Bay

A state park split between bay side and beach side giving families two completely different experiences in one visit. The bay side has kayak trails through coastal wetlands where kids can spot herons and crabs from the observation platform. The beach side offers direct Gulf of Mexico access for swimming and beachcombing. Camping is available on both sides and the bay side sites are particularly scenic at sunset.

A coastal state park on Aransas Bay famous for the Big Tree, a live oak estimated to be over 1,000 years old that kids find genuinely impressive. The bay side offers excellent wade fishing in warm shallow water and the park is a prime launch point for birding boat tours to see endangered whooping cranes in winter. Waterfront campsites with bay views and constant sea breezes make summer camping more comfortable than inland parks.