Day 1: Lockhart State Park

A hot summers day, full of adventure and Yosemite preparation

Campers at Lockhart State Park
Photo by Ashley Bowerman 

By Ashley Bowerman

Atb63@txstate.edu

Miles Traveled: 20

Time: 6 hours

Work produced: 5 interviews, Instagram Story, Instagram post and 73 pictures

Temperature: 97 degrees

Missed opportunity: Hiking up “Hilltop Trail”

Excitement was in the air after Professor James and Professor Blasingame set the class free to roam the grounds of Lockhart State Park. This was the beginning of our adventures in the park and would serve as a trial run before we head to Yosemite National Park in just 3 days. We learned, explored, and I think most importantly got acquainted with one another. 

Hang up and hang out  

Camper Gerry Foye and his dog Lucy
Photo by Ashley Bowerman 

The majority of the parks 20 campsites were occupied by friendly folks looking to enjoy the peaceful nature of Lockhart State Park. After speaking with two gentlemen campers, both retired, I got to talking to them about their use of technology whilst being in the outdoors. Their responses were strikingly opposite. San Francisco native Gerry Foye said he believes that even when you’re immersed in nature, it is hard to stay away from technology. “There is no Wi-Fi and very poor signals,” Foye said. “It’s a little isolationist which bothers me after about a week because you like to stay in contact.”

On the other hand, camper Willard Harlow from Bastrop said technology is not really needed when you are outside. “When you are at the park you do not use technology as much because you got other things you are doing,” Harlow said. “People don’t appreciate the slower pace, the slower pace of life before technology.” I liked the contrast in the opinions of these campers, especially because they were both over the age of 55 talking about technology. 

Camper Willard Harlow and his two poodle pups
Photo by Ashley Bowerman

A peaceful day on the greens

After we explored the campsite, a few other classmates and I took a long walk through the golf course at the park. This is the only golf course you will find at any state park! Golfer Jim Matthews said it’s an enjoyable course to play on because it’s not crowded. “If you pick the right day you can play 18 holes here and you will never see another person,” Matthews said. “You can play by yourself and not have to hurry.” The course was quaint, well kept, and peaceful. It’s a unique aspect of Lockhart’s park that draws golfers to it every day of the week, even if that’s only a few people.

Kaylee Smith gets b-roll footage of golf course flag
Photo by Ashley Bowerman 

After a long day in the Texas heat, it was time to return our gear and head home. As we drove back to San Marcos, the anticipation to explore Yosemite was heightened, and our experience with journalism in the outdoors was perfected. Yosemite here we come!