My son loves playing outside, but most of the time, it’s HOT. Or, well, mosquitoes.
But this time of year, temperatures should be a little cooler. So I thought it was the perfect time to celebrate some of our favorite local parks and share a few we hope to visit. These parks are FREE and a great way to get the family out and enjoying fresh air and (most days) sunshine.
So put your kids in the car and start exploring all our area has to offer! And if you have a favorite I didn’t mention, we’d love to hear about it! Maybe we’ll even see you there!
Bayfront Park
Corpus Christi, TX 78401
This park, located in the SEA District near the seawall. There’s open green space, fountains, and beautiful landscaping. Clean restrooms are nearby, which is always a big plus!
Bike Trails
Our family doesn’t hike or bike nearly as much as I wish we did. Well, we kinda don’t. But we should. And when the weather turns cool and you need the kids out of the house, biking along South Texas trails is a great option.
Cole Park
101 Ocean Drive
Corpus Christi, TX 78401
Cole Park lets you explore 43 acres right along the Corpus Christi Bayfront! Whether you are looking for a play structure the kids can enjoy or searching for a great spot to fly a kite, Cole Park has you covered! You can even grill or enjoy a picnic with the family! Like Bayfont Park, it has an added bonus. Bathrooms!
Goose Island State Park
202 S. Palmetto St.
Rockport, TX 78382
This past weekend our family drove through Rockport. It was my first trip since Hurricane Harvey and the damage is vast. But I’ve always had a deep love for Rockport and am happy to report that The Big Tree weathered the storm! It is worth a visit when Rockport recovers.
Hans and Pat Suter Wildlife Area
Ennis Joslin Rd
Corpus Christi, TX 78412
If enjoying nature and wildlife are up your alley, you’ll want to stop here. It’s fun to explore and these’s plenty to learn too! This is also a popular location for getting memorable family photos!
Heritage Park
1581 N Chaparral St
Corpus Christi, TX 78401
It’s a little unconventional. You won’t find play structures. You will find a ton of historic houses and open land that’s great for walking, exploring, and again, capturing family photos!
Indian Point / Sunset Lake
100 Hwy 181
Portland, TX 78374
Located off the Portland Causeway, Indian Point is an awesome trail that can keep your family active while enjoying nature and wildlife. This trail is perfect for hiking or biking.
McCaughan Park
602 N. Shoreline
Corpus Christi, TX 78401
McCaughan Park has a play structure your kids can enjoy. It’s also right along the Bayfront. We haven’t visited yet but look forward to going soon to help the toddler burn up some energy!
Memorial Park
1601 North Pearl Street
Rockport, TX 78382
For our family, Memorial Park has been a favorite and this park was very much worth the drive. After seeing it this weekend, we are sorry to report that many of the beautiful shaded trees have been lost. The park itself also had significant damage, like much of the City. I’m hopeful that as Rockport heals and recovers the play structures, hike and bike trail, and pavilions, all of which were perfect for a family picnic, are up back to enjoy soon.
Neighborhood Parks
The Coastal Bend has a ton of neighborhood and pocket parks, which is awesome because there is pretty much always one nearly. Our family has one park within walking distance of our home and another a short drive away. One of our favorite amenities? Rocks. Not kidding. I have a toddler. Do be careful though. Some parks have been updated recently but some are weathered. If you notice something that needs repair, call the City’s Parks and Recreation Department to let them know.
Nueces Delta Preserve
3410 HWY 77
Odem, TX 78370
The Delta Preserve is over 10,000 acres of protected wetland habitat that offers engaging field experiences for kids. (Even toddlers!) Before heading their way, checkout their website for upcoming programs and workshops, as Delta Discovery is only open to the public when programs are underway. You can also check for their story times and picnics on our community calendar.
Oso Bay Wetlands Preserve and Learning Center
2446 N. Oso Parkway
Corpus Christi, Texas 78414
One of Corpus Christi’s newest parks, Oso Bay Wetlands Preserve has an awesome playground and ongoing activities such as story times to engage kids of every age. There are even hiking paths you can enjoy along with bike paths nearby. Their indoor learning center has a variety of hands on exhibits. Did we mention it’s all FREE?
Sherrill Park
222 S. Shoreline Dr.
Corpus Christi, TX 78401
Sherrill Park is also along the Corpus Christi Bayfront. It’s the perfect place to enjoy a nice cool breeze and a great spot for biking or roller blading with the family.
Swantner Park
5102 Ocean Dr.
Corpus Christi, TX 78412
Can you tell we love Bayfront Parks? Swantner Park is just over 16 acres and is open green space that’s perfect for strolling, biking and kite flying.
Water Gardens
Hirsch Street
Corpus Christi, TX 78401
Is this technically a park? I’m not sure. But it’s beautiful and not to be missed! There’s plenty of room to run around. And if you’re in the mood to take a break, head inside or grab a bite to eat at Hester’s in the the Art Museum of South Texas. Both are nearby.
For listings of all their parks, you can visit the following local city and county websites.
City of Port Aransas Parks (Parks are listed on the left sidebar.)
