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{{Short description|Protected area in Texas, United States}} |
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{{Distinguish|text = [[McKinney Falls State Park]], another park in the Austin, Texas, area}} |
{{Distinguish|text = [[McKinney Falls State Park]], another park in the Austin, Texas, area}} |
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{{Infobox park |
{{Infobox park |
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| type = {{hlist|[[Nature park]]|[[Archaeological site]]}} |
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| nearest_city = [[Bastrop, Texas|Bastrop]] and [[Austin, Texas|Austin, Texas]], US |
| nearest_city = [[Bastrop, Texas|Bastrop]] and [[Austin, Texas|Austin, Texas]], US |
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| coordinates = {{Coord|30.145|N|97.460|W|format=dms|region:US-TX|display=inline,title}} |
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| area = {{cvt|1140|acre|ha}} |
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| website = {{Official website|url=https://www.lcra.org/parks/mckinney-roughs-nature-park/|name=McKinney Roughs Nature Park}} |
| website = {{Official website |url=https://www.lcra.org/parks/mckinney-roughs-nature-park/ |name=McKinney Roughs Nature Park}} |
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'''McKinney Roughs Nature Park''' is a {{ |
'''McKinney Roughs Nature Park''' is a {{convert|1140|acre|ha|adj=on}} [[nature park]] and [[archaeological site]] in [[Cedar Creek, Texas]], United States. Located about {{cvt|13|mi|km}} east of [[Austin, Texas|Austin]] and next to the [[Colorado River (Texas)|Colorado River]], the park features {{cvt|17.6|mi|km}} of trails for hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding. The park is owned and managed by the [[Lower Colorado River Authority]] (LCRA). During the late [[Archaic period (North America)|Archaic Period]], around 2,100 years ago, McKinney Roughs served as a camping ground for prehistoric hunter-gatherers. In the 1850s, the land was owned by a ranching family that were early settlers of Texas. Over the years, it passed through various owners until it was acquired by the LCRA, which then transformed it into a nature park in 1998. |
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The park has an unusual convergence of four ecosystems that contribute to its diverse animal and plant life. Within McKinney Roughs and the broader [[Lost Pines Forest|Lost Pines]] forest, over 250 bird species find habitat, establishing it as a renowned bird-watching destination in Texas. It is also home to several pine trees, mostly notably the [[Pinus taeda|loblolly pine]], similar to the ones found in the nearby [[Bastrop State Park]] and [[Buescher State Park]]. Situated adjacent to the {{ |
The park has an unusual convergence of four ecosystems that contribute to its diverse animal and plant life. Within McKinney Roughs and the broader [[Lost Pines Forest|Lost Pines]] forest, over 250 bird species find habitat, establishing it as a renowned bird-watching destination in Texas. It is also home to several pine trees, mostly notably the [[Pinus taeda|loblolly pine]], similar to the ones found in the nearby [[Bastrop State Park]] and [[Buescher State Park]]. Situated adjacent to the {{cvt|405|acre|ha}} Hyatt Regency Lost Pines Resort and Spa, McKinney Roughs offers an array of features and amenities. These include an educational science center, a dual zip line, short-term rental facilities for larger groups, kayaking, and guided nature tours, among other offerings. |
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==History== |
==History== |
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=== Pre-historic era === |
=== Pre-historic era === |
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In ancient times, |
In ancient times, the area now encompassing McKinney Roughs Nature Park served as a camping ground for [[Archaic humans|prehistoric communities]] at the conclusion of the [[Archaic period (North America)|Archaic Period]], approximately 2,100 years ago.<ref name="dfadsfc" /><ref name="PNDsk" /> Archaeological evidence suggests that at least three times within the period spanning 2,100 to 850 years ago, these communities temporarily camped on the hills of McKinney Roughs. Their activities during these brief stays included deer hunting, collecting [[mussel]]s from the Colorado River, and gathering various plants from the surrounding area.<ref name="dfadsfc" /><ref name="tBq3n" /> At the site, archaeologists uncovered 15 features (such as human-made sites), 2,159 [[Artifact (archaeology)|artifacts]] (encompassing tools and weapons), and 1,129 [[Biofact (archaeology)|biofacts]] (unmodified natural materials like shells, otoliths, and bones).<ref name="okoidn" /> Hunter-gatherers at McKinney Roughs had designated specific toss and drop zones for discarding tools or storing them for later use.<ref name="89f4nf" /> This practice has assisted archaeologists in comprehending the spatial patterns and activities at the campsite, including cooking, hunting, and toolmaking.<ref name="conclusions" /> |
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The findings at the archaeological site, known as the McKinney Roughs site (41BP627), were unearthed during initial excavations conducted by SWCA Environmental Consultants.<ref name=" |
The findings at the archaeological site, known as the McKinney Roughs site (41BP627), were unearthed during initial excavations conducted by SWCA Environmental Consultants.<ref name="dfadsfc" /> These excavations were carried out as part of preparations for the construction of the neighboring [[Hyatt Regency Lost Pines Resort and Spa]].<ref name="okoidn" /> The artifacts recovered from the site were encased in flood sediments, providing a natural preservation environment for non-perishable items, including ancient cooking ovens, stone tools, fireplaces, and mussel shells.<ref name="dfadsfc" /><ref name="r9fk4f" /> However, items crafted from plants, bones, and hides had disintegrated over time. Archaeologists characterized the site as having "developed under relatively rare circumstances", benefiting from the preservation provided by flood sediments.<ref name="dfadsfc" /> During the Transitional Archaic period, this region experienced substantial rainfall which caused periodic floods near the Colorado River.<ref name="okoidn" /><ref name="r9fk4f" /> |
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The first discovery at the McKinney Roughs archaeological site revealed a compact fireplace with charcoal, charred rocks, and lithic rubble.<ref name=" |
The first discovery at the McKinney Roughs archaeological site revealed a compact fireplace with charcoal, charred rocks, and [[Stone tool|lithic rubble]].<ref name="dfadsfc" /> These findings provided evidence for archaeologists, indicating the presence of ancient campfires. Subsequent extensive excavations uncovered additional campsites from the same Archaic Period. During the exploration, archaeologists unearthed various ancient tools and weaponry, including [[Scraper (archaeology)|flake scrapers]], [[Chert#Prehistoric and historic uses|raw chert cores]] used in crafting tools and weapons, and a small [[Projectile point|dart projectiles]] known as Ensor and Darl.<ref name="dfadsfc" /><ref name="r9fk4f" /> |
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[[Radiocarbon dating]] of the Ensor points at McKinney Roughs indicates an age roughly between 100 B.C. and 200 A.D., corresponding to approximately 1800 to 2100 years ago, marking the early phase of the Transitional Archaic period. Additionally, the Darl projectile, found at the site, serves as a "time marker," dating the location to approximately 1,100 to 1,150 A.D. The Darl, a transitional weapon utilized by hunters during the Transitional Archaic period, represents an early form of the arrow point.<ref name="r9fk4f" /> Researchers consider the arrow as the hallmark weapon of the forthcoming [[Late Prehistoric (North America)|Late Prehistoric]] period, signifying that the ancient people at the McKinney Roughs site were alive during the last years of the Archaic Period.{{efn|Due to the absence of other weapon tools like wooden shafts, bows, or atlatls (dart throwers), archaeologists are uncertain how the projectiles discovered at McKinney Roughs were fired.<ref name="conclusions" />}}<ref name="dfadsfc" /> |
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=== Modern day === |
=== Modern day === |
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In the early 1850s, the land and Windmill Ranch, which now constitutes McKinney Roughs Nature Park, belonged to the family of John Calhoun Wise.<ref name=" |
In the early 1850s, the land and Windmill Ranch, which now constitutes McKinney Roughs Nature Park, belonged to the family of John Calhoun Wise.<ref name="f8rn2d" /> Mr. Wise, who married Cynthia Houston, a cousin of [[Sam Houston]], had eight children.<ref name="f8rn2d" /><ref name="8fjfj4" /> Their descendants resided on the property until the 1950s, after which it changed hands among various owners for over 50 years. In 1990, the land title passed to the Wilton and Effie Hebert Foundation, which subsequently sold the tract in 1995 to the [[Lower Colorado River Authority]] (LCRA), a power utility company overseeing the [[Colorado River]]. The LCRA expanded its holdings by acquiring two adjoining parcels in 1996 and 1998, culminating in the creation of McKinney Roughs.<ref name="f8rn2d" /><ref name="O8vH6" /> |
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[[File:Trailhead McKinney Roughs Nature Park Texas 2022.jpg|thumb|A hiker heads out at the trailhead near the main entrance.]] |
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Opened to the public in 1998,{{sfn|Estaville|Earl|2008|p=122}} the park first unveiled 9 miles (14 km) of hiking and horseback riding trails. The park bears the name of [[Thomas F. McKinney]], an early settler of the State of Texas who had a large influence in the development of Austin and Bastrop.{{sfn|Williams|2016|p=232}}{{sfn|Llewellin|Molloy|2016|p=55}} Thomas F. McKinney did not own the land that currently comprises McKinney Roughs, but he managed a [[Sawmill|lumber mill]] located across from the Colorado River, potentially utilizing timber resources from what is now McKinney Roughs. Local residents had already been referring to the land as McKinney Roughs for many years before its official designation. The term "roughs" is derived from the challenging local terrain, which posed obstacles to extensive agricultural endeavors and may have served as a potential hiding place for frontier outlaws. In addition to McKinney Roughs, another park in Austin, about 12 mi (19 km) away, is named after him – [[McKinney Falls State Park]].<ref name="AlA63" /> |
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In 2009, there was a proposal to downsize and relocate the [[Brackenridge Field Laboratory]], a research field lab owned by the [[University of Texas at Austin]], to McKinney Roughs to accommodate mixed-use development.<ref name="1s4f" /> Faculty members opposed the relocation, arguing that the lab's original location was closer to campus and that moving to McKinney Roughs would negatively impact students' learning. They also noted that McKinney Roughs' other activities, such as horseback riding, did not align with the lab's research interests.<ref name="1s4f" /><ref name="nr94" /> Ultimately, the lab was not moved.<ref name="1s4f" /> |
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Opened to the public in 1998,{{sfn|Estaville|Earl|2008|p=122}} the park first unveiled 9 miles (14 km) of hiking and horseback riding trails. The park bears the name of [[Thomas F. McKinney]], an early settler of the State of Texas who had large influence in the development of Austin and Bastrop.{{sfn|Williams|2016|p=232}}{{sfn|Llewellin|Molloy|2016|p=55}} Thomas F. McKinney did not own the land that currently comprises McKinney Roughs, but he managed a [[Sawmill|lumber mill]] located across from the Colorado River, potentially utilizing timber resources from what is now McKinney Roughs. Local residents had already been referring to the land as McKinney Roughs for many years before its official designation. The term "roughs" is derived from the challenging local terrain, which posed obstacles to extensive agricultural endeavors and may have served as a potential hiding place for frontier outlaws. In addition to McKinney Roughs, another park in Austin, about 12 mi (19 km) away, is named after him – [[McKinney Falls State Park]].<ref>{{Cite web |date=2002 |title=From Hunter-Gatherers to Pioneers, The Colorful History of McKinney Roughs |url=http://www.lcra.org/lands/roughs/history.html |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20020803165707/http://www.lcra.org/lands/roughs/history.html |archive-date=3 August 2002 |publisher=[[Lower Colorado River Authority]]}}</ref> |
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In 2011, parts of [[Bastrop County, Texas|Bastrop County]] were [[Bastrop County Complex Fire|engulfed by large fires]] as a result of [[2010–2013 Southern United States and Mexico drought|exceptional drought]] and [[2011 North American heat wave|record-high temperatures]].<ref name="Nielsen-Gammon 2012" /> The fire was the most destructive wildfire in the history of Texas, and burned about 96% of the neighboring [[Bastrop State Park]].<ref name="MP24y" /> McKinney Roughs was spared from the wildfires but utility infrastructure was damaged. The LCRA temporarily closed McKinney Roughs and the two parks at Lake Bastrop throughout the weekend.<ref name="kBL7I" /> Several months later, discussions about replantation emerged, and various park organizations were contemplating the installation of pine cone collectors in seed production areas. McKinney Roughs was being considered for this initiative due to its abundant pine cone seed production.<ref name="k8l4y" /> |
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In 2014, [[Bastrop, Texas|Bastrop]] earned a nomination as one of the top 40 travel destinations in Texas, as per a poll conducted by ''[[Texas Highways]]'' magazine. The magazine specifically emphasized McKinney Roughs' prime location in the Lost Pines region and recommended horseback riding activities as a noteworthy experience in Bastrop.<ref |
In 2014, [[Bastrop, Texas|Bastrop]] earned a nomination as one of the top 40 travel destinations in Texas, as per a poll conducted by ''[[Texas Highways]]'' magazine. The magazine specifically emphasized McKinney Roughs' prime location in the Lost Pines region and recommended horseback riding activities as a noteworthy experience in Bastrop.<ref name="lZflD" /> In 2017, the LCRA implemented enhancements at McKinney Roughs, including the construction of a wildlife-viewing blind, a designated bird feeding area, and a demonstration garden.<ref name="57Juo" /> Later that year, McKinney Roughs underwent a expansion of its trail system, extending it to cover a distance of up to {{cvt|13|mi|km}}. The majority of these trails consist of dirt paths with diverse elevations, including some that ran alongside the Colorado River.<ref name="r2fmq" /> |
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In 2018, an ozone monitoring station located in McKinney Roughs, operated by the Capital Area Council of Governments, was moved to Bastrop. The relocation was prompted by an analysis indicating that the trees and vegetation in McKinney Roughs were affecting the accuracy of the system's readings.<ref |
In 2018, an [[ozone]] monitoring station located in McKinney Roughs, operated by the Capital Area Council of Governments, was moved to Bastrop. The relocation was prompted by an analysis indicating that the trees and vegetation in McKinney Roughs were affecting the accuracy of the system's readings.<ref name="LRATg" /> In 2020, the LCRA temporarily closed McKinney Roughs and its two parks at Lake Bastrop during the [[COVID-19 lockdowns]]. The closure was a response to shortages in cleaning supplies necessary to disinfect the facilities and mitigate the risk of possible contamination.<ref name="idf3Y" /> As of 2024, the outdoor and family-friendly activities offered at McKinney Roughs continue to draw visitors and residents of Bastrop to its park grounds.<ref name="6ovAB" /> |
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==Features and amenities== |
==Features and amenities== |
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McKinney Roughs is situated on 1884 State Hwy 71 West in [[Cedar Creek, Texas|Cedar Creek]], |
McKinney Roughs is situated on 1884 State Hwy 71 West in [[Cedar Creek, Texas|Cedar Creek]], an unincorporated community within Bastrop County.<ref name="7ZQuT" /> Positioned along [[Texas State Highway 71]] (SH 71), the park is approximately 13 miles (21 km) east of the [[Austin–Bergstrom International Airport]] and 8 miles (13 km) west of the Bastrop.<ref name="pLBQM" />{{sfn|Little|Little|p=73|2005}} Encompassing {{cvt|1140|acre|ha}}, this park is located adjacent to the [[Colorado River (Texas)|Colorado River]] and is situated within the [[Lost Pines Forest|Lost Pines]] forest.<ref name="94nd" /><ref name="e9QkH" /> The park is also situated adjacent to the Hyatt Regency Lost Pines Resort and Spa,<ref name="qsrJ7" /> a luxurious 405-acre (164 ha) resort that offers amenities such as horseback riding, a golf course, rafting opportunities on the Colorado River, and guided nature tours.<ref name="EvLKr" />{{sfn|Permenter|Bigley|p=65|2016}} The resort acquired the land from LCRA in 2006; however, guests at the resort continue to maintain access to the park's trails.<ref name="iLmBI" /> About {{cvt|2|mi|km}} north of McKinney Roughs' trailhead is the Happy Horse Hotel, a campground for equestrians.<ref name="RAMIw" /> At the park's visitor center, there is an exhibit featuring an aquarium displaying several fish species native to the Colorado River.<ref name="0rn2d" /><ref name="91fn42" /> |
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[[File:Science Center McKinney Roughs Nature Park 2022.jpg|thumb|right|The Mark Rose Natural Science Center at McKinney Roughs Nature Park.]] |
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One of the major attractions of McKinney Roughs is the Zip Lost Pines, which has the largest dual zip line in Texas.<ref name=":5">{{Cite web |title=McKinney Roughs Nature Park |url=https://www.visitbastrop.com/listing/mckinney-roughs-nature-park/301/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231226172338/https://www.visitbastrop.com/listing/mckinney-roughs-nature-park/301/ |archive-date=26 December 2023 |access-date=26 December 2023 |publisher=Visit Bastrop (Bastrop Convention & Exhibit Center)}}</ref><ref name=":1">{{Cite news |last=LeBlanc |first=Pam |date=6 November 2016 |title=Thrill-seekers soar above treetops at Zip Lost Pines |work=[[Austin American-Statesman]] |url=https://www.statesman.com/story/news/2016/11/07/thrill-seekers-soar-above-treetops-at-zip-lost-pines/10009242007/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231226200740/https://www.statesman.com/story/news/2016/11/07/thrill-seekers-soar-above-treetops-at-zip-lost-pines/10009242007/ |archive-date=26 December 2023}}</ref> The zip lines are side-by-side and were designed for couples or group activities.<ref>{{Cite news |last=Finan |first=Kristin |date=31 January 2019 |title=Weekend Escape: Bastrop; Small town 45 minutes east of Austin offers big fun, adventure |work=[[Austin American-Statesman]] |url=https://www.statesman.com/story/lifestyle/travel/2019/01/31/little-bastrop-offers-big-fun-for-day-trip-or-weekend-getaway/6148676007/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231226191554/https://www.statesman.com/story/lifestyle/travel/2019/01/31/little-bastrop-offers-big-fun-for-day-trip-or-weekend-getaway/6148676007/ |archive-date=26 December 2023}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news |last=Dreher |first=Lisa |date=6 March 2018 |title=You’ve only got a week, so here are things to do over Spring Break in Austin |work=[[Austin American-Statesman]] |url=https://www.statesman.com/story/entertainment/local/2018/03/07/youve-only-got-a-week-so-here-are-things-to-do-over-spring-break-in-austin/10210963007/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231226192018/https://www.statesman.com/story/entertainment/local/2018/03/07/youve-only-got-a-week-so-here-are-things-to-do-over-spring-break-in-austin/10210963007/ |archive-date=26 December 2023}}</ref> Although the LCRA owns and maintains McKinney Roughs,<ref>{{Cite news |last=Dille |first=Ian |date=7 February 2013 |title=Yappy trails |work=[[Austin American-Statesman]] |url=https://www.statesman.com/story/lifestyle/2013/02/08/yappy-trails/10185424007/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231226201211/https://www.statesman.com/story/lifestyle/2013/02/08/yappy-trails/10185424007/ |archive-date=26 December 2023}}</ref> the zip lines within the park are privately owned and were constructed by an independent company. The zip lines were part of a LCRA initiative to promote increased recreational activities within the park without damaging or impacting the ecosystem.<ref name=":1" /> In addition, there are guided kayaking, canoeing, and rafting tours of up to {{Convert|2|mi|km|abbr=on}} on the Colorado River for children and adults.<ref>{{Cite web |title=River Trips at McKinney Roughs |url=https://www.lcra.org/parks/mckr_river_trips.html |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100126032925/https://www.lcra.org/parks/mckr_river_trips.html |archive-date=26 January 2010 |publisher=[[Lower Colorado River Authority]]}}</ref> The park is also home to the Mark Rose Natural Science Center,<ref>{{Cite web |date=2016 |title=Cultural Arts & Tourism: Bastrop Comprehensive Plan (2016 - 2036) |url=https://www.cityofbastrop.org/upload/page/0267/docs/Chap%208%20Cultural%20Arts_Tourism.pdf |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231229015139/https://www.cityofbastrop.org/upload/page/0267/docs/Chap%208%20Cultural%20Arts_Tourism.pdf |archive-date=29 December 2023 |publisher=City of Bastrop, Texas |page=9}}</ref> an educational and recreational facility that promotes nature awareness. The center hosts classes on various subjects, including [[water conservation]], [[wildlife conservation]], [[land stewardship]], and [[renewable energy]].<ref>{{Cite web |title=Outdoor Education and Recreation Programs at McKinney Roughs |url=http://www.lcra.org/parks/mckr_outdoor_programs.html |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100126044839/http://www.lcra.org/parks/mckr_outdoor_programs.html |archive-date=26 January 2010 |publisher=[[Lower Colorado River Authority]]}}</ref><ref name=":12" /> These hands-on activities, administered by the park, are available to both children and adults.<ref name=":11">{{Cite web |date=2018 |title=McKinney Roughs Nature Park: Natural Science Programs |url=https://www.lcra.org/download/mrnp-educational-programs-2018-pdf/?wpdmdl=12167 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201018011024/https://www.lcra.org/download/mrnp-educational-programs-2018-pdf/?wpdmdl=12167 |archive-date=18 October 2020 |publisher=[[Lower Colorado River Authority]]}}</ref> The programs at the science center align with the state-level curriculum standards for the [[Texas Essential Knowledge and Skills]] (TEKS). These programs are specifically designed to prepare students for the [[Texas Assessment of Knowledge and Skills]] (TAKS), a former statewide standardized exam.<ref name=":12" /> |
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One of the major attractions of McKinney Roughs is the Zip Lost Pines, which has the largest dual zip line in Texas.<ref name="goser4" /><ref name="orhe2" /> The zip lines are side-by-side and were designed for couples or group activities.<ref name="6coS7" /><ref name="z9nlk" /> Although the LCRA owns and maintains McKinney Roughs,<ref name="VjwtW" /> the zip lines within the park are privately owned and were constructed by an independent company. The zip lines were part of a LCRA initiative to promote increased recreational activities within the park without damaging or impacting the ecosystem.<ref name="orhe2" /> In addition, there are guided kayaking, canoeing, and rafting tours of up to {{cvt|2|mi|km}} on the Colorado River for children and adults.<ref name="2uIlD" /> The park is also home to the Mark Rose Natural Science Center,<ref name="6Rqyj" /> an educational and recreational facility that promotes nature awareness. The center hosts classes on various subjects, including [[water conservation]], [[wildlife conservation]], [[land stewardship]], and [[renewable energy]].<ref name="cM7Hx" /><ref name="ur82" /> These hands-on activities, administered by the park, are available to both children and adults.<ref name="7r24f" /> The programs at the science center align with the state-level curriculum standards for the [[Texas Essential Knowledge and Skills]] (TEKS). These programs are specifically designed to prepare students for the [[Texas Assessment of Knowledge and Skills]] (TAKS), a former statewide standardized exam.<ref name="ur82" /> |
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Accommodations at McKinney Roughs are available for short-term rental.<ref |
Accommodations at McKinney Roughs are available for short-term rental.<ref name="pwUAa" /> The [[bunkhouse]], capable of housing up to 10 people, offers several comprehensive amenities for overnight stay. Additionally, the facility features five dormitory floors accommodating a total of 112 individuals.<ref name="493h2" /><ref name="HxWGr" /> For larger gatherings, there is an [[Amphitheatre|amphitheater]] with a capacity of up to 120 people, along with three meeting rooms. The Colorado Vista Pavilion, an outdoor venue complete with a grill and electricity, can accommodate 80 people. The Wildflower Hall, capable of hosting up to 240 individuals, boasts air conditioning, heating, a commercial kitchen, and a fireplace.<ref name="493h2" /> These short-term rental facilities have been used for government meetings, school events, weddings, corporate events, and various other private gatherings.<ref name="goser4" /><ref name="or20r4" /> |
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McKinney Roughs has served as the host for the local [[Earth Day]] Festival, which is part of the Austin Nature Days campaign. This initiative aims to celebrate the "beauty, vitality, and diversity" of [[Central Texas]] ecosystems and natural resources. Throughout this month-long festival, McKinney Roughs has organized a variety of interactive nature events, such as moon and stargazing, nature journaling, a nature workshop, scavenger |
McKinney Roughs has served as the host for the local [[Earth Day]] Festival, which is part of the Austin Nature Days campaign. This initiative aims to celebrate the "beauty, vitality, and diversity" of [[Central Texas]] ecosystems and natural resources. Throughout this month-long festival, McKinney Roughs has organized a variety of interactive nature events, such as moon and stargazing, nature journaling, a nature workshop, [[scavenger hunt]]s, kayaking, and various other outdoor activities.<ref name="qo6ac" /> According to local Earth Day organizers, activities such as these are designed to educate participants about the offerings at McKinney Roughs and demonstrate that these are activities they can independently pursue when they visit the park again.<ref name="CwqZX" /> |
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=== Trails === |
=== Trails === |
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McKinney Roughs has a {{ |
McKinney Roughs has a {{cvt|17.6|mi|km}} trail system that incorporates hike-and-bike and horseback riding trails.{{sfn|Little|Little|p=73|2005}}<ref name="b37r" /> It also has {{cvt|1.44|mi|km}} of shorelines that are partially developed.<ref name="94nd" /> This riverside trail is frequented among visitors who want to hike along the Colorado River.<ref name="v7Nac" /> There are 16 trails in total that vary in size.<ref name="wwoSA" /> While some trails involve rough terrain and vary in difficulty, but they are beginner friendly.<ref name=":0" /><ref name="jr849f" /> There is also a shorter route that provides wheelchair access.<ref name="jr849f" /> The trails are primarily composed of dirt, unlike the [[Limestone|limestone terrain]] found in many other parks in Central Texas.<ref name=":0" /> Motor vehicles are restricted from the trails.{{sfn|Little|Little|p=73|2005}}<ref name="rd6Vj" /> Visitors are allowed to bring pets on trails, but pets are required to be on a leash outside of camping grounds for their own safety and to protect wildlife.<ref name="b37r" /> The maze of trails enables visitors to customize both the length and difficulty of the trails.<ref name="jr849f" /> |
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Below are the trails displayed on the official McKinney Roughs trails map.<ref name=":9" /> |
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Below are the trails displayed on the official McKinney Roughs trails map.<ref name="b37r" /> |
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{| class="wikitable" |
{| class="wikitable" |
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! '''Trail Name''' |
! '''Trail Name''' |
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! Distance |
! Distance |
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! Difficulty Level |
|||
! Points of Interest |
|||
! '''Type''' |
|||
|- |
|- |
||
||'''Bluestem'''|| {{ |
||'''Bluestem'''|| {{cvt|0.4|mi|km}} |
||
|- |
|- |
||
||'''Bluff Trail Loop'''|| {{ |
||'''Bluff Trail Loop'''|| {{cvt|0.9|mi|km}} |
||
|- |
|- |
||
||'''Bobcat Ridge'''|| {{ |
||'''Bobcat Ridge'''|| {{cvt|1.9|mi|km}} |
||
|- |
|- |
||
||'''Bobcat Spur'''|| {{ |
||'''Bobcat Spur'''|| {{cvt|0.1|mi|km}} |
||
|- |
|- |
||
|'''Buckeye''' |
|'''Buckeye''' |
||
|{{ |
|{{cvt|0.6|mi|km|1}} |
||
|Moderate |
|||
|N/A |
|||
|N/A |
|||
|- |
|- |
||
||'''Coyote'''|| {{ |
||'''Coyote'''|| {{cvt|1|mi|km}} |
||
|- |
|- |
||
||'''Cypress'''|| {{ |
||'''Cypress'''|| {{cvt|0.6|mi|km|1}} |
||
|- |
|- |
||
|'''Deep Sandy''' |
|'''Deep Sandy''' |
||
|{{ |
|{{cvt|0.5|mi|km|1}} |
||
|Easy |
|||
|N/A |
|||
|N/A |
|||
|- |
|- |
||
|'''Foxtail''' |
|'''Foxtail''' |
||
|{{ |
|{{cvt|0.2|mi|km}} |
||
|Easy |
|||
|N/A |
|||
|N/A |
|||
|- |
|- |
||
|'''Meditation Point''' |
|'''Meditation Point''' |
||
|{{ |
|{{cvt|0.2|mi|km}} |
||
|Easy |
|||
|Overlook at Meditation Point |
|||
|N/A |
|||
|- |
|- |
||
|'''Pecan Bottom''' |
|'''Pecan Bottom''' |
||
|{{ |
|{{cvt|1|mi|km}} |
||
|Easy |
|||
|Giant Pecan Tree |
|||
|N/A |
|||
|- |
|- |
||
|'''Pine Canyon''' |
|'''Pine Canyon''' |
||
|{{ |
|{{cvt|0.4|mi|km}} |
||
|Easy |
|||
|Pine Canyon |
|||
Highway 71 Trailhead |
|||
|N/A |
|||
|- |
|- |
||
|'''Pine Ridge''' |
|'''Pine Ridge''' |
||
|{{ |
|{{cvt|2.7|mi|km}} |
||
|Hard |
|||
|Zip Line |
|||
Pine Ridge Overlook |
|||
|N/A |
|||
|- |
|- |
||
|'''Pond Spur''' |
|'''Pond Spur''' |
||
|{{ |
|{{cvt|0.1|mi|km}} |
||
|Easy |
|||
|N/A |
|||
|N/A |
|||
|- |
|- |
||
|'''Ridge''' |
|'''Ridge''' |
||
|{{ |
|{{cvt|0.6|mi|km|1}} |
||
|N/A |
|||
|N/A |
|||
|Self-Guided, Handicap |
|||
|- |
|- |
||
|'''Riverside''' |
|'''Riverside''' |
||
|{{ |
|{{cvt|1.5|mi|km}} |
||
|Easy |
|||
|Riverside Rapids |
|||
|N/A |
|||
|- |
|- |
||
|'''Roadrunner''' |
|'''Roadrunner''' |
||
|{{ |
|{{cvt|0.8|mi|km}} |
||
|Moderate |
|||
|N/A |
|||
|N/A |
|||
|- |
|- |
||
|'''Valley View''' |
|'''Valley View''' |
||
|{{ |
|{{cvt|0.3|mi|km|1}} |
||
|Easy |
|||
|Valley View |
|||
|Hiking |
|||
|- |
|- |
||
|'''Whitetail''' |
|'''Whitetail''' |
||
|{{ |
|{{cvt|0.8|mi|km}} |
||
|Easy |
|||
|Zip Line Welcome Center |
|||
|N/A |
|||
|- |
|- |
||
|'''Woodland''' |
|'''Woodland''' |
||
|{{ |
|{{cvt|0.5|mi|km|1}} |
||
|N/A |
|||
|N/A |
|||
|Hiking |
|||
|- |
|- |
||
|'''Yaupon''' |
|'''Yaupon''' |
||
|{{ |
|{{cvt|2.7|mi|km}} |
||
|Moderate |
|||
|Pope Bend Trailhead |
|||
Resort Entrance Road |
|||
|N/A |
|||
|} |
|} |
||
== Flora and fauna == |
== Flora and fauna == |
||
[[File:Colorado river at mckinney roughs.jpg|thumb|left|Overlook of the Colorado River from a trail at McKinney Roughs Nature Park.]] |
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McKinney Roughs serves as a convergence point for four distinct ecosystems:<ref>{{Cite news |last=Elbel |first=Mauri |date=19 July 2014 |title=Fun hits home in Bastrop |work=[[Austin American-Statesman]] |url=https://www.statesman.com/story/lifestyle/travel/2014/07/19/fun-hits-home-in-bastrop/10040210007/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231227023116/https://www.statesman.com/story/lifestyle/travel/2014/07/19/fun-hits-home-in-bastrop/10040210007/ |archive-date=27 December 2023}}</ref> the [[Post Oak Savannah]], [[Texas Blackland Prairies|Blackland Prairie]], [[Piney Woods|East Texas Piney Woods]], and a [[riparian zone]].<ref name=":3">{{Cite news |last=LeBlanc |first=Pam |date=20 December 2014 |title=Tired of the usual trails? Check out these 5 less-known hiking gems |work=[[Austin American-Statesman]] |url=https://www.statesman.com/story/news/2014/12/21/tired-usual-trails-check-out/6718192007/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231226190516/https://www.statesman.com/story/news/2014/12/21/tired-usual-trails-check-out/6718192007/ |archive-date=26 December 2023}}</ref> This unusual convergence contributes to the rich diversity of plant and animal life within the park.<ref name=":12" /><ref name=":3" /> The park is inhabited by [[Pinus taeda|loblolly pine]] trees, akin to those found in the neighboring Bastrop State Park and [[Buescher State Park]]. Additionally, the cedar trees within the park are [[Juniperus virginiana|eastern red cedar]], distinguishing them from the [[Juniperus ashei|Ashe juniper]] trees typically found in the [[Texas Hill Country]].{{sfn|Llewellin|Molloy|2016|p=51}} There are also [[Zanthoxylum|toothache trees]] and [[Taxodium distichum|bald cypresses]].<ref name=":15">{{Cite web |title=Nature Study and Observation - Unusual Diversity of Plants, Mammals and Birds |url=http://www.lcra.org/parks/mckr_birding_wildlife.html |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100126044831/http://www.lcra.org/parks/mckr_birding_wildlife.html |archive-date=26 January 2010 |publisher=[[Lower Colorado River Authority]]}}</ref> In the spring months, McKinney Roughs is a ripe zone for [[Bluebonnet (plant)|bluebonnets]], the official [[List of U.S. state and territory flowers|state flower]] of Texas, as well as orange [[Castilleja|Indian paintbrush]] flowers.<ref>{{Cite news |last=Elbel |first=Mauri |date=13 March 2020 |title=Wildflowers are back! A dozen great spots near Austin to see them |work=[[Austin American-Statesman]] |url=https://www.statesman.com/story/lifestyle/travel/2020/03/13/wildflowers-are-back-dozen-great-spots-near-austin-to-see-them/1528682007/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231227020622/https://www.statesman.com/story/lifestyle/travel/2020/03/13/wildflowers-are-back-dozen-great-spots-near-austin-to-see-them/1528682007/ |archive-date=27 December 2023}}</ref><ref>{{Cite news |last=Medley |first=Alison |date=4 May 2020 |title=Texas' best places to see wildflowers blooming in May |work=[[The Houston Chronicle]] |url=https://www.chron.com/local/article/Texas-best-places-to-see-wildflowers-blooming-in-15244756.php |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231227062412/https://www.chron.com/local/article/Texas-best-places-to-see-wildflowers-blooming-in-15244756.php |archive-date=27 December 2023}}</ref> The flower and butterfly gardens continue to attract monarch and queen butterflies from spring through the end of summer.{{sfn|Parker|2016|p=254}} |
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McKinney Roughs serves as a convergence point for four distinct ecosystems:<ref name="4az8y" /> the [[Post Oak Savannah]], [[Texas Blackland Prairies|Blackland Prairie]], [[Piney Woods|East Texas Piney Woods]], and a [[riparian zone]].<ref name="1dfh4" /> This unusual convergence contributes to the rich diversity of plant and animal life within the park.<ref name="ur82" /><ref name="1dfh4" /> The park is inhabited by loblolly pine trees, akin to those found in the neighboring Bastrop State Park and [[Buescher State Park]]. Additionally, the cedar trees within the park are [[Juniperus virginiana|eastern red cedar]], distinguishing them from the [[Juniperus ashei|Ashe juniper]] trees typically found in the [[Texas Hill Country]].{{sfn|Llewellin|Molloy|2016|p=51}} There are also [[Zanthoxylum|toothache trees]] and [[Taxodium distichum|bald cypresses]].<ref name="c7e9r" /> In the spring months,<ref name="QTA1K" /> McKinney Roughs is a ripe zone for [[Bluebonnet (plant)|bluebonnets]], the official [[List of U.S. state and territory flowers|state flower]] of Texas, as well as orange [[Castilleja|Indian paintbrush]] flowers.<ref name="CS4Nj" /><ref name="PV7xG" /> The flower and butterfly gardens continue to attract [[Monarch butterfly|monarch]] and [[Queen butterfly|queen butterflies]] from spring through the end of summer.{{sfn|Parker|2016|p=254}} |
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McKinney Roughs is home to various mammals, reptiles, birds, and amphibians.<ref name=" |
McKinney Roughs is home to various mammals, reptiles, birds, and amphibians.<ref name="ur82" /><ref name="c7e9r" /> Common wildlife sightings at the park include gray foxes, rabbits, white-tailed deer, and squirrels.<ref name="uDquG" /> The park and other parts of the Lost Pines forest serve as a habitat for a diverse array of over 250 bird species.<ref name="dd91" /><ref name="xNr7k" /> The park collaborates with the LCRA, the Hyatt Regency, the Bastrop County Audubon Society, [[Texas Parks and Wildlife Department]]’s Lost Pines Master Naturalists, and the [[Audubon|National Audubon Society]] to organize annual bird-watching events.<ref name="dd91" /> Throughout specific seasons, visitors have the opportunity to observe various bird species, including but not limited to [[List of birds of Texas#Cardinals and allies|cardinals]], [[eastern bluebird]], [[green kingfisher]], [[Carolina chickadee]], [[List of birds of Texas#Hummingbirds|hummingbirds]], [[eastern screech-owl]], [[Carolina wren]], [[tufted titmouse]], [[wood duck]], [[northern parula]]s, [[common ground dove]]s, [[hooded warbler]]s, and the [[bald eagle]]—the national bird of the United States.<ref name="dd91" /><ref name="H1Zlc" /> |
||
Bastrop is one of the four cities certified by the [[Texas Parks and Wildlife Department]] as having a "bird city" status.<ref name="v6PTT" /> McKinney Roughs is recognized as one of the leading birding-viewing destinations within Bastrop County.<ref name="SPaxJ" /> As of 2019, there are no regulatory restrictions related to threatened or endangered species or [[wetland]]s at McKinney Roughs.<ref name="or20r4" /> |
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==See also== |
==See also== |
||
| Line 248: | Line 189: | ||
==References== |
==References== |
||
{{reflist|refs= |
|||
{{Reflist}} |
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<ref name="dfadsfc">{{Cite web |title=McKinney Roughs: Archaic Campers on the Colorado River |url=https://www.texasbeyondhistory.net/mckinney/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231226210631/https://www.texasbeyondhistory.net/mckinney/ |archive-date=26 December 2023 |access-date=26 December 2023 |website=Texas Beyond History |publisher=Texas Archeological Research Laboratory at [[The University of Texas at Austin]]}}</ref> |
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<ref name="okoidn">{{Cite web |title=McKinney Roughs, Investigations |url=https://www.texasbeyondhistory.net/mckinney/investigations.html |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231226210647/https://www.texasbeyondhistory.net/mckinney/investigations.html |archive-date=26 December 2023 |access-date=30 December 2023 |website=Texas Beyond History |publisher=Texas Archeological Research Laboratory at [[The University of Texas at Austin]]}}</ref> |
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<ref name="89f4nf">{{Cite web |title=McKinney Roughs, The Darl Living Surface: A Transitional Archaic Camp |url=https://www.texasbeyondhistory.net/mckinney/darl.html |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231226210647/https://www.texasbeyondhistory.net/mckinney/darl.html |archive-date=26 December 2023 |access-date=30 December 2023 |website=Texas Beyond History |publisher=Texas Archeological Research Laboratory at [[The University of Texas at Austin]]}}</ref> |
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<ref name="conclusions">{{Cite web |title=Conclusions: Significance of the McKinney Roughs Site |url=https://www.texasbeyondhistory.net/mckinney/conclusions.html |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231226210632/https://www.texasbeyondhistory.net/mckinney/conclusions.html |archive-date=26 December 2023 |access-date=30 December 2023 |website=Texas Beyond History |publisher=Texas Archeological Research Laboratory at [[The University of Texas at Austin]]}}</ref> |
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<ref name="r9fk4f">{{Cite web |title=McKinney Roughs, Site Setting: Place and Time |url=https://www.texasbeyondhistory.net/mckinney/setting.html |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231226210646/https://www.texasbeyondhistory.net/mckinney/setting.html |archive-date=26 December 2023 |access-date=30 December 2023 |website=Texas Beyond History |publisher=Texas Archeological Research Laboratory at [[The University of Texas at Austin]]}}</ref> |
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<ref name="8fjfj4">{{Cite web |date=14 June 2019 |title=Site Analysis & Existing Conditions, Opportunities & Challenges (ECOC) Report |url=https://www.austintexas.gov/sites/default/files/files/Parks/Planning_and_Development/John_Trevino_Metro_Park/Trevino_Park_ECOC_Report_sm_20190614.pdf |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231226174140/https://www.austintexas.gov/sites/default/files/files/Parks/Planning_and_Development/John_Trevino_Metro_Park/Trevino_Park_ECOC_Report_sm_20190614.pdf |archive-date=26 December 2023 |publisher=[[City of Austin|City of Austin Parks and Recreation Department]] |page=41}}</ref> |
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<ref name="f8rn2d">{{Cite web |date=2000 |title=From Hunter-Gatherers to Settlers, The Roughs has a Colorful History |url=http://www.lcra.org/lands/roughs/history.html |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20000829104850/http://www.lcra.org/lands/roughs/history.html |archive-date=29 August 2000 |publisher=[[Lower Colorado River Authority]]}}</ref> |
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<ref name="1s4f">{{Cite news |last=Haurwitz |first=Ralph K.M. |date=3 April 2017 |title=UT President Fenves rethinks future of West Austin field lab |work=[[Austin American-Statesman]] |url=https://www.statesman.com/story/news/2017/04/03/ut-president-fenves-rethinks-future-of-west-austin-field-lab/10138414007/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231227015431/https://www.statesman.com/story/news/2017/04/03/ut-president-fenves-rethinks-future-of-west-austin-field-lab/10138414007/ |archive-date=27 December 2023}}</ref> |
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<ref name="nr94">{{Cite news |last=Haurwitz |first=Ralph K.M. |date=31 August 2012 |title=Despite detail and cost, UT land plans could gather dust |work=[[Austin American-Statesman]] |url=https://www.statesman.com/story/news/2012/08/31/despite-detail-and-cost-ut-land-plans-could-gather-dust/9856102007/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231227015432/https://www.statesman.com/story/news/2012/08/31/despite-detail-and-cost-ut-land-plans-could-gather-dust/9856102007/ |archive-date=27 December 2023}}</ref> |
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<ref name="Nielsen-Gammon 2012">{{cite journal |last1=Nielsen-Gammon |first1=John W. |date=November 2012 |title=The 2011 Texas Drought |url=https://twj-ojs-tdl.tdl.org/twj/article/view/6463/6066 |format=PDF |journal=Texas Water Journal |publisher=Texas Water Resources Institute |volume=3 |issue=1 |pages=59–95 |doi=10.21423/twj.v3i1.6463 |s2cid=132108194 |doi-access=free}}</ref> |
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<ref name="94nd">{{Cite web |title=McKinney Roughs Nature Park Opportunities |url=https://www.lcra.org/parks/land-business-development/land-development/mckinney-roughs-opportunities/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231226172730/https://www.lcra.org/parks/land-business-development/land-development/mckinney-roughs-opportunities/ |archive-date=26 December 2023 |access-date=26 December 2023 |publisher=[[Lower Colorado River Authority]]}}</ref> |
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<ref name="0rn2d">{{Cite news |date=5 March 2015 |title=Kayaking the Colorado River at McKinney Roughs |work=[[Texas Highways]] |url=https://texashighways.com/blog/kayaking-mckinney-roughs/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231227010600/https://texashighways.com/blog/kayaking-mckinney-roughs/ |archive-date=27 December 2023}}</ref> |
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<ref name="91fn42">{{Cite web |last=Nourah Al-Rashid |first=Caskey |date=2009 |title=Mechanisms influencing student understanding on an outdoor guided field trip |url=https://repositories.lib.utexas.edu/server/api/core/bitstreams/ce72c43d-88c6-4282-a39e-18d2e917a384/content |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231226173611/https://repositories.lib.utexas.edu/server/api/core/bitstreams/ce72c43d-88c6-4282-a39e-18d2e917a384/content |archive-date=26 December 2023 |publisher=[[The University of Texas at Austin]] |pages=44–45}}</ref> |
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<ref name="goser4">{{Cite web |title=McKinney Roughs Nature Park |url=https://www.visitbastrop.com/listing/mckinney-roughs-nature-park/301/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231226172338/https://www.visitbastrop.com/listing/mckinney-roughs-nature-park/301/ |archive-date=26 December 2023 |access-date=26 December 2023 |publisher=Visit Bastrop (Bastrop Convention & Exhibit Center)}}</ref> |
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<ref name="orhe2">{{Cite news |last=LeBlanc |first=Pam |date=6 November 2016 |title=Thrill-seekers soar above treetops at Zip Lost Pines |work=[[Austin American-Statesman]] |url=https://www.statesman.com/story/news/2016/11/07/thrill-seekers-soar-above-treetops-at-zip-lost-pines/10009242007/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231226200740/https://www.statesman.com/story/news/2016/11/07/thrill-seekers-soar-above-treetops-at-zip-lost-pines/10009242007/ |archive-date=26 December 2023}}</ref> |
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<ref name="7r24f">{{Cite web |date=2018 |title=McKinney Roughs Nature Park: Natural Science Programs |url=https://www.lcra.org/download/mrnp-educational-programs-2018-pdf/?wpdmdl=12167 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201018011024/https://www.lcra.org/download/mrnp-educational-programs-2018-pdf/?wpdmdl=12167 |archive-date=18 October 2020 |publisher=[[Lower Colorado River Authority]]}}</ref> |
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<ref name="493h2">{{Cite web |title=McKinney Roughs Nature Park |url=https://www.lcra.org/parks/mckinney-roughs-nature-park/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231028234822/https://www.lcra.org/parks/mckinney-roughs-nature-park/ |archive-date=28 October 2023 |access-date=26 December 2023 |publisher=[[Lower Colorado River Authority]]}}</ref> |
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<ref name="or20r4">{{Cite web |date=2019 |title=Land Development Opportunity: McKinney Roughs Nature Park |url=https://www.lcra.org/download/propertyprofile_mckinneyroughsnaturepark_web/?wpdmdl=23754 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231227041113/https://www.lcra.org/download/propertyprofile_mckinneyroughsnaturepark_web/?wpdmdl=23754 |archive-date=27 December 2023 |access-date=26 December 2023 |publisher=[[Lower Colorado River Authority]]}}</ref> |
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<ref name="b37r">{{Cite web |title=Map: McKinney Roughs Nature Park |url=https://www.lcra.org/download/mckinney-roughs-nature-park-map-pdf/?wpdmdl=12160 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231226174233/https://www.lcra.org/download/mckinney-roughs-nature-park-map-pdf/?wpdmdl=12160 |archive-date=26 December 2023 |access-date=26 December 2023 |publisher=[[Lower Colorado River Authority]]}}</ref> |
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<ref name="jr849f">{{Cite news |date=27 May 2007 |title=McKinney Roughs Nature Park |work=[[The Houston Chronicle]] |url=https://www.chron.com/life/travel/article/McKinney-Roughs-Nature-Park-1609896.php |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231227003107/https://www.chron.com/life/travel/article/McKinney-Roughs-Nature-Park-1609896.php |archive-date=27 December 2023}}</ref> |
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<ref name="1dfh4">{{Cite news |last=LeBlanc |first=Pam |date=20 December 2014 |title=Tired of the usual trails? Check out these 5 less-known hiking gems |work=[[Austin American-Statesman]] |url=https://www.statesman.com/story/news/2014/12/21/tired-usual-trails-check-out/6718192007/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231226190516/https://www.statesman.com/story/news/2014/12/21/tired-usual-trails-check-out/6718192007/ |archive-date=26 December 2023}}</ref> |
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<ref name="c7e9r">{{Cite web |title=Nature Study and Observation - Unusual Diversity of Plants, Mammals and Birds |url=http://www.lcra.org/parks/mckr_birding_wildlife.html |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100126044831/http://www.lcra.org/parks/mckr_birding_wildlife.html |archive-date=26 January 2010 |publisher=[[Lower Colorado River Authority]]}}</ref> |
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<ref name="ur82">{{Cite web |title=McKinney Roughs Nature Park: Where Texas comes together |url=https://www.lcra.org/parks/developed_parks/mckinney_roughs.html |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20061005084347/https://www.lcra.org/parks/developed_parks/mckinney_roughs.html |archive-date=5 October 2006 |publisher=[[Lower Colorado River Authority]]}}</ref> |
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<ref name="dd91">{{Cite news |date=22 December 2014 |title=Bastrop County going to the birds this weekend |work=[[The Bastrop Advertiser]] |url=https://www.statesman.com/story/news/local/2014/12/23/bastrop-county-going-to-the-birds-this-weekend/9924674007/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231227025602/https://www.statesman.com/story/news/local/2014/12/23/bastrop-county-going-to-the-birds-this-weekend/9924674007/ |archive-date=27 December 2023 |via=[[Austin American-Statesman]]}}</ref> |
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<ref name="PNDsk">{{Cite web |last1=Kemp |first1=Leonard |last2=Mauldin |first2=Raymond |last3=Munoz |first3=Cynthia |date=2019 |title=National Register Eligibility Testing of Three Archaeological Sites on Camp Swift, Bastrop County, Texas |url=https://colfa.utsa.edu/_documents/car/asr-400/asr-465-redacted.pdf |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231227215759/https://colfa.utsa.edu/_documents/car/asr-400/asr-465-redacted.pdf |archive-date=27 December 2023 |publisher=[[University of Texas at San Antonio]] |pages=9, 14}}</ref> |
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<ref name="O8vH6">{{Cite news |last=McLeod |first=Gerard |date=29 January 1999 |title=Day Trips |work=[[The Austin Chronicle]] |url=https://www.austinchronicle.com/columns/1999-01-29/521068/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231229012925/https://www.austinchronicle.com/columns/1999-01-29/521068/ |archive-date=29 December 2023}}</ref> |
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<ref name="57Juo">{{Cite news |last=Hunter |first=Fran |date=4 April 2017 |title=Downtown river access in Smithville one step closer |work=[[Austin American-Statesman]] |url=https://www.statesman.com/story/news/local/2017/04/04/downtown-river-access-in-smithville-one-step-closer/10386846007/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231226191104/https://www.statesman.com/story/news/local/2017/04/04/downtown-river-access-in-smithville-one-step-closer/10386846007/ |archive-date=26 December 2023}}</ref> |
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<ref name="LRATg">{{Cite news |last=Mulder |first=Brandon |date=5 December 2019 |title=Bastrop County records clean ozone season |work=[[Austin American-Statesman]] |url=https://www.statesman.com/story/news/local/bastrop/2019/12/06/bastrop-county-records-clean-ozone-season/2143172007/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231227025752/https://www.statesman.com/story/news/local/bastrop/2019/12/06/bastrop-county-records-clean-ozone-season/2143172007/ |archive-date=27 December 2023}}</ref> |
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<ref name="idf3Y">{{Cite news |last=Mulder |first=Brandon |date=26 March 2020 |title=Bastrop closes city parks, cites disinfectant supply shortage |work=[[Austin American-Statesman]] |url=https://www.statesman.com/story/news/local/bastrop/2020/03/26/bastrop-closes-city-parks-cites-disinfectant-supply-shortage/1452219007/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231226202107/https://www.statesman.com/story/news/local/bastrop/2020/03/26/bastrop-closes-city-parks-cites-disinfectant-supply-shortage/1452219007/ |archive-date=26 December 2023}}</ref> |
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<ref name="7ZQuT">{{Cite news |date=5 May 2016 |title=Outdoors: Central Texas parks |work=[[Austin American-Statesman]] |url=https://www.statesman.com/story/entertainment/local/2016/05/05/outdoors-central-texas-parks/10199147007/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231226201415/https://www.statesman.com/story/entertainment/local/2016/05/05/outdoors-central-texas-parks/10199147007/ |archive-date=26 December 2023}}</ref> |
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<ref name="pLBQM">{{Cite news |date=9 March 2021 |title=Getting outdoors at McKinney Roughs Nature Park |work=[[KTBC (TV)|Fox 7 Austin]] |url=https://www.fox7austin.com/video/909065 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231227004231/https://www.fox7austin.com/video/909065 |archive-date=27 December 2023}}</ref> |
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<ref name="e9QkH">{{Cite news |last=Anders |first=Helen |date=1 September 2012 |title=Bastrop: History and fun within spitting distance of Austin |work=[[Austin American-Statesman]] |url=https://www.statesman.com/story/news/2012/09/01/bastrop-history-and-fun-within-spitting-distance-of-austin/9940825007/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231227013758/https://www.statesman.com/story/news/2012/09/01/bastrop-history-and-fun-within-spitting-distance-of-austin/9940825007/ |archive-date=27 December 2023}}</ref> |
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<ref name="qsrJ7">{{Cite news |last=Sevilla |first=Andy |date=14 June 2018 |title=Hyatt Regency in Bastrop County named 'best family-friendly hotel' |work=[[Austin American-Statesman]] |url=https://www.statesman.com/story/news/local/2018/06/14/hyatt-regency-in-bastrop-county-named-best-family-friendly-hotel/10383872007/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231226193527/https://www.statesman.com/story/news/local/2018/06/14/hyatt-regency-in-bastrop-county-named-best-family-friendly-hotel/10383872007/ |archive-date=26 December 2023}}</ref> |
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<ref name="EvLKr">{{Cite news |last=Elbel |first=Mauri |date=24 May 2014 |title=Summer fun around Texas |work=[[Austin American-Statesman]] |url=https://www.statesman.com/story/lifestyle/travel/2014/05/24/summer-fun-around-texas/10056899007/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231226192710/https://www.statesman.com/story/lifestyle/travel/2014/05/24/summer-fun-around-texas/10056899007/ |archive-date=26 December 2023}}</ref> |
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<ref name="iLmBI">{{Cite news |last=Aguilar |first=Melissa |date=27 August 2016 |title=Test the waters of a new resort |work=[[The Houston Chronicle]] |url=https://www.chron.com/life/article/Test-the-waters-of-a-new-resort-1671967.php |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231227063131/https://www.chron.com/life/article/Test-the-waters-of-a-new-resort-1671967.php |archive-date=27 December 2023}}</ref> |
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<ref name="RAMIw">{{Cite news |last=Huber |first=Mary |date=13 August 2016 |title=Hollis Wayne, the horse maestro |work=[[Austin American-Statesman]] |url=https://www.statesman.com/story/news/local/2016/08/13/hollis-wayne-the-horse-maestro/9880816007/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231227015922/https://www.statesman.com/story/news/local/2016/08/13/hollis-wayne-the-horse-maestro/9880816007/ |archive-date=27 December 2023}}</ref> |
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<ref name="6coS7">{{Cite news |last=Finan |first=Kristin |date=31 January 2019 |title=Weekend Escape: Bastrop; Small town 45 minutes east of Austin offers big fun, adventure |work=[[Austin American-Statesman]] |url=https://www.statesman.com/story/lifestyle/travel/2019/01/31/little-bastrop-offers-big-fun-for-day-trip-or-weekend-getaway/6148676007/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231226191554/https://www.statesman.com/story/lifestyle/travel/2019/01/31/little-bastrop-offers-big-fun-for-day-trip-or-weekend-getaway/6148676007/ |archive-date=26 December 2023}}</ref> |
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<ref name="z9nlk">{{Cite news |last=Dreher |first=Lisa |date=6 March 2018 |title=You've only got a week, so here are things to do over Spring Break in Austin |work=[[Austin American-Statesman]] |url=https://www.statesman.com/story/entertainment/local/2018/03/07/youve-only-got-a-week-so-here-are-things-to-do-over-spring-break-in-austin/10210963007/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231226192018/https://www.statesman.com/story/entertainment/local/2018/03/07/youve-only-got-a-week-so-here-are-things-to-do-over-spring-break-in-austin/10210963007/ |archive-date=26 December 2023}}</ref> |
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<ref name="VjwtW">{{Cite news |last=Dille |first=Ian |date=7 February 2013 |title=Yappy trails |work=[[Austin American-Statesman]] |url=https://www.statesman.com/story/lifestyle/2013/02/08/yappy-trails/10185424007/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231226201211/https://www.statesman.com/story/lifestyle/2013/02/08/yappy-trails/10185424007/ |archive-date=26 December 2023}}</ref> |
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<ref name="2uIlD">{{Cite web |title=River Trips at McKinney Roughs |url=https://www.lcra.org/parks/mckr_river_trips.html |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100126032925/https://www.lcra.org/parks/mckr_river_trips.html |archive-date=26 January 2010 |publisher=[[Lower Colorado River Authority]]}}</ref> |
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<ref name="6Rqyj">{{Cite web |date=2016 |title=Cultural Arts & Tourism: Bastrop Comprehensive Plan (2016 - 2036) |url=https://www.cityofbastrop.org/upload/page/0267/docs/Chap%208%20Cultural%20Arts_Tourism.pdf |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231229015139/https://www.cityofbastrop.org/upload/page/0267/docs/Chap%208%20Cultural%20Arts_Tourism.pdf |archive-date=29 December 2023 |publisher=City of Bastrop, Texas |page=9}}</ref> |
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<ref name="cM7Hx">{{Cite web |title=Outdoor Education and Recreation Programs at McKinney Roughs |url=http://www.lcra.org/parks/mckr_outdoor_programs.html |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100126044839/http://www.lcra.org/parks/mckr_outdoor_programs.html |archive-date=26 January 2010 |publisher=[[Lower Colorado River Authority]]}}</ref> |
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<ref name="pwUAa">{{Cite web |title=Find a Campsite: McKinney Roughs Nature Park, TX |url=https://lcraparks.reserveamerica.com/camping/mckinney-roughs-nature-park/r/facilityDetails.do?contractCode=LCRA&parkId=820450&_ga=2.128425419.675068933.1703610795-347540476.1703610795 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231227034923/https://lcraparks.reserveamerica.com/camping/mckinney-roughs-nature-park/r/facilityDetails.do?contractCode=LCRA&parkId=820450&_ga=2.128425419.675068933.1703610795-347540476.1703610795 |archive-date=27 December 2023 |access-date=26 December 2023 |publisher=[[Lower Colorado River Authority]]}}</ref> |
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<ref name="HxWGr">{{Cite web |date=2012 |title=McKinney Roughs Nature Park Reservation Guideline |url=http://www.lcra.org/library/media/public/docs/parks/mckrReservationGuidelines2012.pdf |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121023194405/http://www.lcra.org/library/media/public/docs/parks/mckrReservationGuidelines2012.pdf |archive-date=23 October 2012 |publisher=[[Lower Colorado River Authority]]}}</ref> |
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<ref name="qo6ac">{{Cite news |date=26 March 2009 |title=McKinney Roughs plans free Earth Day events |page=12A |work=Lockhart Post Register |url-access= |via=[[NewspaperArchive]]}}</ref> |
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<ref name="CwqZX">{{Cite news |last=Mashhood |first=Farzad |date=1 September 2012 |title=LCRA to host Earth Day festival at McKinney Roughs |work=[[Austin American-Statesman]] |url=https://www.statesman.com/story/news/local/2012/09/01/lcra-to-host-earth-day-festival-at-mckinney-roughs/9869328007/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231227164545/https://www.statesman.com/story/news/local/2012/09/01/lcra-to-host-earth-day-festival-at-mckinney-roughs/9869328007/ |archive-date=27 December 2023}}</ref> |
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<ref name="rd6Vj">{{Cite news |last=Kubelka |first=Regina |date=1 January 2015 |title=Discover! — Hiking McKinney Roughs |work=Austin Fit Magazine |url=https://www.austinfitmagazine.com/January-2015/discover-hiking-mckinney-roughs/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230326031409/https://www.austinfitmagazine.com/January-2015/discover-hiking-mckinney-roughs/ |archive-date=26 March 2023}}</ref> |
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<ref name="4az8y">{{Cite news |last=Elbel |first=Mauri |date=19 July 2014 |title=Fun hits home in Bastrop |work=[[Austin American-Statesman]] |url=https://www.statesman.com/story/lifestyle/travel/2014/07/19/fun-hits-home-in-bastrop/10040210007/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231227023116/https://www.statesman.com/story/lifestyle/travel/2014/07/19/fun-hits-home-in-bastrop/10040210007/ |archive-date=27 December 2023}}</ref> |
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<ref name="CS4Nj">{{Cite news |last=Elbel |first=Mauri |date=13 March 2020 |title=Wildflowers are back! A dozen great spots near Austin to see them |work=[[Austin American-Statesman]] |url=https://www.statesman.com/story/lifestyle/travel/2020/03/13/wildflowers-are-back-dozen-great-spots-near-austin-to-see-them/1528682007/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231227020622/https://www.statesman.com/story/lifestyle/travel/2020/03/13/wildflowers-are-back-dozen-great-spots-near-austin-to-see-them/1528682007/ |archive-date=27 December 2023}}</ref> |
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<ref name="PV7xG">{{Cite news |last=Medley |first=Alison |date=4 May 2020 |title=Texas' best places to see wildflowers blooming in May |work=[[The Houston Chronicle]] |url=https://www.chron.com/local/article/Texas-best-places-to-see-wildflowers-blooming-in-15244756.php |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231227062412/https://www.chron.com/local/article/Texas-best-places-to-see-wildflowers-blooming-in-15244756.php |archive-date=27 December 2023}}</ref> |
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<ref name="uDquG">{{Cite web |title=Heart of Texas East Wildlife Trail: East Austin Loop |url=https://tpwd.texas.gov/huntwild/wildlife/wildlife-trails/hote/east-austin-loop |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231227030713/https://tpwd.texas.gov/huntwild/wildlife/wildlife-trails/hote/east-austin-loop |archive-date=27 December 2023 |access-date=26 December 2023 |publisher=[[Texas Parks and Wildlife Department]]}}</ref> |
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<ref name="xNr7k">{{Cite news |title=The Guide to Austin-area Birding Sites: Southeast Areas |publisher=[[Texas Parks and Wildlife Department]] |url=http://tpwd.texas.gov/publications/pwdpubs/pwd_br_w7000_0328/southeast/ |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150909000830/http://tpwd.texas.gov/publications/pwdpubs/pwd_br_w7000_0328/southeast/ |archive-date=9 September 2015}}</ref> |
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<ref name="H1Zlc">{{Cite web |title=The Guide to Austin-area Birding Sites |url=https://tpwd.texas.gov/publications/pwdpubs/pwd_br_w7000_0328/southeast/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231227003107/https://tpwd.texas.gov/publications/pwdpubs/pwd_br_w7000_0328/southeast/ |archive-date=27 December 2023 |access-date=26 December 2023 |publisher=[[Texas Parks and Wildlife Department]]}}</ref> |
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<ref name="v6PTT">{{Cite news |last=Mulder |first=Brandon |date=31 January 2020 |title=Bastrop among 4 Texas cities granted 'Bird City' designation |work=[[Austin American-Statesman]] |url=https://www.statesman.com/story/news/local/bastrop/2020/01/31/bastrop-among-4-texas-cities-granted-bird-city-designation/1796974007/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231227015536/https://www.statesman.com/story/news/local/bastrop/2020/01/31/bastrop-among-4-texas-cities-granted-bird-city-designation/1796974007/ |archive-date=27 December 2023}}</ref> |
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<ref name="SPaxJ">{{Cite web |title=Top 10 Public Birding Hotspots |url=https://explorebastropcounty.com/listings/top-10-public-birding-hotspots/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231227021040/https://explorebastropcounty.com/listings/top-10-public-birding-hotspots/ |archive-date=27 December 2023 |access-date=27 December 2023 |publisher=Explore Bastrop County}}</ref> |
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<ref name=":0">{{Cite news |last=LeBlanc |first=Pam |date=12 March 2024 |title=Tired of Crowds at Texas State Parks? Try an LCRA Park. |url=https://www.texasmonthly.com/travel/texas-lcra-parks-alternative-to-state-parks/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240312164943/https://www.texasmonthly.com/travel/texas-lcra-parks-alternative-to-state-parks/ |archive-date=12 March 2024 |work=[[Texas Monthly]]}}</ref> |
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<ref name="QTA1K">{{Cite news |last=Elbel |first=Mauri |date=March 2024 |title=Bluebonnets Are Back: A Dozen Spots to See Spring Wildflowers in Central Texas |url=https://austintravels.com/trips/bluebonnets-2024/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240405214819/https://austintravels.com/trips/bluebonnets-2024/ |archive-date=5 April 2024 |work=Austin Travels Magazine}}</ref> |
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<ref name="6ovAB">{{Cite news |last=Jones |first=Cristela |date=27 February 2024 |title=Bastrop's small town charm wins Texas Travel Awards for families, outdoors |url=https://www.mysanantonio.com/lifestyle/article/texas-travel-awards-bastrop-austin-18689504.php |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240305000556/https://www.mysanantonio.com/lifestyle/article/texas-travel-awards-bastrop-austin-18689504.php |archive-date=5 March 2024 |work=[[San Antonio Express-News]]}}</ref> |
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<ref name="wwoSA">{{Cite news |last=De la Rosa |first=Gabi |date=24 February 2024 |title=Three LCRA Parks that should be at the top of your road trip bucket list |url=https://www.chron.com/life/travel/article/texas-lcra-park-road-trips-18684213.php |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240406172235/https://www.chron.com/life/travel/article/texas-lcra-park-road-trips-18684213.php |archive-date=6 April 2024 |work=[[The Houston Chronicle]]}}</ref> |
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<ref name="tBq3n">{{Cite web |last=Anderson, Ph.D. |first=Kevin M. |date=20 November 2023 |title=Another Colorado: Austin and the River |url=https://www.austintexas.gov/sites/default/files/files/Water/CER/another%20colorado%20november%202023.pdf |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240409182448/https://www.austintexas.gov/sites/default/files/files/Water/CER/another%20colorado%20november%202023.pdf |archive-date=9 April 2024 |publisher=Austin Water Center for Environmental Research at Hornsby Bend |via=City of Austin}}</ref> |
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<ref name="v7Nac">{{Cite web |date=20 February 2024 |title=Discover Great Hikes in the Texas Colorado River Watershed |url=https://www.coloradoriverlandtrust.org/discover-great-hikes-in-the-texas-colorado-river-watershed/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://archive.today/20240409193720/https://www.coloradoriverlandtrust.org/discover-great-hikes-in-the-texas-colorado-river-watershed/ |archive-date=9 April 2024 |publisher=Colorado River Land Trust}}</ref> |
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}} |
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*{{Cite book |last1=Permenter |first1=Paris |url=https://search.worldcat.org/title/1309058662 |title=Day trips from Austin: getaway ideas for the local traveler |last2=Bigley |first2=John |publisher=TwoDot Books |year=2016 |isbn=9781493018444 |oclc=1309058662}} |
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*{{Cite book |last=Williams |first=John |url=https://search.worldcat.org/title/910413595 |title=The untold story of the Lower Colorado River Authority |publisher=[[Texas A&M University Press]] |year=2016 |isbn=9781623493417 |oclc=910424082}} |
*{{Cite book |last=Williams |first=John |url=https://search.worldcat.org/title/910413595 |title=The untold story of the Lower Colorado River Authority |publisher=[[Texas A&M University Press]] |year=2016 |isbn=9781623493417 |oclc=910424082}} |
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== Further reading == |
== Further reading == |
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* {{Cite book | |
* {{Cite book |last1=Carpenter |first1=Steve |url=https://search.worldcat.org/title/77081225 |title=The McKinney Roughs site 41BP627: a stratified Late Archaic II site on the Colorado River terraces, Bastrop County, Texas |last2=Bryant |first2=Vaughn M. |last3=SWCA, Inc |last4=Texas Antiquities Committee |publisher=SWCA, Inc. Environmental Consultants |year=2006 |oclc=77081225}} |
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* {{Cite book | |
* {{Cite book |last1=Kotter |first1=Steven M. |url=https://search.worldcat.org/title/36787839 |title=McKinney Roughs: An Intensive Cultural Resource Survey Along the Colorado River, Bastrop County, Texas |last2=Utley |first2=Dan K. |last3=Sundborg |first3=Gregory |publisher=[[Lower Colorado River Authority]], Land and Environmental Services |year=1996 |oclc=36787839}} |
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*{{Cite book | |
*{{Cite book |last1=Lawrence |first1=Ken |url=https://search.worldcat.org/title/55676840 |title=Archeological survey investigations for the McKinney Roughs Resort project, Bastrop County, Texas |last2=Miller |first2=Kevin A. |last3=SWCA, Inc |last4=Texas Antiquities Committee |publisher=SWCA Environmental Consultants |year=2002 |oclc=55676840}} |
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* {{Cite book |last=Marr |first=Minnette |url=https://search.worldcat.org/title/51796277 |title=The vascular flora of McKinney Roughs Bastrop County, Texas |publisher=[[Southwest Texas State University]] |year=2002 |oclc=51796277}} |
* {{Cite book |last=Marr |first=Minnette |url=https://search.worldcat.org/title/51796277 |title=The vascular flora of McKinney Roughs Bastrop County, Texas |publisher=[[Southwest Texas State University]] |year=2002 |oclc=51796277}} |
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Revision as of 18:16, 15 April 2024
| McKinney Roughs Nature Park | |
|---|---|
 Visitors center at McKinney Roughs Nature Park | |
 | |
| Type | |
| Location | 1884 State Hwy 71 West, Cedar Creek, Texas, US |
| Nearest city | Bastrop and Austin, Texas, US |
| Coordinates | 30°08′42″N 97°27′36″W / 30.145°N 97.460°W |
| Area | 1,140 acres (460 ha) |
| Opened | 1998 |
| Etymology | Named after Thomas F. McKinney |
| Owned by | Lower Colorado River Authority (LCRA) |
| Status | Open |
| Paths | 28.3 km (17.6 mi) trail system |
| Water | Colorado River |
| Website | McKinney Roughs Nature Park |
McKinney Roughs Nature Park is a 1,140-acre (460 ha) nature park and archaeological site in Cedar Creek, Texas, United States. Located about 13 mi (21 km) east of Austin and next to the Colorado River, the park features 17.6 mi (28.3 km) of trails for hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding. The park is owned and managed by the Lower Colorado River Authority (LCRA). During the late Archaic Period, around 2,100 years ago, McKinney Roughs served as a camping ground for prehistoric hunter-gatherers. In the 1850s, the land was owned by a ranching family that were early settlers of Texas. Over the years, it passed through various owners until it was acquired by the LCRA, which then transformed it into a nature park in 1998.
The park has an unusual convergence of four ecosystems that contribute to its diverse animal and plant life. Within McKinney Roughs and the broader Lost Pines forest, over 250 bird species find habitat, establishing it as a renowned bird-watching destination in Texas. It is also home to several pine trees, mostly notably the loblolly pine, similar to the ones found in the nearby Bastrop State Park and Buescher State Park. Situated adjacent to the 405 acres (164 ha) Hyatt Regency Lost Pines Resort and Spa, McKinney Roughs offers an array of features and amenities. These include an educational science center, a dual zip line, short-term rental facilities for larger groups, kayaking, and guided nature tours, among other offerings.
History
Pre-historic era
In ancient times, the area now encompassing McKinney Roughs Nature Park served as a camping ground for prehistoric communities at the conclusion of the Archaic Period, approximately 2,100 years ago.[1][2] Archaeological evidence suggests that at least three times within the period spanning 2,100 to 850 years ago, these communities temporarily camped on the hills of McKinney Roughs. Their activities during these brief stays included deer hunting, collecting mussels from the Colorado River, and gathering various plants from the surrounding area.[1][3] At the site, archaeologists uncovered 15 features (such as human-made sites), 2,159 artifacts (encompassing tools and weapons), and 1,129 biofacts (unmodified natural materials like shells, otoliths, and bones).[4] Hunter-gatherers at McKinney Roughs had designated specific toss and drop zones for discarding tools or storing them for later use.[5] This practice has assisted archaeologists in comprehending the spatial patterns and activities at the campsite, including cooking, hunting, and toolmaking.[6]
The findings at the archaeological site, known as the McKinney Roughs site (41BP627), were unearthed during initial excavations conducted by SWCA Environmental Consultants.[1] These excavations were carried out as part of preparations for the construction of the neighboring Hyatt Regency Lost Pines Resort and Spa.[4] The artifacts recovered from the site were encased in flood sediments, providing a natural preservation environment for non-perishable items, including ancient cooking ovens, stone tools, fireplaces, and mussel shells.[1][7] However, items crafted from plants, bones, and hides had disintegrated over time. Archaeologists characterized the site as having "developed under relatively rare circumstances", benefiting from the preservation provided by flood sediments.[1] During the Transitional Archaic period, this region experienced substantial rainfall which caused periodic floods near the Colorado River.[4][7]
The first discovery at the McKinney Roughs archaeological site revealed a compact fireplace with charcoal, charred rocks, and lithic rubble.[1] These findings provided evidence for archaeologists, indicating the presence of ancient campfires. Subsequent extensive excavations uncovered additional campsites from the same Archaic Period. During the exploration, archaeologists unearthed various ancient tools and weaponry, including flake scrapers, raw chert cores used in crafting tools and weapons, and a small dart projectiles known as Ensor and Darl.[1][7]
Radiocarbon dating of the Ensor points at McKinney Roughs indicates an age roughly between 100 B.C. and 200 A.D., corresponding to approximately 1800 to 2100 years ago, marking the early phase of the Transitional Archaic period. Additionally, the Darl projectile, found at the site, serves as a "time marker," dating the location to approximately 1,100 to 1,150 A.D. The Darl, a transitional weapon utilized by hunters during the Transitional Archaic period, represents an early form of the arrow point.[7] Researchers consider the arrow as the hallmark weapon of the forthcoming Late Prehistoric period, signifying that the ancient people at the McKinney Roughs site were alive during the last years of the Archaic Period.[a][1]
Modern day
In the early 1850s, the land and Windmill Ranch, which now constitutes McKinney Roughs Nature Park, belonged to the family of John Calhoun Wise.[8] Mr. Wise, who married Cynthia Houston, a cousin of Sam Houston, had eight children.[8][9] Their descendants resided on the property until the 1950s, after which it changed hands among various owners for over 50 years. In 1990, the land title passed to the Wilton and Effie Hebert Foundation, which subsequently sold the tract in 1995 to the Lower Colorado River Authority (LCRA), a power utility company overseeing the Colorado River. The LCRA expanded its holdings by acquiring two adjoining parcels in 1996 and 1998, culminating in the creation of McKinney Roughs.[8][10]
Opened to the public in 1998,[11] the park first unveiled 9 miles (14 km) of hiking and horseback riding trails. The park bears the name of Thomas F. McKinney, an early settler of the State of Texas who had a large influence in the development of Austin and Bastrop.[12][13] Thomas F. McKinney did not own the land that currently comprises McKinney Roughs, but he managed a lumber mill located across from the Colorado River, potentially utilizing timber resources from what is now McKinney Roughs. Local residents had already been referring to the land as McKinney Roughs for many years before its official designation. The term "roughs" is derived from the challenging local terrain, which posed obstacles to extensive agricultural endeavors and may have served as a potential hiding place for frontier outlaws. In addition to McKinney Roughs, another park in Austin, about 12 mi (19 km) away, is named after him – McKinney Falls State Park.[14]
In 2009, there was a proposal to downsize and relocate the Brackenridge Field Laboratory, a research field lab owned by the University of Texas at Austin, to McKinney Roughs to accommodate mixed-use development.[15] Faculty members opposed the relocation, arguing that the lab's original location was closer to campus and that moving to McKinney Roughs would negatively impact students' learning. They also noted that McKinney Roughs' other activities, such as horseback riding, did not align with the lab's research interests.[15][16] Ultimately, the lab was not moved.[15]
In 2011, parts of Bastrop County were engulfed by large fires as a result of exceptional drought and record-high temperatures.[17] The fire was the most destructive wildfire in the history of Texas, and burned about 96% of the neighboring Bastrop State Park.[18] McKinney Roughs was spared from the wildfires but utility infrastructure was damaged. The LCRA temporarily closed McKinney Roughs and the two parks at Lake Bastrop throughout the weekend.[19] Several months later, discussions about replantation emerged, and various park organizations were contemplating the installation of pine cone collectors in seed production areas. McKinney Roughs was being considered for this initiative due to its abundant pine cone seed production.[20]
In 2014, Bastrop earned a nomination as one of the top 40 travel destinations in Texas, as per a poll conducted by Texas Highways magazine. The magazine specifically emphasized McKinney Roughs' prime location in the Lost Pines region and recommended horseback riding activities as a noteworthy experience in Bastrop.[21] In 2017, the LCRA implemented enhancements at McKinney Roughs, including the construction of a wildlife-viewing blind, a designated bird feeding area, and a demonstration garden.[22] Later that year, McKinney Roughs underwent a expansion of its trail system, extending it to cover a distance of up to 13 mi (21 km). The majority of these trails consist of dirt paths with diverse elevations, including some that ran alongside the Colorado River.[23]
In 2018, an ozone monitoring station located in McKinney Roughs, operated by the Capital Area Council of Governments, was moved to Bastrop. The relocation was prompted by an analysis indicating that the trees and vegetation in McKinney Roughs were affecting the accuracy of the system's readings.[24] In 2020, the LCRA temporarily closed McKinney Roughs and its two parks at Lake Bastrop during the COVID-19 lockdowns. The closure was a response to shortages in cleaning supplies necessary to disinfect the facilities and mitigate the risk of possible contamination.[25] As of 2024, the outdoor and family-friendly activities offered at McKinney Roughs continue to draw visitors and residents of Bastrop to its park grounds.[26]
Features and amenities
McKinney Roughs is situated on 1884 State Hwy 71 West in Cedar Creek, an unincorporated community within Bastrop County.[27] Positioned along Texas State Highway 71 (SH 71), the park is approximately 13 miles (21 km) east of the Austin–Bergstrom International Airport and 8 miles (13 km) west of the Bastrop.[28][29] Encompassing 1,140 acres (460 ha), this park is located adjacent to the Colorado River and is situated within the Lost Pines forest.[30][31] The park is also situated adjacent to the Hyatt Regency Lost Pines Resort and Spa,[32] a luxurious 405-acre (164 ha) resort that offers amenities such as horseback riding, a golf course, rafting opportunities on the Colorado River, and guided nature tours.[33][34] The resort acquired the land from LCRA in 2006; however, guests at the resort continue to maintain access to the park's trails.[35] About 2 mi (3.2 km) north of McKinney Roughs' trailhead is the Happy Horse Hotel, a campground for equestrians.[36] At the park's visitor center, there is an exhibit featuring an aquarium displaying several fish species native to the Colorado River.[37][38]
One of the major attractions of McKinney Roughs is the Zip Lost Pines, which has the largest dual zip line in Texas.[39][40] The zip lines are side-by-side and were designed for couples or group activities.[41][42] Although the LCRA owns and maintains McKinney Roughs,[43] the zip lines within the park are privately owned and were constructed by an independent company. The zip lines were part of a LCRA initiative to promote increased recreational activities within the park without damaging or impacting the ecosystem.[40] In addition, there are guided kayaking, canoeing, and rafting tours of up to 2 mi (3.2 km) on the Colorado River for children and adults.[44] The park is also home to the Mark Rose Natural Science Center,[45] an educational and recreational facility that promotes nature awareness. The center hosts classes on various subjects, including water conservation, wildlife conservation, land stewardship, and renewable energy.[46][47] These hands-on activities, administered by the park, are available to both children and adults.[48] The programs at the science center align with the state-level curriculum standards for the Texas Essential Knowledge and Skills (TEKS). These programs are specifically designed to prepare students for the Texas Assessment of Knowledge and Skills (TAKS), a former statewide standardized exam.[47]
Accommodations at McKinney Roughs are available for short-term rental.[49] The bunkhouse, capable of housing up to 10 people, offers several comprehensive amenities for overnight stay. Additionally, the facility features five dormitory floors accommodating a total of 112 individuals.[50][51] For larger gatherings, there is an amphitheater with a capacity of up to 120 people, along with three meeting rooms. The Colorado Vista Pavilion, an outdoor venue complete with a grill and electricity, can accommodate 80 people. The Wildflower Hall, capable of hosting up to 240 individuals, boasts air conditioning, heating, a commercial kitchen, and a fireplace.[50] These short-term rental facilities have been used for government meetings, school events, weddings, corporate events, and various other private gatherings.[39][52]
McKinney Roughs has served as the host for the local Earth Day Festival, which is part of the Austin Nature Days campaign. This initiative aims to celebrate the "beauty, vitality, and diversity" of Central Texas ecosystems and natural resources. Throughout this month-long festival, McKinney Roughs has organized a variety of interactive nature events, such as moon and stargazing, nature journaling, a nature workshop, scavenger hunts, kayaking, and various other outdoor activities.[53] According to local Earth Day organizers, activities such as these are designed to educate participants about the offerings at McKinney Roughs and demonstrate that these are activities they can independently pursue when they visit the park again.[54]
Trails
McKinney Roughs has a 17.6 mi (28.3 km) trail system that incorporates hike-and-bike and horseback riding trails.[29][55] It also has 1.44 mi (2.32 km) of shorelines that are partially developed.[30] This riverside trail is frequented among visitors who want to hike along the Colorado River.[56] There are 16 trails in total that vary in size.[57] While some trails involve rough terrain and vary in difficulty, but they are beginner friendly.[58][59] There is also a shorter route that provides wheelchair access.[59] The trails are primarily composed of dirt, unlike the limestone terrain found in many other parks in Central Texas.[58] Motor vehicles are restricted from the trails.[29][60] Visitors are allowed to bring pets on trails, but pets are required to be on a leash outside of camping grounds for their own safety and to protect wildlife.[55] The maze of trails enables visitors to customize both the length and difficulty of the trails.[59]
Below are the trails displayed on the official McKinney Roughs trails map.[55]
| Trail Name | Distance |
|---|---|
| Bluestem | 0.4 mi (0.64 km) |
| Bluff Trail Loop | 0.9 mi (1.4 km) |
| Bobcat Ridge | 1.9 mi (3.1 km) |
| Bobcat Spur | 0.1 mi (0.16 km) |
| Buckeye | 0.6 mi (1.0 km) |
| Coyote | 1 mi (1.6 km) |
| Cypress | 0.6 mi (1.0 km) |
| Deep Sandy | 0.5 mi (0.8 km) |
| Foxtail | 0.2 mi (0.32 km) |
| Meditation Point | 0.2 mi (0.32 km) |
| Pecan Bottom | 1 mi (1.6 km) |
| Pine Canyon | 0.4 mi (0.64 km) |
| Pine Ridge | 2.7 mi (4.3 km) |
| Pond Spur | 0.1 mi (0.16 km) |
| Ridge | 0.6 mi (1.0 km) |
| Riverside | 1.5 mi (2.4 km) |
| Roadrunner | 0.8 mi (1.3 km) |
| Valley View | 0.3 mi (0.5 km) |
| Whitetail | 0.8 mi (1.3 km) |
| Woodland | 0.5 mi (0.8 km) |
| Yaupon | 2.7 mi (4.3 km) |
Flora and fauna
McKinney Roughs serves as a convergence point for four distinct ecosystems:[61] the Post Oak Savannah, Blackland Prairie, East Texas Piney Woods, and a riparian zone.[62] This unusual convergence contributes to the rich diversity of plant and animal life within the park.[47][62] The park is inhabited by loblolly pine trees, akin to those found in the neighboring Bastrop State Park and Buescher State Park. Additionally, the cedar trees within the park are eastern red cedar, distinguishing them from the Ashe juniper trees typically found in the Texas Hill Country.[63] There are also toothache trees and bald cypresses.[64] In the spring months,[65] McKinney Roughs is a ripe zone for bluebonnets, the official state flower of Texas, as well as orange Indian paintbrush flowers.[66][67] The flower and butterfly gardens continue to attract monarch and queen butterflies from spring through the end of summer.[68]
McKinney Roughs is home to various mammals, reptiles, birds, and amphibians.[47][64] Common wildlife sightings at the park include gray foxes, rabbits, white-tailed deer, and squirrels.[69] The park and other parts of the Lost Pines forest serve as a habitat for a diverse array of over 250 bird species.[70][71] The park collaborates with the LCRA, the Hyatt Regency, the Bastrop County Audubon Society, Texas Parks and Wildlife Department’s Lost Pines Master Naturalists, and the National Audubon Society to organize annual bird-watching events.[70] Throughout specific seasons, visitors have the opportunity to observe various bird species, including but not limited to cardinals, eastern bluebird, green kingfisher, Carolina chickadee, hummingbirds, eastern screech-owl, Carolina wren, tufted titmouse, wood duck, northern parulas, common ground doves, hooded warblers, and the bald eagle—the national bird of the United States.[70][72]
Bastrop is one of the four cities certified by the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department as having a "bird city" status.[73] McKinney Roughs is recognized as one of the leading birding-viewing destinations within Bastrop County.[74] As of 2019, there are no regulatory restrictions related to threatened or endangered species or wetlands at McKinney Roughs.[52]
See also
Notes
References
- ^ a b c d e f g h "McKinney Roughs: Archaic Campers on the Colorado River". Texas Beyond History. Texas Archeological Research Laboratory at The University of Texas at Austin. Archived from the original on 26 December 2023. Retrieved 26 December 2023.
- ^ Kemp, Leonard; Mauldin, Raymond; Munoz, Cynthia (2019). "National Register Eligibility Testing of Three Archaeological Sites on Camp Swift, Bastrop County, Texas" (PDF). University of Texas at San Antonio. pp. 9, 14. Archived (PDF) from the original on 27 December 2023.
- ^ Anderson, Ph.D., Kevin M. (20 November 2023). "Another Colorado: Austin and the River" (PDF). Austin Water Center for Environmental Research at Hornsby Bend. Archived (PDF) from the original on 9 April 2024 – via City of Austin.
- ^ a b c "McKinney Roughs, Investigations". Texas Beyond History. Texas Archeological Research Laboratory at The University of Texas at Austin. Archived from the original on 26 December 2023. Retrieved 30 December 2023.
- ^ "McKinney Roughs, The Darl Living Surface: A Transitional Archaic Camp". Texas Beyond History. Texas Archeological Research Laboratory at The University of Texas at Austin. Archived from the original on 26 December 2023. Retrieved 30 December 2023.
- ^ a b "Conclusions: Significance of the McKinney Roughs Site". Texas Beyond History. Texas Archeological Research Laboratory at The University of Texas at Austin. Archived from the original on 26 December 2023. Retrieved 30 December 2023.
- ^ a b c d "McKinney Roughs, Site Setting: Place and Time". Texas Beyond History. Texas Archeological Research Laboratory at The University of Texas at Austin. Archived from the original on 26 December 2023. Retrieved 30 December 2023.
- ^ a b c "From Hunter-Gatherers to Settlers, The Roughs has a Colorful History". Lower Colorado River Authority. 2000. Archived from the original on 29 August 2000.
- ^ "Site Analysis & Existing Conditions, Opportunities & Challenges (ECOC) Report" (PDF). City of Austin Parks and Recreation Department. 14 June 2019. p. 41. Archived (PDF) from the original on 26 December 2023.
- ^ McLeod, Gerard (29 January 1999). "Day Trips". The Austin Chronicle. Archived from the original on 29 December 2023.
- ^ Estaville & Earl 2008, p. 122.
- ^ Williams 2016, p. 232.
- ^ Llewellin & Molloy 2016, p. 55.
- ^ "From Hunter-Gatherers to Pioneers, The Colorful History of McKinney Roughs". Lower Colorado River Authority. 2002. Archived from the original on 3 August 2002.
- ^ a b c Haurwitz, Ralph K.M. (3 April 2017). "UT President Fenves rethinks future of West Austin field lab". Austin American-Statesman. Archived from the original on 27 December 2023.
- ^ Haurwitz, Ralph K.M. (31 August 2012). "Despite detail and cost, UT land plans could gather dust". Austin American-Statesman. Archived from the original on 27 December 2023.
- ^ Nielsen-Gammon, John W. (November 2012). "The 2011 Texas Drought" (PDF). Texas Water Journal. 3 (1). Texas Water Resources Institute: 59–95. doi:10.21423/twj.v3i1.6463. S2CID 132108194.
- ^ "Bastrop State Park, Life After Wildfire". Texas Parks and Wildlife Department. Archived from the original on 23 September 2023. Retrieved 27 December 2023.
- ^ "Fire Notes: Crews working to restore power in Bastrop; UT to help with preserving records". Austin American-Statesman. 10 September 2011. Archived from the original on 27 December 2023.
- ^ Williams, Claire G. (2012). "Replanting the (Really) Lost Pines of Texas" (PDF). The Forest History Society. Archived (PDF) from the original on 27 December 2023.
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- ^ Hunter, Fran (4 April 2017). "Downtown river access in Smithville one step closer". Austin American-Statesman. Archived from the original on 26 December 2023.
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- ^ Mulder, Brandon (5 December 2019). "Bastrop County records clean ozone season". Austin American-Statesman. Archived from the original on 27 December 2023.
- ^ Mulder, Brandon (26 March 2020). "Bastrop closes city parks, cites disinfectant supply shortage". Austin American-Statesman. Archived from the original on 26 December 2023.
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- ^ Permenter & Bigley 2016, p. 65.
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- ^ Nourah Al-Rashid, Caskey (2009). "Mechanisms influencing student understanding on an outdoor guided field trip". The University of Texas at Austin. pp. 44–45. Archived from the original on 26 December 2023.
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- ^ a b LeBlanc, Pam (6 November 2016). "Thrill-seekers soar above treetops at Zip Lost Pines". Austin American-Statesman. Archived from the original on 26 December 2023.
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- ^ "River Trips at McKinney Roughs". Lower Colorado River Authority. Archived from the original on 26 January 2010.
- ^ "Cultural Arts & Tourism: Bastrop Comprehensive Plan (2016 - 2036)" (PDF). City of Bastrop, Texas. 2016. p. 9. Archived (PDF) from the original on 29 December 2023.
- ^ "Outdoor Education and Recreation Programs at McKinney Roughs". Lower Colorado River Authority. Archived from the original on 26 January 2010.
- ^ a b c d "McKinney Roughs Nature Park: Where Texas comes together". Lower Colorado River Authority. Archived from the original on 5 October 2006.
- ^ "McKinney Roughs Nature Park: Natural Science Programs". Lower Colorado River Authority. 2018. Archived from the original on 18 October 2020.
- ^ "Find a Campsite: McKinney Roughs Nature Park, TX". Lower Colorado River Authority. Archived from the original on 27 December 2023. Retrieved 26 December 2023.
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- ^ "McKinney Roughs Nature Park Reservation Guideline" (PDF). Lower Colorado River Authority. 2012. Archived from the original (PDF) on 23 October 2012.
- ^ a b "Land Development Opportunity: McKinney Roughs Nature Park". Lower Colorado River Authority. 2019. Archived from the original on 27 December 2023. Retrieved 26 December 2023.
- ^ "McKinney Roughs plans free Earth Day events". Lockhart Post Register. 26 March 2009. p. 12A – via NewspaperArchive.
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- ^ "Discover Great Hikes in the Texas Colorado River Watershed". Colorado River Land Trust. 20 February 2024. Archived from the original on 9 April 2024.
- ^ De la Rosa, Gabi (24 February 2024). "Three LCRA Parks that should be at the top of your road trip bucket list". The Houston Chronicle. Archived from the original on 6 April 2024.
- ^ a b LeBlanc, Pam (12 March 2024). "Tired of Crowds at Texas State Parks? Try an LCRA Park". Texas Monthly. Archived from the original on 12 March 2024.
- ^ a b c "McKinney Roughs Nature Park". The Houston Chronicle. 27 May 2007. Archived from the original on 27 December 2023.
- ^ Kubelka, Regina (1 January 2015). "Discover! — Hiking McKinney Roughs". Austin Fit Magazine. Archived from the original on 26 March 2023.
- ^ Elbel, Mauri (19 July 2014). "Fun hits home in Bastrop". Austin American-Statesman. Archived from the original on 27 December 2023.
- ^ a b LeBlanc, Pam (20 December 2014). "Tired of the usual trails? Check out these 5 less-known hiking gems". Austin American-Statesman. Archived from the original on 26 December 2023.
- ^ Llewellin & Molloy 2016, p. 51.
- ^ a b "Nature Study and Observation - Unusual Diversity of Plants, Mammals and Birds". Lower Colorado River Authority. Archived from the original on 26 January 2010.
- ^ Elbel, Mauri (March 2024). "Bluebonnets Are Back: A Dozen Spots to See Spring Wildflowers in Central Texas". Austin Travels Magazine. Archived from the original on 5 April 2024.
- ^ Elbel, Mauri (13 March 2020). "Wildflowers are back! A dozen great spots near Austin to see them". Austin American-Statesman. Archived from the original on 27 December 2023.
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- ^ Parker 2016, p. 254.
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- ^ "The Guide to Austin-area Birding Sites: Southeast Areas". Texas Parks and Wildlife Department. Archived from the original on 9 September 2015.
- ^ "The Guide to Austin-area Birding Sites". Texas Parks and Wildlife Department. Archived from the original on 27 December 2023. Retrieved 26 December 2023.
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- ^ "Top 10 Public Birding Hotspots". Explore Bastrop County. Archived from the original on 27 December 2023. Retrieved 27 December 2023.
Bibliography
- ABRCP (2006). Discovering the Colorado: A Vision for the Austin-Bastrop River Corridor (PDF). Austin-Bastrop River Corridor Partnership. Archived (PDF) from the original on 27 December 2023 – via City of Austin.
- Estaville, Lawrence E.; Earl, Richard A. (2008). Texas water atlas. Texas A&M University Press. ISBN 9781603440202. OCLC 165957953.<
- Llewellin, Charles; Molloy, Johnny (2016). 60 Hikes Within 60 Miles: San Antonio and Austin Including the Hill Country. Menasha Ridge Press. ISBN 9781634040419. OCLC 1099077651.
- Little, Mickey; Little, Mildred J. (2005). Hiking and Backpacking Trails of Texas: Walking, Hiking, and Biking Trails for All Ages and Abilities!. Taylor Trade Publications. ISBN 158979205X. OCLC 1256246488.
- Parker, Mary O. (2016). Explore Texas a nature travel guide. Texas A&M University Press. ISBN 9781623494032. OCLC 1374355984.
- Permenter, Paris; Bigley, John (2016). Day trips from Austin: getaway ideas for the local traveler. TwoDot Books. ISBN 9781493018444. OCLC 1309058662.
- Williams, John (2016). The untold story of the Lower Colorado River Authority. Texas A&M University Press. ISBN 9781623493417. OCLC 910424082.
Further reading
- Carpenter, Steve; Bryant, Vaughn M.; SWCA, Inc; Texas Antiquities Committee (2006). The McKinney Roughs site 41BP627: a stratified Late Archaic II site on the Colorado River terraces, Bastrop County, Texas. SWCA, Inc. Environmental Consultants. OCLC 77081225.
- Kotter, Steven M.; Utley, Dan K.; Sundborg, Gregory (1996). McKinney Roughs: An Intensive Cultural Resource Survey Along the Colorado River, Bastrop County, Texas. Lower Colorado River Authority, Land and Environmental Services. OCLC 36787839.
- Lawrence, Ken; Miller, Kevin A.; SWCA, Inc; Texas Antiquities Committee (2002). Archeological survey investigations for the McKinney Roughs Resort project, Bastrop County, Texas. SWCA Environmental Consultants. OCLC 55676840.
- Marr, Minnette (2002). The vascular flora of McKinney Roughs Bastrop County, Texas. Southwest Texas State University. OCLC 51796277.
Municipalities and communities of Bastrop County, Texas, United States | ||
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| Footnotes | ‡This populated place also has portions in an adjacent county or counties | |