GOOSE ISLAND STATE PARK
Goose Island State Park, 321.4 acres, surrounded by the St. Charles and Aransas Bays, is located north of Rockport in Aransas County. The park was acquired in 1931-1935 by deeds from private owners and Legislative Act setting aside the state-owned Goose Island as a state park. The earliest park facilities were constructed by the Civilian Conservation Corps in the early 1930s.
The "Big Tree," named State Champion Coastal Live Oak (Quercus virginiana) in 1969, is thought to be one of the largest in the nation. Estimated to be over 1000 years old, the "Big Tree" has a circumference of 35 feet, is 44 feet in height and has a crown spread of 90 feet.
Enjoy fishing from the 1,620-foot pier or shoreline. Catch redfish, speckled trout and black drum among other species. You can also fish in St Charles Bay for flounder and sheepshead. Nighttime offers opportunities to catch spotted seatrout under park lights.
Goose Island State Park is located near Aransas Pass, Portland and Rockport
Goose Island State Park offers numerous picnic sites with tables and grills. Some are shaded, others offer stunning bay views.
While biking is permitted, there are no designated cycling trails. Be mindful of pedestrians and wildlife on park roads.
The terrain can be challenging due to sandy soil conditions; it's advisable for experienced cyclists only.
Cyclists should stick to the paved areas as off-road biking could disturb local flora and fauna habitats.
Remember that helmets are required by law in Texas for riders under 18 years old - safety first!
Biking after dark isn't recommended because lighting within the area is limited which may lead to accidents or injuries.
Always carry plenty of water while riding since temperatures can soar during summer months causing dehydration risks.
Riding along waterfronts offers beautiful views but beware: these paths might have slippery spots from moisture or algae growth.
Birdwatching enthusiasts can spot over 300 species including the endangered Whooping Crane. Other birds include Reddish Egrets, Roseate Spoonbills and Black Skimmers. The park is also home to a variety of warblers during migration season.
The birding trail offers excellent viewing opportunities with its observation deck and blinds. Guided tours are available for those interested in learning more about local avian life.
Winter months offer sightings of waterfowl like Buffleheads, Northern Pintails, Gadwalls while summer brings nesting Least Terns and Wilson's Plovers.
Located directly across St. Charles Bay from the park are the wintering grounds for rare and endangered whooping cranes in the Aransas National Wildlife Refuge. Also nearby are the Copano Bay State Fishing Pier, Mustang Island State Park, Fulton Mansion State Historic Site, Texas Maritime Museum, and the Texas State Aquarium in the City of Corpus Christi. For more information on the Rockport-Fulton area, call the Rockport-Fulton Area Chamber of Commerce at 1-800-242-0071 or visit their web site at www.rockport-fulton.org
The park is located 10 miles northeast of Rockport on State Highway 35 to Park Road 13, then 2 miles east to park entrance.