Galveston Island State Park Paddling Trail
As the name implies the trail is found in waters that surround Galveston Island State Park. Because most of trails are protected by breakwater, the water is normally calm and makes for excellent paddling. Paddlers can choose from three different trails that vary in length from 2.6 to 4.8 miles. Because the park has many other features of interest, paddlers can also take a hike along the dunes on the Gulf side. Camping is available at the park if you chose to stay over, but make your reservations in advance since the park is often full during peak times.
Trail Access
Dana Cove Paddling Trail Initial Access
- Type:
- Access Point
- GPS Coordinates:
- 29.2130, -94.9534
The 2.6-mile Dana Cove (Lake Como) trail begins at the end of the main park road and continues through the seagrass beds that have recolonized behind constructed geo-textile breakwaters.
Oak Bayou Paddling Trail Initial Access
- Type:
- Access Point
- GPS Coordinates:
- 29.2048, -94.9572
The 4.8-mile Oak Bayou Trail is accessed along the main park road and also highlights the terrace restoration area, as well as areas of natural high marsh.
Jenkins Bayou Paddling Trail Initial Access
- Type:
- Access Point
- GPS Coordinates:
- 29.1973, -94.9663
The 2.8-mile Jenkins Bayou trail begins at the western end of Clapper Rail Road and takes paddlers along the bayou and out to the marsh restoration terrace field.
Navigating the Trail
Follow this tips and guidelines, and be sure to view our safety information.
Trail Length: variable
Paddling Time: variable
Trail Description
Trail Length: variable
Paddling Time: variable
Dana Cove Trail
This trail begins at Lake Como and meanders through the shallow water that is protected by a breakwater where seagrasses have recolonized. The trail crosses Dana Cove and returns to the put in — total length 2.6 miles.
Oak Bayou Trail
This 4.8 mile course trail begins near the boardwalk just off the main park road and follows an inlet of Galveston Bay. The trail meanders through shallow water out to the geotextile breakwater and over to the marsh restoration terraces where planted vegetation provides new habitat for small fish and shorebirds. The trail then enters another inlet and proceeds southeast, then turns at marker 16 and makes a look back to the put-in.
Jenkins Bayou Trail
Jenkins Bayou Trail begins at the end of Clapper Rail road near a freshwater pond. The Trail follows a small inlet makes a loop and returns to the put in approximately 2.8 miles later
Trail Maps
Global Positioning System (GPS) points for Galveston Island State Park Paddling Trail
Things to Do and See
Enjoy fishing, wildlife-watching and natural scenery on this paddling trail. Be sure to check the TPWD Paddling Events Calendar for regularly updated activities.
Fishing
Anglers have several choices as to the type area to fish. Wade fishing is excellent in the fringes of the island or they may choose to fish in the newly created tiered restoration area where seagrass is re-colonizing. Common species include spotted seatrout, redfish, black drum, flounder and other species. The park administrative offices can be reached at 409-737-1222.
Wildlife and Ecology
The beach area’s sand dunes provide unique habitat and the park is home to wading and shore birds, mottled ducks and small mammals such as raccoons, armadillos, and marsh rabbits.
Rentals and Shuttles
Texas Camp Company
Rent beach chairs, umbrellas, cabanas, kayaks, paddleboards, bikes and e-bikes. To make a reservation, call (409) 692-0065 or visit https://www.texascampcompany.com/
Staff and Friends of Galveston Island State Park
The park has supplies and trained kayak guides who can accommodate groups of up to 15 people on scheduled kayak tours. Access is on a first come first served basis, so if you are interested, please visit the park calendar for more information at http://tpwd.texas.gov/state-parks/galveston-island/park_events. Private tours and trips can be scheduled by contacting the park at 409-737-1222.
Partnership
The trail was established in cooperation with the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. It is maintained in partnership with the Friends of Galveston Island State Park. For more information on the paddling trails contact a member of our Friends group at (409) 737-5567.