Smithville TexasBEACHES & WATERFRONT ESCAPES
Listed below are the best beaches and waterfront escapes near Smithville, Texas.
1. Buescher State Park
LAKESIDE SERENITY AND TRAILS
Buescher State Park, nestled just outside Smithville, features a tranquil 30-acre lake perfect for fishing, swimming, paddling, and birdwatching. Shaded by towering pines and hardwoods, visitors can enjoy picnicking, camping, and exploring the serene hiking and biking trails surrounding the water. The park's peaceful lakeside setting and abundant wildlife make it a top waterfront escape for relaxation and outdoor adventure.
2. Colorado River at Smithville
RIVERFRONT RECREATION SPOT
The Colorado River flows gently through Smithville, offering scenic spots for riverside picnics, kayaking, and fishing along its wooded banks. The river provides access to swimming holes and a peaceful atmosphere, making it a favorite for paddling, tubing, and wildlife watching. Visitors are drawn to its natural beauty and the chance to unwind in a classic small-town Texas setting.
3. Riverbend Park
FAMILY-FRIENDLY WATERFRONT PARK
Riverbend Park sits on the banks of the Colorado River, offering walking trails, riverside picnic areas, and natural swimming access. The park's open green spaces welcome families, and a playground makes it ideal for a day by the water. With scenic river views and easy access to swimming and fishing, Riverbend Park provides a relaxed outdoor escape.
4. River Grove Campground
RIVERSIDE CAMPING GETAWAY
River Grove Campground offers rustic camping experiences right along the Colorado River, where guests enjoy direct river access for swimming, fishing, and kayaking. Tall trees provide plenty of shade, and the tranquil riverbank setting is perfect for escaping the bustle of everyday life. Campers appreciate the close proximity to both Smithville and the soothing sounds of the water.
5. River Forest Haven
SECLUDED RIVERFRONT RETREAT
River Forest Haven features private campsites and glamping options nestled among woods along the Colorado River, providing a peaceful riverside escape. Guests can swim, paddle, or fish directly from the property's gently sloping riverbank, with bird calls as their soundtrack. Its intimate, natural setting offers a unique blend of seclusion and access to waterfront adventure.
6. Colorado RiverBend Retreat
PRIVATE RIVERFRONT OASIS
Colorado RiverBend Retreat is a hidden gem offering riverfront cabins and camp spots with direct access to swimming holes and fishing along the picturesque Colorado River. The retreat's lush setting and shallow, pebble-rimmed waters create ideal conditions for cooling off or relaxing by the shore. Visitors love the tranquility and privacy that come with this charming waterfront location.
7. Bastrop State Park
HISTORIC PINEY WOODS LAKESIDE
Bastrop State Park, located just north of Smithville, boasts a scenic lake surrounded by historic loblolly pines, perfect for swimming, paddling, and wildlife watching. The park offers hiking trails, fishing piers, and picnic areas, making it a popular destination for outdoor recreation. Its blend of natural beauty and park amenities draws visitors from across Central Texas.
8. Lake Bastrop North Shore Park
RECREATIONAL LAKESIDE RETREAT
Lake Bastrop North Shore Park offers a vibrant lakeside atmosphere, featuring a sandy swimming beach, boating ramps, and shaded picnic pavilions. This family-friendly park is known for water sports including kayaking, paddle boarding, and fishing, all set against a backdrop of open water and pine landscapes. With its spacious campsites and modern amenities, it's a favorite for both day-trippers and overnight guests.
9. McKinney Roughs Nature Park
WILD RIVER ADVENTURE PARK
McKinney Roughs Nature Park, along the Colorado River just west of Smithville, features scenic river overlooks, designated swimming areas, and miles of trails through diverse ecosystems. Adventurers enjoy kayaking, tubing, and cooling off at natural river swimming holes in the heart of the Texas wilderness. The park's wild river setting and educational programs provide a unique balance of fun and environmental learning.
10. Blue Hole Regional Park
ICONIC TEXAS SWIMMING HOLE
Blue Hole Regional Park in Wimberley showcases one of Texas's most beloved spring-fed swimming holes, surrounded by towering cypress trees and lush lawns. Visitors flock to the crystal-clear, cool waters for swimming and relaxing on shaded banks, with hiking and picnic areas nearby. Its classic Hill Country charm and pristine waters make it a must-visit destination for anyone seeking a quintessential Texas waterfront experience.

Smithville Things To Do
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