Hiking by day, camping under the stars, or staying up late to take in the night sky—Bastrop, Texas, is the perfect place for all things outdoors. With its wide-open spaces and minimal light pollution, it offers some of the clearest, most breathtaking starry nights in Central Texas, making it an ideal spot for stargazing and peaceful nights under the sky.

Stargazing

Stargazing at Bastrop State Park: What to Know

Just a short drive from Downtown Bastrop, Bastrop State Park is one of the best spots for stargazing in Texas. With minimal light pollution and wide-open fields, visitors can take in unobstructed views of the night sky, making it a prime destination for admiring the stars.

Whether you’re stretching out on a blanket or setting up a telescope, this peaceful setting offers the perfect backdrop for a stargazing adventure. Bring chairs, cozy blankets, and anything else to make your night under the Texas sky unforgettable! Pro Tip: Red flashlights are highly recommended, as thy don’t affect your night vision.

For a full weekend of celestial discoveries, head to Lake Bastrop for waterside, unobstructed views of the night sky.

Camping Under the Stars in Bastrop

Imagine camping beneath a sky so clear you can see the Milky Way stretched out above, with stars and planets shining brighter than ever—that’s what it’s like in Bastrop!

Not a fan of roughing it? Texas has plenty of cozier options for stargazing, including luxury tents, cabins, and stargazing hotels, so you can enjoy the night sky in total comfort. 

For a unique glamping experience near Bastrop, Green Acres in Elgin offers a peaceful retreat with plenty to explore. It’s not just a prime stargazing spot—it’s also home to alpacas and donkeys, adding a fun, hands-on element to your stay. With plenty of outdoor activities, it’s the perfect mix of relaxation and adventure.

Stargazing and Scenic Hiking Trails in Bastrop

If you’re heading out for a night of stargazing in Texas, why not pair it with some outdoor adventure? South Shore Trail offers a scenic hike leading to Lake Bastrop, where you can take in the stars in one of the most peaceful settings around.

However, this spot isn’t just for hikers—cyclists will love exploring the lush Texas Hill Country, with trails winding through stunning, multi-colored canyons. Bastrop State Park also offers wheelchair-accessible options, ensuring everyone can enjoy the beauty of the night sky.

Family-Friendly Spots for Nighttime Sky Watching

For an educational and family-friendly stargazing experience, head to the Hyatt Regency Lost Pines Resort & Spa. Though there’s no organized program for stargazing, it’s a wonderful place to look at the night sky. Their cozy patios and unobstructed views (away from city lights) make for a fantastic vantage point to spot constellations, planets, and more!

Other great places around town include:

Additional Tips for Stargazing in Bastrop

For the best stargazing experience, avoid crowded areas and head beyond the Lost Pines Forest for clearer views. Many stargazers recommend focusing on the western sky, as the tree cover to the east can obstruct visibility more than its western counterpart.

For more officially sanctioned stargazing, check out Texas Parks & Wildlife’s Dark Skies Program, which designates certain parks and public spaces as regions with limited light pollution (making it far easier for stargazers to catch memorable views of the cosmos). 

Looking for a place to unwind under a star-filled sky? Bastrop’s wide-open spaces and low light pollution make it easy to catch a clear view of the constellations—no event required! Plan your visit and see the stars for yourself! It's all right here (stargazing included) in Bastrop, TX.