The Airstream lodging at LCRA’s Lake Bastrop North Shore Park. Photo Courtesy LCRA

The Airstream legend began when a California camping enthusiast named Wally Byam mounted a tent on a Ford Model T in 1929. As the idea grew, he bought a factory in Jackson Center, Ohio, in the 1950s to make the trailers—it still operates today—and the company boasts that more than half of the Airstreams ever built remain in use. In recent years, the silver bullets have popped up in parks and on short-term rental sites, offering an Airstream experience without the hassle of hauling one around. Stay overnight in one at these Texas locations.

Lake Bastrop North Shore Park, Bastrop

Recent improvements to this Lower Colorado River Authority park include an inflatable water playground, watercraft rentals, and five shiny new Airstreams. Each sleeps four, with fully equipped kitchens, outdoor grills, firepits, and Adirondack chairs with views of the peaceful lake. The 4-mile North-South Trailway connects to Lake Bastrop South Shore. $225 per night; two-night minimum.

 

An interior view of the Airstream lodging at LCRA’s Matagorda Bay Nature Park. Photo courtesy LCRA

Matagorda Bay Nature Park, Matagorda County

To help guests enjoy its miles of beach and acres of wetlands, this park rents kayaks, beach chairs, and beach wagons—and two four-person Airstreams. “Airstreams have such a reputation for quality,” says LCRA Spokesperson Margo Richards. “We see them as another opportunity for people to come and enjoy the park.” The property also has horseback riding, a fishing pier, and paddling trail. $225 per night; two-night minimum.

Dixie Daisy, Wimberley

This renovated Airstream parked on the banks of Smith Creek is only three miles from downtown Wimberley. Inside, she has a queen bed and a kitchen complete with local, organic coffee and fresh eggs (when the chickens cooperate). The outdoor area includes a deck with table and chairs, grill, hot tub, outdoor shower, hammock, and chimenea. From $130 per night.

Dos Rios RV Park, Mason

Two Airstreams overlooking the Llano River offer access to swimming, kayaking, and fly fishing, plus starry, starry nights. A 1979 Land Yacht has a full bed and small bunks, and the 1987 Excella has a full bed and couch; both have kitchen supplies and outdoor grills, firepits, hammocks, and chairs. Dos Rios owner Colin Suttles says guests love the Airstreams because “they’re well designed with everything you need in a small space.” From $99 per night.

El Cosmico, Marfa

This funky collection of alternative lodging includes renovated Spartan trailers and a vintage Airstream with a hot pink kitchen, deck, outdoor shower, and stocked dry goods minibar. Communal spaces include a hammock grove, outdoor kitchen, dining area, and reading room, all close to Marfa’s many charms, from art galleries to innovative restaurants and the famous Marfa Lights. From $160 per night; two-night minimum.

Retro Rents, Terlingua

Retro Rents offers three vintage 1970s Airstreams: Josephine, an Excella with a full bed; Alice, an Argosy sporting twin beds; and Rosie, with twin beds. Each has an outdoor grill and firepit for soaking up mountain vistas. “We’re smack dab between Big Bend National Park and the state park, great for hiking, biking, star-gazing, and nature,” says owner Dani Bottenfield. Enjoy drinks, dinner, and music at the nearby Starlight Theatre Restaurant and homemade breakfast at Espresso y Poco Mas. From $125 per night.

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