Summer fun still abounds across county
Swimming, fishing or catching Pokémon or a movie are just a few of the options.
It’s the peak of summer, and while the vacation months are more than halfway over, there are a ton of fun things to do for kids in Bastrop County. So before school starts again in August, here are a few ways you can cool off amid that last little bit of summer sweat:
Cool off at the Splash Pad
Every summer, one of the best ways to beat the heat is by visiting the Splash Pad at Fisherman’s Park. A play area with pockets of water shooting up from the ground, it’s sure to cool off any kid on a hot summer day. It’s near the banks of the Colorado River and several park amenities. It’s open seven days a week from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. Admission is free. Fisherman’s Park, 1200 Wilson St.
No beach? No problem
Can’t make your way to the Texas coast this summer? No problem. The Elgin Parks and Recreation Department is hosting its annual Elgin Beach Party on Sunday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., with enough sand to build your own castle. Kids can slide down waterslides, while plenty of watermelon and lemonade will be on hand to keep you hydrated. The event is free to the public. Elgin Memorial Park, 1127 N. Main St.
Take a dip after hours
There’s nothing better in the heat of summer than enjoying late-night swimming. This year, the Bastrop State Park pool will open after hours for youths age 12-14 for Bastrop YMCA’s Teen Splash Bash. There are still two chances to catch the fun — Friday and Aug. 11 — and enjoy food, drinks, diving and activities. YMCA members pay $10 for the night; nonmembers pay $15. Financial assistance is available for those who need it. Register online with the Bastrop YMCA. Bastrop State Park, 100 Park Road 1A, Bastrop.
Reel in a big fish
Grab a hat and head down to the lake at Buescher State Park to try your hand at fishing. Texas Parks and Wildlife Department will host its last Go Fish event at the park Saturday from 9 a.m. to noon for kids age 5 and older. Bring your own rod and reel, though staff will have some on hand to share. They’ll load you up with bait and teach you to cast your reel. Door prizes are available. The event is free, but park entrance fees may apply. No fishing license required. For more information, contact Bill Brooks at 512-5810377. Buescher State Park, 100 Park Road 1C, Smithville.
Catch Pokémon ... or critters
Bastrop State Park rangers will guide kids on a hike through the park to observe real-life transformations in the wild. Catch critters with a net or Pokémon on your phone. Wear sunscreen and sturdy shoes. All ages are welcome. Meet at the historic golf shelter at the state park at 9 a.m. July 22. Park entrance fees will apply. Bastrop State Park, 100 Park Road 1A, Bastrop.
See an outdoor movie
Watch a feature film under the stars with food, refreshments and plenty of friends. The Bastrop Parks and Recreation Department is hosting Movies in the Park every second Saturday of the month this summer. The next Movies in the Park event will be Aug. 12 at Fisherman’s Park in downtown Bastrop. The film that night is “Moana.” The events are free and open to the public.