Aransas National Wildlife Refuge | Corpus Christi

Aransas National Wildlife Refuge (NWR) is located along the Texas Gulf Coast, covering over 115,000 acres of diverse habitats, including salt marshes, freshwater ponds, oak forests, and coastal prairies. Established in 1937, the refuge is best known for being the primary wintering ground of the endangered whooping crane. This vast wildlife sanctuary offers an array of outdoor activities and opportunities to experience and learn about wildlife conservation.

Wildlife and Nature

Aransas NWR is a critical habitat for over 400 bird species, including migratory waterfowl, shorebirds, and the endangered whooping crane, which can often be spotted during the winter months. The refuge is also home to a wide variety of other wildlife, such as white-tailed deer, bobcats, alligators, and numerous species of reptiles and amphibians.

Activities and Attractions

Auto Tour Loop:
The 16-mile paved Auto Tour Loop allows visitors to explore the refuge from the comfort of their vehicles. Along the loop, you can view wetlands, prairies, and woodlands, offering a chance to spot a variety of wildlife, including cranes, deer, and numerous birds.

Fishing Pier:
The 100-foot fishing pier on the refuge is open year-round, providing opportunities to fish for redfish, speckled trout, and sea trout. Visitors can also enjoy spotting dolphins, stingrays, and other aquatic wildlife.

Observation Towers and Boardwalks:
There are several observation towers and boardwalks at the refuge that provide panoramic views of San Antonio Bay and Mustang Lake. These areas are ideal for birdwatching, photography, and nature walks, allowing for an up-close look at the landscape and its wildlife.

Hiking Trails:
Aransas NWR offers several well-maintained trails that allow visitors to explore its diverse ecosystems:

Heron Flats Trail: A 1.4-mile trail that takes visitors through wetlands, offering observation platforms equipped with spotting scopes to view waterfowl and other birds.

Rail Trail: A 0.5-mile trail that follows Tomas Slough, offering opportunities to see alligators and various bird species.

Songbird Loop & Oak Sanctuary: Short trails that wind through woodlands, home to a variety of songbirds and a remarkable 500-year-old oak tree.

Big Tree Trail: A 0.7-mile loop that showcases some of the refuge's oldest and largest live oak trees.

Hours and Fees

Visitor Center: The Visitor Center is open from Wednesday to Sunday, 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM, and is closed on federal holidays.

Auto Tour & Trails: Open daily from 30 minutes before sunrise to 30 minutes after sunset.

Entrance Fees:

$3 for one adult in a vehicle.

$5 for two or more adults in a vehicle.

$25 for commercial vehicles (up to 20 people).

$50 for commercial vehicles (21 or more people).

Free for children under 18.

Annual passes are available for purchase, including the Aransas Annual Pass ($15) and the Federal Duck Stamp ($25).

Rules and Policies

Registration and Fees: Visitors must register and pay fees at the entrance.

Gate Hours: The refuge gates close and lock 30 minutes after sunset.

Drones: Drones and remote-controlled aircraft are prohibited within the refuge.

Pets: Pets must be kept on a leash (4–6 feet) and under control at all times. Visitors are advised not to allow pets to drink or enter the water due to the presence of alligators and venomous snakes.

Trash: The refuge does not provide trash receptacles, so visitors must "pack it in, pack it out."

Getting There

From the south: Take Highway 35N, exit on FM 774, turn right on FM 774, and then right on FM 2040 to the refuge gate.

From the north: Travel south on Highway 35, continue to Tivoli, turn onto FM 239, follow it to Austwell, and then proceed on FM 774 and FM 2040 to the refuge gate.

Nearby Attractions

Port Aransas: A nearby coastal town offering a variety of dining, shopping, and cultural experiences.

Corpus Christi: The city is home to attractions such as the Texas State Aquarium, the USS Lexington, and the Corpus Christi Museum of Science and History.

Summary

Aransas National Wildlife Refuge is a key location for birdwatching, wildlife viewing, and environmental education. With its diverse ecosystems, including marshes, forests, and coastal prairies, it provides excellent opportunities to observe nature and learn about conservation efforts. Whether you’re interested in hiking, fishing, or simply experiencing the beauty of the Texas Gulf Coast, the refuge offers a peaceful and educational escape into nature.