Brazos Bend State Park hosts spring break “Marsh Madness”

Early spring is a time of transition and one of the best times to visit the park. Migratory birds will need a rest stop. Reptiles will begin to relish the warmth of the sun. Wildflowers will blanket the meadows and trail sides.  It all starts to happen at once!

The park normally offers at least 3 free programs every Saturday and Sunday but during this very busy spring break week staff and volunteers will offer at least 3 free programs or hikes every day.  Visitors can take advantage of this “marsh madness” for nine straight days from March 9 – 17, 2013.

Park Naturalist Sharon Hanzik tells us that programs and hikes will cover various topics including snakes, owls, butterflies, story times, poison ivy, geocaching, nature hikes and of course everyone’s favorite “marsh monster” the American alligator. “Alligators will be ready to fatten up after a long period of inactivity and loss of appetite during the winter months” says Hanzik. “Visitors are sure to see plenty of basking alligators around Elm and 40-Acre Lakes”.

Hanzik says that the forest will also be a treat for hikers who visit the Red Buckeye Trail. They may witness the beginning of the blooming season of this native under-story tree.  This trail offers the best views of the Brazos River. Brazos Bend is also home to one of the few remaining remnants of tall grass prairies in the state.  ”The prairie is one of the best areas to view and photograph wildflowers.”

The park’s Nature Center will be open to public each day from 9:00 am – 5:00 pm.  The center interprets the park’s varied ecosystems and includes live reptile displays that include six-month old baby alligators as well as both venomous and non-venomous snake species. Children and adults can also enjoy a touch table, plant idea catalog and push-button recordings.  Don’t forget to stop by either of the park’s gift shops at the Nature Center or Park Headquarters to purchase a souvenir or wildlife identification guide.  There is something for everyone.

Although campsites are already booked for this time period, come enjoy the day and evening.  The George Observatory will be open Thursday, March 14, from 5:00 – 10:00 pm.  All day-use visitors must be out of the park before the gates close at 10:00 pm.

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Posted by FortBendStar on Mar 11 2013. Filed under City News. You can follow any responses to this entry through the RSS 2.0. You can skip to the end and leave a response. Pinging is currently not allowed.