Bastrop
The Lost Pines of Texas and the Colorado River in perfect combination
Quick Facts
Spring and fall for hiking and Colorado River activities.
About Bastrop
Bastrop sits on the Colorado River east of Austin, surrounded by the "Lost Pines" — an isolated stand of loblolly pines that somehow survived far from the main Piney Woods in East Texas, a quirk of soil and microclimate. Bastrop State Park and Buescher State Park protect this unusual ecosystem, and the historic downtown has the handsome courthouse square and Victorian storefronts of a classic Central Texas county seat.
Things to Do
Bastrop State Park
The Lost Pines ecosystem is unlike anything else in Central Texas — tall loblolly pines, dense undergrowth, and a cooler, shadier environment than the surrounding post oak savanna. The park has 12 miles of hiking trails, a swimming pool, cabins, and camping. The CCC-era cabins are some of the most charming in the Texas state park system.
Colorado River Walking Trail
A 1.5-mile paved trail along the Colorado River connects downtown Bastrop to Fisherman's Park. The river views, the historic bridge, and the downtown skyline make this one of the most pleasant urban walks in the Austin area.
Historic Downtown
The Bastrop County Courthouse square is anchored by an 1891 Second Empire courthouse and surrounded by late Victorian commercial buildings. The downtown has been carefully preserved and houses galleries, boutiques, and restaurants.
Lost Pines Brewing Company
One of the better craft breweries in the Austin area, Lost Pines brews with local ingredients and serves in a beautifully designed taproom. The Bastrop Pines IPA is a standout.
Where to Eat
Maxine's on Main
A Bastrop institution for lunch — chicken-fried steak, daily specials, and homemade desserts in a 1920s building. The blackboard menu changes daily.
Neighbor's Kitchen & Yard
Farm-to-table seasonal cooking in a restored Victorian house with a beautiful garden. The best dinner option in town.
🗺️ Getting There
30 miles east of Austin on TX-71. Easy day trip from the capital.
📅 Best Time to Visit
Spring and fall for hiking and Colorado River activities. The Lost Pines in October turn gold and amber in a display that surprises visitors expecting only cedar and oak.
🤠 Did You Know?
“The 2011 Bastrop County Complex Fire burned over 34,000 acres of the Lost Pines, destroying 1,500+ homes. The pines have regenerated remarkably — a testament to the resilience of this unusual ecosystem.”