Most reviewed Nature & Wildlife Areas in Texas


  1. 4.5 Sea Turtle, Inc. (3.119 reviews)
    - Visit with the turtles
    Sunday: 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM Spent 1-2 hours Nature & Wildlife Areas
    Sea Turtle, Inc. image
    Ila Loetscher, the "Turtle Lady of South Padre Island", originally formed our organization to save the Kemp's ridley sea turtle in 1977. Now we are a sea turtle hospital with a mission to rehabilitate and release any injured sea turtles, increase awareness concerning their safety and habitat, and assist with conservation efforts for all sea turtle species. We are funded by donations, grants and gift shop proceeds-- For rehabilitated sea turtle and hatchling release text message notifications, please see our website membership page. See you at Sea Turtle, Inc.! See more..
  2. 4.5 South Padre Island Birding and Nature Center (1.417 reviews)
    - Must Go
    Sunday: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM Nature & Wildlife Areas
    South Padre Island Birding and Nature Center image
    Also on Facebook- South Padre Island Birding & Nature Center See more..
  3. 4.5 Fort Worth Botanic Garden (1.195 reviews)
    - Middle of April visit
    Sunday: 8:00 AM - 4:00 PM Spent 2-3 hours Historic Sites • Nature & Wildlife Areas • Gardens
    Fort Worth Botanic Garden image
    Enjoy all four season in the Fort Worth Botanic Garden. No matter the season there is always something spectacular to see, our most popular gardens are the Fuller, Rose, and Japanese. Guest also enjoy the Native Texas Boardwalk, Rock Springs, Four Season, and Back Yard Vegetable Garden. We recommend​ you bring comfortable shoes and bottled water. See more..
  4. 4.5 Fossil Rim Wildlife Center (1.165 reviews)
    - Had a great time!
    Sunday: 8:30 AM - 4:30 PM Spent More than 3 hours Nature & Wildlife Areas
    Fossil Rim Wildlife Center image
    Fossil Rim Wildlife Center is where Africa comes to Texas. Our 1,800-acre facility offers a 7.2-mile scenic drive where you can interact with approximately 1,100 exotic and endangered animals roaming free in herds. Drive through in your car, reserve your spot on a guided tour, to see 50-plus species of wild animals including cheetahs, wolves, giraffes, rhinos, and more. The delicious food at The Overlook Cafe is paired with an incredible view overlooking the park and our Nature Store offers an array of souvenirs to take home to family and friends. While Fossil Rim is sure to provide a unique experience and exciting adventure, we are dedicated to the conservation of species in peril. Fossil Rim conducts scientific research, trains professionals, responsibly manages our natural resources, and is committed to public education. See more..
  5. 4.5 Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center (1.102 reviews)
    - Field of Light - WOW!
    Sunday: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM Spent 1-2 hours Nature & Wildlife Areas • Gardens
    Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center image
    The Lady Bird Johnson Wildflower Center in Austin, Texas, is dedicated to inspiring the conservation of native plants. Located a quick but quiet ten miles from downtown, we are a botanical garden open to the public year-round and have become a favored venue for everything from conservation-focused conventions to beautiful weddings. We carry out our mission to inspire the conservation and application of native plants through our gardens, campus, research, education and outreach programs. In doing so, we improve water quality, provide habitat for wildlife and enhance human health and happiness. Visit, learn and make a better world with us. The Wildflower Center was founded by Lady Bird Johnson and Helen Hayes in 1982 and became a part of The University of Texas at Austin in 2006. See more..
  6. 4.5 Hamilton Pool Preserve (736 reviews)
    - Wow! Amazing!
    Spent 2-3 hours Nature & Wildlife Areas
    Hamilton Pool Preserve image
    Such a great experience! Would definitely recommend going again. Make sure to purchase a spot in advance and have cash when you get there. There are a couple of hiking trails that are very family friendly. Our 5 and 7 year old were able to participate fully. The pool is breathtaking and very worth the entry free. See more..
  7. 4.5 Cockrell Butterfly Center (712 reviews)
    - Magical and Whimsical. I felt like a Princess.
    Sunday: 10:00 AM - 5:00 PM Spent 1-2 hours Science Museums • Nature & Wildlife Areas
    Cockrell Butterfly Center image
    Next to the Houston Museum of Natural Science, the glass-enclosed butterfly habitat includes a simulated rainforest and thousands of colorful butterflies. A dramatic 50-foot waterfall and exotic plants transport visitors. See more..
  8. 4.5 Arbor Hills Nature Preserve (567 reviews)
    - Great visit to enjoy nature and fresh air!!
    National Parks • Nature & Wildlife Areas
    Arbor Hills Nature Preserve image
    Nice place to walk and awake your senses. A little bit crowded but still beautiful. Buy your tickets in advance, Choose gate 1 wether you're not going with children, choose gate 4 for children =entrance to the children garden is not included, its an additional cost= See more..
  9. 4.5 Jacob's Well Natural Area (413 reviews)
    - Peaceful
    Sunday: 8:00 AM - 6:00 PM Spent 1-2 hours Points of Interest & Landmarks • Nature & Wildlife Areas • Hiking Trails
    Jacob's Well Natural Area image
    *Swimming is prohibited at this time.* Jacob's Well Natural Area is open daily from 8am - 6pm, with no entry after 5:30pm. Jacob's Well Natural Area allows swimming from May - September each year by online reservation only. JWNA is in an Aquatic Restoration period from October - April during which swimming is not allowed. HIKING is permitted year round and no reservation is needed. During the summer, recommended hiking hours are 8am - 10am. No pets, glass, alcohol, smoking, or drones are permitted in the Natural Area at any time. SWIMMING AT JACOB'S WELL Permitted May - September by online reservation only. We do not have a waitlist for swimming. Reservations are for a specific two- hour time block and guests must show up for the time specified in their reservation. Late arrival is okay and we will hold your reservation until you arrive BUT your time block remains the same and you will have less time to swim. See more..
  10. 4.0 Animal World and Snake Farm Zoo (377 reviews)
    - Just keeps getting better
    Sunday: 10:00 AM - 6:00 PM Spent 2-3 hours Nature & Wildlife Areas
    Animal World and Snake Farm Zoo image
    Two Attractions, One Admission:Exciting Croc & Alligator ShowPetting ZooWorld's Largest RodentEndangered PrimatesMost Dangerous Snake in the WorldBirds of the WorldCarnivore Feeding ShowRattlesnake PitConcession StandGift ShopAnd much more!!Check web site for showtimes, vary according to season. See more..
  11. 4.0 Prairie Dog Town (339 reviews)
    - perfect stop for travelers with children
    Nature & Wildlife Areas
    Prairie Dog Town image
    this would be an incredible stop for people travelling with kids, We stopped after being told about it by a co-worker who grew up in the area. It was really neat. a herd of Prairie dogs that have been preserved by the city of Lubbock since 1934 I think it was. you can feed them or the city or someone had thrown out several lettuce leaves while we were there. They talk to each other and fight over the food. there are a few courageous ones who have burrowed out of the enclosure so be careful when you drive up! See more..
  12. 4.5 Chihuahuan Desert Nature Center & Botanical Gardens (301 reviews)
    - Beautiful Views and Trails
    Sunday: 12:30 PM - 5:00 PM Spent 2-3 hours Nature & Wildlife Areas • Hiking Trails • Gardens
    Chihuahuan Desert Nature Center & Botanical Gardens image
    Located 4 miles SE from Fort Davis on Hwy 118, the Chihuahuan Desert Nature Center is comprised of semi-desert grasslands and igneous rock outcrops with a riparian canyon and spectacular views from all directions. Explore a variety of hiking trails ranging from the Modesta Canyon Trail that leads into a hidden canyon with its year-round spring to Clayton's Overlook Trail, which provides a 360-degree hilltop view and a Geology Exhibit to the Outer Loop Trail with its Quarry View. Inside the fenced Botanical Gardens is a 1/2 mile winding path that features native plants of the Trans-Pecos region. You'll also discover the Pollinator Garden & Overlook, the Scenic Loop Trail, a Native Grasses exhibit, and the Maxie Templeton Cactus Museum Collection with over 200 species and subspecies of Chihuahuan Desert cacti. There's a Bird Blind with a 30 ft. long water feature, Mining Heritage Exhibit, the Powell Visitor Center & Gift Shop. Adults: $6.50 each; Children 12 and under: Free See more..
  13. 4.5 Lost Maples State Natural Area (291 reviews)
    - Great hikes, great views.
    State Parks • Bodies of Water • Nature & Wildlife Areas
    Lost Maples State Natural Area image
    An excellent park to view fall foliage while walking the Maple and East Trails. See more..
  14. 4.5 River Legacy Park (241 reviews)
    - LOVE IT!!!! Just be aware of the wildlife
    Bodies of Water • Nature & Wildlife Areas • Parks
    River Legacy Park image
    Located on 1,300 acres next to the Trinity River in the heart of north Arlington. Hiking and biking trails, playground and picnic areas, as well as diverse flora and fauna. See more..
  15. 4.0 Wonder World Cave and Park (224 reviews)
    - Better than Natural Bridge Caverns.
    Sunday: 10:00 AM - 6:00 PM Spent 2-3 hours Amusement & Theme Parks • Nature & Wildlife Areas
    Wonder World Cave and Park image
    Welcome to Wonder World Park, a one-of-a-kind Theme Park, known as the 1st show cave in Texas. Visitors have enjoyed touring the Balcones Fault Line Cave for over 105 years, and now, the park has many other attractions for family fun and entertainment. Enjoy a guided tour and discover the nation's only true example of an earthquake formed cave. Go deep underground and see up close the devastation of a major quake. Exit by the "Stratavator" and ride high into the sky to the Tejas Observation Tower. Be amazed by the Topsy-Turvy World of the Anti-Gravity House where everything is backwards, even water flows up hill! Board the train and splash through the waterfalls of Mystery Mountain on your way to the Texas Wildlife Petting Park. Educational and fun for ALL ages, Wonder World Park Cave and Attractions is just minutes from I-35 in San Marcos between Austin and San Antonio. Gift shops, free picnic grounds, free parking and much more await your visit. See more..
  16. 4.5 Cherokee Trace Drive-Thru Safari (198 reviews)
    - They have camels!
    Sunday: 1:00 PM - 4:00 PM Spent 2-3 hours Nature & Wildlife Areas
    Cherokee Trace Drive-Thru Safari image
    This 300 Acre Drive-Thru Safari Park features over 25 exotic species from around the world in an open range environment all from the comfort of your car ! See more..
  17. 4.5 Fort Worth Nature Center & Refuge (179 reviews)
    - Beautiful trails!
    Sunday: 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM Nature & Wildlife Areas
    Fort Worth Nature Center & Refuge image
    Peaceful nature reserve located just ten miles away from downtown Fort Worth; amenities and attractions include 20 miles of hiking trails, a resident bison herd and prairie dog colony, a marsh boardwalk and the Hardwicke Interpretive Center. Professional naturalists offer a wide variety of programs, classes and guided hikes each week. See more..
  18. 4.5 River Bend Nature Center (173 reviews) from $6.16
    - Great for BOTH Adults & Children
    Sunday: 12:00 PM - 4:00 PM Spent 1-2 hours Nature & Wildlife Areas
    River Bend Nature Center image
    River Bend Nature Center (RBNC) is a 20 acre, non-profit environmental education facility. River Bend connects people to their natural environment through educational activities, environmental awareness, and conservation examples. Our most popular attractions are the Bryant Edwards Learning Center contains over 100 live exhibits, such as turtles, salamanders, insects, and frogs. There is always plenty to see and observe! The Ruby N. Priddy Butterfly and Nature Conservatory is a one-of-a-kind, state-of-the-art, 7,000 sq. ft. glass structure. It is home to prairie dogs, fish, turtles, and butterflies, and is landscaped with prairie grasses, trees, shrubs, and wildflowers of the Rolling Plains. RBNC has over 17 acres of forest, trails, gardens, and wetlands. Come on out and see River Bend Nature Center, it is truly a special place to explore and learn. See more..
  19. 4.5 Aransas National Wildlife Refuge (164 reviews)
    - Good spot to see Whooping Cranes
    Sunday: 9:00 AM - 4:00 PM Nature & Wildlife Areas
    Aransas National Wildlife Refuge image
    This 70,000-acre nature and wildlife preserve is home to almost 400 species of birds. See more..
  20. 4.5 Texas Freshwater Fisheries Center (147 reviews)
    - Great family outing for young and old
    Nature & Wildlife Areas
    Texas Freshwater Fisheries Center image
    Great family place. Admission price is reasonable or you can purchase a season pass. Cindy at the ticket window was very friendly and gave us lots of info as we were first time visitors. Very good displays of Texas fishing, fish culture and habitat along the ponds and in the museum. You can buy fish food and feed the fish in the exhibit ponds. At the casting pond you can fish for catfish, bluegill and rainbow trout. The fishing is free with rods, bait and instruction if you have never fished. The Game Warden’s museum is small but informative and Ken, the volunteer was great, answering questions and giving us detailed information. The wetlands trail exhibits were a bit overgrown and old but still informative. The tram tours were not running yet. Plenty of places to have a picnic and snacks at the gift shop. We spent 3 hrs here and were impressed. See more..
  21. 4.5 Westcave Outdoor Discovery Center (125 reviews)
    - Loved the Grotto and Cave, but felt rushed
    Sunday: 9:30 AM - 4:00 PM Nature & Wildlife Areas
    Westcave Outdoor Discovery Center image
    Prepare yourself - the majestic beauty of our unique Texas Hill Country nature preserve will leave you breathless! Our expert-guided tours take visitors from an arid savannah through a limestone crevice into a sheltered canyon of lush plant life. At the head of the canyon stands Westcave, with a stunning 40-foot waterfall replenishing the emerald pool below. (Canyon Tours offered every Saturday & Sunday - weather permitting). Self Guided Hikes Tuesday - Friday 9:30 - 1:30pm (no Canyon Access weekdays without prior reservation) See more..
  22. 4.5 Santa Ana National Wildlife Refuge (120 reviews)
    - The jewel in the Lower Rio
    Sunday: 8:00 AM - 4:00 PM Nature & Wildlife Areas
    Santa Ana National Wildlife Refuge image
    There are more than 500 species of birds in the Refuge's 2,000 subtropical acres. See more..
  23. 4.5 Cibolo Nature Center (120 reviews)
    - Great trails
    Sunday: Nature & Wildlife Areas
    Cibolo Nature Center image
    My husband, a friend and I went to the Cibolo Nature Center on a Sunday in January. We love hiking the short trails (3 miles total) in the woods, along Cibolo Creek, in the prairie and on the boardwalk in the marsh area. On this trip, the boardwalk was closed due to maintenance. There are many Cypress trees along the creek. The center has a visitor and gift shop as well. There is no charge except for special events. We will be back. See more..
  24. 4.5 I-20 Wildlife Preserve (105 reviews)
    - Brand New--Trails and Wetland
    Nature & Wildlife Areas
    I-20 Wildlife Preserve image
    Who knew there were wetlands in the Permian Basin? There are here. This place just opened, pursuant to a grant from Texas Parks and Wildlife. About 3 miles of trails, boardwalk, several bird-viewing blinds, and a hawk-observation tower. It's really pretty nice. Only two things mar. First, heavy traffic noise from the interstate, which rather spoils the peacefulness, at least on the southernmost portion of the trail. Second, another section of the trail abuts a really, ugly junkyard. But hey, nature situated it where it is, and somewhat was savvy enough to make an isolated spot into an unexpected, even unlikely community asset. NOTE--there are NO PETS, and no BIKES permitted. Walkers only. The trails appear handicap accessible. See more..
  25. 4.5 National Butterfly Center (102 reviews)
    - Very nicely maintained gardens
    Sunday: 8:00 AM - 5:00 PM Spent 2-3 hours Nature & Wildlife Areas • Gardens
    National Butterfly Center image
    The National Butterfly Center is the pilot project of the North American Butterfly Association (NABA), a nonprofit organization committed to environmental conservation and education. It is located in Mission, Texas, because the Rio Grande Valley is home to the greatest volume and variety of butterflies species in the United States. Just 10 years ago, this 100-acre parcel of land along the banks of the Rio Grande River was a commercial onion field. Today, it is the largest botanical garden in the United States focused on propagating native plants for pollinators in formal gardens and wildscapes. This nature preserve contains a Hackberry Forest and several species of endangered plants and animals. Expect season variations and changes subject to rainfall, temperatures, etc. THE NATIONAL BUTTERFLY CENTER IS NOT A BUTTERFLY HOUSE. All wildlife found in the NABA Section of the Lower Rio Grande Wildlife Conservation Area, which includes a National Wildlife Refuge tract and Bentsen-RGV State Park, is free-roaming. The National Butterfly Center features walking trails and two birding areas, as well as a photography blind. Our butterfly and bird lists may be found on our website. PLEASE NOTE: Butterflies prefer sunny days, with temperatures above 70 degrees, so days like this are the best for enjoying the wild, free-flying butterflies. The peak of butterfly season normally occurs in late October/early November, and may continue until the first prolonged cold snap. To see what's happening now, check our Facebook page for photos, programs, and other announcements, or look under the tab 'IN THE NEWS' on our website. Handicapped parking available, with many accessible areas. See more..
  26. 4.5 Big Thicket National Preserve (98 reviews)
    - Quick trip
    Sunday: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM Spent More than 3 hours National Parks • Nature & Wildlife Areas • Parks
    Big Thicket National Preserve image
    Big Thicket National Preserve, part of the National Park Service, offers 40 miles of hiking trails. You can go birding in spring or fall. Rent canoes or kayaks to explore the lakes and bayous. Big Thicket has hunting part of the year, off-road biking the rest of the year. See more..
  27. 4.5 George Mitchell Nature Preserve (96 reviews)
    - Hiking trail
    Nature & Wildlife Areas
    George Mitchell Nature Preserve image
    Great hiking trail and there are good places to sit. There is a great deal amount of shade so it makes it bearable even on a hot late summer day. Bring bug spray because there mosquitoes are everywhere. Many plaques with information on plants along the trail route. Great bike trails as well!! We saw a lot of people on their bikes and even some ATVs off road. See more..
  28. 4.5 In-Sync Exotics (94 reviews)
    - Overall a great experience
    Sunday: 11:00 AM - 6:00 PM Nature & Wildlife Areas
    In-Sync Exotics image
    Great enclosures, very friendly staff that answer all of your questions about the cats. Cats seem healthy and cared for. Overall a great experience. Don’t hesitate to donate, as their monthly costs are insanely high. See more..
  29. 4.5 East Texas Gators and Wildlife Park (90 reviews)
    - HUGE Alligators! Close up view.
    Sunday: 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM Nature & Wildlife Areas
    East Texas Gators and Wildlife Park image
    Wonderful small zoo with really nice, informative staff. Amazing, HUGE alligators in their natural setting that you can view from a very close distance. Highly recommend. Bring your camera. See more..
  30. 4.0 Sharkarosa Wildlife Ranch (90 reviews)
    - Up-Close animal encounter close to DFW
    Nature & Wildlife Areas
    Sharkarosa Wildlife Ranch image
    A fun experience, well-worth the modest entry fees! They have a nice collection of animals in humane habitats and the staff is friendly and knowledgeable. Lots of fun things to pet and feed as well: camels, goats, sheep, alpaca, mini horses, and cows. They fill the day with animal encounters and talks that are informative and intimate. I was a little apprehensive about the two bears and two lionesses, but they are rescues, in decent habitats, and well cared-for. See more..
  31. 4.5 Oak Point Park & Nature Preserve (84 reviews)
    - Ride Bikes!
    Nature & Wildlife Areas
    Oak Point Park & Nature Preserve image
    Enjoy riding bikes with our family at this park. You can literally ride into south Plano or all the way to Allen! See more..
  32. 4.5 Barton Warnock Environmental Education Center (82 reviews)
    - Great little museum
    Sunday: 8:00 AM - 4:30 PM Nature & Wildlife Areas
    Barton Warnock Environmental Education Center image
    The center offers exhibits and information about the archeological, historical, and natural history of the Big Bend region. See more..
  33. 4.5 Hagerman National Wildlife Refuge (81 reviews)
    - Great Scenery!
    Sunday: 1:00 PM - 5:00 PM Spent 1-2 hours Nature & Wildlife Areas
    Hagerman National Wildlife Refuge image
    Over 300 species of birds live with 200 oil wells in this refuge since 1951. See more..
  34. 4.5 Landa Falls (80 reviews)
    - BEWARE AT THE END!!!!!
    Nature & Wildlife Areas • Water Parks
    Landa Falls image
    My sister, brother in law. And myself went this past weekend. Had a blast. Except for the end. The stairs were slippery with algae. I jumped off my tube which was a big mistake. It was deep ( it’s 13 ft). and the current was strong ( very) . I struggled to get to the stairs. I can swim but the current was pulling me under swallowing water several times. Thank God a man grabbed my hand and pulled me up. They really need a worker there to assist the swimmers. The river ride was good… BEWARE OF THE EXIT!!!! I suggest to get off before you approach it. See more..
  35. 4.5 Davey Dogwood Park (75 reviews)
    - Wish I could come back
    Sunday: 7:00 AM - 7:00 PM Spent 1-2 hours Nature & Wildlife Areas • Parks • Hiking Trails
    Davey Dogwood Park image
    How I wish I was visiting during the blooms or fall seasons! Lots of roads to drive to take landscape/foliage pictures or look for birds. Lots of trails to hike, too. But I was visiting at the wrong time of year. Lots of picnic areas. I didn't see bathrooms, but I wasn't looking either. See more..
  36. 4.0 Meridian State Park (73 reviews)
    - Meridian SP
    Sunday: 8:15 AM - 4:45 PM State Parks • Nature & Wildlife Areas
    Meridian State Park image
    The one thing you won't find at this park is crowds: a quiet, beautiful area lined with trails for hiking and biking. See more..
  37. 4.0 Canyon of the Eagles Nature Park (64 reviews)
    - Wonderful get-away
    Sunday: 7:00 AM - 9:00 PM Spent More than 3 hours Nature & Wildlife Areas • Forests
    Canyon of the Eagles Nature Park image
    Uniquely nestled in the Upper Highland lakes region of the Texas Hill Country, Canyon of the Eagles takes its name from the American Bald Eagles that winter in the area. The park showcases the flora and fauna of Lake Buchanan and provides a refuge for the endangered Black-Capped Vireo, Golden-Cheeked Warbler, and American Bald Eagle. Common wildlife sightings include rabbit, deer, roadrunner, snake, bobcat, feral pig, and armadillo. Throughout the spring and early summer, wildflowers bloom in abundance! Canyon of the Eagles is in Central Texas Hill Country on Lake Buchanan, the largest body of water (over 30 miles in length and 5 miles wide) in the Highland Lakes’ region. The property is located 25 minutes from Burnet, 50 minutes from Llano, 90 minutes northwest of Austin, 2 hours north of San Antonio, 4 hours southwest of Dallas and 4 hours west of Houston. Ranch Road 2341, one of the most scenic roads in Texas, ends at its entrance. See more..
  38. 4.5 Mineola Nature Preserve (60 reviews)
    - Great place for a day tripper!
    Nature & Wildlife Areas
    Mineola Nature Preserve image
    The Mineola Nature Preserve on the Sabine River encompasses 2,911 acres located in Wood County, and is home to East Texas species of critters that can fly, walk, crawl, and slither, and home to more than 193 species of birds, numerous wildlife, buffalo, longhorn cattle, and a pristine wetlands environment. Imagine walking along a railroad bed built in the 1860s as you step back in history. Owned by the City of Mineola, this is part of a comprehensive development plan to protect our natural wildlife and habitat for future generations. This pristine area is an escape to the quiet of nature and the solitude of yesteryear.With construction beginning in 2002, the Preserve is being constructed with matching grants from Texas Parks and Wildlife Department and others and maintained by funding from the City of Mineola. Walking, hiking, biking, birding, wildlife viewing, equestrian trails (over 20 miles), fishing ponds, picnic areas, primitive camping areas, Recreational Vehicle Utility Connections at THE DERBY, two pavilions with restrooms, playground and educational opportunities abound. Don't miss the active beehive on Johnnie Bendy Trail that can be viewed behind safety glass. There is an abandoned rail bed that lends itself well to accommodate walkers, and a history of that era that romanticizes the area that is recognized by historical markers, such as the Hasinai Tribe of the Caddo Indian Nation. This area is an ideal corporate retreat with facilities to support either a short term or long term stay.According to an article in the November (08) Texas Parks and Wildlife Magazine, this Preserve is in the top 15 city parks in the nation for its size. The goal is to make the list as a top 10 choice destination for educators, birders, hikers, bikers, equestrians, local, regional, and national groups. In many respects, the site is still in the visionary state, with both progress and plans continuing to develop. See more..
  39. 4.5 San Angelo Nature Center (58 reviews)
    - Great place to go with adults and kids!
    Nature & Wildlife Areas
    San Angelo Nature Center image
    I went to the Nature Center with my daughter and my 4 grandchildren visiting from out of state. We loved it and they enjoyed holding a few of the animals and seeing so many neat ones from the area and other parts of the world. It was worth the time!! See more..
  40. 4.5 Balcones Canyonlands National Wildlife Refuge (56 reviews)
    - Beautiful area
    Sunday: Nature & Wildlife Areas • Canyons
    Balcones Canyonlands National Wildlife Refuge image
    Beautiful hiking area. Serene with a small creek flowing through the Doeskin Ranch area. We heard coyotes but saw no other wildlife, although it was ideal for deer and such. Wonderful area to relax and unwind. See more..
  41. 3.5 Lake Colorado City State Park (53 reviews)
    - Nice park
    Nature & Wildlife Areas
    Lake Colorado City State Park image
    See more..
  42. 4.5 McKinney Roughs Nature Park (53 reviews)
    - A fun place to see nature and explore.. some amazing scenic spots for pics and viewing..
    Sunday: Nature & Wildlife Areas • Parks
    McKinney Roughs Nature Park image
    McKinney Roughs is an 1,100 acre nature park where characteristics of four ecosystems-- Post Oak Savannah, Blackland Prairie, East Texas Piney Woods, and a riparian zone-- converge to create an unusual blend of natural resources. Located just 13 miles east of Austin-Bergstrom International Airport, McKinney Roughs is home to hundreds of plant and animal species living within the rolling box canyons, wildflower meadows and lazy river bends of the Texas Colorado River. McKinney Roughs is a day use park where visitors can explore close to 18 miles of trails by foot or 12 miles on horseback (bring your own horse). The park offers many community programs as well. At the Visitors Center, pay your entrance fee and get the latest trail information. Peruse the gift shop and learn about the area's indigenous species through interactive exhibits and why the "river is the reason" for the presence and protection of this natural area. Features Natural Science Programs The park's Mark Rose Natural Science Center is home to quality science-based education programs led by trained educators and professional staff. Teachers, home schoolers, youth and corporate groups can schedule day or overnight education programs to learn about water conservation and land stewardship. Recreation programs such as a river raft trip and team-building on the challenge course tie together the strands of your group's nature experience. Amenities Special Event Facility Rental Host your next conference, workshop, retreat or meeting at one of LCRA's nature parks and natural science centers. Nonprofit, government and corporate groups are eligible to use the facilities for a reasonable fee. The spacious meeting room hosts up to 120 people and can be divided into three separate sections. A kitchen area is available. A catered dining hall accommodates up to 250 people. Three dormitories house up to 128 guests. See more..
  43. 4.5 Edinburg Scenic Wetlands (47 reviews)
    - Great birds
    Nature & Wildlife Areas
    Edinburg Scenic Wetlands image
    Must visit place. Water reclamation plant turned into a wonderful park. Have never seen anything like it. Great bird viewing. Very friendly and helpful staff. You will not be disappointed. See more..
  44. 4.5 Smith Oaks Bird Sanctuary (46 reviews)
    - Photographer's Dream Location for quantity
    Nature & Wildlife Areas
    Smith Oaks Bird Sanctuary image
    I visited the Bird Sanctuary in April of 2018, just wasn't available to choose from in the options below. I love photographing the shore birds, and have always tried to find a place to get more than a fleeting glimpse of the Spoonbills. At the Sanctuary there is no short supply of shorebirds, and many varieties, along with a alligator or two. This is a must for someone that likes to photograph shorebirds and cannot make it to St. Augustine, FL for their annual festival. The crowds were minimal and I was able to photograph there for several hours. I can't wait to make it back there again. The staff was very friendly and helpful answering any questions. See more..
  45. 4.0 McAllen Nature Center (41 reviews)
    - Great Place to walk
    Sunday: 8:00 AM - 8:00 PM Nature & Wildlife Areas • Parks
    McAllen Nature Center image
    My wife and I were looking for a place to walk while we were in McAllen Texas and went to the McAllen Nature Center. It was a wonderful place to go for a walk. There were plenty of paths to walk, a playground for children, and lots of wildlife and nature to see and explore. If you're looking for a place to enjoy a walk at whatever pace you walk at, I would recommend the McAllen Nature Center. See more..
  46. 4.5 International Exotic Animal Sanctuary (40 reviews)
    - Wonderful!
    Sunday: Nature & Wildlife Areas
    International Exotic Animal Sanctuary image
    I have been meaning to write about our wonderful visit here in January for months; that’s how much the place stuck with me. I am not a fan of zoos but have a great appreciation for animal sanctuaries since I began volunteering at one on the east coast. This sanctuary shows how much they care about the animals they’ve rescued. The habitats are far more spacious than others I’ve seen and the array of animals they care for is amazing. We had a very informative tour guide and met some of the interns who are learning to care for the beautiful creatures. The animal trade is awful and places like this give the animals a place to retire in peace and as much comfort as possible not being in their natural habitats because of unthinking and selfish humans. See more..
  47. 4.0 Frontera Audubon (37 reviews)
    - Always relaxing, inspiring, and something new to spot.
    Sunday: 12:00 PM - 4:00 PM Nature & Wildlife Areas
    Frontera Audubon image
    This is small, but has so much that it’s easy to forget that you’re not further out in nature. Some areas of the paths are so dense with native Sabal Palms, Montezuma Bald Cypress, and other native plants, that it gives a feeling of how the Valley must’ve appeared in times past. The Skaggs house, dating to the early 1920’s adds a beautiful historic component. If you live with a physical disability, there are benches frequently placed along the trails (none of which are long). Sitting for awhile, is almost a guarantee that you’ll spot some wildlife - including bird and butterfly species only found as far north as the Rio Grande Valley. Colorful dragonflies, and adorable lizards are seen on a sunny day. If you want both a learning experience, and to experience tranquility close to everything, this is a perfect place! See more..
  48. 4.5 Carleen Bright Arboretum (35 reviews)
    - Nature and Beauty
    Temporarily closed - Closed until further notice Nature & Wildlife Areas
    Carleen Bright Arboretum image
    The Carleen Bright Arboretum extends over 16 acres, with almost half of it developed as botanical gardens. Included is the Pavilion Event Center, a private event rental space with floor to ceiling accordion windows that sits overlooking our beautiful grounds. The original white chapel located at the entrance, is our Whitehall Tourist & Community Center. It welcomes and entertains local residence and guests as they discover all that Woodway offers. The Arboretum, known as the “Jewel of Woodway” boasts a certified Monarch Way-station, a koi pond, fountains, rose garden, meditation garden, the Todd Willis Nature Trail that winds through native woodlands suitable for all explorers, two McLennan County Master Gardener demonstration gardens and much more. The Carleen Bright Arboretum is the perfect setting for weddings, picnics, and adventure. Come join us for one of the many city hosted events here at the property! See more..
  49. 4.0 Jefferson Visitor Center (34 reviews)
    - Good Info in the visitor center, nice people
    Sunday: Visitor Centers • Nature & Wildlife Areas • Convention Centers
    Jefferson Visitor Center image
    Visitors and Convention Bureau has a full list of things to do in Jefferson Texas. Business listings and maps for anything you might want to do while you're in town and even information the surrounding areas. See more..
  50. 4.5 Cedar Breaks Park (34 reviews)
    - Great park with shade and scenery
    Spent More than 3 hours Biking Trails • Nature & Wildlife Areas • Hiking Trails
    Cedar Breaks Park image
    Went here for a 2 day stay in site #36 right on the lake. We had a beautiful view from our trailer over the lake. We set our chairs up right under the trees and had plenty of shade. Many of these sites are not big rig friendly. We saw several large fifth wheels scrapping tree tops. Many of the sites don't go very far back either. While our site was sloped it was level from side to side. The picknic table are all under covered structures and while they are old they seem to be in good shape. We enjoyed this COE campground especially when using our senior pass getting a $13 per day rate. See more..

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