There is lots to do at Bentsen State Park this coming month. The park has continuous fun and informative programs for all ages throughout the busy season. Please note, that reservations are required for some programs.

Bird walks are scheduled every Friday and Saturday at 8:30 a.m. There will be a special Bentsen Holiday Fun Day on Saturday, December 6 from 1 to 4 p.m.

All other programs during the month of December require reservations. Reservations open on the first of the month.

A fishing for beginners class will be held on Sunday, December 7 from 1 to 4 p.m. On Saturday, December 13, at 9 a.m., there will be Birding 101. Holiday Cheer and White-tailed Deer will be held Sunday, December 14 at 10 a.m. Wild Wellness will be held on Friday, December 15 at 8:30 a.m.

There will be special Winter Wind-down Hikes on Thursday, December 11 and 18, and Monday, December 22 and 29, at 9 a.m. Our Daytime Skies will be held on Saturday, December 20, at 2 p.m. A Nature Scavenger Hunt will be held Sunday, December 21, at 11 a.m.

Learn Archery Basics, taught by a NASP certified ranger, on Sunday, December 28 at 10 a.m. The Winter Speaker Series will talk about our Winter Skies and will be held on Wednesday, December 17, at 6 p.m.

Scheduled programs are free with park admission. All programs will meet at the tram turnaround at park headquarters unless otherwise specified.

Call ahead to confirm program schedule and details at (956) 584-9146. Bentsen-Rio Grande Valley State Park is located at 2800 S. Bentsen Palm Drive in Mission. You can also visit their website at tpwd.texas.gov/state-parks/bentsen-rio-grande-valley.

The park is open from 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. Park store is open from 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., except Christmas Day. Tram transportation service is available from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. daily and leaves from headquarters on the hour.

Photo by David Garcia, TPWD.