The outdoors has always been one of my passions. Wildlife, fresh air, beautiful scenery, it’s difficult to find in downtown Houston. Luckily about 45 minutes away is Brazos Bend State Park, an often busy South Texas haven.

I last visited the park in February and it was COLD. You have to get there a bit early, or make reservations even on cold, wet days. RV-campers take up many of the prime spots, and if it rains some of the spots can get very soggy.  

The wildlife makes this park worth the visit. Birding is very popular, and the park delivers, with more than 270 species spotted in the area. If you are lucky you can also spot reptiles, amphibians and mammals like fox and raccoon (or maybe not so lucky!) 

There are some nice nature trails and hiking areas, in particular the Creekfield Lake Nature Trail, which is a leisurely walk around a lake that is nearly always filled with ducks and egrets.

I haven’t seen any alligators yet, but rest assured I will be on the lookout the next time I visit.