Bastrop State Park Visit Recap

Bastrop, TX.

In September of 2011 a devastating fire ravaged the lost pines of central Texas. Numerous homes were destroyed in the fire and a least two people died. That was the first time I really remember hearing about Bastrop state park.

I lived in Austin during that time period, and news reports warned of the blaze, and I could go outside and smell the smoke wafting 30 miles west, and see the smoke in the sky.

After almost two months of finally putting out the fire me and my family were finally able to take our normal route to Houston via highway 71. A normally scenic drive through the pine trees that shaded the road below was now open with sun. Light that showed the true horrific aftermath of open space and charred trees.

Tears came down my face as the car started to slow down as none of us could believe how bad it really was.

2019.

I’ve been to the park multiple times over the last few years. The fire’s devastation can still be seen throughout the park as regrowth continues, and the park continues to manage the invasive plants from taking over. There are parts where the ferns are starting to become outshined by the loblolly pines finally standing strong with confidence.

There are parts where you can peer through miles of the park where trees once stood, but you see the hope of seeing the park as it once was. Knowing my daughter will hopefully visit when she’s older and see what this park is capable of being.

It still has plenty of other charm though.

This is a C.C.C. park afterall, and the hard work of those that were able to work here can still be seen all over the park. From the entrance gate to the water fountains no longer in use, this park has held on to a bit of its history. So that is a gem nonetheless.

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