Santa Ana National Wildlife Refuge — Attraction in Río Bravo

Santa Ana NWR is one of the premier locations in South Texas for potentially catching a glimpse of bird species that are on the edge of their range from Mexico. Northern Jacana has been seen here multiple times (it is very rare) but it is always worth a shot. I visited Santa Ana in the early 1990s and have fond memories. I also had high expectations for my 15 day RGV visit. I based my hotel in order to bird Santa Ana multiple times. Prior to doing this, I visited their website and it reads "Closures and Outages - Wildlife Road/Bike Lane is currently closed for bicycling due to construction." They should also say that it is closed for motor vehicles too.

Folks might be thinking, get off your butt and walk. Well, we are not all physically able and a motor vehicle is a perfect viewing method. The animals are accustomed to vehicles and they act as fantastic blinds/hides to observe the wildlife. The wildlife see humans walking around, they are literally gun shy.

Although I was saddened I could not explore Santa Ana as much as I would have liked, it does not detract from the fantastic design, location, and avifauna present. If you need/want to drive the loop, find out when it reopens. Enjoy this...

I really enjoyed this place especially because I ran into it on a prior review and had to see for myself. I went in the wrong attire I wore flip flops yea I know. But overall I enjoyed it crossing this rope bridge and climb the towers they have there so very nice view. Yet have to go back and check out other trails and looking forward the cemetery site. This place is huge so I don't think I'll ever finish walking it. Has to be different visits well so I think. And bike trail well your only allowed on the path they say not what you want. So some areas I don't want to be off my bike and walking my bike. Idk so don't quote me on this. But the view is nice. Some people will say it's just a bunch of weeds and others just like simple nature as how it just is and not tampered with. You make the choice but I will have to return just so you know it is NOT pet friendly unless it is a (SERVICE DOG ONLY) so I don't know why it says pet friendly should say service dogs Only!. So it confuses...

Very nice place to take a walk. Plenty of wildlife during certain times of the day. Only downside is not enough shade. Be very safe when coming out make sure you have plenty of water and don't take on more than you can handle. Check weather to make sure it isn't too hot or else you will regret it. Other than that fun duck spotting shaded areas, benches throughout the park (unshaded), lakes are nice and calm. Clean other than natural occuring debris (broken branches etc). If you enjoy nature this place will be perfect if you take the necessary steps to make it a perfect day out. Gift store is open little toys and displays of animals for the kids. There is a $10 admission into the park for the year per car or a $5 fee for the day per car. I suggest the $10 because you will be back as it is a big park and hard to take it all...