Camping in Old Tunnel State Park

Experience the skies come alive with a mesmerizing display of bats on your next Old Tunnel State Park camping adventure. I the heart of Texas, this park offers a unique blend of hiking, bird-watching, and an unparalleled bat-viewing experience. The Old Tunnel nature trail, open every day of the year, is a seasonal sanctuary for approximately 3 million bats. Though less than half a mile, this trail promises a rich experience, opening at sunrise and closing based on the bat emergence timings. While the trail and the lower viewing area have specific operational days and timings, the experience is worth the wait. However, it's essential to note that the trail can be steep and primitive. Given the park's limited amenities, visitors are advised to bring their own drinking water and snacks. And for the safety and well-being of all, pets and smoking are not permitted. While the allure of the tunnel might be tempting, entrance into it is strictly prohibited. But fret not, the view from the trail offers a captivating sight of the tunnel. Adherence to the designated trail ensures minimal disturbance to the bat colony and guarantees visitor safety. Attend a bat program to delve deeper into the world of these fascinating flying mammals and witness their nightly quest for sustenance. Beyond the bats, camping near Old Tunnel State Park allows explorers to relax, picnic, stargaze, and spot wildlife in the midst of an absurd phenomenon. Just remember to carry your drinking water, as the park doesn't provide any!

The best time to visit Old Tunnel State Park is from May through October, during the bat season. This is when you can witness the spectacular bat emergence each evening. Outside of these months, the park remains open for daytime activities such as hiking and bird-watching, but the bats are not present.

• Remember to purchase your bat-viewing tickets in advance as they are not sold on-site and space is limited.
• Check the park's social media or call ahead for the latest bat emergence times and plan to arrive an hour earlier.
• Bring your own drinking water, as water is not available in the park.
• For the safety of wildlife and visitors, camping, pets, and smoking are not allowed in the park.
• The bat viewing areas and the trail to them are accessible for visitors with mobility impairments.