Bentsen-Rio Grande Valley State Park
Birders’ Paradise
Down in the valley you’ll find a birder’s paradise. About 360 species of birds have been reported at Bentsen-Rio Grande Valley State Park, along with butterflies, javelinas, bobcats and more!
Things to Do
Nature is the main attraction here.
Look for birds and other wildlife, get some exercise, and see the Rio Grande Valley in its near natural state. Stop by our Exhibit Hall to enjoy the bilingual (English/Spanish) exhibits.
To protect the natural environment, we do not allow cars in the park. Leave your car at headquarters and explore on foot, bike or take a tram tour.
Reserve one of our primitive campsites (restrooms with showers are in the park). Book our 60-person group hall for your next gathering.
Look for birds
The park’s woodlands and brushlands provide habitat for a wide variety of birds (and other wildlife). Look for them along our trails or at our viewing stations, water features and the two-story, wheelchair-accessible Hawk Observation Tower.
About 360 bird species have been recorded in the park. These include subtropical species common in eastern Mexico, such as the Plain Chachalaca, Great Kiskadee and Altamira Oriole. The park is also a stopover for migratory birds, including Swainson’s and Broad-winged hawks.
Thousands of hawks stream overhead in spring and fall as they migrate. You’ll want to migrate to the Hawk Observation Tower for the best view - of the raptors, the tree canopy and Mexico.
Bring your binoculars or rent a pair from the park store. You’ll need them to fully appreciate the wildlife you’ll see here.
Download our Bird Checklist | PDF.
The park is part of the World Birding Center.
Hike, bike and tram
Explore 7 miles of trail, including 3.5 miles of park road, on bike or foot. The 1.8-mile Rio Grande Trail is wheelchair-accessible. Bikes aren’t allowed on this trail.
Bring your own bike or rent one from the park store (adult bikes are $5 per day).
The park also offers Tram Tours.
Shop and dine
Our park store, Algunas Plumas (Some Feathers), sells field guides, hats, t-shirts, gifts and snacks. You can also rent binoculars and bicycles to use in the park. The store is open seven days a week, 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.
Le Chez Bleu offers sandwiches, salads, pastries, coffee, tea and more. The cafe is open October through April. Hours vary depending on time of year, weather and holidays.
Get involved
Ask at headquarters how you can help. Or you can:
- Volunteer
- Donate at the park or online to the Texas Parks & Wildlife Foundation
Ranger Programs
Ranger-guided programs introduce you to the wildlife in the park. In the summer, we also teach outdoor skills like kayaking and fishing. Check our Events page for the schedule.
Call the park to request a program for your group or class (fees may apply). Learn more about school field trip options.
Kids
Become a Junior Ranger!
- Borrow an Explorer Pack loaded with tools (binoculars, field guides and more).
- Pick up a free Junior Ranger Activity Journal | PDF. Complete tasks to earn a badge.
Area Attractions
Find more information on this Tropical Trail Region from the Texas Historical Commission.
Explore nature in the valley on the Lower Texas Coast – Great Texas Coastal Birding Trail.
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