Jan 27, 2023

Although the city of Houston, TX, is better known for its skyscrapers and sprawling residential areas than for its nature reserves, this large metropolis is not far from numerous extensive parks and forests that provide habitat to several species of local and migratory birds. If you are traveling around Houston in your new 2022 Lincoln Corsair and are searching for the best birdwatching destinations in the area, these are three fantastic places you should visit.

3 Favorite Places for Birdwatching in Driving Distance of Houston, TX

1. Sam Houston National Forest

Located just north of the city and boasting an area of nearly 165,000 acres, Sam Houston National Forest is not only a popular destination among birdwatchers but a true oasis of nature within driving distance of one of the largest urban areas in the United States. Established in 1936, this place offers plenty of modern and well-maintained facilities, including picnic spots, a large network of nature trails, and fully equipped camping areas.
Providing habitat to a wide variety of birds and mammals, Sam Houston National Forest is a true paradise for wildlife watching and photography. Some of the bird species you can find in this sprawling national forest include bald eagles, red-cockaded woodpeckers, crows, owls, pileated woodpeckers, northern cardinals, pine warblers, great blue herons, and wood thrushes.

2. Brazoria National Wildlife Refuge

Located right along the Gulf Coast and covering an area of nearly 45,000 acres, Brazoria National Wildlife Refuge is another popular destination among birdwatchers from Texas and beyond. This wildlife conservation area was established in 1969 with the purpose of providing high-quality habitat for migratory birds and waterfowl passing through the region. Particularly during the winter months, this nature reserve welcomes thousands of birds that fill the many ponds and sloughs of the refuge.
If you are searching for a beautiful destination that can be easily visited as a day trip from Houston, Brazoria National Wildlife Refuge is a fantastic option. This nature reserve is open to the public Monday through Friday between 9:00 am and 5:00 pm. Some of the bird species you can find here include Canada geese, sandhill cranes, mottled ducks, herons, seaside sparrows, and American wigeons.

3. Huntsville State Park

Also located in the northern part of the city, Huntsville State Park covers an area of more than 2,000 acres and was developed by the Civilian Conservation Corps in the 1930s. Managed by the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department, this place provides habitat to numerous bird species, including wood warblers, thrushes, vireos, northern shovelers, wood ducks, great blue herons, barred owls, and downy woodpeckers.
If you are searching for a spacious, comfortable, and reliable vehicle to travel around and discover the best nature reserves in Texas, we’ve got you covered! Visit us at Bayway Lincoln today, meet our expert sales agents, and learn all about our flexible financing options.

Image by André Rau from Pixabay