Bastrop State Park is located in Bastrop which is just 32-miles away from East Austin, Texas, and has been open to visitors from all over the world for more than seventy years since 1937. The park is made up of 6,600 acres and is considered a National Historic Landmark, making it one of the seven parks with this recognition.
This Texas state park is known for the Lost Pines- an isolated pine-oak forest filled with loblolly pines. There are 75,000 acres of loblolly pines that make up the Lost Pines ecosystem. The ecosystem spans five Texas counties. Both the Bastrop and buescher state parks safeguard parts of the pine-oak forest.
Unfortunately, the park has suffered from forest fires and floods in the past years, so it is currently recovering. Nevertheless, witnessing the power of nature and its reconstruction as new life and new plants re-emerge a sight to behold!
Activities at Bastrop State Park
Wildlife at Bastrop State Park
Bastrop Park is home to a diverse array of wildlife, it’s most popular being the endangered Houston Toad. The moist environment and soil from the Lost Pines ecosystem make it the perfect habitat for the species to survive.
Aside from the Houston Toad, park animals include rabbits, pileated woodpecker, armadillos, and white-tailed deer, to name a few.
Plants at Bastrop State Park
The park is located in the environmental region known as the Post Oak Savannah and is filled with a mixed variety of plants and trees. These include pines, oaks, grasslands, some flowers, and shrubs. Many animals profit from the ecological diversity found in the park.
Hike at Bastrop State Park
Hike the seven miles of trails within Bastrop State Park. The views include the growing loblolly pines and forest. You’ll be able to take a virtual tour of the trails before your visit here.
Swim at Bastrop State Park
Swimming at Bastrop State Park is only available during the weekends and starts from August 14th all the way through to Labor Day Weekend. The hours are from noon to 6:45 pm on Saturdays or 5:45 pm on Sundays. Swim season is dependent on staffing availability so make sure to call in advance to make sure the pool is open for the day.
There are daily pool fees to swim at Bastrop State Park. Pool entrance tickets are available to purchase at the pool area. Entry is first-come, first-serve, and you do not need a parking permit if you are only going to the pool area. The fees are as follows:
- $5 per person 13 years and older, without a park entrance permit. Valid for pool use only.
- $3 per person 13 years and older, with a park entrance permit
- $3 per person 12 years and under
- $3 per person 13 years and older, with a City of Bastrop Recreation Membership
All children 14 and under need to be accompanied by a responsible adult 18 years or older while using the pool. Children 12 and under will be subject to a swim test to be able to swim in the bigger pool without a personal flotation device. The flotation device will be provided unless you opt to bring your own.
Bike or Drive at Bastrop State Park
Bike enthusiasts often head over to neighboring Bastrop and Buescher state parks and enjoy the scenic ride between the two. This ride is made up of 12-miles and follows along the Lost Pines Forest area. Enjoy the views of nature’s rebirth but make sure to stay below 30 miles per hour.
Fish at Bastrop State Park
Bastrop State Park is great for fishing. Visitors often head over to Lake Mina. The ½ acre lake is full of catfish, sunfish, and largemouth bass. Guests do not need a license to fish as long as they do so from the shore. If you do not have your fishing equipment with you, make sure to head over to the visitor’s center and ask for some.
Shop at Bastrop State Park
The park has a small store where you can buy souvenirs from your time there. Inside, you will find knick-knacks, T-shirts, postcards, etc.
Attractions near Bastrop State Park
Visit Buescher State Park next door! The park offers 6 miles of trails and a beautiful 30-acre lake to fish, swim, and paddle in.
Start driving West towards Bastrop, Texas. You will find museums, restaurants, and local shops to enjoy there. Many historians believe the town, which was called Mina when first established during the 19th century, is actually one of the oldest towns in all of Texas. Back in the day, loblolly pines were harvested and used for construction in nearby cities like San Antonio and Austin. Some of the timber harvested even made it to Northern Mexico.
Head on over to Austin, which is a 32-mile drive away. The big city offers everything from outdoor activities to shopping streets and street art tours. This vibrant city is the perfect stop after a day or two outdoors.
To the East of Bastrop State Park, you will find Smithville. An excellent stop for those who are big railroad fans. The town is known for its Railroad Museum & Depot.
Camping at Bastrop State Park
There are several places in which to stay the night while visiting Bastrop State Park. The park offers a variety of areas and sleeping quarters, ranging from walk-in tent sites to full hook-up RV areas. Historic cabins are also available at a price that ranges from $110 to $200 a night.
If you are traveling with a larger group, you can stay in one of the park’s groups barracks. Each barrack holds up to 64 people and comes with a group hall, some dorms, and a tent space.
Park Fees
- Adult: $5 Daily
- Child 12 Years and Under: Free
- Driving Tour Fee: $3 Daily
Park Hours
The park is open daily from 6 a.m. – 10 p.m.
Busy Season
The busiest seasons are spring, summer, and fall.
Park Location
Bastrop State Park
100 Park Road 1A
Bastrop, TX 78602
Phone: 512.321.2101
Map
Video
Here is a short YouTube video showcasing several attractions at Bastrop State Park:
