Need to get away? Looking for a break in your routine, a cool morning walk in the forest, or a quiet afternoon on the shaded banks of the Colorado? Have we got a pleasant surprise for you! The Colorado River Refuge is a 60 acre nature preserve made available free to the public, everyday, by the Pines & Prairies Land Trust, a non-profit dedicated to connecting people with our wild lands and protecting our natural resources. Located south of Bastrop on the Colorado River (see Directions), the refuge offers 3 miles of riparian habitat along the river, complete with fishing, swimming and picnic areas.
See the CRR Trail Guide.
A well-worn trail system takes you on a journey through towering Sycamores, Cottonwoods, Black Willows, Box Elders, prehistoric geological formations and a native plant garden. The flora on the forest floor is rich and diverse—lush like a jungle. You’ll discover an amazing array of birds and wildlife en route. This trail system is well-maintained and connects to another 30 acre tract, known as The Lost Pines Nature Trails. Altogether there are almost 5 continuous miles of hike and bike trails that eventually meander north through wildflower meadows, a cactus garden and upland woods—a distinctly different environment from the wetlands. The trail system is handicap accessible from the main road via a railed concrete ramp and is well-supplied with foot bridges to get you across any rough spots. All trails interconnect.
Near the picnic area is the take-out point for one of the gentlest and most relaxing boat excursions in the area: the Texas Parks and Wildlife El Camino Real Paddling Trail. You can rent equipment from several Bastrop outfitters or put in your own canoe, kayak or boat. There’s nothing like a leisurely float down the Colorado—brimming with waterfowl, aquatic wildlife and stately trees—to calm the soul. Whether you are a birder, hiker, mountain-biker, boater, fisherman or just need a break, life is better outdoors. . . come and make some memories!
