Gulf Coast - Rockport / Padre Island NS

Rockport, TX - our base camp to Padre Island National Seashore and this stretch of the Gulf Coast.  This is a vibrant, charming, and very visitor-friendly place. There's plenty to do and explore all up and down this section of the Intracoastal Waterway with every kind of boat you can think of, delicious seafood, abundant wildlife, lots of recreation opportunities, and as much history, culture, markets, and festivals as you want to find. This area is a mecca for 'Seasonal Texans' and outdoor enthusiasts of all sorts. Fond memories almost guarantee a future visit. 


Ibis - Padre Island NS

 
 


Sand Crab - Padre Island NS

      


Whoopers - Aransas NWR







"Big Daddy" - Aransas NWR
13 feet

  



 

"'Big Tree" - Goose Island State Park
circumference 35', age >1000 years

 



Marina Bay - Rockport



Big Bend & Stillwell Ranch

Welcome back to Thibeau Travels.  It's been a while, but now there's no more author lethargy or technical difficulties. We have RV adventures to share!



US / Mexico Border

 February, 2012 - Heading for the warmth of the Gulf Coast, we spent our first week in the Texas/Mexico border country of Big Bend National Park. What vast and dramatic country. We held over at Stillwell Ranch, a still operating cattle ranch, where their annual Cowboy Trail Ride was in full swing. The week was full of not only exploring the wonders of Big Bend and the Rio Grande border with Mexico, but lots of Western fun, such as mesquite campfires, country music and dancing, and delicious Dutch Oven Wally's cowboy cuisine.



Santa Elena Canyon
< Mexico -- US >





Trail Rider Camp at Stillwell Ranch