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HS RV Kayaking Guide
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Welcome Packet

Kayaking Guide

Dear Texas Sunset Venues (TSV) Guests,

Welcome to the Lower Colorado River! My goal is to ensure that the TSV is a five-star destination for Kayakers. I understand how important it is to you that your vacation is both fun and safe. To help you enjoy your kayaking adventure on the Colorado River, I’ve compiled this guide as a kayaking addendum to the Welcome Guide with important safety information and details about the access points along the river.

Legal Liability and Safety Information:

Kayaking can be a fun and exciting way to explore the Colorado River, but it does carry some inherent risks. By renting and using kayaks or other watercraft, you assume all risks associated with kayaking, including but not limited to injury or death, damage to property, and other dangers associated with the sport. Before heading out on the river, please keep the following in mind:

  1. Wear a life jacket - It is required by law to wear a personal flotation device (PFD) while kayaking or canoeing on the Colorado River.
  2. Check the weather - Be aware of the weather forecast and avoid going out on the river if storms or high winds are predicted.
  3. Watch for hazards - Be aware of potential hazards on the river, such as submerged logs or rocks, and avoid them if possible.
  4. Respect private property - Be mindful of private property along the riverbank and avoid trespassing.
  5. Know your limits - Only paddle as far as you are comfortable and confident, and avoid areas of strong currents or rapids if you are not an experienced paddler.
  6. Understand the risks - Kayaking and canoeing carry inherent risks, including capsizing, hypothermia, and drowning. By choosing to kayak or canoe on the Colorado River, you assume those risks and agree to hold harmless Texas Sunset Venues (TSV) and its owners from any liability resulting from your activities on the river.

Access Points:

  1. River RV Dr. Entrance - 30°02'52.4"N 97°12'18.6"W

To access the Colorado River from the River RV Dr., simply follow River RV Dr. down to the riverfront. The River RV Dr. property provides 240 feet of private access to the Colorado River, and I ask that you respect our property boundaries.

  1. Hwy 95/Loop 230 Bridge - 30°01'00.8"N 97°06'42.2"W

Located on the northeast side of Hwy 95/Loop 230, this bridge provides access to the Colorado River. To reach this access point, take the 95 Loop exit off Highway 95 and follow the road until you reach the bridge. Park on the roadside and walk down to the riverbank. This access point is for light watercraft and canoes only. More information can be found at www.bastropcountytx.gov/page/cedars-park-ramp

  1. Riverbend Park Hwy 71 Bridge - 30°01'00.5"N 97°08'50.4"W

Located just a few miles downstream from the River RV Dr. access point, this park offers several access points to the Colorado River. There are two options for parking and river access:

  1. Parking under the Highway 71 bridge: Take exit 444 off Highway 71 and follow the signs to Riverbend Park. Park under the bridge and walk down to the riverbank. Please note that this access point is for light watercraft only.
  2. Parking near the fishing pier: From the same exit 444, follow the park road until you reach the fishing pier. Park in the designated area and walk down the rough dirt and brush path to the riverbank. This access point is also for light watercraft only. More information can be found at www.co.bastrop.tx.us/page/parks.Riverbend-Park

Kayak and Canoe Rentals:

  1. Smithville REC Center - If you need to rent kayaks or canoes, the Smithville REC Center is the place to go. They have a variety of kayaks and canoes available for rent, as well as paddles and life jackets. Contact them at (512) 237-3282 ext. 7 or visit their website at www.smithvilletx.org/recreation for more information.
  2. Rising Phoenix Adventures: Offers canoe and kayak rentals. Address: 1209 TX-71, Bastrop, TX 78602. Contact them at (512) 677-2305 or visit their website at www.risingphoenixadventures.com.

I hope that you find this guide helpful in planning your kayaking adventure on the Colorado River. I’m committed to providing you with an exceptional experience and exceeding all of your expectations. If you have any questions or concerns, please do not hesitate to contact me.

You can scan the QR code at the top of the beginning of this guide and take it with you on your cell phone. 😊

Be safe and have fun!

Curtis