Day Trips

Photo by Gerald E. Mcleod

South Shore Park on Lake Bastrop preserves a corner of the Lost Pines for all to enjoy. The serrated shoreline of the lake offers hundreds of lonely points, and the park utilizes one of the deep, narrow coves to provide a long list of recreational opportunities.

"Come out during the week," the ranger at the front desk said, "because on the weekends we fill up pretty fast." On a Thursday afternoon, the playground, cabins, and trails were nearly all deserted. The only activity was a few fishermen unloading their boats for a weekend on one of the best fishing lakes in Central Texas.

For years, the South Shore and North Shore parks at Lake Bastrop were known for loud boats that come and go from the ramps at all hours of the night. During the day, the picnickers filled the beach area to do battle with piñatas. It left precious little quiet space for campers and hikers.

The Lower Colorado River Authority has done a good job of separating the groups at the South Shore Park so that everyone, with a little tolerance, can enjoy the pristine environment. This is one of the nicest parks in the area, and its popularity proves it.

Completed in 1964, Lake Bastrop was built as a cooling pond for the Sim Gideon Power Plant. Because of this, the water temperature tends to be warm year-round in the 906-acre lake. The regular stocking of Florida largemouth bass and three kinds of catfish makes this one of the best fishing holes in the area.

But fishing is not the only thing to do at the park. There are about 14 miles of trails, including a five-mile trail that connects the south and north parks. The well-maintained pathways are ideal for hikers and beginning mountain bikers, although they are technical and scenic enough that more experienced riders will enjoy the ride, too.

They call the shelters "minicabins" for good reason. Each of the 16 cabins is just big enough for five people to squeeze into a double bed and three twin-sized beds. The heater and air conditioner in the shelter are especially nice when weather conditions move to the extreme. No cooking, smoking, or pets are allowed in the buildings.

If tent or RV camping is more to your taste, the Lewis Point and Big Cedar camping loops are worth giving a try. Each of the 38 campsites is walled in by trees, which allows a semblance of privacy. The downside is that there is only one restroom (with showers) for the entire campground.

South Shore Park on Lake Bastrop is about five miles east of Bastrop. The daily admission fee is $4, with additional fees for overnight stays. The park also rents canoes. To make reservations, call 512/389-8900. For information on the park, call 512/498-1922 or go to www.lcra.org/parks.

928th in a series. Day Trips, Vol. 2, a book of "Day Trips" 101-200, is available for $8.95, plus $3.05 for shipping, handling, and tax. Mail to: Day Trips, PO Box 33284, South Austin, TX 78704.