Bentsen-rio Grande Valley State Park

Open — Open year-round. Park gates open 7:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. daily. Campsites available by reservation. The park store closes at 4:30 p.m., and the last park shuttle is at noon; arrivals after noon require walking or biking into the park with camping equipment.

About

Bentsen-Rio Grande Valley State Park is a premier birding destination along the Rio Grande with over 360 species recorded, including subtropical species from eastern Mexico and migratory raptors. The park offers five primitive walk-in tent sites located 3/4 mile from the parking lot, providing an immersive nature experience in the valley's near-natural woodlands and brushlands. The park serves as headquarters for the World Birding Center and features 7 miles of trails, including the 1.8-mile wheelchair-accessible Rio Grande Trail. A two-story hawk observation tower offers panoramic views of the tree canopy and Mexico. Wildlife includes butterflies, javelinas, bobcats, and numerous bird species like the Plain Chachalaca, Great Kiskadee, and Altamira Oriole. To protect the natural environment, vehicles are not allowed beyond headquarters; visitors explore on foot, by bike, or via tram tours. The park store sells field guides, gifts, snacks, and rents binoculars and bicycles. Ranger-guided programs introduce visitors to local wildlife. Restrooms with showers are available approximately 3/4 mile from the campsites. This unique destination combines primitive camping with world-class birding opportunities in South Texas.

Directions

Located at 2800 S. Bentsen Palm Drive (FM 2062) south of Mission in Hidalgo County. Parking at headquarters; campsites are a 3/4-mile walk into the park.

Nearby Campgrounds