County, you’ll find that adventure you need.
10. Explore Lost Pines
Enjoy a change of scenery and the thrill of adventure at Hyatt Regency Lost Pines Resort & Spa. This unique resort has a plethora of outdoor activities to keep you exploring for the entire weekend. From horseback riding on Renegade Trailhead, spotting native wildlife as you ride through McKinney Roughs Nature Park on a UTV, hitting the bullseye during a Tomahawk and Archery lesson, or listening for the sounds of nocturnal animals as you hit the hiking trails with a Naturalist for a Twilight Trails experience, there is an outdoor adventure for everyone to enjoy. See the list of all the outdoor adventures the Hyatt Regency Lost Pines Resort has to offer. Come get away without having to go far away!
