When we rolled into Columbus, TX, we weren’t quite sure
what to expect. Nestled along the Colorado River and steeped in Texas charm,
this small town welcomed us with open arms and plenty of surprises. From its
rich history to the friendly faces we met along the way, Columbus turned out to
be more than just a stop on the map—it became a memorable chapter in our RV
adventure.
Whether you’re passing through or looking for a peaceful
getaway, Columbus offers something for everyone. Here’s what made our visit so
special:
1. Thousand Trails Colorado River
Our home base during our Columbus visit was the Thousand Trails Colorado River campground just outside of town. This was our second stay at this location, and once again, it didn’t disappoint.
Peaceful River Views and Wildlife
This time, we were fortunate to snag a spot closer to the river, giving us stunning views of the open spaces where deer roamed freely each day. Watching these graceful creatures from our RV was a highlight of our mornings.
Family-Friendly Amenities
The quieter side of the park was perfect for wildlife viewing, but our kids also enjoyed the small playground near the bathrooms. It became a hub for meeting other children from different walks of life. One memorable encounter was with a Canadian family whose kids primarily spoke French. Despite the language barrier, our children quickly formed friendships—a heartwarming reminder of how travel brings people together.
The campground also offers several amenities:
- Multiple bathroom/shower buildings
- On-site laundry
- Activity room
- Hot tub and pool
- Mini-golf course for kids
- Hiking trails
Why Thousand Trails Colorado River Should Be on Your List
For families wintering in Texas with a Thousand Trails membership, this campground is a must-visit. It’s a great spot to meet fellow full-time RVers, especially other families, and enjoy the peaceful atmosphere.
2. Discover Columbus Audio Tour
For a dose of history and exploration, we took part in the Discover Columbus Audio Tour. This self-guided tour features several fascinating points of interest around town, bringing Columbus’s rich history to life.
The Santa Claus Museum
One of the more unique stops on the tour was the Santa Claus Museum. We visited the day after Thanksgiving and lucked out with a quiet visit after the Black Friday rush.
Our guide, Mary, shared wonderful stories and historical tidbits about the museum’s collection. The kids loved exploring the displays, and the $5 admission fee made it an affordable and festive family outing. If you’re in Columbus during November or December, this stop is a must for a dose of holiday spirit!
The Alley Log Cabin
A short walk from the museum led us to the Alley Log Cabin, a preserved pioneer home built before Texas became a state. While we couldn’t tour the inside, we enjoyed peeking through the windows to see the historical artifacts, which fascinated the kids.
Other Historical Stops
- Stafford Opera House
- Townsend West Home
- Confederate Memorial Museum (in the old water tower)
- Colorado County Courthouse: The courthouse, with its beautifully restored roof after a hurricane, was a highlight. Its architecture is truly a sight to see.
3. A Stop at Southern Flair on the Square
After a day of exploring, we stumbled upon Southern Flair on the Square, a charming local shop filled with handmade items crafted by local artisans.
The store owners greeted us warmly, and we couldn’t resist picking up some delicious goodies, including Raspberry Peach Chipotle Glaze and Jalapeño Jelly from Fredericksburg Farms. The kids also added to their sticker collection, while we admired the beautiful handmade resin pieces and jewelry. If we had more space in the RV, we might have taken home a resin masterpiece!
Final Thoughts
Columbus, TX, may be a small town, but it’s filled with charm, history, and a welcoming spirit that left a lasting impression on our family. From peaceful mornings by the river at Thousand Trails to exploring the town’s rich history through the audio tour, Columbus offered us a perfect blend of relaxation and discovery.
If you’re planning your own RV adventure through Texas, make sure to add Columbus to your itinerary. Whether you’re in search of scenic beauty, fascinating history, or a sense of community, this hidden gem has it all.
What’s your favorite small-town discovery while traveling? Let us know in the comments below—we’d love to hear your stories!
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