Think you’ve seen all of Texas’s best parks? Think again and spend a fun weekend at LCRA Parks.
As much as we love a good Texas State Park getaway, sometimes the crowds can take the “escape” out of it. So we packed up for something different and spent a few days exploring three LCRA Parks for one epic outdoor family adventure.
Each park offered something special. From glamping in a safari tent to zip-lining through tree canopies, and hands-on outdoor programs for kids—it was the perfect mix of nature, comfort, and fun.
Whether you’re planning your first trip to LCRA Parks or looking for new things to do beyond Texas State Parks, LCRA Parks make it easy to unplug, explore, and enjoy time together as a family.
In this guide, I’ll share how we spent our weekend and offer a few ideas to help you plan your own “sweet adventure” at LCRA Parks.
Full disclaimer – I was invited by LCRA Parks to feature their parks. As always, my opinions are non-biased and my own. I want to thank everyone for following and supporting us on all of “Our Sweet Adventures.”
What Are LCRA Parks?
LCRA Parks (Lower Colorado River Authority) is a network of over 40 parks and recreation areas that stretch along the Colorado River in Central Texas, through the Texas Hill Country, and to the Gulf Coast.
These parks offer a range of activities, including hiking, kayaking, river rafting, mountain biking, mini golf, archery, ziplining, and guided outdoor programs. They’re often less crowded than state parks but every bit as scenic and family-friendly.
LCRA Parks also offer a variety of options for overnight stays, including tent camping, glamping, and RV hookups. So whether you want to pitch a tent, relax in a cozy cabin, or roll in with your RV, there are comfortable accommodations to suit everyone.
If several parks catch your eye, consider getting the LCRA Park Pass. It allows for unlimited visits within a calendar year, includes free guest passes, and provides discounts on reservations and programs.
With so many beautiful locations to choose from, it’s easy to plan a trip that fits your style and sense of adventure. From lakeside camping and coastal kayaking to kid-friendly programs, LCRA Parks offer a relaxed outdoor experience throughout Central Texas.
Below are a few standout parks to help you decide where to spend your next LCRA camping weekend.
A Few Favorite LCRA Parks
Here are a few LCRA Parks you don’t want to miss, based on our experiences and recommendations from other families. Each park offers its own unique activities and scenery, so no two visits feel the same.
I highly recommend staying at one park and day-tripping to one or two more to really get the full LCRA Parks experience.
McKinney Roughs Nature Park
Just east of Austin, McKinney Roughs Nature Park is perfect for families who love to explore without going too far from the city. With miles of hiking and horseback trails, thrilling adventures, a nature center, and countless outdoor programs, it’s easy to spend an entire day here.
What really sets McKinney Roughs apart is the variety of outdoor programs for all ages. You can zip through the trees on an epic canopy tour, paddle along the Colorado River on a guided raft trip, complete a nature quest to uncover hidden boxes, or learn new skills like driving UTVs, building a fire, and throwing a javelin.
There’s truly something for every level of excitement—and yes, kids as young as five can join the zipline or river-rafting tours. Our 5-year-old had the time of his life ziplining!
Matagorda Bay Nature Park
Down on the coast, Matagorda Bay Nature Park is where the Colorado River meets ocean. Families can go beachcombing, birdwatching, or take kayak tours through the wetlands.
Similar to McKinney Roughs Nature Park, Matagorda Bay offers a wide range of hands-on programs for all ages. You can learn how to build a kite, join a guided hike to search for birds and seashells, create art with coastal finds, make a fish-print t-shirt using a traditional Japanese method, build sandcastles, and more.
The park also offers beachfront bungalows, Airstreams, and RV sites just steps from the sand—perfect for a relaxed coastal escape.
Lake Bastrop North Shore Park
If you’re looking for unique family glamping with plenty of water activities, then Lake Bastrop North Shore Park is for you. You can rent kayaks, canoes, stand-up paddleboards, and corcls and spend the day out on the water—or stay on shore with a fishing rod to reel in something big, and ride e-bikes along the lakefront.
Lake Bastrop North Shore Park also offers accommodations to suit every style. Pop up a tent, hook up your RV, or try glamping in airstreams, safari tents, or cozy cabins for a fun upgrade from traditional camping. It’s an easy, comfortable getaway with just the right mix of adventure and relaxation.
As a family of five, we stayed in a spacious safari tent with a bunk bed and trundle. Our boys had the best camping experience ever thanks to these comfortable setups. It gave us the feeling of camping with the luxury of soft beds, climate control, and the everyday amenities we’re not quite ready to let go of.
Pro Tip
Pro TipPro Tip: Lake Bastrop stays warmer than most lakes because it was designed to help cool the nearby power plant. That means the water stays comfortable almost year-round—often around 72ºF and sometimes even reaching the 90s.
Lake Bastrop South Shore Park
Another great lakefront option is Lake Bastrop South Shore Park. Similar to North Shore, South Shore offers a variety of lake activities, along with mini golf and pedal carts for added family fun.
The playground area is also a bit bigger, with swings, sand volleyball, and tetherball. And if your kids love splashing around, there’s even a sandy entry into the lake that gives the whole area a beach-like feel.
South Shore also offers RV hookups, tiny and deluxe cabins, and one of the most unique glamping options on the lake—its stunning mirror house, perfect for a special, romantic getaway.
It’s easy to combine both sides of Lake Bastrop for a full weekend, hopping between adventures while enjoying two different parks in one trip.
Muleshoe Bend Recreation Area
Muleshoe Bend Recreation Area is renowned for its vibrant springtime wildflowers, scenic trails, mountain biking, picnicking, and stargazing opportunities.
Bring your own bike or rent an electric mountain bike for a little extra speed. Then hit the 11 miles of trails that range from beginner-friendly to very challenging.
You can also kayak on Lake Travis, join a guided hike (day or night), or take a guided e-bike tour to explore even more of the park’s landscape. It’s a great choice if you’re looking for a quieter park to bike, paddle, and explore.
Family-Friendly Activities at LCRA Parks
While each LCRA Park has its own personality, many offer similar activities that make them great for families. Their website makes it easy to compare parks and find the best fit, but here’s a quick look at some of the things you can enjoy across multiple parks.
- Easy hiking and biking trails for all ages
- Kayak and paddleboard rentals
- Nature programs and ranger-led activities
- Fishing, swimming, and boating
- Picnic spots, playgrounds, and family campsites
- Glamping and cabin stays for extra comfort
Suggested Weekend Itinerary
Day 1: Arrive Friday afternoon and settle into your glamping tent at Lake Bastrop North Shore. End the day with a sunset paddle on the lake for a relaxing start to your weekend.
Day 2: Spend Saturday at McKinney Roughs Nature Park. Adventure seekers can try the zip-line course, river rafting, or a UTV tour. Then, join a nature program in the afternoon, such as Wildlife Explorer or Family Nature Quest.
Day 3: Wrap up your weekend at Lake Bastrop South Shore. Rent pedal carts or e-bikes, spend time on the lake, and enjoy a round of mini golf before heading home.
Whether you’re camping, glamping, or just spending the day outdoors, LCRA Parks make it easy to unplug, explore, and enjoy time together as a family.
