Bastrop River Co. has been making waves in Bastrop since opening its doors in March 2012.

Lee Harle took the plunge into the river recreation industry with no prior experience. Since then, BRC has become a local favorite, offering options such as river camping, group trips and its popular self-guided El Camino Real river trail.
Bastrop River Co. offers special rates for scout troops and youth groups. (Bastrop River Co.)
Bastrop River Co. offers special rates for Scout troops and youth groups. (Bastrop River Co.)
Diving deeper

Harle said the road to success was not always smooth sailing, noting that his background was in finance and sales. Despite the challenges, he navigated uncharted waters to learn the ins and outs of the Colorado River and recreation business.

“​​There was a lot of time spent out in the wild getting to know the landscape and learning the river,” he said.
Formerly known as Bastrop Kayak, Lee Harle purchased the business from an old family friend in 2012. (Courtesy Bastrop River Co.)
Lee Harle purchased the business, formerly known as Bastrop Kayak, from an old family friend in 2012. (Courtesy Bastrop River Co.)
Looking back

In the early days, he tried various experiences and events to attract customers but soon realized that simplicity worked best—leading to a focus on the El Camino Real river trail.


“It is at the core of everything we do,” he said.

Bastrop River Co. offers kayak and canoe rentals. (Courtesy Bastrop River Co.)
Bastrop River Co. offers kayak and canoe rentals. (Courtesy Bastrop River Co.)
Looking ahead

Harle said his future plans include refining services and growing his customer base. For now, he is going with the flow and grateful to have found his calling.

“I’m so extremely blessed that God chose me to be the ‘river guy’ in Bastrop,” he said. “I love what I do, I love this river, and I love this town. Every day is another day in paradise.”