The Outsider Blog

Getaway – Party of One

April 2023

Couple sitting in a chair, and smiling while looking at a map

Gaining traction across generations, solo travel appeals to those seeking to escape routines and experience the world on their own time and in their own company. Whether you prefer complete solitude to avoid distractions or to sign up solo for a group tour, LCRA Parks offers a range of opportunities that will entice that solo traveler spirit.

Trails and more trails

LCRA Parks’ trails – over 55 miles of them – offer an easy escape for independent explorers. From multiuse to ADA, we have a variety of trails for different users. That includes your pets, who can be off leash on LCRA Parks’ trails as long as they are under the owner’s direct control. Only 15 minutes outside of Austin, Texas, McKinney Roughs Nature Park offers tree-lined paths along the Colorado River. At Muleshoe Bend Recreation Area, trails allow you to wind though the Hill Country by foot or bike. Rent a QuietKat electric mountain bike onsite for an exhilarating ride.

Interior of an Airstream trailer at Black Rock Park

Beach vibes

The beach is always a way to break free from the mundane. As a solo explorer, you can find everything from relaxation to adventure at Matagorda Bay Nature Park, located where the Colorado River meets the Gulf of Mexico. For top-notch beachcombing, kayak across the river before or after low tide to find hundreds of untouched seashells. While you’re there, look for Texas’ state shell, the lightning whelk. This park also offers kayaking trails through its protected wetlands. Explore these waters to get up close to native wildlife in their natural habitats.

Aerial shot of a dock at Lake Bastrop South Shore Park

Guided activities

While solo exploration can provide many benefits, sometimes, it’s equally energizing to have new experiences alongside new people. Visit the LCRA Parks events calendar to view upcoming park activities led by our experienced staff. Slower-paced events include arts and crafts and birding, while more adrenaline-filled experiences include UTV and kayaking tours.

Don’t waste time waiting for schedules to sync up – get out on your own and explore now!

Previous Blog Entries

Gift Romantic Adventures

January 2023

Romance is in the air, and we know you’re stressing to find that perfect gift for Valentine’s Day. Lucky for you, we’ve tailored the perfect outdoor experience for every stage of a relationship – or even an adventure just for you. Give the gift of a unique experience and create memories that last forever.

The start of something new

Buying a gift for a new partner = intimidating. “Is this too expensive or not expensive enough?” “Will they like this, or will it just take up space?” LCRA Parks has the perfect solution. Book a one-of-a-kind picnic on a donut boat – yes, donut boat – from Love & Boat. Take off from Jessica Hollis Park and cruise along Lake Austin in your self-steering boat equipped with place settings, a Bluetooth speaker and games. Bring your own tasty treats and drinks and enjoy this new experience with your new person.

Just hitched

Ah, the honeymoon phase … love, butterflies, romance. Continue the celebration with a few nights of glamping at Lake Bastrop North Shore Park. From cabins to safari-style tents, each GLAT glamping unit has cozy interiors, spacious decks and beautiful lake views. Plus, all GLAT accommodations are pet friendly, so your furry friend can tag along. Reserve a pontoon boat, golf cart or watercraft and adventure all day long. Located 45 minutes from Austin and two hours from Houston, this luxurious escape in nature will help you detach from the city rush.

Together forever

Long, committed relationships are a beautiful thing, but kids, work and extracurriculars (aka life) can bump one-on-one time to the bottom of your priority list. We’ve curated a nostalgic getaway for two at Black Rock Park, where you’ll relax and reconnect in our brand new Airstreams. With vast views of Lake Buchanan, you’ll spend the evening grilling a delicious dinner on the patio and getting cozy around the firepit to watch the stars. Together, you’ll enjoy a round of mini golf or cast a line off the sandy shore to catch some bass or catfish. Most importantly, you’ll appreciate each other’s undivided attention.

Treat yourself

The longest relationship we’ll ever have is with ourselves, so this Valentine’s Day, focus on you and your next adventure. At Lake Bastrop South Shore Park, rent a kayak or stand-up paddleboard and cruise around 900-acre Lake Bastrop – even catch a stunning sunset behind the towering loblolly pines. If you prefer land, take a hike (or bike) on our 4.5-mile trail through the Lost Pines region. The shaded canopies keep trails comfortable for your canine companion even in the hotter months.

Who needs more stuff? Making memories is the best gift of all.

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