Exploring the Magical Matagorda Bay is a must for nature lovers visiting the Gulf Coast - anytime of the year - but late winter is the apex for great weather and excellent bird watching opportunities. The area was named one of the best birding areas in the nation by the National Audubon Society. Because of the importance of these fragile wetlands a portion of  the area was set aside as a preserve in 2001. The Matagorda Bay Nature Preserve's mission is to protect critical Texas wetlands in the region, provide recreation opportunities, and encourage education and economic tourism growth for the area. It is unique in that part of the preserve has two miles of Gulf Beach access and also has two miles of river frontage along the Colorado river with hundreds of acres of coastal marshes and dunes between the two, making it a very unique outdoor experience. While there are many activities to engage in here like fishing, hiking, beach combing and bird watching, there is perhaps no better way to truly marvel at its diversity than by water. Under the management of the Lower Colorado River Authority the park has mapped out more than two miles of kayak trails to explore. If that's not enough trail for you check out local nature guide and kayaker James Arnold, whose business, Day on the Bay services, has mapped even more kayak trails in the estuaries outside the boundaries of the preserve. Plying these waters at an easy pace affords the nature lover an intimate view of some of Texas' most pristine wetlands. If kayaking isn't your thing, then fishing is another great activity to indulge in with four free public piers to fish from, three on the river channel and one on the Gulf, plus there is plenty of shoreline fishing opportunities as well. For swimmers and beachcombers the park has a developed beach area which includes restrooms, outdoor showers, a group pavilion, covered picnic areas, a nature center with exhibits, and a brand new observation tower. Conveniently placed within the park is a small store which provides camping basics, including a coin-operated laundry and canoe rentals.   RV travelers exploring this bit of Texas Coast will love the new 70-site RV Park. The RV park is located on Matagorda Island which is a part of the 1,600 acre Matagorda Nature Park and Preserve, and the best part is the beach, fishing piers and river are within easy walking distance of the RV sites. RV spaces come with full-hook ups, concrete pads, electricity, water, and sewer. Sites range from $25-$35 a night depending on location, electrical service and time of year. Monthly and winter discounts are also available. Exploring the Matagorda Nature Park will truly give you a new perspective on the wonderful natural diversity of the Lone Star State, whether your camping for a weekend or just visiting for the day it's a perfect way to get back to nature. Resources: Matagorda Bay RV Park/www.matagordabayrv.com Day on the Bay Kayaking Services/www.dayonthebayservices.com Matagorda Bay Nature Preserve/www.lcra.org