Nature Lover’s Paradise

Looking for a “wild” experience? You will find it at Brazos Bend State Park, just 45 miles from downtown Houston!

Things to Do

Nature has top billing at this park. Be sure to bring your walking shoes, binoculars and camera.

Besides marveling at nature, you can also hike and bike, fish, picnic, geocache, ride your horse, and stay over­night. Reserve one of our picnic pavilions or our group hall for your next group gathering.

Pay due respect to alligators, which are common in some areas of the park. Read our alligator safety tips before you come.

Explore

We have 37 miles of trails, some of which are wheelchair-friendly. You can experience them on foot, bike or horseback. We have an all-terrain wheelchair for use in the park; call us to reserve it for your visit: (979) 553-5101, x0. 

• Creekfield Lake Nature Trail: This fully paved .5-mile trail tours a wetland area. You’ll find exhibits with touchable bron­zes of wildlife, an acces­si­ble board­walk and obser­vation deck, and rest areas with shaded benches.
• Hike and bike trails: Trails circle lakes, connecting with each other and heading into the hardwood forest. Pets must be on a leash no longer than six feet and must not drink from or enter the lakes. Read about alligator safety on park maps and on signs in the park.
• Horseback riding: We have 13 miles of multiuse trails. You must bring your own horse and show proof of negative Coggins. Weather conditions can lead to trail closures; call the park for trail updates before your visit.

Some trails close in wet conditions. Ask at the park office about closures.

Our trails can be challenging. Be safe on the trails, no matter how you access them. Bring plenty of water and travel with a partner.

Fish

Try your luck from shore or fishing pier. You do not need a license to fish from shore or pier in a state park. Download our Fishing Tip Sheet for more information.

Stay

Reserve a campsite, screened shelter, or cabin. Bring your nonprofit youth group for a campout.

Nature Center

Stop by to learn more about the park and its residents. See exhibits on the three ecosystems in the park, as well as on reptiles that live here.

Hours vary for the nature center and gift shop due to staffing. Contact the park to arrange a group visit.

George Observatory

The observatory is part of the Houston Museum of Natural Science. It is open on Saturday nights, year-round and weather permitting. Purchase tickets online before your visit; tickets are not sold at the park. A park day pass is also required. 

For additional information, visit the observatory website or call (979) 553-3400 or (281) 242-3055.

Shop

Find gifts and souvenirs at the headquarters gift shop and the Nature Center.

Get involved

We need your help!

• Learn more on our Volunteer page.
• Join the Brazos Bend State Park Volunteer Organi­za­tion. Help with park maintenance, programs and the Nature Center. We offer trainings in February and September.
• Contact the park to volunteer as a park host.
• Donate to the Brazos Bend State Park Volunteer Organization.

Ranger Programs

We offer nature programs and hikes year round.

• Events
• Programs and tours
• Field trips
• Call the park to schedule a program for your group.
• Ask about the self-guided Junior Naturalist Program. Kids can earn a patch!

Area Attractions

Houston has museums, restaurants and more.

Explore other history and nature sites nearby:

• Varner-Hogg Plantation State Historic Site
• George Ranch Historical Park.
• Sea Center Texas

Follow the Brazoria Loop of the Great Texas Wildlife Trails to find the best wildlife viewing spots in the area.

Take to the water on the Stephen F. Austin Paddling Trail (scroll to the Gulf Coast section).