Get in touch with nature and wildlife when you visit these top Galveston parks.
From exploring the flora and fauna at the East End Lagoon Nature Preserve to experiencing the trails and activities at the Galveston Island State Park, there's something in Galveston for every nature enthusiast.
Galveston Island State Park is a premier destination for nature lovers. Those who come can stroll along the ocean on the sandy beaches of Galveston or fish and look for coastal birds on the bayside. The park also offers hiking and bike trails for those who want to get active while taking the island's flora and fauna. There are even water trails for kayaks and canoes for getting out on the water.
New renovations to enjoy include a new park headquarters building, new restrooms, new roads, 95 new campsites, new changing areas, rinse-off showers, 20 new shade shelters in the day-use area, and more!
Located on Galveston's Pelican Island, Seawolf Park boasts one of the island's most popular fishing piers and picnic sites. The park also features a playground for the kids as well as the Galveston Naval Museum, home of a WWII submarine: USS Cavalla, and one of only three destroyer escorts: USS Stewart. The remains of the WWI tanker S.S. Selma, the largest concrete ship constructed, can be seen northwest of Seawolf Park's fishing pier.
Searching for the ideal birdwatching location? Several shorebirds can be found at East End Lagoon Nature Preserve, including sandpipers, plovers, herons, and egrets. In the lagoon itself, visitors can look for ducks, geese, grebes, loons, cormorants, pelicans, and more! The park also has an ADA-accessible nature trail as well as fishing and kayaking for those who want to get on the water.
Artist Boat Coastal Heritage Preserve, located at 13117 Settegast Road, operates with the goal of promoting both the awareness and preservation of coastal margins and their natural wildlife. Bird watchers will appreciate the Edward & Helen Oppenheimer Bird Observatory, and anyone who loves being out on the water should book a guided eco-art kayak adventure. If you’re interested in giving back, Artist Boat has a variety of volunteer opportunities that are suitable for all ages and time frames.
Amenities at Lee and Joe Jamail Bay Park include a boat ramp on the north side of the bridge with truck/trailer parking spots, a park on the south side and a steel pedestrian bridge connecting them. It also includes a parking lot with 23 spaces, two new fishing piers, landscaping and three new pavilions with picnic tables.
Need help planning a nature trip? We’re happy to help!
Where the Texas Coast begins.
Author
Visit Galveston
Visit Galveston is the official destination marketing organization for Galveston Island, Texas.
