Gas Saving Getaways - Matagorda Bay Nature Park

Ahh, the beach.  Just saying the word brings to mind sunny images and fond memories.  Remember that family vacation?  You can relive those childhood memories and create some new ones for your kids at Matagorda Bay Nature Park - this week's Gas Saving Getaway.



From leisurely walks on the beach, to fishing, to a nature scavenger hunt, there's something for everyone to enjoy at Matagorda Bay Nature Park.  Park staff provide entertaining and informative programs to visitors on the local flora and fauna, as well as recreational programs like guided kayaking trips.

If you're into RVing, Matagorda Bay Nature Park has space for 70 RVs at the adjacent RV Park.  More information is available on the RV Park by sending an email to parkinfo@lcra.org.

To find out more about all the fun things to see and do, contact park staff at 1-800-77-5272, Ext. 4740 or email them at matagordabay@lcra.org.  Make plans to visit Matagorda Bay Nature Park with your family this summer.  You'll be glad you did.

Fall Is a Wonderful Time for the Beach

Even though we typically think of going to the beach as a summertime activity, the Fall is a great time to visit the beach - especially in Texas.  Think about it.  It's not that far-fetched.  Here are just a few reasons why:

• It's Texas.  The weather is still warm until well into October.
• It's less crowded.
• Prices are usually lower in the off-season.

I've got you thinking about a long weekend, haven't I?  Good!  The Colorado River Trail's got you covered.

Our southernmost county - Matagorda County - is a wonderful destination for a beach getaway.  There's great fishing year-round and all kinds of water sports.  Matagorda County is on the Great Texas Coastal Birding Trail, and is the best place to watch birds in North America.  There are plenty of lodging options too.  From hotels and motels, to quaint bed and breakfasts, to RV sites - there are lots to choose from!

You can even take a beachcombing tour to learn about the shells commonly found on the beaches of Matagorda County.  The folks at Matagorda Bay Nature Park are offering an "Adventures in Beachcombing" guided walk on October 23rd (and again on November 13th) for only $8 per person.  Take a relaxing stroll on the beach with an interpretive guide and learn about the wonders of Matagorda.

For more information on guided tours at Matagorda Bay Nature Park, check out their calendar of community programs.  And for more information on things to see and do in Matagorda County, the friendly folks at the Matagorda County Convention and Visitors Bureau are there to help.

Photo courtesy of accent on eclectic. 

Wildlife Abounds on Matagorda Bay

School's out, or it will be for most kiddos this week. Have you thought about a trip to the beach this summer? If so, try something different this year. Matagorda County is home to almost 55 miles of Texas shoreline. If it's birding you like, Matagorda County ranked first by the National Audubon Society in the annual Christmas Bird Count. There are more species of birds here than anywhere else in the country! Other activities include fishing, boating, kayaking, beachcombing, and much more. You can even camp right on the beach! Matagorda Bay Nature Park offers nature programs on topics including beachcombing, guided wetland kayak trips, birding, and a nature scavenger hunt. Programs are scheduled throughout the summer, so there's bound to be one that fits your family's schedule. Contact the Matagorda Area Chamber of Commerce for more information on where to stay, where to eat, and things to see and do while you're there. Photo courtesy of slipshod snapshots.