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Mission, Texas has plenty of attractions for the nature-loving adventurer. If you’re headed to the area and looking to spend some time exploring nature, be sure to check out the following parks and attractions.
Bentsen-Rio Grande Valley State Park
Bentsen-Rio Grande Valley State Park is made up of 588 acres of subtropical woodland. It’s home to roughly 360 species of birds, making it a great place to bird watch and enjoy the beauty of nature. In addition to its wide variety of birds, you’ll also enjoy other wildlife including butterflies and bobcats. Go for hike or ride your bike on the park’s seven miles of trails. If you don’t have a bike, no problem. You can rent one from the park store for $5 a day. Admission is only $5 per day for adults and kids 12 and under are free. If you’re a fan of the outdoors, this park should definitely be added to your list of things to do in Mission.
National Butterfly Center
At the National Butterfly Center, you’ll enjoy viewing up to 200 species of butterflies. The National Butterfly Center is not a butterfly house. All of the butterflies are free-roaming, so while it’s usually home to many types, there’s no guarantee of what species and how many you will see when you visit. Admission is $10 for adults, $5 for kids ages 5-12, and free for children 4 and under.
If you’re planning a visit to the National Butterfly Center, make sure you take the season and weather into consideration. The best time to check out the park is during peak butterfly season, which is usually around late October and early November. Butterflies prefer warm sunny days with temperatures above 70 degrees. If you can find a day where the weather is right, this is a great way to spend an afternoon.
McAllen Nature Center
The McAllen Nature Center offers 1.5 miles of scenic trails that wander through the 33 acres of the Tamaulipan Thornscrub habitat. You’ll enjoy a variety of plants and wildlife as you walk the trail. Its wildlife includes more than 220 species of birds, 90 species of butterflies, and the Texas Tortoise. The area is also home to the endangered Texas Indigo Snake, but don’t worry, it’s nonvenomous.
Entrance to the park is free, but they do suggest a donation of $1 per person. Whether you’re looking to get some exercise, enjoy a scenic picnic, or capture some wildlife on camera, the McAllen Nature Center is a great place to spend your day without breaking the bank. For even more fun, you can check out the parks various activities like their free yoga program.
If you’re looking to spend some time in the sun while enjoying the beauty of nature, Mission, Texas has plenty of great outdoor attractions that will keep you entertained all day.
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