Commune with Nature at Oyster Creek Park in Sugar Land, Texas

Being avid walkers, my daughter and I are always looking for new places to explore and get close to nature. We were delighted to discover Oyster Creek Park in Sugar Land, Texas.

Oyster Creek Park has a 3-mile trail that curves through open fields, follows a stream through beautiful woods and leads to the soccer fields of Lost Creek Park. The park is a wilderness in the midst of a thriving city and is full of nature's treasures.

At the entrance to Oyster Creek Park, there is a wooden bridge where many people stop to feed the large turtles in the water below. Kids have fun counting the turtles. It is not unheard of to see as many as a hundred at one time. Be sure and take bread when you visit because that's what the turtles love to eat.

Crossing the bridge leads to a lovely fountain in the middle of a pool with a bubbling stream and little waterfalls. To the left of the pool is an amphitheater where concerts are held regularly. One of my favorite things to do on a Sunday evening is to sit on the large rocks at the edge of the water and listen to a good band playing in the amphitheater. Sometimes there is a strolling juggler or a magician, maybe even a face painter. The occasional wedding even takes place there.

Scattered around the front of the park are picnic tables and grills. This is the favorite location of the raccoons who like to steal scraps from the trash barrels.

Oyster Creek Park is a favorite place of the local photographers. Many people choose the park to take their engagement photos, graduation photos or prom pictures.

The landscaping is lush. There is a pretty rose garden, large areas of ornamental grass and many magnificent flowers.

In the open fields past the front of the park one will find people flying kites, throwing Frisbees, playing baseball or football. There is the occasional tent for those who wish to stay a little longer.

As you walk along the trail into the woods you will likely find rabbits nibbling grass. In the spring, there are abundant baby rabbits.

The trails are not only for walkers. Many people ride bikes and rollerblade.

Although there are many signs throughout the park warning not to feed the alligators, I have never actually seen a gator. They surely are there, but as long as you follow the instructions on the signs you should not encounter a problem. Alligators don't usually attack people unless seriously provoked.

Oyster Creek Park in Sugar Land, Texas is a wonderful place to walk or job, play sports, have a picnic, practice your photography skills or just plain commune with nature.