A New Chapter for Coastal Conservation in Rockport!

Aransas First Land Trust is thrilled to announce the long-awaited acquisition of a property to be known as Aransas Woods Southwest in Rockport, Texas—a beautiful 34.84-acre property that will be permanently preserved in the protection of Aransas County’s remarkable Live Oak–Red Bay Forest and coastal prairie pothole ecosystems.

This special piece of land will soon become a place for visitors to explore, connect with nature, and immerse in the unique beauty of the Coastal Bend for generations to come. Future improvements will include new access from State Highway 35 Bypass, hiking trails, wildlife-viewing blinds, parking, a footbridge and interpretive signage to help visitors learn more about this extraordinary habitat.

This acquisition was funded through the 89th Texas Legislature’s General Appropriations Act, General Revenue Fund appropriations under HB 500, Section 6.08. We extend deep gratitude to Chairman Todd Hunter and staff for the steady guidance, assistance, and continued support throughout the budget and acquisition process. Following announcement of the appropriation in July, 2025, an extensive search for the property was conducted by board members of Aransas First Land Trust, followed by a rigorous due diligence period. The grant agreement between the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department and Aransas First was executed in July, 2026. The broader project includes the acquisition and public access improvements on 33.84 acres across two adjoining Rockport properties: 220 Lamar Drive, comprising 31.874 acres, and 684–700 S H 35 Bypass, comprising 1.969 acres.

We are exceedingly grateful for the vital support of this project from everyone who helped bring this vision to life. We can’t wait to welcome visitors to Aransas Woods Southwest and share its natural wonders for many years to come. Please stay tuned for photos and updates on the timeline for public access!

So that projects like this may continue in the future, please consider visiting www.Aransasfirst.org to support the mission to identify, acquire, and protect sensitive Coastal Bend habitat essential to the nurture of birds, wildlife, and people.

Property location: 684–700 S H 35 Bypass, Rockport, Texas 78382