After decades of teaching, we, Eleanor and George Peterson, finally traded lesson plans for birding guides. Our inaugural adventure? A week of camping and birdwatching at Choke Canyon State Park's Calliham Unit in late March. Despite the drought, the birdlife was absolutely spectacular. If you're looking for a Texas getaway teeming with feathered friends, keep reading for our detailed review, tips, and tales from campsite #32. We’ll tell you all about birding in South Texas!

Finding Our Little Piece of Texas Paradise

Now, we're seasoned travelers, but even we hit a slight snag finding the Calliham Unit entrance. The park sign was a little faded, so keep a sharp eye out about 5 miles outside of Three Rivers, TX, heading west on Highway 72. Turn onto Park Road 32, and you'll be on the right track. The official address is 358 Park Road 32, Calliham, TX 78007, if you need to plug it into your GPS. Don’t let that little hiccup deter you, though; what awaits is well worth the minor detour.

Campsite #32: Our Home Away From Home

Campsite #32 was our home for the week, and while not perfect, it was perfectly charming. It’s a drive-up site, making unloading our gear a breeze. We appreciated the partial shade, which offered some respite from the Texas sun. The picnic table was well-used (mostly by us for meal prep and birding notes!), and the fire ring was perfect for evening relaxation. Be warned, the ground was a little uneven, so take your time finding the sweet spot for your tent.

Securing Your Spot: Camping Permits and Reservations

The nightly rate for our campsite was a reasonable $20. Reservations are essential, especially during peak season. You can easily book your campsite through the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department website (tpwd.texas.gov). We highly recommend planning well in advance to snag the best spot.

Following the Rules: Preserving the Park's Beauty

Choke Canyon State Park has a few rules designed to protect its natural beauty, and we were happy to abide. Artificial lights are restricted after 10 PM to maintain the dark sky, which is crucial for both stargazing and nocturnal bird activity. We also diligently followed the "pack it in, pack it out" policy. Let's all do our part to keep this park pristine!

Bathroom Basics: Vault Toilets and Cleanliness

The park offers vault toilets, which are a step up from primitive camping. We were impressed with the park's efforts to keep them clean. Hand sanitizer dispensers were a welcome touch, especially after a day of hiking and exploring.

Showering Strategies: Embracing Solar Power

There are no showers at the Calliham Unit, so we improvised. We brought our "Advanced Elements Summer Shower" solar shower bags and hung them from a sturdy tree branch near our campsite. A little tip: use biodegradable soap to minimize your impact on the environment. It felt great to freshen up after a day on the trails!

Birdwatching Bonanza on the Sinkhole Trail

The highlight of our trip was undoubtedly the birdwatching. The Sinkhole Trail was a treasure trove of avian activity. We spotted a dazzling array of species, including the boisterous Great Kiskadees, graceful Scissor-tailed Flycatchers, and vibrantly colored Painted Buntings. Our Bushnell binoculars and Sibley's birding guide were indispensable tools.

Learning From the Experts: A Guided Bird-Watching Tour

We also joined a guided bird-watching tour led by the knowledgeable park ranger Emily. She shared invaluable tips for identifying birds by their calls, something we're still working on mastering! Emily's passion for the park and its feathered inhabitants was truly infectious.

Fishing Frustrations: George's Largemouth Bass Quest

George, ever the optimist, brought his Shimano rod and reel, hoping to reel in a largemouth bass. He diligently cast a Texas-rigged worm, but alas, the fish were not biting. The low lake levels, a consequence of the ongoing drought, made fishing conditions challenging. Despite the lack of success, George enjoyed the peace and quiet of the lake. The TPWD fishing report might be useful for planning purposes.

Wildflower Wonders: Eleanor's Photographic Pursuits

While George fished, Eleanor indulged in her other passion: wildflower photography. Armed with her Canon EF 100mm macro lens, she captured stunning close-up images of Texas Bluebonnets and Indian Paintbrushes. The vibrant colors against the backdrop of the Texas landscape were truly breathtaking.

A Wildlife Encounter: An Armadillo Amble

One evening, we had a close encounter with an armadillo near our campsite. While it was tempting to approach the little critter, we knew better. It's crucial to remember not to approach or feed wild animals, as they can carry diseases like rabies. We admired it from a safe distance and let it go on its way.

Camp Cooking Delights: Chicken Fajitas Under the Stars

Our camp cooking was simple but satisfying. We grilled chicken fajitas using cast iron over a Coleman propane stove. The aroma of mesquite smoke filled the air, especially in the evenings, adding to the authentic Texas experience. We topped our fajitas with fresh pico de gallo, made with ingredients purchased in Three Rivers.

Essential Advice for Your Choke Canyon Adventure

Here are a few specific tips based on our experience:

• Insect Repellent is a Must: Bring plenty of Off! insect repellent, and make sure it contains at least 25% DEET for tick protection.
• Dress for the Sun: Pack light-colored clothing and wear a wide-brimmed hat to shield yourself from the intense Texas sun.

Download eBird and Share Your Sightings

Ready to embark on your own birdwatching adventure at Choke Canyon State Park? Download the eBird app to track your sightings and contribute to citizen science!

Final Thoughts: Choke Canyon State Park Delivers!

Despite the challenges of the drought, Choke Canyon State Park, specifically the Calliham Unit, proved to be an exceptional birdwatching destination. The park offers a peaceful escape into nature, with opportunities for hiking, fishing (when the water levels cooperate!), and stunning wildflower photography. While the amenities are basic, the beauty of the surroundings and the abundance of birdlife more than compensate. We highly recommend it to fellow bird enthusiasts and anyone seeking a tranquil Texas getaway. So pack your binoculars, reserve your campsite, and prepare to be amazed by the natural wonders of Choke Canyon State Park!