Map
Checklist
Sanctuary System
Houston Audubon has 4 sanctuaries at High Island. Boy Scout Woods is the headquarters, which is staffed by volunteers during peak spring migration season from mid-March to mid-May. Smith Oaks is the largest sanctuary and home to the Rookery.
Boy Scout Woods Smith Oaks The Rookery Eubanks Woods S.E. Gast Red Bay Sanctuary
Visitor Information
Best Time to Visit
Our High Island sanctuaries are open daily throughout the year. Peak spring migration season is from mid-March to mid-May. Numbers are highest during a "fallout", which sometimes occurs with a fast-moving cold front. During fall migration, late September to mid-October usually produce the best results. More information on migration and fallouts.
Directions
High Island is on the coast just off Hwy. 87. It can be reached by taking I-10 east from Houston, taking the exit at Winnie to go south on Hwy. 124. Another option is to use the free Galveston - Bolivar ferry and proceed up the coast on Hwy. 87.
Birding Reports
Please see the Sanctuary Notes for current bird sightings at the High Island sanctuaries.
The High Island Patch
During spring migration (from mid-March to mid-May) volunteers are at Boy Scout Woods daily. In the fall, volunteers are present for select weekends. We charge a fee at High Island to help defray the costs of maintenance, utilities and improvements for the entire Houston Audubon sanctuary system. A day pass costs $5, or for $25 a patch may be purchased which gives you an unlimited number of admissions to all High Island sanctuaries for one year. High Island patches are highly prized and have become collectibles over the years among visiting birders as well as Houston Audubon members. They are sold at High Island from mid-March through mid-May. Patches may also be purchased at the Houston Audubon office. To order a patch by mail, please send a check for $25.50 to the Houston Audubon Society, 440 Wilchester Blvd, Houston TX 77079. A limited number of patches from previous years is also available. More information on the patch.
Old High Island Patches: If you find yourself simplifying your life and want to get rid of your old High Island patches, please consider donating them to Houston Audubon.
Photo Blind
A Photo Blind is available at Boy Scout Woods. More information.
Dog Policy
Dogs are not allowed at any of the High Island Sanctuaries.
Accommodations
Accommodations are available at High Island, Winnie and a number of other locations throughout the region. Please support local businesses and civic organizations as much as possible. Communities are more willing to support local conservations efforts if they feel protected habitat helps the local economy.
