The Colorado River Refuge - Bastrop County, Texas
On December 16, 2004, the Pines and Prairies Land Trust acquired more than 60 acres of Colorado River frontage through deed transfer from the Bastrop County Water Control and Improvement District #2 (BCWCID#2) at a discounted sale. The property, now called the Colorado River Refuge, is made up primarily of majestic old-growth riparian forest along 1.5 miles of the Colorado River in Bastrop, Texas. Unspoiled views and unusual geological outcrops adorn this peaceful stretch of the Colorado River. PPLT has developed a five-year management plan for the Colorado River Refuge which includes: riverbank stabilization, trash and debris clean-up, prohibition of motorized vehicular traffic, potential additional land acquisition (another 30 acres to be donated by the BCWCID#2), development of 3 miles of walking trails, and provision of educational and interpretive programs. The Colorado River Refuge anchors the downstream end of a 60-mile stretch of the Colorado River, a corridor under study by the Austin-Bastrop River Corridor Partnership.
The rains last spring dealt a heavy blow to the Refuge. Much of the riverside trail has been under water, a trail bridge was washed out, and erosion and other damage occurred. The repairs are complete, and the Refuge has reopened to hikers, anglers, birders and others who are looking for a virtual wilderness experience only two miles from downtown Bastrop. PPLT welcomes school and youth groups interested in nature education.
You can enjoy walking along our main trail (which was an existing ¾-mile of old road) in the forest. Park in the parking lot on Riverside Drive at the intersection with Kaala Drive. Walk down the concrete ramp sloping down into the forest toward the river. Watch for poison ivy, spider webs across the trail, and snakes! Feel free to call our office for current conditions or more details. If you want someone to accompany you, please call at least a week in advance.
Note: PPLT has already cleaned up over 30 cubic yards of trash from the Refuge. Although the installation of gates and signs has helped, we expect to have occasional cleanups to remove illegal dumps and litter. Your volunteer help for seasonal cleanups will be greatly appreciated!
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| Overview map of the refuge | Dusk along the Colorado at the refuge | Flood plain forest at the refuge |
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| Sandstone outcrop along the trail | Trash we have removed | Trash awaiting removal |