Galveston Island is believed to be approximately 5000 years old and has had an interesting history during the past 500 years. It is generally believed Cabeza de Vaca and his crew were shipwrecked here in 1520 and eventually made their way from the island to colonies in Mexico. The LaFitte brothers, fleeing the prosecution of pirates in the United States, established a government here in 1817, with visions of creating a "Manhattan on the Gulf." Commerce did thrive here, but major storms in 1867, 1871, 1875, and 1886 greatly slowed progress. The great storm of 1900 devastated the island, killing 5000 to 10,000 people, and prompted the construction of the seawall which protects the northern half of the island.

Wading and shore birds, mottled and mallard ducks, raccoons, armadillos, and marsh rabbits can be found in the park for observation and photography.

The park contains a mosaic of coastal habitats that host a surprising variety of wildlife and is visited by birds from throughout the eastern hemisphere during the spring and fall migration seasons. Wading and shore birds, mottled and mallard ducks, raccoons, armadillos and marsh rabbits are found in the park, which is ideal for wildlife observation and photography. Beach or surf fishing for spotted seatrout, sandtrout, redfish, black drum, croaker and flounder is also popular.

The park features 2,000 acres of upper Gulf Coast barrier island ecosystem. Barrier Islands move and change constantly through the action of waves, wind and tides. Because barrier islands serve as transition zones between land and ocean, they support a variety of distinct eco-regions, including beaches, prairies and wetlands. Each supports a diverse array of life. The beaches also protect the mainland from storms, while the lagoons, bay and salt marshes serve crucial functions in the life cycles of many ocean species.

Admission & Camping
Entrance Fee: $5 per day, per person 13 and older

Note: Information and prices are subject to change. Please call the park or park information ( 1-800-792-1112) for the latest updates. The daily entrance fee is charged in addition to any facility fees, unless otherwise stated. A Texas State Park Pass will allow you and your guests to enjoy unlimited visits for 1-year to more than 90 State Parks, without paying the daily entrance fee, in addition to other benefits. Pets are not allowed in any Texas State Park buildings.