Approximately 28 miles from Houston, Brazos Bend Sate Park is a vast nature preserve covering almost 5,000 acres. The park provides a vast range of activities including hiking, biking, horseback riding and fishing.
Each weekend, interpretive programs are offered and administered by staff and volunteers. Also, a nature center located on the property provides a hands-on alligator discovery area as well as a freshwater aquarium to better educate kids.
The George Observatory also will entertain kids as they learn to stargaze on Saturdays only from 3 p.m. to 10 p.m.
Making the experience more convenient for kids, facilities include restrooms, campsites with water and electricity, screened shelters and barbecue pits.
Brazos Bend State Park
21901 FM 762
Needville, TX 77461
979-553-5102
tpwd.state.tx.us
Located on banks of the Brazos River, Stephen F. Austin State Park holds historical significance because it is the location where Stephen F. Austin, the "Father of Texas," began the first Texas colony. Just 30 minutes from Houston, the park includes activities such as fishing, hiking and historical tours to educate children about Stephen F. Austin.
Additionally, family programs on various subjects unique to the park are available on Saturday afternoons and evenings, and Sunday mornings there is a nature hike for kids of all ages.
When visiting Stephen F. Austin State Park, a variety of campsites are available that include amenities such as water, electricity, screened shelters and water-only sites.
Stephen F. Austin State Park
P.O. Box 125
San Felipe, TX 77473-0125
979-885-3613
tpwd.state.tx.us
A unique camping experience can be had during an overnight stay on the Battleship "Texas." With a requirement of 20 or more kids and a fee of $30 per person (February 2010 prices), children can sleep in the famous battleship and receive a history lesson from Navy personnel aboard the vessel. Kids will tour the warship while simulating hardships the crew endured, explore the living quarters and eat in the mess hall to receive the full naval experience.
Anchored on Buffalo Bayou and the Houston Ship Channel, the historic site consists of the Battleground, the Monument and the Battleship "Texas" and is within minutes of downtown Houston.
After a stay on the ship, families can continue the educational journey and walk the battleground where Texas won its independence in the battle of San Jacinto. Also, don't miss a trip to the observation floor of the monument, which was erected for the heroes of the battle of San Jacinto. On a clear day, the view provides a stunning panorama of the battleground, the battleship and the surrounding ship channel.
Battleship "Texas" State Historic Site
3523 Hwy. 134
LaPorte TX 77571
281-479-2431
tpwd.state.tx.us
