Bentsen-Rio Grande Valley State Park Is An Otherworldly Destination On The Texas Border
By Katie Lawrence|Published November 04, 2020
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Katie Lawrence
Author
Katie Lawrence is a Southeast Texas native who graduated 18th in her high school class with a GPA of 4.25. She attended college in the Houston area and began writing for OnlyInYourState in 2015.
Today, Katie writes, edits, and performs several other tasks for OnlyInYourState and has never been more passionate about a job before. Outside of work, you can likely find her curled up on with a hot cup of coffee, practicing yoga, baking, or exploring the beautiful Lone Star State (in particular, the vast and mystical West Texas desert).
Sometimes, the places that are most worth visiting are hiding right under our noses. That’s exactly the case with Bentsen-Rio Grande Valley State Park, an otherworldly destination hiding deep down in South Texas. Between its diverse wildlife, gorgeous scenery, and blissful solitude, this underrated place deserves a spot on your outdoor adventure bucket list.
Way down near the Texas-Mexico border is where you'll find Bentsen-Rio Grande Valley State Park.
This 764-acre destination is open year-round but attracts the most visitors during winter due to its mild climate. Entrance is $5 daily for adults, and no vehicles are allowed in the park.
Birding is easily the main attraction here, with over 360 species having been spotted in the park.
From subtropical birds like the Great Kiskadee to migratory species such as the Broad-winged hawk, the variety is incredible. Viewing stations sprinkled throughout the park, including the two-story, wheelchair-accessible Hawk Observation Tower, allow visitors to get a better look. Don't forget to bring your binoculars (or rent a pair from the park store if you forget).
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Seven miles of trails wind through the park, and you can explore either on foot or bicycle. Rental bikes are available for $5 each if you prefer not to bring your own.
Watch the terrain change before your eyes as the landscape alternates between wetland, brush, riparian, and woodland. Most of the trails are relatively flat, allowing all fitness levels to enjoy a relaxing stroll. Additionally, the 1.8-mile Rio Grande Trail is wheelchair-accessible (no bikes allowed).
This unique perspective gives you a bird's-eye view of the forest canopy and all the creatures who reside in it. On clear days, you can even see into Mexico!
Because of the diverse ecology, birds aren't the only wildlife you'll encounter.
Javelinas, bobcats, and many other animals call the park home. Learn more in the Exhibit Hall, and extend your stay overnight with 10 primitive campsites and a 60-person group hall.
The park is open until 10 p.m. daily, which means you'll have plenty of time to catch the sunset. It's always breathtaking to behold, with fading daylight illuminating the sky in gorgeous pastel hues.
The grounds are planted with native species that both provide nectar to the butterflies and serve as hosts for caterpillars. Visitors can expect to see about 60 species at the center on any given day.
Visit the park’s website or Facebook page to learn more. Click here for the National Butterfly Center’s website, and here for Facebook.
Have you ever been to Bentsen-Rio Grande Valley State Park or the National Butterfly Center? If so, share the details of your experience with us in the comments below. Check out our previous article for another bucket-list-worthy outdoor destination in South Texas.
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