Fishermans Park is Bastrops biggest and busiest city park, a green stretch along the Colorado River right at the edge of downtown. It packs in a splash pad, three playgrounds, a skate park, sports courts, a riverwalk, and the launch point for kayaking the Colorado, and all of it is free. If you only take the family one place in Bastrop, this is it.

Cool off at the splash pad

The bright, sail-shaded splash pad is the summer centerpiece, with ground geysers, dumping buckets, and playful water features the little ones love. It runs daily from the second week of April through Labor Day, roughly 10am to 8pm, with shade and seating for parents nearby.

Three playgrounds, a skate park, and courts

Kids have their pick of playscapes, including a large green-slide structure, plus a skate park, sand volleyball, basketball courts, a soccer field, and outdoor fitness stations. Room to run, ride, and play for hours.

Walk the river on the June Pape Riverwalk

A half-mile paved path runs along the Colorado River past shaded picnic tables and benches, connecting Fishermans Park to Ferry Park across the historic Old Iron Bridge. Flat, stroller and wheelchair friendly, and one of the prettiest easy walks in town.

Get on the water

Want to paddle? Bastrop River Company is based right here in the park, with a fleet of 200+ kayaks, canoes, and paddleboards. Check in at their silver Airstream, then launch the scenic 6-mile El Camino Real Paddling Trail or take an hourly float under the iron bridge. See their full listing for rentals and trips.

Good to know

• Address: 1200 Willow St, Bastrop, TX 78602
• Hours: Daily, dawn to dusk (splash pad 10am-8pm in season)
• Cost: Free to enter. Kayak, SUP, and bike rentals are separate.
• Amenities: Restrooms, on-site parking, large rentable pavilion, picnic tables, wheelchair-accessible paths
• Best for: Families, splash-pad days, riverside walks, kayaking, picnics

Tip: pair a park morning with lunch next door at Neighbors Kitchen & Yard, right on the river.