Brazos Bend State Park

Open — Open year-round with daily hours from 8 a.m. to 10 p.m. Reservations are highly recommended as the park often reaches capacity. Burn ban currently in effect; no wood or charcoal fires allowed, but containerized fuel stoves are permitted.

About

Brazos Bend State Park is a nature lover's paradise located just 45 miles from downtown Houston along the lower Brazos River. The park protects diverse wetland ecosystems and is home to abundant wildlife, including a thriving alligator population that inhabits several lakes throughout the grounds. Visitors can explore 37 miles of interconnected trails that circle lakes and wind through hardwood forests, accessible on foot, bike, or horseback. The park offers both electric and primitive camping options, with the Burr Oak area featuring 50-amp hookups and the Red Buckeye area providing 30-amp service. Fishing is available from shore or pier without requiring a license, and the park includes a nature center with educational exhibits on local ecosystems and reptiles. A unique feature is the George Observatory, operated by the Houston Museum of Natural Science, which opens Saturday nights year-round for stargazing. The park also offers wheelchair-accessible trails, including the fully paved 0.5-mile Hale Lake Trail with touchable bronze wildlife sculptures and observation decks. Rangers lead year-round nature programs and field trips, while the park maintains picnic pavilions, a group hall, and screened shelters for extended stays. Due to its proximity to Houston, Brazos Bend often reaches capacity, and advance reservations are strongly recommended for both camping and day use. The park is open daily from 8 a.m. to 10 p.m., with multiple camping areas accommodating RVs, tents, and youth groups.

Directions

Located at 21901 FM 762, Needville, Texas, approximately 45 miles southwest of downtown Houston.

Nearby Campgrounds