Civic engagement, community resources, and local issues for Bastrop, Texas. 30 miles southeast of Austin on the Colorado River in the heart of the Lost Pines.
Founded in 1832, Bastrop is one of the oldest towns in Texas. Named for Baron de Bastrop, a Dutch-born colonist. Located on the Colorado River, 30 miles southeast of Austin, in the heart of the Lost Pines — an isolated stand of loblolly pines.
Bastrop County is one of the fastest-growing counties in Texas. People are moving from Austin for affordability, space, and small-town character. Population has grown 30%+ in the past decade.
The 2011 Bastrop County Complex wildfire destroyed 1,600 homes and burned 34,000 acres of the Lost Pines. The community's recovery has been remarkable.
Bastrop has a thriving arts scene, historic downtown, farm-to-table restaurants, and a growing entrepreneurial community. It's Austin's cool neighbor.
Bastrop City Council meets regularly. Meetings are open to the public. Check bastrop.org for schedules, agendas, and how to speak.
Bastrop has dozens of volunteer organizations: Bastrop County Cares, Lost Pines Artisans Alliance, Bastrop County Historical Society, and more.
Bastrop ISD serves 10,000+ students. Get involved with PTA, school board meetings, and education initiatives.
The Lost Pines ecosystem is unique and fragile. Support reforestation efforts, water conservation, and Bastrop State Park.
Home prices are significantly lower than Austin. You get more land, more space, and lower property taxes while staying close to the city.
Small-town feel with big-city access. Everyone knows their neighbors. The downtown is walkable and the community is tight-knit.
Bastrop State Park, the Colorado River, the Lost Pines. Hiking, kayaking, fishing, and camping are minutes from downtown.
Farm-to-table restaurants, craft breweries, BBQ joints, and a growing food scene that rivals any small town in Texas.