Parks and Recreation
Oso Bay Wetlands Preserve and Learning Center
The Oso Bay Wetlands Preserve and Learning Center inspires visitors of all ages. The Preserve is owned and operated by the City of Corpus Christi Parks and Recreation Department.
This 162-acre nature preserve is filled with the wonders of our natural world. We invite everyone to explore the two miles of nature viewing trails. You'll walk away with a new-found experience and understanding.
The Learning Center is open to visitors. Visitors of all ages will learn about coastal ecosystems' natural resources. Come and learn about the importance of protecting the wetlands for future generations. As a student of nature, you will find the Preserve's "live classroom" truly fascinating.
Hours of Operation
Learning Center and Trading Post: Open Tuesday - Saturday, 8 a.m. - 5 p.m. Closed on Mondays.
Walking Trails and Playground: Open daily, from dawn to dusk.
Bikes should be racked or walked at all times within the Preserve.
Parking Lot: Open daily, 7 a.m. - 7 p.m.
Note: Trails can be accessed using the walk-in entrances along N. Oso Parkway. After-hours parking is available along N. Oso Parkway or at the Holly hike and bike lot at Holly Road and Paul Jones Avenue.
Events Calendar
2026 Summer Youth Camps
Sessions: June 1 to August 6
The Oso Bay Wetlands Preserve is excited to host summer camps for children aged 5 to 13. Running from June 1 to August 6, these camps offer enriching outdoor experiences designed to inspire a love for nature and the environment. With engaging, hands-on activities, campers will have the opportunity to explore and learn in the beautiful wetland surroundings. Due to limited space, early registration is recommended. For additional details and to reserve a spot, contact AJ Warrington at 361-826-3311 or ashleyw2@corpuschristitx.gov. Sign up your child for a summer of discovery and adventure!
All camps are half-day, drop-off programs, Monday through Thursday, from 9:00 a.m. to 12:00 p.m.
Nature Explorers (Ages 6 to 8):
June 1 to 4
June 29 to July 2
August 3 to 6
Outdoor Adventurers (Ages 7 to 10):
June 8 to 11
July 27 to 31
Oso Guardians (Ages 9 to 13):
July 6 to 9
Wild About Nature (Ages 7 to 13):
June 15 to 18
Growing Up WILD (Ages 5 to 7):
July 13 to 16
FEE: $125 per week per child
Book Club Discussion
Flyer with Remaining 2026 Schedule
Join our book discussions at the Learning Center. We welcome you to our Book Club even if you haven’t had a chance to read the book. Free participation for ages 12 and older. Registration is not required. For more information, contact AJ Warrington at ashleyw2@corpuschristitx.gov.
MARK YOUR CALENDAR:
July 11 - Featuring 1919 The Storm: A Narrative and Photographic History by Murphy Givens and Jim Moloney
September 5 – Featuring The Dragon Behind the Glass: A True Story of Power, Obsession, and the World's Most Coveted Fish by Emily Voigt
November 7 – Featuring Night Magic Night Magic: Adventures Among Glowworms, Moon Gardens, and Other Marvels of the Dark by Leigh Ann Henion
More Events
Preserve Resources
Review the maps and resources linked below before planning your trip to the Preserve.
Plan a Field Trip
To book a field trip, please complete the Field Trip Request Form and email the completed form to Leslie Albrecht at LeslieA@CorpusChristiTX.gov at least three weeks before your trip. You will receive a confirmation email and invoice for your trip within 48 hours.
Share Your Observations
Share photos of wildlife taken at the Preserve on our iNaturalist page. Explore birds and birding hotspots near you, with eBird.
Volunteer at the Preserve
The Preserve offers a variety of ways volunteers can make meaningful and rewarding contributions. View the presentation below to learn more. Interested individuals are encouraged to complete the application form below or contact Leslie Albrecht at LeslieA@CorpusChristiTX.gov.
Plan a Birthday Party
Book your child's birthday party with us! Celebrate the special day as you and your party guests discover the Preserve and have fun. Pick from our three options per age group. We suggest booking at least six weeks in advance due to limited openings. See the flyer below for more details.
All-Terrain Wheelchairs
Corpus Christi Parks and Recreation offers free use of All-Terrain Wheelchairs for persons with disabilities. These chairs allow you to move about on the preserve trails, making it more enjoyable and accessible to explore nature.
Contact Information
Address:
2446 N. Oso Parkway,
Corpus Christi, Texas 78414
Phone: (361) 826-3335
To request presentations to community groups, contact Preserve Manager Tonya Whatley at (361) 826-3432 or TonyaW@CorpusChristiTX.gov.
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About Us
The mission of the Corpus Christi Parks and Recreation Department is to provide high-quality parks, facilities, and programs that empower residents and visitors to Live, Learn, and Play! We envision a thriving Corpus Christi powered by vibrant parks, captivating natural features, and outstanding recreational opportunities.
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Contact Information
Address: 400 Mann Street, Suite 200, Corpus Christi, TX 78401
Mailing Address: P.O. Box 9277, Corpus Christi, TX 78469
Phone: (361) 826-PLAY
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