TOP 30 Best Wildlife refuges in Texas

The Brazoria National Wildlife Refuge - Discovery Center, located at 2072 Hoskins Mound Road in Angleton, Texas, is a park that offers a unique combination of freshwater and saline environments. Home to a diverse range of coastal wildlife, including over 320 species of birds, 95 species of reptiles and amphibians, and 130 species of butterflies and dragonflies, the refuge provides ample opportunities for wildlife viewing. Visitors can explore the estuary and observe large populations of wintering waterfowl, shorebirds, and wading birds from the auto tour at Big Slough. The newly opened Cannan Bend Recreation Area offers additional wildlife viewing opportunities on a freshwater lake and near coastal forest.

Santa Ana National Wildlife Refuge is a stunning park and tourist attraction located at 3325 Green Jay Road in Alamo, Texas, United States. This refuge is home to a diverse range of wildlife, including over 400 species of birds, making it a popular destination for birdwatchers and nature enthusiasts. Visitors can explore the lush trails, observe the unique flora and fauna, and enjoy the peaceful surroundings of this beautiful sanctuary. With its picturesque landscapes and abundant wildlife, Santa Ana National Wildlife Refuge offers an unforgettable experience for all who visit.

Caddo Lake National Wildlife Refuge, located on Zeugner Drive in Karnack, Texas, is a stunning park and tourist attraction that offers visitors the chance to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life and immerse themselves in the beauty of nature. The refuge features numerous hiking and horseback riding trails, as well as wildlife observation areas where visitors can learn about the diverse flora and fauna that call the area home. The refuge is home to a number of rare and threatened species, including the peregrine falcon, alligator snapping turtle, and Rafinesque's big-eared bat. The wetlands of Caddo Lake are vital for migratory bird species within the Central Flyway, with high breeding populations of wood ducks, prothonotary warblers, and other birds. The lake also boasts a diverse fish population, making it a popular spot for sports fishing.

Balcones Canyonlands National Wildlife Refuge is a beautiful park and tourist attraction located at 24518 Ranch Road 1431 in Marble Falls, Texas, United States. This refuge is a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of daily life, offering visitors the opportunity to reconnect with nature and enjoy the native wildlife and plants of Texas. Due to the upcoming total solar eclipse, access to the refuge on April 8, 2024, will be by vehicle reservation only. While reservations are currently sold out, visitors can check back for any changes on the reservation website. The refuge will reopen to the public at 3 p.m. on April 8, 2024, allowing visitors to explore the various public use areas such as Headquarters, Doeskin Ranch, Warbler Vista, and the Shin Oak Observation Deck.

Located in Los Fresnos, Texas, the Laguna Atascosa National Wildlife Refuge is a park and tourist attraction that offers visitors the opportunity to immerse themselves in the beauty of nature. With over 60 miles of hiking and biking trails, five bird feeding stations, and a 14.2-mile scenic drive, there is something for everyone to enjoy. The refuge is home to a diverse range of wildlife, including endangered species like the ocelot and Aplomado falcon. With more than 400 species of birds, 45 mammal species, and 130 butterfly varieties, Laguna Atascosa is a haven for nature enthusiasts. Visitors can engage in wildlife watching, hunting, fishing, photography, and environmental education activities. As part of the National Wildlife Refuge System, the refuge is dedicated to conserving and protecting the natural resources for future generations. Whether you are a birdwatcher, hiker, or nature lover, Laguna Atascosa National Wildlife Refuge offers a unique and unforgettable experience in the heart of South Texas.

Boca Chica Wildlife Refuge is a park and tourist attraction located at Boca Chica Boulevard in Brownsville, Texas, United States. The refuge is known for its diverse wildlife and habitats, including tidal flats, lomas, and native Tamaulipan brush. Visitors can spot a variety of bird species, including Reddish Egrets, Aplomado Falcons, and Chihuahuan Ravens. The refuge is also home to the endangered Ocelot, found only in South Texas. Additionally, visitors can explore the nearby Sabal Palm Sanctuary, which features a butterfly garden, walking trails, and observation decks overlooking the Rio Grande River. The sanctuary is operated by the Gorgas Science Foundation, a non-profit dedicated to conservation education. The Boca Chica Beach and USFWS Boca Chica Tract are also accessible from the refuge, offering opportunities to observe coastal grasslands, nesting shorebirds, and marine creatures. Visitors are advised to be mindful of wildlife and follow conservation guidelines while exploring the area.

Brazoria National Wildlife Refuge is a park and tourist attraction located at 24907 Farm to Market 2004 in Lake Jackson, Texas, United States. This refuge features a unique combination of freshwater and saline environments, providing a habitat for over 320 species of birds, 95 species of reptiles and amphibians, and 130 species of butterflies and dragonflies. Visitors can enjoy wildlife viewing opportunities at the auto tour at Big Slough and the Cannan Bend Recreation Area. The refuge's coastal estuary supports a diverse range of wildlife, including wintering waterfowl, shorebirds, and wading birds. The incoming tides from the Gulf of Mexico and fresh river waters create a biologically rich environment that serves as nursery grounds for fish, shellfish, and insects. Additionally, Brazoria manages coastal prairie lands that provide habitat for various species.

Muleshoe National Wildlife Refuge is a beautiful park and tourist attraction located in Muleshoe, Texas. Visitors can enjoy a variety of activities such as hiking trails, overlooks, camping, and photography. The refuge is home to a diverse range of wildlife species, including sandhill cranes in the winter and migratory birds in the spring and summer. Visitors may also spot coyotes, reptiles, and raptors while exploring the refuge. The institution is dedicated to conserving and protecting fish, wildlife, plants, and habitats for the benefit of the American people. Please note that accessibility requirements may not be met by all websites linked to the refuge's page, and links do not indicate endorsement by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service.

The Buffalo Lake National Wildlife Refuge Admin Building and Visitor Contact Station is a park and tourist attraction located at 28320 Farm to Market Road 168 in Canyon, Texas, United States. This institution offers visitors a chance to disconnect from the stresses of daily life and immerse themselves in the beauty of nature. Activities include driving along the auto tour road, observing wildlife, hiking, camping, and picnicking. Visitors can spot a variety of bird species, including neotropical migrants like warblers, flycatchers, tanagers, and orioles during the spring and fall seasons. Other wildlife such as black-tailed prairie dogs, burrowing owls, sparrows, and eagles can also be seen in the grasslands. Snakes, horned lizards, and ornate box turtles are present as well.

The Lower Rio Grande Valley National Wildlife Refuge La Sal Del Rey is a park located in Edinburg, Texas, United States. Open seven days a week from sunrise to sunset, visitors can enjoy various destinations and observation decks within the refuge's nearly 40,000 acres of land. Activities such as wildlife watching, hiking, and wildlife photography are popular among visitors, with an additional 6,000 acres open for hunting. Established in 1979 with a focus on protecting biodiversity, the refuge serves as a wildlife corridor along the Rio Grande, connecting various tracts of land managed by different organizations. Management tools such as prescribed fires and Wilderness areas are used to ensure a balanced conservation approach for both wildlife and visitors.

Buffalo Lake National Wildlife Refuge, located in Canyon, Texas, offers visitors a chance to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life and immerse themselves in the beauty of nature. This park provides opportunities for wildlife watching, hiking, camping, and picnicking. Visitors can explore the auto tour road and observe a variety of bird species, including neotropical migrants like warblers, flycatchers, tanagers, and orioles. The grasslands are home to black-tailed prairie dogs, burrowing owls, Cassin's and lark sparrows, and bald and golden eagles. Additionally, visitors may encounter snakes, horned lizards, and ornate box turtles. The refuge works to conserve and protect fish, wildlife, plants, and habitats for the benefit of the American people. Please note that not all websites we link to may comply with Accessibility Requirements, and inclusion of links does not imply endorsement by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service.

Buffalo Lake National Wildlife Refuge, located at 28304 Lake Drive in Canyon, Texas, offers visitors a chance to escape the hustle and bustle of everyday life and connect with nature. This park provides opportunities for wildlife watching, hiking, camping, and picnicking. Bird enthusiasts will be delighted by the variety of species that can be spotted, including neotropical migrants like warblers, flycatchers, tanagers, orioles, and sparrows. The grasslands are home to black-tailed prairie dogs, burrowing owls, Cassin’s and lark sparrows, as well as bald and golden eagles. Visitors may also encounter snakes, horned lizards, and ornate box turtles during their visit.

The Muleshoe National Wildlife Refuge Admin Building and Visitor Contact Station, located in Muleshoe, Texas, is a park and travel agency that offers a variety of activities for visitors to enjoy. From hiking trails to camping and photography opportunities, the refuge is a great place to explore the outdoors. Visitors can also observe a diverse range of wildlife species, including sandhill cranes in the winter and migratory birds in the spring and summer. Coyotes, reptiles, and raptors can also be spotted on the refuge. The institution works to conserve and protect fish, wildlife, plants, and habitats for the benefit of the American people. Please note that the institution does not guarantee accessibility compliance for linked websites and does not endorse or recommend any specific sites.

The Fort Worth Nature Center & Refuge is a beautiful park and tourist attraction located at 9601 Fossil Ridge Road in Fort Worth, Texas, United States. This 3,600-acre oasis offers visitors the opportunity to explore diverse ecosystems, including forests, prairies, and wetlands. With over 20 miles of hiking trails, scenic overlooks, and educational programs, visitors can immerse themselves in the natural beauty and wildlife of North Texas. The center is dedicated to conservation and environmental education, making it a perfect destination for nature lovers of all ages.

Nassau Bay Peninsula Wildlife Park is a serene natural oasis located in Houston, Texas, United States. This park is a popular tourist attraction that offers visitors the opportunity to immerse themselves in the beauty of nature. With its lush greenery, diverse wildlife, and stunning views of the bay, Nassau Bay Peninsula Wildlife Park provides a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of city life. Whether you're looking to go for a leisurely stroll, birdwatch, or simply relax and take in the scenery, this park has something for everyone to enjoy. Come explore this hidden gem and experience the wonders of the great outdoors at Nassau Bay Peninsula Wildlife Park.

The I-20 Wildlife Preserve & Jenna Welch Nature Study Center is a serene park and popular tourist attraction located at 2201 South Midland Drive in Midland, Texas, United States. This beautiful nature preserve offers visitors the opportunity to explore and learn about the diverse wildlife and ecosystems of the region. The center is named after Jenna Welch, a beloved local conservationist, and offers educational programs, guided tours, and interactive exhibits for visitors of all ages. Whether you are a nature enthusiast, bird watcher, or simply looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life, the I-20 Wildlife Preserve & Jenna Welch Nature Study Center is the perfect destination for a day of outdoor adventure and exploration.

Kingdom Zoo Wildlife Center, located on West Orange Avenue in Orange, Texas, is dedicated to bringing the love of Christ to hurting children through wildlife encounters. Our signature program, Wild Wishes®, grants wildlife encounters to children facing critical illness or the loss of a parent or sibling. Since 2021, we have granted wishes to 225 children in Texas, Louisiana, Florida, Colorado, and Oklahoma. As a 501 c3 tax-deductible nonprofit, we rely on donations to continue our important work. Your donation can help bring life-changing encounters to children in crisis. In addition to our work, we are proud to partner with the Jerusalem Biblical Zoo in Jerusalem, Israel. This beautiful zoo is located in a valley in southwestern Jerusalem and features expansive grassy areas, shaded corners, a large lake, and waterfalls. The zoo is a non-profit institution made possible by donations from the Tisch family of New York, USA, through the Jerusalem Foundation. Join us in our mission to bring joy and healing to children through the wonder of wildlife encounters.

The Wildlife Amphitheater is a unique institution located at 4001 East Paisano Drive in El Paso, Texas, United States. This outdoor venue offers a one-of-a-kind experience for visitors to immerse themselves in the beauty and wonder of wildlife. With a natural setting and state-of-the-art facilities, the Wildlife Amphitheater provides a platform for educational programs, conservation efforts, and live animal shows. Whether you're a nature enthusiast, a wildlife lover, or simply looking for a fun and educational outing, the Wildlife Amphitheater offers something for everyone. Come and explore the fascinating world of wildlife at this exceptional institution.

Pecan Grove Wildlife Area is a picturesque park and tourist attraction located in Taylor, Texas, United States. This beautiful wildlife area is home to a variety of native flora and fauna, making it a perfect destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. Visitors can explore the lush greenery, serene ponds, and winding trails while observing the diverse wildlife that calls this area home. Whether you're looking for a peaceful retreat or an educational experience, Pecan Grove Wildlife Area offers something for everyone to enjoy.

The Parks & Wildlife Department in Texarkana, Texas is a renowned tourist attraction located at 601 Main Street. This institution is dedicated to preserving and protecting the natural beauty and wildlife of the area. Visitors can explore the scenic parks, take part in outdoor activities, and learn about the local flora and fauna. The department also offers educational programs and guided tours for visitors of all ages. Come visit the Parks & Wildlife Department to experience the beauty of nature in Texas.

The Texas Parks & Wildlife Division is a law enforcement agency located at 5460 Paredes Line Road in Brownsville, Texas. This division is responsible for protecting and preserving the natural resources of Texas, including its parks, wildlife, and waterways. The officers of the Texas Parks & Wildlife Division work to enforce laws and regulations related to hunting, fishing, boating, and conservation efforts. They also provide educational programs and outreach to promote environmental stewardship and outdoor recreation.

Warbler Vista is a beautiful park and tourist attraction located in Marble Falls, Texas, United States. Due to the high demand to view the total solar eclipse in the Austin area, access to Balcones Canyonlands National Wildlife Refuge, including Warbler Vista, will be by vehicle reservation only on April 8, 2024. The refuge is home to native Texas wildlife and plants, including the endangered golden-cheeked warbler and black-capped vireo. Visitors can unplug and connect with nature by hiking the foot trails, observing wildlife, and enjoying the rugged landscape. The National Wildlife Refuge System, managed by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, focuses on wildlife conservation and protection. While originally established for two endangered species, the conservation efforts benefit all wildlife in the area. Hunting regulations are in place for the 2022 season, and the refuge works with partners to enhance habitats for the benefit of the American people. Please note that links to external websites may not comply with accessibility requirements and do not constitute endorsement by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service.

La Sal Del Rey is a park located at Texas 186, Edinburg, Texas, United States. This park is part of the Lower Rio Grande Valley National Wildlife Refuge, offering visitors the opportunity to explore nearly 40,000 acres of land for wildlife-related activities such as wildlife watching, hiking, and photography. An additional 6,000 acres are open for hunting. Established in 1979, the refuge's main goal is to protect biodiversity by connecting various tracts of land along the Rio Grande. The park uses various land management tools, including prescribed fires and Wilderness areas, to ensure a balanced conservation approach. With a rich diversity of plants, butterflies, and vertebrates, including over 500 bird species, the Lower Rio Grande Valley National Wildlife Refuge is a vital sanctuary for wildlife. Working towards conserving and protecting natural habitats, this park is dedicated to benefiting both wildlife and people. Please note that the park's website may not comply with Accessibility Requirements and does not constitute endorsement by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service.

The Wildlife Sanctuary @ Dallas College Mountain View is a serene park located at 4849 West Illinois Avenue in Dallas, Texas. This institution is dedicated to preserving and protecting the natural habitat of various wildlife species. Visitors can explore the lush surroundings and observe a variety of animals in their natural environment. With its tranquil setting and educational programs, The Wildlife Sanctuary @ Dallas College Mountain View is the perfect place for nature enthusiasts to connect with the local wildlife and learn about conservation efforts.

The Davis Mountains Preserve is a rugged yet fragile sky-island refuge located in Fort Davis, Texas. Surrounded by the vast West Texas desert landscape, this park is a tourist attraction that offers visitors a glimpse of the Lone Star State's rugged cowboy heritage. The preserve, established by The Nature Conservancy, spans over 32,844 acres and is home to diverse plant and animal species. With nearly 110,000 acres of the Davis Mountains region protected, the preserve provides important wildlife corridors and habitat for rare species. Closed to the public for most of the year for research and conservation-related activities, the Davis Mountains Preserve opens on select weekends for camping, hiking, biking, equestrian activities, picnics, photography, birding, and more. Visitors can explore the stunning landscapes, towering Ponderosa pine trees, cool mountain creeks, and dramatic views of canyons and peaks. The preserve is also home to a variety of wildlife including black bears, bobcats, elk, mountain lions, and a wide range of bird species.

Hill Country Pet Boarding is a premier pet store located at 117 Margot Lane in Spicewood, Texas, United States. We offer top-notch boarding services for your furry friends, ensuring they receive the utmost care and attention while you are away. Our experienced staff is dedicated to providing a safe and comfortable environment for all pets in our care. Whether you need overnight boarding or just day care services, Hill Country Pet Boarding is the perfect place for your beloved pets. Visit us today and see why we are the go-to destination for pet owners in the Hill Country area.

Thompson Patent Law, located at 1320 Arrow Point Drive in Cedar Park, Texas, is a leading institution specializing in patent and trademark law. With over 20 years of experience, our team of dedicated patent attorneys, led by Managing Principal Patent Attorney Craige Thompson, has helped thousands of companies navigate the complex legal processes involved in obtaining and protecting patents and trademarks for their intellectual property. What sets Thompson Patent Law apart from other law firms is our unique Point of Novelty Assessment, which helps determine the distinguishing elements of your patent from known technologies. We have been recognized as the Top Patent Management Services Provider and offer comprehensive patent services to ensure that your ideas and designs receive the legal protection they deserve.

The Bob Jones Nature Center and Preserve is a beautiful park and tourist attraction located at 355 East Bob Jones Road in Southlake, Texas, United States. This 758-acre preserve offers visitors the opportunity to explore and connect with nature through hiking trails, educational programs, and interactive exhibits. With diverse wildlife, stunning views, and a commitment to conservation and sustainability, the Bob Jones Nature Center and Preserve is a must-visit destination for nature lovers of all ages.

The Cibolo Center for Conservation is a beautiful park and tourist attraction located at 140 City Park Road in Boerne, Texas, United States. This institution is dedicated to preserving the natural beauty and wildlife of the area, offering visitors the opportunity to explore and learn about the local ecosystem. With walking trails, educational programs, and interactive exhibits, the Cibolo Center for Conservation is a must-visit destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. Come experience the beauty and wonder of the Texas Hill Country at this unique conservation center.

The Davis Mountains State Park Headquarters is a must-visit destination located in Fort Davis, Texas. Situated on Texas 118, this park serves as the gateway to the stunning Davis Mountains State Park, offering visitors a chance to explore the natural beauty and diverse wildlife of the area. As a popular tourist attraction, the headquarters provides information on park activities, hiking trails, camping options, and more. Visitors can also learn about the history and geology of the park, as well as participate in educational programs and guided tours. Whether you're looking for a relaxing day in nature or an adventurous outdoor experience, the Davis Mountains State Park Headquarters is the perfect starting point for your visit to this scenic Texas park.