Spring Is Here ... Head for the Parks!

Spring break and Easter are right around the corner, so you know what that means in Central Texas: It’s time to head for the parks to camp, fish, or just take a long day to play in the warming weather.



The busiest weekends of the 2010 recreation season are upon us as outdoor lovers by the thousands pull out their stored-away camping equipment to give it a check and uncover the boat to make sure it still runs and is safe.

Then they head for outside adventures, including flocking to LCRA’s parks and recreation areas that are located from the Highland Lakes down the Colorado River to Matagorda Bay. Because of the drought-breaking rains, the Highland Lakes are full and offer plenty of water for recreation of all types.

You'll notice some trees are starting to bud, and the prime wildflower season is just around the corner thanks to all that great rain last fall. This is also a good time to watch birds migrating north, such as hummingbirds, robins, and purple martins.

If the weather is right, early spring can provide some of the best tent camping of the year. RV camping is good even if it’s raining and chilly, because you can be snug in your camper anywhere.

Word to the wise: Campgrounds and particularly cabins and RV spots get reserved early. In fact, reservations can be made 333 days out. For instance, some reservations were made last fall for Memorial Day.

So the sooner you call the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department Reservation Center at (512) 389-8900, the better chance you have to get the spot you want ... when you want it.

Why We're Thankful

Thanksgiving is this week. It seems impossible to imagine that in just 3 days time, I'll be with my family and enjoying a good (and very large) meal ... and each other's company. This year has really flown by.

This is the time of year when we gather together with good friends and family to give thanks for the blessings our lives hold. Love. Life. Friendship. Health. And so many more. No matter how small, each is important in our lives.

At the Colorado River Trail, we are thankful for all of those things. In addition, we are also thankful that the rains have finally come to our part of Texas. That the drought is finally ending. And that the Highland Lakes are growing closer and closer to the full mark every day

So as 2009 draws closer to an end, we wish you a warm and heart-felt, "Happy Thanksgiving!" Be safe in your travels, and many happy returns.

Photo courtesy of The Austin Sage.

Jump In!

I don't have to tell you. You already know. It's darn hot outside! But it's summertime in Texas, and hot weather doesn't prevent us from getting out there and enjoying all the things the Colorado River Trail has to offer.

Want to escape the heat and still enjoy the great outdoors? The Colorado River Trail exists because of the Colorado River and the Highland Lakes. All offer a multitude of ways to enjoy a Texas summer day on the water ... and staying cool.

Rent a kayak or canoe. Take a swim. Grab some friends and go boating. Or simply go jump in the lake. Have fun on these hot Texas summer days by staying cool on the water.

See you on the lake.

Photo courtesy of DAR_Austin.