During the Christmas holidays, our family had it’s regular family reunion with my parents who live in the Houston area. Once the festivities were over, it was time to find new entertainment for the little ones. I asked my niece and nephew if they liked alligators. The answers I received were mixed from they’re cool to they’re scary and mean. Hum, the weather was quite nice for this time of year, so let’s drag they’re father along and hit Brazos Bend State Park and swim with the gators! Not! Ok, maybe not swimming.

First, getting there. From the Houston area, take Hwy 288 south and then head west on FM 1462. Drive through Rosharon, over the cross Brazos river, take FM 762 north and follow the signs to park Road 72 into the park. Once you enter the park, one notices many signs warning you of the dangers. But not to worry, just follow the rules.

We first had to stop at the park headquarters and pay our fees. It was only $3,00 a piece for us two adults and the who were under 12 got in for free. The headquarters also house one of the park’s stores for souvenirs. The kids picked up some “Discovery Goo” and something special for their mom. While there, we asked were the best place in the park was for finding the alligators. We were told the trails around Elm Lake. So we picked up our park map and away we were.

As we drove through the park, we noticed this was home to the George Observatory telescopes which were managed by the Houston Museum of Natural Science. Imagine that, I thought the only cool telescopes were in the Fort Davis area of Texas. Also, we passed by the nature Center. More on that facility later.

We finally found Elm Lake, parked and began our hike. The trail then led us to two oxbow lakes, Old Horseshoe Lake and new Horseshoe Lake. It was at this point we came across more alligator warning signs. We must be close. Sure enough, after heading south on the trail, we found our first Texas alligators. These trails are also for bikers, so be careful not to get run over by them. We continued west and crossed a long expanse bridge over Pilant Lake to the Observation Tower. A climb to the top offers a great view of the marsh lands for bird watchers. Yes, plenty of bird watching is done here. Then headed south again and found more of the reptilian beast. It is amazing how close you can get to the alligators. Just be sure to follow the rules and all should be safe. In addition to alligators, plenty of birds, turtles and deer were also observed.

We made our way back to check out the George Observatory which was only opened at 3:00 PM on Saturdays. So, plan ahead for that visit. However, we did visit the nature Center which was a small museum which also housed another park store. Presentations on the local habitat are also given here. One of the friendly rangers allowed the little one to pet a small baby alligator.

Brazos Bend State Park also offers plenty of camping and picnicking areas in addition to more hiking trails around the Brazos river. The park also has an outdoor theater for group presentations. This park has lots to offer in the middle of a river bottom swamp. For more 411 on the park and plenty of pictures, check out The Texas Roadrunners at : http://www.txroadrunners.com.


Recommended: Yes

Best time to go: September-November
Recommended for: Familes
Review Topic: Hiking & Trails