Goose Island State Park and Corpus Christi, Texas

Goose Island State Park is our first visit to the Texas coast, located south of the Aransas National Wildlife Refuge and north of Corpus Christi. This unique state park has wooded RV sites located on the mainland and bay front sites on it's island, appealing to birders and fishermen alike.  Once situated on our site off Aransas Bay, we visit the 1000 year old Big Tree, located in the park. During our five day stay we visit the Aransas National Wildlife Refuge, the Texas State Aquarium, Mustang Island and the Padre Island National Seashore.

 

The Big Tree (a coastal live oak)

      

                                                     Laughing gull and black skimmers

 

 

Jim has been a birder all his life. Having only dabbled in this activity until now, this visit to Goose Island has just cemented my interest in birding. I must say acquiring a decent pair of binoculars (thank you, Jim!) has also made quite a difference. A wonderful guided tour by the local volunteer birding experts was invaluable.   

 

 

 

Brown pelicans

 

Stingray and dolphins at the Texas State Aquarium in Corpus Christi.

Laughing gulls at Mustang Island          

 

 

 Padre Island National Seashore

 

Taking the ferry at Aransas Pass

This phenomenal observation tower at Aransas National Wildlife Refuge took us above the trees. Next stop, South Padre Island...