Spring 2009
Getting Better All the Time
Expansion of public access at Big Bend Ranch State Park
A major expansion of public access to the majestic backcountry of Texas’
largest state park is currently underway at Big Bend Ranch State Park,
made possible with increased funding provided by the Texas Legislature.
The public is invited to see the new opportunities during a free, daylong
Fiesta on Saturday, May 2.
A Campfire Chat
With Bill Coakley
In every issue of State Parks Getaways, we go behind the
scenes. In this issue, we interview Bill Coakley, a Sauer-Beckmann Living
History Farm Volunteer at LBJ State Park and Historic Site.
Activity / How-To
Build a nest box for two beautiful but different birds
Wood ducks and prothonotary warblers are quite different birds, but they have this in common: Both prefer to nest in cavities in trees located over or very near water. Loss of wetlands and associated nesting cavities can be offset somewhat by providing nesting boxes, which both species accept readily. Since the birds prefer the same habitat, nest boxes suited for both can be combined into one unit - a condominium for birds.
A Closer Look At...
Indian Paintbrushes (the genus Castilleja)
Looking for a Quick Getaway?
Destination: Falcon Lake
Swarms of butterflies, excellent Mexican food and good fishing make this South Texas spot worth the drive.
Featured Event
May 9 & 16, 2009 — Lyndon B. Johnson SP & HS — Nature and Wildlife Guided Tours and Walks
Come walk on the wildflower side and enjoy spring outdoors in the Hill Country. You'll see and learn about wildflowers, wildlife and an 1800s German log cabin, while walking the nature
trail that was once a favorite of Ladybird Johnson's. She enjoyed nature so much, that she was instrumental in developing the trail so the public could easily get out and enjoy the park
and nature more. This will be the second spring without her, so we hope the legacy she left will continue with many footprints being left on the nature trail this year in her memory.
Accessible for the mobility impaired. 10:30-11:30 a.m. (830) 644-2252.
Texas Parks and Wildlife Department, 4200 Smith School Road, Austin, TX 78744
