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When
You Visit the Refuge
• There is no public camping on the Refuge. The nearest camping is at Hopper’s Landing (361-286-3331) located 3 mi. out the gate. There are two RV parks in Austwell (361-286-0232, 361-286-3523).
- Alligators and
poisonous snakes are present; always watch your step.
- Dress appropriately. Bring a hat, water, snack, sunscreen, insect repellent, bird book, flower book, binoculars, camera, etc.
- Bicycling is a popular activity. The Refuge is characterized by its rather level topography, which makes its 16-mile paved tour road attractive to the cyclist. In addition, touring the Refuge by bicycle is one of the most enjoyable ways to experience the natural environment. Be sure to stay on the pavement (bicycles are not permitted on the walking trails, boardwalk or Tower ramps), watch for vehicles, obey state traffic regulations and carry water. Distances: roundtrip from the Visitor Center to the Picnic Area = 2.1 miles, with good views of Heron Flats and San Antonio Bay; roundtrip from the Picnic Area to the Observation Tower = 7.2 miles, good for viewing deer and javelina ( add 1 mile for a side trip to Dagger Pt.); from Observation Tower, on the way Tour Loop and back to the Observation Tower = 11.95 miles; from the Picnic Area to the Observation Tower, around the one-way loop and back to the Picnic Area = 13.45 miles; Grand Tour from Visitor Center, around the loop and back to the Visitor Center = 15.55 miles. These rides offer good viewing of a variety of habitats, deer, feral hogs, javelina, wading birds, possibly bobcat & racoon; There are bike racks located at the Heron Flats Trailhead and Observation Tower.
- If you forget food and water, Friends of Aransas & Matagorda Island NWR does operate a nature store in the Visitor Center where you will find water, drinks, chips, candy, and nuts along with bird books, disposable cameras, and T-shirts for your convenience.
- If you forget binoculars, ask for binoculars-on-loan at the Visitor Center front desk. Eagle Optics has generously donated binoculars for visitors to use. You must leave your drivers license and return the binoculars by 4:30 p.m.
- Cell phones usually don't work at the Refuge.
- If you have a serious health- related emergency, always call 911 first, then notify the Visitor Center front desk. We do have a first aid kit, wheelchair, stretcher, and AED unit.
- If you have a vehicle emergency, notify the Visitor Center front desk so we can call a wrecker if necessary. If it’s something minor, we may be able to help, i.e. jumper cables, etc.
