Travel Directions: Bastrop State Park can be accessed at the intersection of 21 and loop 150, at the eastern outskirts of Bastrop. Both 21 and loop 150 can be accessed from highway 71 at the town of Bastrop. Buescher State Park can be accessed by exiting highway 71 at Smithville and briefly proceeding north along highway 153. The park entrance is to the left. State Park entry fees can apply depending on use.
Description: These parks, which are connected by a 12 mile long road (Park Road 1C) transecting park and private land, supports a respectable abundance and variety of bird species. Among our favorite spots is Buescher Lake which seems to yield a distinct mix of birds every month. The best place to bird is along the north side which is seldom used by fishermen. A typical 1 hour weekly winter survey usually yields 20-30 species, typically including Pileated Woodpecker and Red-shouldered Hawk.
The results of birding surveys within Bastrop and Buescher State Parks and Lake Bastrop can be accessed here.
A checklist of birds in Bastrop and Buescher State Parks and Lake Bastrop can be accessed here.
Travel Directions: This residential area is partly within the city limits of Bastrop, just east of Bastrop on Highway 71. One can enter by proceeding south on Tahitian drive from the intersection at Highway 71. The best birding can be found in a rather deserted area, in the extreme southwest portion. Proceed south on Tahitian drive through an abundance of hills until a "T" intersection is reached. Make a right turn on this road which is formally called Riverside Drive (it actually parallels the Colorado River). Continue driving west until the asphalt road ends and then continue along a gravel road. The road will eventually improve and continue to parallel the river. The great birding area is reached when the Railroad bridge is in sight.
Description: This area typically boasts species which usually can be found west or south of Bastrop County. No doubt, the sandy dune area with its abundance of cacti and mesquite contributes to this attribute, while the riparian area adds still more diversity and abundance. Be careful not to park in deep sand with two-wheel drive vehicles and remember to have fun.
From Highway 71 west of Bastrop, proceed south on Highway 304 to reach these birding areas:
This page was last updated on Sunday September 10, 2006 02:50 PM