Nature lovers flock to Aransas National Wildlife Refuge, about an hour and a half from Corpus Christi, to spot rare whooping cranes and hundreds of other bird species in their natural habitat. The refuge’s trails and observation decks are managed by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and are open year-round for hiking, photography, and wildlife viewing. Featured by National Geographic and Texas Highways, Aransas is renowned for its ecological significance and tranquil, unspoiled landscapes. Bring binoculars and a picnic for a rejuvenating escape into the wild.