Texas’ LRCA Parks Offer Families a Memorable Summer Vacation

The Lower Colorado River Authority offers family travelers limitless outdoor fun at its more than 40 parks spanning Texas Hill Country and the Gulf of Mexico. At more than 11,000 acres of parks, the hardest part will be deciding which parks to visit!

Fifteen minutes from Austin-Bergstrom International Airport lies McKinney Roughs Nature Park. Ideal for thrill-seekers, the park offers experiences including zip lining, rafting down the Colorado River and off-road UTV tours. With nearly 18 miles of trails, visitors can hike, go horseback riding or electric mountain biking through the trails. McKinney Roughs Nature Park also includes guided activities like Family Nature Quest and Art in the Park.

Matagorda Bay Nature Park lies along the Texas Gulf Coast and boasts beautiful views. In addition to kayaking, bird watching, fishing and driving golf carts, the park also invites families to stay the night in its on-site Airstream rentals or RV campsites. Expect exciting additions to the park in September, where new beach bungalow vacation rentals will soon grace the waterfront. These rentals will sleep six to eight guests and include large decks, fully equipped kitchens and covered parking.

Less than an hour west of Austin, Muleshoe Bend Recreation Area features both wide-open spaces and tree-lined trails. Popular with tent campers and bikers, this area offers nearly 10 miles of multiuse trails, ranging from beginner to intermediate levels. Rent QuietKat electric mountain bikes at the park, go kayaking or enjoy a day of fishing in this beautiful park.

Also an hour outside of Austin, Lake Bastrop South Shore Park includes both on and off-water activities for the family to enjoy. In addition to a boat ramp for fish enthusiasts to use to explore the 900-acre Lake Bastrop, the park also includes mini-golf and boat rentals. Hike or bike the 4.5-mile trail before spending the night in a cabin, Airstream or glamping accommodation. Families can also bring an RV and park it on site. Base Camp Deli, located within the park, offers an array of delicious sandwiches and artisanal goods for visitors to enjoy.