The visitor center at Brazos Bend State Park is open Monday through Friday from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., and on Saturdays and Sundays from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. It is closed on Thanksgiving and Christmas Day.
The entrance fee at Brazos Bend State Park is $7 per person for those 13 and older, free for those 12 and under. A Texas State Parks Pass offers unlimited entry for $70 per year.
From Houston: Take US-59 S to TX-36 S. Turn right on FM 1462, then left on FM 762. The entrance is 5 miles ahead. From Sugar Land or Rosenberg, follow TX-36 S and the same FM roads.
Brazos Bend State Park has ample parking throughout, including a large lot at the nature center. Cars, RVs up to 66 feet, and motorcycles can park. Overnight parking is allowed for campers. Daily entrance fee applies, but no additional parking fees.
Accessibility & permits
Emergency
- Cell service availability:Partial
Located just southwest of Houston, Brazos Bend State Park covers 5,000+ acres of forests, prairies, and wetlands. Renowned for its large alligator population, birdwatching, and the George Observatory, the park offers miles of trails and lakes perfect for hiking, fishing, and kayaking. Visitors are drawn to the natural beauty, diverse ecosystems, and educational experiences. Whether you’re camping under the stars, spotting alligators, or gazing through a telescope, Brazos Bend is a Texas treasure for nature and astronomy lovers alike.
- Area (mi²)
- 7.6
- Annual visitors
- 254 000
- Established year
- 1984
Top 3 Facts about Brazos Bend State Park
The park’s tallgrass prairie is home to native grasses that range in height from 2 to 6 feet, offering a glimpse of a once widespread but now vanishing ecosystem.
George Observatory hosts public stargazing with one of the nation’s largest telescopes.
Park has hardwood forests, wetlands, and coastal prairies supporting 300+ bird species.
Family programs
- Ranger-led Tours
- Self-guided Tours
- Workshops & Hands-on Activities
- Scavenger Hunts
- Night Sky & Astronomy
- Family Camping & Overnight
- Arts & Crafts
Travel Tips
Plan Ahead
Reserve campsites or observatory sessions early, especially for weekends and spring/fall events.
Pack Appropriately
Wear sturdy shoes, pack bug spray, sun protection, and extra water.
Respect Wildlife
Maintain 30 feet from alligators, never feed them, and follow “Alligator Etiquette” signs.
Stay Informed
Check the Texas Parks & Wildlife site for trail status, weather alerts, and observatory hours.
Seasons
Ideal conditions (60s–80s°F), blooming wildflowers, and active alligators and migratory birds.
Warm and humid (90s°F). Best for early morning or evening visits. Great for kayaking, fishing, and family outings. Bring sun protection and water.
Comfortable temperatures (60s–80s°F), fewer bugs, colorful scenery, and active wildlife.
Cool and quiet (40s–60s°F), perfect for hiking, birdwatching, and stargazing at George Observatory.
