Lake Bastrop South Shore Park
Escape to Lake Bastrop South Shore Park for unique glamping, lakeside fun, and scenic trails near Austin.
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Social
From TikTok & Reddit
Best Time
Peaceful and less crowded
Lake Bastrop South Shore Park
Best Time
Peaceful and less crowded
Highlights
Must-see attractions
Escape to Lake Bastrop South Shore Park for unique glamping, lakeside fun, and scenic trails near Austin.
"The Mirror House offers a one-of-a-kind glamping experience, truly immersed in nature. "
🐶 Dog-Friendly Stays
Many cabins and campsites are dog-friendly, perfect for bringing your furry friend along!
💰 Affordable Day Passes
A $5 day parking pass makes it an accessible spot for a day of outdoor fun.
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences
The Mirror House Glamping
Lake Bastrop South Shore Park
An immersive, one-of-a-kind glamping experience surrounded by nature, featuring a mirrored exterior.
Lake Bastrop Adventures
Lake Bastrop
Enjoy boating, kayaking, paddleboarding, and fishing on the 900-acre lake.
Extensive Hiking Trails
Lake Bastrop South Shore Park
Explore over nine miles of trails suitable for hiking, walking, and mountain biking.
Plans like a pro.
Thinks like you
Planning Your Visit
Book Cabins & Glamping Early
Water Entry Caution
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🐶 Dog-Friendly Stays
Many cabins and campsites are dog-friendly, perfect for bringing your furry friend along!
💰 Affordable Day Passes
A $5 day parking pass makes it an accessible spot for a day of outdoor fun.
🥾 Trail Variety
Over nine miles of trails cater to all skill levels for hiking and biking.
🎣 Bank Fishing Challenges
Bank fishing can be challenging; a boat is recommended for better access.
Tips
from all over the internet
🐶 Dog-Friendly Stays
Many cabins and campsites are dog-friendly, perfect for bringing your furry friend along!
💰 Affordable Day Passes
A $5 day parking pass makes it an accessible spot for a day of outdoor fun.
🥾 Trail Variety
Over nine miles of trails cater to all skill levels for hiking and biking.
🎣 Bank Fishing Challenges
Bank fishing can be challenging; a boat is recommended for better access.
⚠️ Slippery Swimming Spot
Exercise extreme caution entering the water due to very slippery concrete.
What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Lake Bastrop South Shore Park offers a mixed bag of experiences. Visitors love the unique glamping options, dog-friendly atmosphere, and the natural beauty of the lake and trails. However, concerns about inconsistent staff knowledge, bathroom cleanliness, and slippery water entry points have been raised by some guests.
"We had 7 cabins, an rv rented and the hall rented for the weekend of the 10th-12th for our annual family reunion. We booked this stay back in March of 2025. We communicated with them via email and phone monthly about our stay and accommodations. We had everything worked out until we arrived and they had a new employee who had no clue about anything going on. Much less how the Hall worked and where things were at. She knew nothing about anything that was discussed for months. We ended up having to pay hundreds of more dollars to accommodate our stay. And we had a family member still parked at one of the cabins at 11:05 on check out day and got charged an extra 50. The bathrooms were disgusting (pictures attached). Just don't expect to get what they tell you. And good luck finding knowledgeable employees on site. We will not be back!! Also BE EXTREMELY CAREFUL ENTERING THE WATER AT THE SMIMMING SPOT! ITS VERY SLIPPERY CONCRETE AND YOU WILL FALL FAST!!"
Tonya Rogers
"Our favorite camping spot near Austin. Dog friendly even in some of the cabins and plenty of little trails for us to enjoy. Lots of stuff for kids to do like mini golf, swim, kayak, or paddle board.
Very clean bathrooms and maintained sites unlike the state park across. This place is private and costs a little more, but it's worth it. $35 for camping. $75 for basic cabins, or $125 for the deluxe cabins that come with everything you'd get at a cheap motel.
Lots of birds around. They even gave a bird viewing center. Love it here during the weekdays because it's pretty empty. Fills up as the week goes so I like to arrive Sunday when everyone just left."
Roy Rodriguez
"A fellow friend and I spent two nights three days there. We felt save and had so much privacy. The lake was amazing for paddle boarding. Hagan at check in was very friendly, not in a she had to be way but genuine. We will be returning."
Amber Tyler
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
Lake Bastrop South Shore Park is conveniently located about 30 minutes to an hour from Austin, making it a great day trip or weekend getaway. +1
The park is approximately 3 hours from both Dallas and Houston, offering a good escape for longer trips.
Yes, there is parking available, and a day parking pass typically costs around $5.
Public transportation options are limited. Driving is the most practical way to reach Lake Bastrop South Shore Park.
The park has a main entrance for South Shore Park, where check-in for cabins and campsites occurs. +1
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
Camping fees are around $35, basic cabins start at $75, and deluxe cabins with more amenities are about $125.
Yes, booking in advance is highly recommended, especially for unique glamping options like the Mirror House and deluxe cabins, as they sell out quickly. +1
While specific hours for park entry might vary, accommodations and campsites are typically accessible for check-in and check-out during standard hours. It's best to confirm with the park directly.
Information on discounts is not widely available, but the $5 day pass for parking is a budget-friendly option for day visitors.
Check-out is typically around 11 AM. Late check-outs may incur additional fees, so be mindful of the time.
🎫 🏞️ Onsite Experience
Activities include swimming, fishing, boating, kayaking, paddleboarding, hiking, walking, and mountain biking on over nine miles of trails.
Yes, the park is dog-friendly, and some cabins also allow pets, making it a great spot for pet owners.
Yes, there are many birds around the park, and it even features a bird viewing center.
Reviews suggest bathroom cleanliness can be inconsistent, with some visitors reporting them as 'disgusting.'
While swimming is an option, be extremely cautious when entering the water at the designated swimming spot due to very slippery concrete.
🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining
There are no on-site restaurants mentioned. Visitors typically bring their own food or utilize the kitchenette facilities in cabins and BBQ grills. +1
Yes, bringing your own food and drinks is common, especially for camping and cabin stays. Many accommodations have kitchenettes or outdoor dining areas. +1
Yes, BBQ grills are available, particularly at the cabin accommodations, allowing for outdoor cooking.
Bastrop offers various local restaurants and cafes if you wish to dine out. It's a short drive from the park.
Information about an on-site convenience store is not readily available. It's advisable to bring all necessary supplies with you.
📸 📸 Photography
The Mirror House offers unique, reflective shots immersed in nature. The lake itself provides scenic views, especially during sunrise and sunset. +1
No specific restrictions are mentioned, but always be respectful of other visitors' privacy.
Nature photography, landscape shots, and unique accommodation photos (like the Mirror House) are popular. +1
While not explicitly stated, drone usage rules can vary. Check with park management for any regulations before flying.
Early mornings and late afternoons offer softer light for landscape and nature photography. The Mirror House can be photographed at any time for its unique effect.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
While the park provides many family-friendly options, parents should be aware of the slippery concrete at the swimming spot and supervise children closely.
🏕️ Campers & RVers
Campers should be prepared to bring all their own supplies, including food and cooking equipment, as amenities are basic. While some reviews praise the park's upkeep compared to state parks, others have noted issues with bathroom cleanliness.
💖 Couples & Romantic Getaways
Amenities like fire pits, hammocks, and outdoor dining areas enhance the romantic ambiance.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Unique Glamping Experiences
These glamping spots are ideal for romantic getaways or anyone seeking a peaceful escape.
Activities on and Around the Lake
Beyond the water, the park boasts over nine miles of hiking and mountain biking trails.
Visitor Experiences and Park Management
However, there are recurring concerns regarding staff knowledge and customer service, particularly with new employees who may not be fully informed about bookings or park operations.
Social
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit