Attractions

Famed as a principal wintering ground for the near-extinct whooping crane, the refuge is on a broad peninsula about 12 miles across the bay northeast of Rockport. It is administered by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service as a refuge for the protection and management of various species of wildlife. About 400 species of birds—Canada geese, pintail ducks, American wigeons, sandhill cranes and more—have been recorded. Other inhabitants include alligators, white-tailed deer, javelina and raccoon. Sight-seeing, nature observation, hiking and photography are permitted along designated public-use roads, trails and at observation towers; also picnic areas. The most rewarding time to view wildlife, including whooping cranes, is November–March. Wildlife Interpretive Center features mounted specimens, slide show on whooping cranes and literature. Open 8:30 a.m.–4:30 p.m. daily; closed Thanksgiving and Christmas. Admission charge. Refuge headquarters is about 35 miles northeast of Rockport via Texas 35 north; F.M. 774 east, and F.M. 2040 south. 361/286-3559.

One of the best ways to view wildlife is from boats in the Intracoastal canal. From early November through early April, boats from the Rockport and Fulton harbors cruise past tidal flats and salt marshes (where many species may be seen) into the whoopers' habitat. Fares vary.