A park is an ideal destination for camping and hiking, but outdoor spaces don’t always come to mind when planning a special event. From company holiday parties and church retreats to quinceañeras and family gatherings, we’ve seen it all at LCRA Parks. Our indoor meeting spaces and collective cabins, combined with our beautiful outdoor spaces, provide a backdrop to gather and create unique experiences. We’ve asked some of our amazing visitors to share the different ways they’ve made memories in the outdoors.
Running relationships
Throughout the year, Chris M. organizes several trail races for Tejas Trails. Through his network of adventure enthusiasts, he discovered multiple parks within the LCRA Parks System. Chris’ exploration of each property led him to miles of trails and refreshing dips in the Colorado River. “The combination of beautiful trails and waterfront views is hard to beat,” Chirs said. He and his friends continue to return to LCRA Parks not only for the scenery but also the people. They appreciate the well-maintained trails and inviting atmosphere that helps them host a successful race. For Chris, the relationships created from these events make a lasting impression far beyond the finish line.
Family togetherness
Samantha J. grew up in the Round Rock, Texas, area and has visited Bastrop many times over the years. Her familiarity with the Lost Pines Region led her to explore Lake Bastrop South Shore Park and its facilities. She needed a place for family gatherings, and the park’s camping options and amenities made it the perfect fit. Samantha and her family have made Lake Bastrop their go-to spot for reunions over the last several years because they get to enjoy the beautiful surroundings and each other’s company. “It’s been a wonderful time hanging out with family, reconnecting and strengthening relationships with the next generations,” Samantha shared. While staying at the park, Samantha’s family goes swimming in Lake Bastrop, plays tetherball and board games then spends the evenings filled with laughter while roasting marshmallows around a campfire. These traditions have turned into treasured memories, and their family looks forward to their visits each year.
Supportive community
Nakeenya W., who organizes events for Black Mamas Village, discovered LCRA Parks at a time when her community needed it most. At the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, the women-empowerment organization was seeking a comfortable space to come together and support each other during this challenging time. Black Rock Park became the perfect solution! Black Mamas Village created campouts that they host at the park twice a year to continue encouraging connection and comfort. “Singing Happy Birthday around the fire with s’mores has become a wonderful tradition that reminds us of family birthday parties in close-knit Black communities,” Nakeenya said. The bonds forged during these campouts have become an integral part of their organization, evoking the warmth of belonging and tradition.
New Christmas traditions
Craig and LouAnn A. have lived in Burnet, Texas, for many years. They were familiar with Black Rock Park because they frequently drove past it while traveling near Lake Buchanan, but they never stopped to visit. One day, Craig and LouAnn decided it was time to check out the park’s facilities and found it to be the perfect spot to celebrate their family Christmas. The couple wanted to pay homage to passed relatives and create a new tradition with the next generation. “The children had so much fun last year, and the weather was perfect,’’ they recall. The family stayed at the park enjoying outdoor recreation, such as kayaking and sand volleyball, and grilling old-fashioned hamburgers and hot dogs. Their new tradition is made special by the memories they make together in the outdoors.
As we reflect on these heartfelt stories, we want to express our gratitude to all who have chosen LCRA Parks as their special place to gather. Your experiences remind us of the role nature plays in fostering relationships and creating memories. Thank you for being a part of our community. We’ll see you outside!
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