EcoExplorations

Creature Corner Classes

Pre-school children, and an adult accompanying them, will be able to participate in Pre-School Naturalist classes offered at Armand Bayou Nature Center one Friday morning a month from 10:00 - 11:30 am throughout the year. Classes will be presented in the John P. McGovern Discovery Area, adjacent to the interpretive building, and introduce the children and their caregivers to the three ecosystems: (forest, prairie, and bayou), through literature, music, movement, storytelling, art, live animal demonstrations and collections and observations. Snacks are provided.
Reservations:   Reservations are required by phone or in person and payment is required at the time of reservation. We take no reservations by email.
Cancellations:   To receive a full refund cancellations must be made 1 week (7 days) prior to the scheduled event. Cancellations made less than 7 days are non-refundable.

For more information about the discovery center go to John P. McGovern Children's Discovery Center

Guided Canoe Tour of Armand Bayou

2^nd & 4^th Saturday mornings 8:00 – 11:00 am.

Come along on a morning of education and adventure paddling canoes on a guided tour down the backwaters of Armand Bayou. Meet at Bay Area Park for a leisurely morning of wildlife watching, wetland education, relaxation and fun. Observe numerous birds, reptiles, deer and other residents who are starting their day at the water's edge. Travel approximately 2-3 miles round trip. Beginning and experienced canoers are welcomed. Our knowledgeable guides will give a brief orientation. Life jackets are provided. Check the calendar for scheduled canoe trips.
Reservations:   Reservations are required by phone or in person and payment is required at the time of reservation. We take no reservations by email.

Pontoon Boat Cruises

Pontoon boat cruises are scheduled for Saturdays with private cruises available throughout the week. Go to the calendar and view upcoming scheduled cruises or call the ABNC office to book your private cruise.
Reservations:   Reservations are required by phone or in person and payment is required at the time of reservation. We take no reservations by email.

Breakfast on the Bayou

Start your weekend by enjoying a leisurely Saturday morning breakfast drifting down the bayou on our "Bayou Ranger" pontoon boat. Observe wildlife searching for their breakfast on the bayou. This trip through the heart of the Nature Center presents an uncommon opportunity to watch and learn about bayou life. Enjoy rolls, juice and coffee while underway. The "Bayou Ranger" will pick you up at the Bay Area Park boat launch. Maximum: 12 people
Saturdays, from 8 – 9:30 am

Sunset Cruise

Join us for a relaxing and educational trip on the bayou in the cool of the evening. Sunset on the water is a peaceful experience as you observe the wildlife of Armand Bayou. Depart from Bay Area Park aboard the "Bayou Ranger", a 28-foot pontoon boat.
Saturdays, times vary with sunset.

Moonlight Cruise

Nightlife on the bayou is a lively chorus of frog songs and owl calls. Some of the workers of the night shift include: raccoons, opossums, nutria, deer, owls, snakes, turtles and alligators. Leave from Bay Area Park aboard the "Bayou Ranger" pontoon boat and travel south to the narrow confines of Horsepen Bayou, a smaller tributary of Armand Bayou offering unique opportunities for up close wildlife viewing.
Saturdays, times vary with sunset.

Special Charter Cruises

Wed. Thurs. & Fri. (Sat. when available).

Always wanted to book your own private cruise? Now you can. Just select one of the 3 different cruises. (See above for description)
Reservations must be made 2 weeks in advance.   Reservations are required by phone or in person and payment is required at the time of reservation. We take no reservations by email.

Owl Prowl

Once a month, near full moon, times vary.

Join us on a beautiful moonlit walk through the woods as we look for owls and listen for fascinating night sounds. Adults (only) should bring flashlights.
Check the calendar for scheduled owl prowls.
Reservations:   Reservations are required by phone or in person and payment is required at the time of reservation. We take no reservations by email.

Night Hike

Once a month, near full moon, times vary.

Experience the wonder of nature in the cool of the evening as one of our expert naturalist guides accompanies you through the forest of Armand Bayou Nature Center. Look for raccoons, deer, opossums and other creatures that show themselves only at night. Parents, don’t forget your flashlight.
Check the calendar for scheduled owl prowls.
Reservations:   Reservations are required by phone or in person and payment is required at the time of reservation. We take no reservations by email.

Prairie Night Ride

Fridays, once a month, times vary.

Join us for an evening of prairie adventure. As the heat of the day cools, prairie wildlife begins to emerge under the deep Texas night sky. From the elevated view of a hayride we will explore the sights and sounds of the transforming prairie landscape. With the aid of a powerful spotlight your expert guides will interpret the prairies beauty, wildlife and ecology. Sightings may include deer, owls, armadillo, rabbits and raccoons. (Bring your own drinks and/or snacks.)
Check the calendar for upcoming scheduled prairies rides.
Reservations:   Reservations are required by phone or in person and payment is required at the time of reservation. We take no reservations by email.