Colorado River

There are a number of access points to the Colorado River east of Longhorn Dam. The river, of course, empties into the Gulf of Mexico and there are numerous parks the whole length. The segment of the river closer to Austin is developed with low water dams; in Webberville it becomes more rural with vegetation and wildlife. The river here is wide and has a slow current. The riverbed is mostly sand and gravel. The land along the Colorado River east of Longhorn Dam tends to be more flat and open prairie land than the rocky and hilly parks to the west. White egret populate the area.

Quick Tips:

Invest a few bucks in a pair of "aqua sox" or porous shoes with a rubber bottom. These will help provide traction on slippery rocks and keep you from wondering what that squishy thing you just stepped on was.

Best Way To Get Around:

The best way to experience the Colorado River is from a kayak or canoe. Both sports are very popular in Central Texas and outfitters are found in just about every town that the river passes through.

This little access point is on the south side of the river and has a foot trail leading to the water. Swimming depends on rainfall and water levels.

Big Webberville Park is an open-space project of Travis County that was built in 1990. The park offers access to the Colorado River with a small pier and boat ramp. Big Webberville is a large park (135 acres) with several sections and grand pecan trees. There are volleyball and basketball courts, softball and soccer fields, a 2-mile hike, bike and equestrian trail, concession stands, playscapes, and a large picnic area with grills. There is plenty of parking throughout the park. It tends to be uncrowded.

Little Webberville Park is located just five miles north of Big Webberville Park. This little six-acre park also has a boat ramp which accesses the Colorado River. Kayakers and canoeists often put in at Little Webberville and take out at Big Webberville. Little Webberville Park has a playscape and picnic tables with grills. There is plenty of parking.

Fisherman’s Park in downtown Bastrop is a nice, new park built in 1994. Located on the banks of the Colorado River, this small park has picnic facilities and access to the river for boats and canoes. You can wade into the river via this paved access, but the water can be swift.

Fisherman’s Park has a nature trail and modern playground. Shade is provided by pecans and oaks. The park is both pretty and historical, and within walking distance of antique shops and the heart of Bastrop. The park also has basketball courts, baseball fields, and tennis courts. The LCRA Conference Center and Bastrop’s water well are on the site. There is plenty of parking.

The Iron Bridge spanning the river is historic and has been integrated into the park with picnic tables, benches and a walkway across the water. The Riverwalk connects with Terry Park. No alcohol is allowed. Open dawn to dusk.

On Water Lane just north of the FM 969 and FM 1209 crossing in Utley. It has a tiny playground and is absolutely minimal with one picnic table. A paved boat ramp and parking lot are available, and concrete steps lead down to the river.

White Rock Park is a sprawling open space in La Grange. The park has camping by permit only, baseball fields and modern play equipment. A zig-zag path leads down to some concrete steps into the Colorado River. The water here has a muddy bottom, but it is calm and wide, perfect for swimming laps. Someone has built wooden planks on a tree which leans out over the water for diving. This is a peaceful, quiet stretch of the river. Swimming is at your risk.