Lower Rio Grande Valley National Wildlife Refuge

The Lower Rio Grande Valley National Wildlife Refuge is a protected area along the Rio Grande near the border with Mexico. It features multiple observation decks and preserves diverse habitats where visitors can walk trails and view wildlife throughout the year.

Congress established the refuge in 1980 to restore wildlife populations in a region where farming had eliminated most natural vegetation. The protection effort addressed decades of habitat loss along this important river corridor.

The refuge forms part of the Great Texas Coastal Birding Trail and draws bird watchers seeking to observe hundreds of native and migratory species passing through the region. The setting holds special meaning for people interested in tracking seasonal movements of birds along important migration routes.

The refuge opens daily from sunrise to sunset throughout the year and welcomes visitors of all abilities. Trails are generally flat and easy to walk, making the area accessible for families and those with varying fitness levels.

The refuge contains more than ten distinct habitat types ranging from desert landscapes to wetlands within its boundaries. This variety allows visitors to experience several completely different ecosystems during a single visit to the site.