Bastrop: River Trails and History

When looking for a hotel in Bastrop, you can first decide whether river trails, historical attractions, or the downtown district will shape your trip. Different trails and tour formats are available alongside the Main Street District; Park Road 1C is a separate scenic route option.

Trails at Fisherman's Park

The El Camino Real Paddling Trail begins at Fisherman's Park. The June Hill Pape Riverwalk Trail connects the same park with the Old Iron Bridge and Ferry Park. Fisherman's Park is therefore a reference point for both routes, but in different ways: it is the starting point for the Paddling Trail and one of three connected locations on the Riverwalk. This distinction can help you choose based on your preferred activity.

Tours and history

The Bastrop County Museum & Visitor Center is an official partner of the El Camino Real de los Tejas National Historic Trail and an interpretive site along the historic trail. It offers self-guided tours of historical medallions along the El Camino Real de los Tejas and through the downtown district. The self-guided format offers a specific way to explore the medallions or the downtown district.

The Bastrop County Historical Society Museum & Visitor Center features permanent exhibits that include the history of the El Camino Real de los Tejas. The museum also offers docent-led tours, which are included in the admission price. It is open Monday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.; check the opening hours before your visit. Self-guided tours and docent-led tours are different formats to consider when planning your visit.

The Bastrop Opera House was built in 1889. The year it was built is a specific historical reference point; the museum offerings, by contrast, focus in part on the history of the El Camino Real de los Tejas. This lets you distinguish between a historic building and museum content related to the trail.

Main Street District and downtown

Bastrop's Main Street District encompasses a 62-block area with more than 200 businesses and organizations in the historic center. The downtown area described therefore extends beyond a single museum or building: it covers an entire district with a variety of businesses and organizations. If your interests center on the historic district, the Main Street District is a destination in its own right.

Park Road 1C and the Lost Pines

Park Road 1C is a hilly, 12-mile scenic route between Bastrop State Park and Buescher State Park. As a road route, it differs from the paddling and Riverwalk trails. Road conditions can vary; check them before driving. Bastrop State Park is associated with the Lost Pines landscape. This connection to the landscape adds another aspect to your trip planning alongside the routes and history.

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