Bastrop Life

Take a deep breath. You are now in Bastrop State Park, a stunning stretch of wild Texas landscape just 32 miles southeast of Austin. This park brims with tall pines that reach for the sky, hardwoods that sway in the morning breeze, and whispers of history in every shaded trail. Here, every moment is a postcard waiting to happen.

Step Into a Living Forest

Sunlight dances across the forest floor, painting bright dots beneath the iconic loblolly pines. These trees form the famed “Lost Pines,” an ancient stand of green that feels both familiar and completely different from the rest of Texas. Every season brings a new reason to explore, from sweet spring wildflowers to the cozy, crisp air of fall.

If you’re a fan of birdsong, bring your binoculars and look for the brilliant pine warbler or the dramatic pileated woodpecker. Over 200 bird species make their home here. Morning hikes often come with the bonus sound of rustling leaves and cheerful chirping just overhead.

Make a Splash at the Park’s Pool

Nothing says summer like the cool blue of a sparkling pool. Bastrop State Park Swimming Pool swings open from May to September and is perfect for an afternoon of floating, splashing, or a few steady laps. Pool tickets are available in advance for your convenience. Swim lessons and fitness classes add extra fun for families and solo travelers alike.

Hit the Trails

Seven miles of trails wind through a forest in recovery, offering proof of nature’s resilience. Walkers and hikers will find paths easy enough for families or more ambitious souls looking for a longer trek. The aroma of pine hangs over the path as dappled sunlight filters through towering trees.

Discover wildflowers tucked beside the winding walkways, catch sight of a shy deer, or snap a photo of the forest stretching endlessly around you. There’s even a paved, accessible trail so every explorer can enjoy the view.

Pedal, Picnic, and Play

Travelers who love biking will want to try the exciting 12-mile scenic Park Road 1C. This hilly road connects Bastrop and Buescher State Parks. Ride with friends, pause at quiet overlooks, and enjoy a peaceful journey surrounded by the forest.

Pack a picnic! The park’s picnic tables, grills, and gentle playgrounds invite you to slow down and savor a meal in the open air while kids run free and laughter fills the spaces between the trees.

Overnight Comfort or Adventure

There are so many ways to stay. For those who want soft pillows, historic cabins await with a rustic charm, many built by the Civilian Conservation Corps in the 1930s. Bring your family or book a romantic retreat.

On a starry night, pitch your tent at one of the cozy campsites or roll up in your RV for a weekend getaway. There are 78 family campsites, including options with water, electricity, and full hookups. Prefer a bit more adventure? Try one of the 50 primitive backpacking spots. Bathrooms, showers, a dump station, and a park store are ready to keep your camping comfortable.

For group gatherings, the park’s spacious barracks and dining hall offer a one-of-a-kind base for reunions and retreats.

Lakeside Calm and Catch of the Day

Bring your fishing rod or borrow one from the park and spend a lazy morning at Lake Mina. The half-acre lake is a favorite for quiet fishing, casting a line in peace, and swapping stories as the sun rises. No license is needed to fish from shore here. Kids and grown-ups alike can celebrate every bite, big or small.

Fascinating Park Events Year-Round

Looking for something special? Bastrop State Park is alive with year-round programs that add fun and learning to your outing. Enjoy guided hikes, nature walks, stargazing nights, and interactive history tours, or try your hand at geocaching—an outdoor treasure-hunt game using GPS.

Events rotate with the seasons, giving visitors dozens of reasons to return again and again. Don’t miss “Full Moon Night Hikes” or join the Bastrop Audubon Society for birdwatching with expert guides.

A Taste of History and Culture

Dating back to 1933, Bastrop State Park is full of stories and craftsmanship you can touch. Many park buildings were hand-built by the Civilian Conservation Corps during the Great Depression, and their legacy is visible in every rock wall, picnic pavilion, and historic hall. Wander through these spaces to connect with the past and imagine the generations who’ve walked these same forests.

This park is also part of the historic El Camino Real de los Tejas National Historic Trail, a Spanish route that helped shape Texas history. Each path and crossing bursts with echoes of early travelers and settlers.

The Park Store and More

No trip is complete without a stop at the Texas State Parks Store inside the park. Grab one-of-a-kind gifts, Texas-themed books, and souvenirs that take you back to the piney woods long after you’ve left. It’s the perfect last stop before heading home.

Plan Your Visit

Bastrop State Park is open year-round, and friendly park rangers are ready to answer your questions. Day-use fees are easy on your wallet, making it a perfect spot for spontaneous escapes or thoughtfully planned vacations.

Address: 100 Park Road 1A, Bastrop, Texas
Phone: 512-321-2101

Whether you are in the mood for a peaceful forest walk, a day at the pool, or a few quiet moments by the lake, Bastrop State Park offers days full of beauty and refreshment. Let your sense of adventure lead the way—and let the pines welcome you back, again and again.