Galveston Island State Park is a stunning park of natural beauty located in Galveston, Texas. The 2,000+ acre site is home to numerous examples of wildlife and attracts thousands of visitors year on year.
The park was opened to the public in 1975 and has been a popular tourist attraction ever since. It's located in the West corner of Galveston Island and is home to bay areas, lakes and seafronts, with nearly two miles of beachfront access. With such a range of habitats there are countless species of birds and animals that are attracted to the area, and is a great spot for birdwatchers and nature lovers of all kinds.
The park is home to four miles of hiking and biking trails in the bay side area of the park, all of which wind between stunning lakes and bayous. With such stunning surroundings there are plenty of photo opportunities, and with campsites and overnight shelters visitors can enjoy the area for even longer. The lakes are home to a huge selection of fish species, and throughout the park there are plenty of opportunities for both freshwater and saltwater fishing.
Birdwatchers will love the range of birds that can be seen at the park, with just a few examples being white ibis, great egret, great blue heron, mallard ducks and roseate spoonbill. Barn owls also nest in the park and hawks, gulls and terns can all be seen. Popular wildlife species that can often be seen include raccoons, armadillo and marsh rabbits, offering a number of photo opportunities. Special weekend events are also held throughout the busy season, so it's worth checking the calendar to see what's coming up.
Admission to the park costs $5 per day for adults and children aged 13 and above, with children 12 and under getting in for free. There are a number of campsites available throughout the park with up to 8 people allowed per campsite. During the busy season of March through to October people are allowed to camp for a maximum of 14 days in any 28 day period to account for the increase in travelers.
There are 12 beach side campsites and 20 bay side sites all with electric and water hookups, and beach sites have shades, picnic tables and a ground fire ring. Prices are $25 per night for beach sites and $20 for bay sites, all of which can be reserved. There are 34 additional sites with water only, costing just $15 per night.
The park is open every day throughout the year, although look out for hurricane warnings when the park will be closed. The park was damaged by Hurricane Ike but has been remodeled with most of the areas now being open to the public again.
Galveston Island State Park is great for the whole family, whether you're looking for a day out or a longer, more relaxing vacation. Nature and recreation lovers alike will love a trip to the park, and will be amazed by the stunning location, the trails and the wildlife on offer.
Photo of Galveston Island:
Review, comment, or add new information about this topic: