Galveston Island State Park
Galveston Island State Park (Photo by Nushin Huq)
By Nushin Huq
Between 2 Pines Magazine
6/11/20, 5:21 PM
A day at the beach is more than just a day at the beach in this state park. Note: The beach side of the park is closed until 2022.
WHAT TO SEE
In addition to beach activities, you can geocache, bird watch, paddle, hike, mountain bike, fish and picnic. The park is split into two sides, the beach and the bay. Explore two different ecosystems in one visit!
WHERE TO STAY
Camping is a fun family activity. Camping on the beach is a family adventure. There are campsites located both on the beach side of the park as well as the bay side (Note: beach campsites are closed until 2022).
The park also has a couple of lodges that you can rent. See park website for more details including pictures.
WHERE TO EAT
There are picnic areas in the park. Nearby Galveston city has a number of great restaurants. All known for their great seafood.
BEST HIKES FOR FAMILIES
All of the trails in this park are less than a mile and relatively easy. It's a great place to look for waterfowl. The Heron's Walk Trail has an observation tower from which you can take in great views of the park.
BEST TIPS FOR KIDS
Half of the trails at this park are for hiking. The other half are paddling trails. Unfortunately, the park doesn't rent kayaks or paddle boats, you'll have to bring your own.
Your family will enjoy joining a ranger activity, where you can explore and learn about the wildlife and the unique ecosystem of the beach and the bay. You can learn more at the park's nature center. Kids can participate in the junior ranger program and earn a junior ranger badge.
Enjoy a picnic at the beach or picnic areas nearby. (Note: Beach side is closed until 2022).
Other fun family activities include mountain biking, geocaching and of course swimming in the ocean (beach side closed until 2022).