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Welcome Home Winter Texan ••• April 2014

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April 2014

IN THIS ISSUE 15

14 10 Page 6 Page 8 Page 9 Page 10 Page 11 Page 12 Page 13 Page 14 Page 15 Page 16 Page 18

Publisher’s Note : Hello from Kristi City of Bastrop, Texas City of Fredericksburg, Texas City of Granbury, Texas City of New Braunfels, Texas City of Oakville, Texas City of Refugio, Texas City of San Marcos, Texas City of San Saba, Texas Finding a Resting Spot on your Way Home : Out of the Valley RV Parks Listings What Our Winter Texans Say : Travel Recommendations

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On the Cover: Row 1 from L to R: Lake Granbury, Granbury, TX; Old Iron Bridge, Balstrop, TX. Row 2 from L to R: Live Oak Country Jailhouse, Oakville, TX - © Valerie D. Bates; Fly Fishing on the River, New Braunfels, TX. Row 3 from L to R: Wineries and Vineyards, Fredericksburg, TX; Historical Blue Home, San Marcos, TX. Row 4 from L to R: Gravesite with beautiful flowers, Refugio, TX - © Valerie D. Bates; Fountain on Golf Course, San Saba, TX.

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Welcome Home Winter Texan ••• April 2014

Kristi Collier Publisher

silentBYTES design Design

Welcome Home, rio grande valley 219 W. Nolana, Ste A McAllen, TX 78504 956-687-5115 www.welcomehomergv.com

© Copyright 2011 Welcome Home, Rio Grande Valley, LLC. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced or transmitted in any form or by any electronic means without written permission from Welcome Home, Rio Grande Valley, LLC.

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publisher’s note H ELLO FROM KRIS T I

Stop and smell the bluebonnets! On behalf of the entire Rio Grande Valley, and the state of Texas, I would like to take this opportunity to THANK YOU for choosing the Valley as your retirement destination. It’s no secret that here in the Rio Grande Valley we love our Winter Texans, so it shouldn’t come as a surprise that we’re sad to see you go (although we know you’ll be back soon!). I hope by now you’ve heard me talk about how important our Winter Texans are to the Rio Grande Valley. With an estimated economic impact of over $750 million to our economy (each season, I might add!) - the 130,000+ of you who have chosen the Valley as your retirement destination are in our eyes, special. We know that you have so many choices on where to spend your retirement, and we are extremely grateful that you chose to drive the extra miles to spend it with us. The economic impact that you have on our area is truly remarkable, but what goes unmeasured are the countless gifts of your time and resources that many of you spend in our hospitals, libraries, public schools and non profit organizations. We know you love our culture, but what you may not realize is that you have become a part of it, a part of who we are. While your stay in the Rio Grande Valley may be coming to a close for this season, I would like to invite you to spend some time in the rest of the Lone Star State. Throughout my visits with you this season, I’ve enjoyed hearing about your experiences along the way. I’ve listened to your comments and suggestions so I hope you will enjoy this month’s Welcome Home Report, a compilation of your favorites just in time for your next adventure. It has been an honor to be of service for the past five years, and I look forward to your safe and speedy return. We’re just connecting the dots,

Kristi PS: Don’t forget to make your reservation for next season before you leave, and invite your friends to join you!

Welcome Home Winter Texan ••• April 2014

We Winter Texans! www.welco

mehomergv.

com

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April 2014

Bastrop, TX

B astrop, 30 miles from Austin on Highway 71, is steeped in

Texas history, but you’ll have to get off the highway to experience it. Bastrop began with the establishment, in 1806, of a Spanish fort where the Old San Antonio Road leg of the El Camino Real de los Tejas crossed the Colorado River. The city itself dates back to 1832. Both the City and County are named for Philip Hendrik Nering Bogel, who called himself the Baron de Bastrop. Entering downtown you’ll see a stately bridge known as “the Old Iron Bridge;” however, the actual old iron bridge is long gone. After World War I, a new bridge was needed to handle the increasing traffic between Houston and Austin. This “new” steel bridge was completed in 1923. Today residents and tourists, and even celebrities now and then, gather to “spit off the bridge,” a hometown tradition established decades ago after a particular episode of “The Andy Griffith Show.” Just beyond the bridge you will feel a sense of Mayberry, indeed. Shops and cozy restaurants line Main Street, appearing quite at home in pristinely restored historic buildings. Better yet, plan your visit around one of Bastrop’s many hometown events. And events are many. “Yesterfest” in late April steps back to pioneer days in Texas. In celebration of July 4th, children parade their pets down Main Street in the morning and at dusk gather with their families by the Colorado River to enjoy a spectacular display of fireworks. Bastrop’s Veterans Day Car Show Weekend offers a tribute to our veterans, complete with marching troops and flyovers and includes a fantastic car show. In

December, during Lost Pines Christmas weekend, the Bastrop County Historical Society presents its highly anticipated annual tour of historic homes decorated for the holidays, and yes, followed by a lighted Christmas parade that evening. Enjoy a stroll along Main Street every First Friday to explore a growing number of galleries. In fact, Bastrop was recently designated a Cultural Arts District by the Texas Commission on the Arts; however, its roots in the arts date back to 1889 when the local volunteer fire department opened the Opera House with an elegant dress ball. Bastrop soon became the center of culture and, in turn, the Opera House became the center of entertainment. Today the Bastrop Opera House continues to offer award-winning performances. Stop by the Museum & Visitor Center, located at 904 Main Street in Bastrop to see new exhibits with artifacts collected throughout Bastrop County. The Center offers a guide to Bastrop’s

Welcome Home Winter Texan ••• April 2014

historic district where you will see a range of architectural styles – including homes featured on the big screen. Countless movies feature scenes filmed in Bastrop County. For large groups, the Bastrop County Historical Society offers step-on bus tours. Be sure to visit the Farm Street Historic Chicken Sanctuary, created by the City of Bastrop in 2012 to protect wild chickens that have resided in the area since the 1800s. Of course, just relaxing in Bastrop is fine, too. Bastrop and Buescher State Parks offer room to explore. Or simply enjoy an afternoon of fishing at Lake Bastrop, just like Opie and Sheriff Taylor used to do back in Mayberry.

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For more information on Bastrop, TX call the Visitor Center at 512-303-0904 or visit www.VisitBastrop.com

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April 2014

Fredericksburg, TX

he heart of the Texas Hill Country is your gateway to a myriad of adventures. It’s a shopper’s paradise with over 150 unique shops, galleries and boutiques lining the historic district of this German community. You’ll find creations by artists working in metal, glass, oil and watercolor. Handmade jewelry by local artisans. Women’s fashion ranging from vintage and hand-sewn to upscale contemporary. A staggering collection of sophisticated home décor. Antiques, Western wear, and Texana books. Thirsty? More than 20 wineries and vineyards in the area offer award-winning varietals including cabernets, tempranillos, viogniers and Rieslings—in addition to spectacular views of the surrounding countryside. Explore the tasting room or go behind the scenes on a barrel room tour. Enjoy authentic German cuisine, and restaurateurs that offer cuisine as diverse as our wineries. The National Museum of the Pacific War is a state-of-theart walk back in time to one of our history’s most epic battles, featuring interactive exhibits and audio tours. Visit the ranch and home of President Lyndon B. Johnson and see his plane fondly called “Air Force One Half”, stroll among fields of wildflowers or climb to the summit of Enchanted Rock Plus, there’s plenty of lodging with over 400 B&Bs/ guesthouses and 1,100 hotel/ motel rooms. The choices are endless - so is the fun!

UPCOMING EVENTS April / Early May 2014

April 5

Texas Gran Fondo Bicycle Event

April 5

Historic Schools Open House

April 5- 20 Wildflower Celebration at Wildseed Farms April 12

Bluebonnet Tractor Ride

April 19

Easter at Sauer-Beckmann Living History Farm

April 26

Hill Country Wine and Music Festival

April 25-27 Wings Over the Hill Nature Festival May 1-4

Hill Country Film Festival

May 10

Texas Flower Country Women’s Run

Great time to be in Hill Country for events and wildflowers.

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For more information on Fredericksburg, TX call the Visitor Center at 1-866-997-3600 or visit

www.VisitFredericksburgTX.com

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April 2014

Granbury, TX

G ranbury, Texas is where Texas history lives and your adventure begins. Start planning today.

Entertainment and the Arts Granbury’s arts community is vibrant and diverse, showcasing everything from world class art galleries to live theatre and music. The newly refurbished Granbury Opera House hosts the Granbury Theatre Company, which stages many outstanding productions throughout the year. Among the other entertainment choices in Granbury are the Big City Music Revue and Saturday Sounds on the Square, an outdoor concert series every 3rd Saturday of the month from June through September. Visitors interested in the visual arts will want to stop at any one of our unique art galleries. Where Texas History Lives The grand Hood County Courthouse, built in 1891, is the center of the iconic Historic Granbury Square, which was the first town square in Texas to be listed on the National Register of Historic Places. The Square is a well-preserved and maintained collection of 19th Century storefronts, now hosting local shops and restaurants, as well as festivals and concerts throughout the year. Granbury’s rich history is revealed at its more than 40 historical sites and museums. If you’re up for something a little spookier, take the Granbury Ghosts and Legends Tour or the Last Mile Cemetery Tour. The Great Outdoors Granbury has abundant opportunities for outdoor and family-friendly fun. Whether you prefer hiking, biking, boating, golfing, or just enjoying

SOMETHING FOR EVERYONE Granbury is home to great wineries, breweries, art galleries, museums and unique shopping opportunities. We have a variety of distinctive hotels and bed & breakfasts available when you visit Granbury, Texas. Book your stay by visiting granburytx.com.

some fresh air, Granbury has something for you.

2014 FESTIVALS AND EVENTS

Lake Granbury offers opportunities for boating, jet skiing, water skiing and fishing. You’ll also want to take advantage of Granbury’s white sandy beach at the City Beach Park.

Wine Walk April 24 (VIP Event), April 25-26

If you’re looking to practice your golf swing, you’ll have to check out Granbury’s public golf courses. Would you like a side of history with your afternoon stroll? Just north of Downtown Granbury is our Moments-in-Time Hike and Bike Trail, which features plaques highlighting area history and folklore.

Welcome Home Winter Texan ••• April 2014

Fourth of July Celebration July 4-6 Living Christmas Cards December 12-13 Granbury - A Candlelight Tour December 5-7 For a complete list of Granbury’s events and festivals, please visit www.granburytx.com.

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For more information on Granbury, TX call the Visitor Center at 817-573-5548 or visit www.granburytx.com

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April 2014

New Braunfels, TX

Founded by German royalty in

1845, this thriving city retains its small-town Texas charm and boasts several museums and historic sites. The Sophienburg Museum and Archives offers educational opportunities rich in heritage, culture and fun. Wurstfest may be the main social event each autumn, but when it’s hot, visitors from the U.S. and beyond hit Schlitterbahn — one of the biggest and best waterparks in the entire world. Nature seekers will enjoy Canyon Lake and Natural Bridge Caverns, while nearby Gruene extends a glimpse into the past, with shops, eateries and accommodations lodged in historic buildings on the banks of the Guadalupe.

Local Attractions: • Schlitterbahn Voted the World’s Best Waterpark 16 years in a row, we feature over 40 water attractions for fans of all ages. • Gruene Hall Come boogie at the oldest dance hall in Texas. Some of the biggest names in country music got a start on this stage. • Natural Bridge Caverns Explore the year-round beauty of these breathtaking natural wonders. • Natural Bridge Wildlife Ranch Take the family on a drive-thru safari or experience our unique petting zoo.

• Rivers New Braunfels offers plenty of aquatic recreation in and around our two gorgeous rivers, the Comal and the Guadalupe. • Texas Ski Ranch Adventure awaits in and out of the water at this 70-acre fun park. • McKenna Children’s Museum A non-profit, hands-on learning experience for kids and families. • Landa Park Outdoor fun with over 300 picnic tables, four playscapes, a spring-fed pool, mini golf, a train ride, and BBQ pits.

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For more information on New Braunfels, TX call the Visitor Center at 1-800-572-2626 or visit

www.playinnewbraunfels.com www.welcomehomergv.com

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April 2014

Oakville, TX

ver wanted to spend the night in a jail without the inconvenience of being arrested? If so, on your way north, plan a stop at the historic Oakville Jail and Town Square, located off IH-37 between George West and Three Rivers about 50 miles north of the US Highway 77/IH-37 interchange in Corpus Christi.

You can’t see much from the interstate, but take exit 65 to Oakville and you’ll find yourself smack dab in the middle of what was once a lawless community in the mid 1800s with 400 citizens and seven saloons. Oakville was originally simply a stage stop on the line that ran between San Antonio and Corpus Christi. In 1856, it was designated the county seat of Live Oak County and a post office was established in 1857. Oakville was considered a “hotbed of lawlessness”, filled with drunken cowboys, horse thieves and cattle rustlers, until after the Civil War when the Texas Rangers came in and cleaned it up. And this is when the historic Oakville Jail was put to good use. The jail was state of the art at the time of its construction in 1887. It was built of 22-inch sandstone rough-hewn blocks and is considered a rare style of jail, being only 1 of 2 left in Texas. The original stairway once led to the jail cells that housed both men and women prisoners. Today, the jailhouse offers approximately 1200 square feet of very un-

jail like accommodations. The interior rooms of the jail have a Texas-style décor featuring a Texas Longhorn mounted over the fireplace and bedrooms with such names as The Texan, The Rodeo and Ranch Hand.

Landmarks. The Live Oak County Jailhouse is also listed on the National Registry of Historic Places.

The infamous Live Oak Hanging Tree, where 40 men were hanged, is still standing just outside the back door.

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The vintage police car is parked alongside the restored outbuildings near the jail. These buildings are also available as guesthouses. Oakville, Oakville Jailhouse and Oakville Post Office are all Designated Texas Historic

Welcome Home Winter Texan ••• April 2014

For more information on Oakville, TX, contact Mari & Albert Davila at historicoakvillejail@yahoo.com or call 877-435-5245 or visit website www.oakvillejail.com

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April 2014

Refugio, TX

Ibaseball f you’re a history buff, fan or wine aficionado,

Refugio’s the place for you to stop on your drive from the Rio Grande Valley. Located just 41 miles northeast of Corpus Christi on US Highway 77, Refugio is home to a beautiful array of stately restored homes. Today’s Refugio County was originally occupied by the nomadic Karankawa Indians whose favorite campground was the present location of the town of Refugio. The Refugio County Museum at 102 W. West Street (just off the corner of Hwy 77 & West Street) was built to suggest the log cabin-style house typical of the Texas pioneer days. The permanent exhibits trace the history of the area from the establishment of the Spanish Mission Nuestra Senora del Refugio to the immigration of Irish settlers and the impact of ranching and oil after 1929. Nuestra Senora del Refugio, the last of the Spanish missions in Texas, was founded in 1793 by Franciscan monks as part of the ambitious plan to pacify and convert all the Indians living along the Texas coast. However, continued attacks by Comanche and Karankawa Indians and an unstable food supply led to the gradual abandonment of the mission and it was ordered closed in 1824. When the Irish settlers moved into the area during the 1830s, they named their town for the mission, and the mission ruins were probably used as building materials for their new settlement. Much of the mission site is presently owned by Our Lady of

Refuge Catholic Church with its beautiful stained glass windows, whose tall spire will be one of the first sights you see when driving into Refugio from the south. Traces of the foundation of the mission can be found beneath the present church and the surrounding lawn. Highlights of the Refugio County Museum include a collection of memorabilia of baseball great Nolan Ryan who was born in Refugio, one of the four bells that once graced the bell towers of Mission Nuestra Senora del Refugio, a 1925 Model T Sedan and two Hermes scarves designed by Kermit Oliver.

www.texassouthwind.com). While you’re there, stock up on some great Texas red, white, fruit and dessert wines. Before you visit Refugio, you may want to practice pronunciation of the name — ree FYOO ri o. © Valerie D. Bates

Oliver, a postal worker from Waco TX, is the only American ever to design scarves for the exclusive French fashion house Hermes. Directly behind the museum is the Linney-Huson house built in 1876 in the Greek Revival style. Take a short side trip just 10 miles north of Refugio on Highway 183 to visit Texas South Wind Vineyard & Winery

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For more information on Refugio, TX call the Museum at 361-526-5555 or visit the Refugio County Chamber of Commerce at www.refugiocountytx.org www.welcomehomergv.com

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April 2014

San Marcos, TX

C onveniently located between Austin and San Antonio, San

Marcos is a unique blend of trendy and traditional and is known not only for its natural beauty and the crystal clear, spring-fed San Marcos River, but also for some of the best shopping you could ask for. Featuring more than 250 shops, the amazing discounts and selection at the San Marcos Outlets are hard to resist. These 1.2 million square feet of retail bliss make San Marcos home to the largest outlet shopping center in the United States! The San Marcos Downtown Historic District offers a unique alternative to the mainstream. Nestled around the restored 1909 Hays County Courthouse, it’s just a short walk to trendy boutiques, gift shops, restaurants, and more all in the heart of the city. When you’re ready for a break from shopping, take in our historic homes and architecture. San Marcos is fortunate to have preserved its past and many residential neighborhoods are designated as Historic Districts. The areas contain a variety of Victorian, Classical Revival, and Craftsman architecture built between 1880 and the 1940’s. If it’s museums or art you are hoping to find, San Marcos has choices that are sure to please. Wimberley Glassworks is known worldwide for beautiful hand blown glass art and lighting pieces. Visitors can watch daily demonstrations to experience first hand the unique craftsmanship of hand blown glass from a skilled team of artisans using centuries-old techniques. You can even pick the colors you want for your

piece and watch while they make it. Dick’s Classic Garage contains three decades of the finest cars ever made in the United States. With pristine models dating back as far as 1929, the collection is a tribute to the American passion with the automobile. The Wittliff Collections at Texas State University is a literary/photographic center that inspires visitors with changing exhibitions related to Southwestern writers and photography of the Southwest and Mexico. Seven large gallery spaces include a permanent display of costumes, props, set pieces, and other memorabilia from Lonesome Dove. Enjoy the natural beauty of the San Marcos River. Shaded by giant Cypress trees and a refreshing 72 degrees yearround, the crystal clear San Marcos River is the perfect place to cool off. Rio Vista Falls is three amazingly fun drop-offs of easy, whitewater rapids. Rent

Welcome Home Winter Texan ••• April 2014

a tube or kayak to take a run through it or just float about in the deep-water pools. Grab your backpack and bring your binoculars. Explore urban trails along our scenic parks and natural areas. Choose from ADA accessible trails with information kiosks and benches that are perfect for beginners, to miles-long natural trails to satisfy those looking for a little more adventure. •••

For great ideas and more information on San Marcos, visit www.toursanmarcos.com

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April 2014

San Saba, TX

D iscover San Saba, some 40 miles as the crow flies east of

the geographical center of Texas, at the crossroads of Hwy 16 and 190. Dubbed “Pecan Capital of the World” as the birthplace of paper shell pecans, the small town of 3,000 gushes civic pride in this beautiful Texas Hill Country hideaway. Since pre-history many native cultures (Tonkawa, Apache, Caddoans, Comanche, and Lipan Apache) thrived among the area’s plentiful wildlife and waterways. The city of San Saba took its name from the river flowing through the county to the Colorado River, which forms a fan shaped county in the heart of Texas.

GOLF COURSE AND RV PARK Along the meandering banks of the San Saba River just east of town lies a renowned golfing jewel to put on your must play list! This spectacular municipal course, widely revered for its challenging play and tranquil beauty, has been voted one of the best places to play by Golf Digest, six years in a row! Be sure to bring your RV to stay and play at the San Saba River RV campsite adjacent to the course. The park provides full service hook-ups (electricity, water, sewer), grill area and fire ring. The clubhouse furnishes guests amenities including a fullservice kitchen, dining area, great room with satellite television, bathrooms, showers and a laundry. (RATES: $21 M-TH, $25 F-SU, $125 Week, OR $350/Month) 723 County Road 102 • PO Box 697 San Saba, TX 76877 (325) 372-3212 cjennings@pga.com golfsansaba.com DOWNTOWN San Saba was established in 1854, and many of its original buildings, constructed in the late 1800s through the mid 1900s, are still standing. Recent downtown facelifts have preserved the historic

ANNUAL FALL THRU SPRING EVENTS: PECAN CAPITAL TRADE DAYS 1st Saturday on Courthouse Square (Mar - June/Sept -Nov) Dec in Civic Center PECAN CAPITAL STREET DANCE Homecoming Weekend in September, Courthouse Square SAN SABA FIESTA PATRIAS 2nd weekend in September Risien Park SAN SABA PECAN JAM ON THE SQUARE 3rd Saturday in October Courthouse Square HUNTERS WELCOME WEEKEND 1st weekend in November Local Venues MILL POND CHRISTMAS SPECTACULAR Mid-November - January 6 Mill Pond Park

Texas architecture. This county seat has a Classical Revival style courthouse, which was completed in time for the arrival of the first train in 1911. San Saba can boast the oldest continuously operating jailhouse in the US. Erected in 1884 from local marble, the jailer and family lived on the first floor, with offenders behind bars on the second. Do steer clear of this “bed & breakfast!” RENOWNED CHAIN OF PARKS San Saba offers more than 122 acres for your family’s enjoyment. SAN SABA RIVER NATURE PARK is a breathtaking and serene getaway beckoning you to stroll over its accessible walks and bridges, over waterfalls, through beautiful greenbelt and forested parkland to the confluence of Mill Creek and San Saba River. It is a perfect outing for walking, biking, fishing, birding or scouting. Over six million gallons of spring water flow daily over the falls at MILL POND PARK which covers 83 acres including the pond, swimming pool, pavilion, athletic ball courts, nature trails, picnic sites, camping sites, as well

as San Saba County Historical Museum and Civic Center. Hidden behind an old railroad trestle, RISIEN PARK opens into a shady pecan grove bordered by the San Saba River. Enjoy lush scenery, picnic sites, grills, pavilion, RV hookups, dance floor, volleyball courts, and even an old stone amphitheater. OTHER INTERESTING LOCAL SITES: Burden Hotel (restored building on the square); Regency and Beverage Bridge (2 of the last Texas suspension bridges); The Wedding Oak (historic tree); the Methodist Church (historical building); County Museum, Mill Pond House, Harmony Ridge Bridge (all in Mill Pond Park), all in the exquisite and tranquil Texas Hill Country.

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For more information on San Saba, TX contact Director of Economic Development &Tourism at 325-372-5440 (Office) 325-372-8291 (cell) or visit www.sansabatexas.com

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find a resting spot on your OUT OF THE VALLEY RV PARKS

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April 2014

• Bay Landing RV 2305 Hwy 380 West Bridgeport, Texas 76426 1-877-570-2267 www.rvonthego.com

• Medina Lake RV 215 Spettle Road Lakehills, Texas 78063 1-877-570-2267 www.rvonthego.com

• Rusk KOA 745 Farm to Market 343 Rusk, Texas 75785 903-683-6641 www.ruskkoa.com

• North Texas Jellystone Park 2301 S. Burleson Blvd. Burleson, Texas 76028 817-426-5037 888-855-9091 northtexasjellystone.com

• Hill Country RV Resort & Cottage Rentals 131 Rueckle Road New Braunfels, Texas 78130 830-625-1919 www.hillcountryrvresortnb.com

• Colorado River RV 1062 Thousand Trails Lane Columbus, Texas 78934 1-877-570-2267 www.rvonthego.com

• Barefoot Bay Marina 5244 FM 1520 Pittsburg, Texas 75686 903-856-3643 www.barefootbaymarina.com

• Pecan Park Riverside RV and Cabins 50 Squirrel Run San Marcos, Texas 78666 512-396-0070 888-808-7181 www.pecanpark.com

• Broke Mill RV Park 6069 W. US Hwy. 90 Del Rio, Texas 78840 830-422-2961 www.brokemillrvpark.com

• Lake Tawakoni RV 1246 Rains Co. Rd. 1470 Point, Texas 75472 1-877-570-2267 www.rvonthego.com

• Lake Texoma RV 209 Thousand Trails Drive Gordonville, Texas 76245 1-877-570-2267 www.rvonthego.com

• Texas Lakeside RV Resort 2499 W. Austin Street Port Lavaca, Texas 77979 361-551-2267 www.texaslakesidervresort.com

• Lake Whitney RV 417 Thousand Trails Drive Whitney, Texas 76692 1-877-570-2267 www.rvonthego.com • Lake Conroe RV 11720 Old Montgomery Road Willis, Texas 77318 1-877-570-2267 www.rvonthego.com

For more detailed information on these RV resorts, check our website www.welcomehomergv.com/resorts

Welcome Home Winter Texan ••• April 2014

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travel

Welcome Home RGV appreciates the travel recommendations provided to us by our Winter Texan friends! We may or may not have visited these places. Welcome Home RGV cannot guarantee the accuracy of the information provided and we strongly suggest you call ahead or use the google machine to explore any place you care to visit on your way home!

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recommendations SPREAD

THE

WORD! WHAT OUR WINTER TEXANS SAY

DELTA DOWNS CASINO & RACETRACK Vinton, LA Nice place to stop after leaving the Valley. About 7 hours from Harlingen, so just the right amount of time to take a break and do some relaxing. Rooms are cheap with a membership card (50.00). Chance to get in some casino play before getting up north where most of us go every week or each month. Doug Anklam Paradise Park, Harlingen (Encore) WACO MAMMOTH SITE Waco, TX The location of the nation’s first and only recorded discovery of a nursery herd of Pleistocene mammoths. They have guided tours every 30 - 40 minutes and most of the tour is in the climate-controlled Dig Shelter. Tickets for Seniors 60+ are $6. Hours are Tues. - Fri. from 11AM to 5PM and Sat. from 9AM to 5PM. Closed on Sun. and Mon. The address is 6220 Steinbeck Bend Drive, Waco, TX. Phone 254-750-7946. Cindy Grady Tropic Winds, Harlingen DR. PEPPER MUSEUM Waco, TX Dr Pepper originated in Morrison’s Old Corner Drugstore in 1885 and is the oldest of the major brand soft drinks in America. The museum is open Mon. to Sat. from 10AM to 4:15PM and Sun. from 12PM to 4:15PM. The Soda Fountain and Gift Shop are open until 5PM. Senior adults are $6. The address is: 300 South 5th Street, Waco, TX. Phone 254-757-1025. Cindy Grady Tropic Winds, Harlingen BLUEBONNET CAFE Marble Falls, TX Most years when we leave the RGV to head home to Saskatchewan we travel Highway #281 from San Antonio to Wichita Falls. This enables us to have lunch in the world famous Bluebonnet Café in Marble Falls. If on a Sunday make sure you remember it closes at 1:45PM. Check it out at www. bluebonnetcafe.com Martin Lidgren J-5 RV Park, Mission, TX

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RIVER WALK San Antonio, TX Hop on the FREE boat on the River Walk, get off any where to shop, dine, or eat, then get back on to another stop and do the same. Strege Ron Tropical Valley Acres, Mission, TX ROYERS ROUND TOP CAFE Round Top, TX Great food and wonderful pies! Cindy Grady Missouri SHINER BREWERY Shiner, TX Great little town and home of Texas beer favorite Shiner. Tour the brewery and get some samples. Town has Town Park that has RV park. Don Myers Texas GOLIAD STATE PARK Goliad, TX Very nice state park with restored Mission in the park. Nearby are restored Forts and Mission that were prominent in State’s history. Don Myers Texas PIONEER RV PARK Bandera, TX Nice park in Downtown Bandera in walking distance to downtown. 830-796-3751. Karen Price Florida 11TH STREET BAR Bandera, TX This bar holds 1000 people. You dance under the stars (open air) to live music! On Wednesday nights, people bring their own steaks and cook them on huge grills before the dancing. Lots of customers arrive on horseback. Bandera is the cowboy capital of the world. At the OST (Old Spanish Trail) restaurant you can sit on saddles at the bar. The town of Bandera is my favorite place! Carolina Lightfoot Ontario

CAMPGROUND Van Ormey, TX (outside San Antonio) Hidden Valley Campground, run by two of the sweetest people you would ever meet, is in Van Ormey, TX about 10 minutes from San Antonio and is a must stop for us coming and going to the RGV. Quiet, scenic, with a good fishing creek running through it. We usually end up with 2 or 3 extra days there. It is so relaxing and laid back with so much to do. Just minutes away in San Antonio. Sharon Brewer Washington NACHEZ TRACE Mississippi, Louisiana Taking the Nachez Trace route versus major interstates provides the following: 1.Relaxing pace @ 55 MPH Max speed 2. Excellent free and inexpensive RV Parks and overnite stops 3. Great restaurant stops 4. Huge amounts of historic scenic byways with picture taking opportunities. Maryann Lesnieski South Carolina 11TH STREET COWBOY BAR Bandera, TX Bandera, Texas is the Cowboy Capital of the World. We always get a group to caravan with us through the Hill Country. Our favorite stop is to spend a couple of nights. Wednesday night is steak night at the 11th Street Cowboy Bar. You bring your own meat and they have all the seasonings and marinades. They light big charcoal grills. You cook your own meat, they sell plates with your sides. After dinner, a band plays on the big stage. This is all outdoors. So much fun! We always stop here and have a great time with friends heading north. I do have lots of photos on Facebook of Bandera. Ron & Shirley Knoche Missouri RESTAURANT/GIFT SHOP Camp Wood, TX Camp Wood is cool...it used to be the place where the US Army had the camel corps. It is on the way to/from Bandera and they have a gift shop/camping and restaurant that is pretty good. P.O. Webb Texas

HILL COUNTRY Bandera, TX Cowboy atmosphere, shops, saloons, dancing. Sometimes horses on Main Street Old Spanish Trail restaurant, where you share a long table with people from all different places. Around the area are lots of winding roads and scenic views. Lynn Huybers Wisconsin

UP IN SMOKE BBQ Abbott, TX This is truly some of the best BBQ we have ever had! We make it a point to stop on our trip south and our return trip! It may be a little difficult to access due to road construction in the area but it is located right along Interstate 35 and well worth the stop! Sherwin Linton Minnesota

SCOTTISH RITE TEMPLE Guthrie, OK The largest Masonic Temple in the state, on the National Register of Historic Places, built in 1919. Breathtaking architecture and a fun and informative tour is available. You don’t have to be a mason to appreciate this place! Pat Davidson Texas

ANDY’S STEAK & SEAFOOD GRILLE Fredericksburg, TX Absolutely the “go to” place for the BEST country fried steak. Can’t be beat ANYWHERE. We were introduced to this venue by my sister & brother-in-law who winter in Fredericksburg. Not fancy but good food. Rosemarie Cook Ontario

SHOWMEN’S REST CEMETERY Hugo, OK World famous (but little known!) cemetery is the final resting place of numerous circus people. Unusual and interesting to see! Pat Davison Texas GATEWAY TO THE GULF RV PARK Victoria, TX Easy in and out campground on Rt. 59 in Victoria. This is our last overnight stop on our way back to the Valley each October. Nice FHU sites, great staff! Dale Bruss Texas BUCKHORN LAKE RV RESORT Kerrville, TX This is the nicest RV park in the Texas Hill Country! Tons of activities and events, lots of amenities--they even have their own bus for trips in the area. Hoby Follis New Mexico GOOSE ISLAND STATE PARK Lamar, TX You can park right along the water. There is a great fishing pier that goes way out over the water. Just north of Rockport. Robert Wiley Pennsylvania BREAUX BRIDGE CRAWFISH FESTIVAL Breaux Bridge, LA The Breaux Bridge Crawfish Festival has become one of the largest gatherings of world famous Cajun, Zydeco and Swamp Pop musicians and plays host to over 30 bands on three stages during the three-day festival. Also part of the fun are the Breaux Bridge Heritage Tent, Cajun cuisine, crawfish races, Cajun and Zydec dance contests, carnival midway, crawfish cookoff and eating contest, and a parade to honor the Crawfish Queen. For more information visit: www.bbcrawfest. com Festival will be held May 3, 4 & 5, 2013 Karen Price Florida

SPOETZL BREWERY, SHINER BOCK BEER Shiner, TX Visit the Spoetzl Brewery, in the neat little town of Shiner, TX. North on Hwy 77, then NW on Hwy 111, to Shiner. Stay at GreenDickson Municipal Park. Enjoy the Churches, Cemetery, historic buildings, wild flowers, & the Spoetzl Brewery, home of “Shiner Bock Beer”. Bill Roberts Texas ENCHANTED ROCK STATE PARK Fredericksburg, TX 6710 Ranch Road 965, Fredericksburg, TX 78624 915-247-3903 Activities: Hiking, Rock climbing, Backpacking, Camping, Picnicking, Birdwatching Description: 1,643-acre Enchanted Rock State Natural Area draws countless visitors to its distinctive 500-foot-high dome of pink granite, the second largest such formation in North America. Judy Shuck Missouri

MUST SEE IN FREDERICKSBURG Fredericksburg, TX A must see in Fredericksburg is the historic Keidel Hospital Building downtown, the home of Der Kuchen Laden, a really amazing kitchen store. In the store you will find a wine shop, which is owned & operated by my cousin. Stop in and say hello. 258 E Main St, Fredericksburg, TX 78624 Kristi Collier Texas WILDSEED FARM Fredericksburg, TX Fields of wild flowers and a big red barn gift shop where you can buy seeds, speciality foods, and other stuff. Judy Shuck Missouri SKYLINE RANCH RV PARK Bandera, TX After leaving the Valley, there is a singles rally held in here. Skyline Ranch RV Park ~ 2231 Hwy. 16N ~ PO Box 1990 ~ Bandera, TX 78003 Phone: 830-796-4958 ~ Toll Free: 800-267-1402 Karen Price Florida TYLER AZALEA TRAIL Tyler, TX Enjoy beautiful blooming azaleas and other activities in Tyler, TX March 21- April 6. Maps are available at Tyler Visitor’s Center. You won’t be disappointed! Donna Johnson Tropic Winds NATIONAL MUSEUM OF THE PACIFIC WAR/ NIMITZ MUSEUM Fredericksburg, TX I’m not a war buff but even I found this interesting. Several locations to browse including a mock up Pacific combat zone. Tickets allow you to see the sites over a few days rather than having to rush through. Rosemarie Cook Ontario

PALO DURO CANYON STATE PARK Canyon, TX Referred to as the “Grand Canyon of Texas”, take a day, drive through, stopping to check out Lighthouse Rock formation, or drive to the top of the canyon for many great views, full hookup camping & capins are available. If you’re lucky to get there in June - Aug., see the spectacular outdoor musical “TEXAS”, Shown at the Pioneer Amphitheater. Bill Roberts Texas

FLEA MARKET Canton, TX First Monday trade days. Has been going on for years. Weekend before first Monday of each month. Huge huge huge flea market and crafts. Roxie Brown Iowa

SAN JACINTO MONUMENT & HISTORIC SITE La Porte, TX A great historic site, including movie, museum, & view of the battlefield, from the top of the 570 ft. Monument. You can spend the night in Victoria, TX at “Lazy Longhorn RV Park”, a few miles south, located at the junction of Hwy 59 & Hwy 185. Bill Roberts Texas

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Welcome Home Winter Texan ••• April 2014