Fort Worth Nature Center & Wildlife Refuge, Fort Worth

Nowadays you have to pay to get in. That said, its probably still worth it if you are an avid wildlife photographer and know how to get close. If the season and weather is right (late fall was my favorite time), almost every creature seen in the state of Texas can be seen here. I've seen and taken pictures of: buffalo, deer, turkey (just outside the refuge), gators (have no pics yet but they're there), snakes, waterfowl, owl and hawks, ferrel hog, prairie dogs, armadillo, possum, raccoon, rabbit/hare, I've seen it all in this one relatively small area. There are well marked hiking trails, a well maintained boardwalk into a marsh area, and even just driving the road slowly and listening with your window rolled down you will see most everything. Take a camera and a picnic basket (I saw no bears that would steal them). I'm not sure if you are allowed to anymore, but you used to be able to launch a canoe, kayak, jon boat, but watch for swimming critters and be back before the gate closes for the night. There used to be "no fishing or swimming" signs. There were a couple of Porta Johns (complete with wasps and spiders). There have probably been more improvements since I've stopped going there so often (2007). There is an area of homes so be nice and try to avoid private property and leave nothing behind. I've never taken advantage of any classes or tours they may offer but I can't see how they wouldn't be worthwhile. If you want to go back more often, they have season passes too.