prepare for your visit
Friday, 4/3 (Good Friday)
Saturday, 7/4 (Independence Day)
Thursday, 11/26 – Friday, 11/27 (Thanksgiving)
We are open on Saturday, 11/28
Thursday, 12/24 – Friday, 12/25 (Christmas)
We are open on Saturday, 12/26
Tuesdays – Fridays
8 a.m.-4 p.m.
Saturdays
7a.m. – 4 p.m.
We are closed Sundays and Mondays.
Check our Facebook page for up-to-date information.
Adults (13-59): $5
Seniors (60+): $4
Children (12 and under): FREE
Members: FREE
Become a member now!
Parking is free.
655 Martin Lane
Combine, TX 75159
Follow these directions. Some GPS apps may take you to the wrong location.
HINT: If you drive under the overpass after exiting U.S. Hwy. 175, you just missed the turn to the Center.
john bunker sands wetland center
frequently asked questions
General
The John Bunker Sands Wetland Center is open Tuesday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. and Saturday, 7:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.
We are closed on Sundays and Mondays, except for special events. Holiday closures are posted on our website and social media.
No reservation is required for general admission during open hours.
However, school groups, camps, large groups (10+), and guided public programs require advance booking.
Yes. General admission supports wetland conservation, wildlife monitoring, and environmental education programs.
Memberships are available and include unlimited admission during open hours.
Adults: $5
65+, Veteran/Active Military, Students 25 and under: $4
Children 12 and under are always free.
Most visitors spend 1.5 to 3 hours exploring the exhibits, boardwalk, and trails. Birders and photographers often stay longer, especially during migration and eagle season. Last entry to the John Bunker Sands Wetland Center is 3:15 p.m. We close at 4:00 p.m.
655 Martin Lane
Combine, TX 75159
Please note: We are in a rural area with limited cell service. We recommend entering the address directly into Google Maps before departing.
Trails & Accessibility
The Wetland Center offers a mix of boardwalk and natural surface trails totaling approximately 3 miles.
Trail difficult ranges from easy boardwalk walking to moderate gravel berm paths.
The boardwalk is made of wooden boards, and sidewalks are paved and fully accessible. The outer berm trails are natural surface (gravel/dirt) and may be uneven.
Yes. The building, sidewalks, and boardwalk are wheelchair accessible.
The berm trails are not wheelchair accessible. Jogging-style strollers are recommended for natural trails.
Restrooms are available inside the building and in the silos. There are no bathrooms available once you are on the outer trails.
Drinking fountains are available inside the building and in the silos. There is no water available once you are on the outer trails, so please bring a refillable bottle.
Wildlife & Birding
The wetlands is home to over 270 species of birds, including bald eagles, other raptors, wading birds, shorebirds, waterfowl, passerines (songbirds), and varying migratory species.
You may also see reptiles, amphibians, macroinvertebrates, and occasionally mammals (native and nonnative). Most mammals are active at dawn and dusk (crepuscular).
Bald eagle activity is highest during nesting season, typically fall through early spring. Winter months provide the most consistent sightings of adults bringing prey into the nest. Spring provides the most consistent sightings of fledging.
Early mornings generally offer the best wildlife viewing and cooler temperatures. There is always something to see!
A limited number of binoculars are available to check out (exchange your driver’s license) inside the building. Visitors are encouraged to bring their own for the best experience.
No. Drones are strictly prohibited to protect wildlife and comply with conservation regulations.
Yes! Photography is welcome.
Please maintain a respectful distance from wildlife, especially nesting birds, and never bait or disturb animals for a photo.
Pets & Policies
Yes. Dogs are welcome but must be leashed at all times. Dogs are not allowed on the boardwalk.
Owners are responsible for cleaning up after pets.
Smoking is not allowed inside of the building or on the main grounds.
Fishing is not permitted.
No. The Wetland Center is a protected conservation site.
Please leave all natural materials where you find them.
Firearms are not permitted on the property except as allowed by law and policy.
Families & Comfort
Yes. The boardwalk and interactive exhibits are family friendly.
Please supervise children closely, especially near water.
Some shade is available near the building and boardwalk. The berm trails (rock road, walking only, no driving) are mostly exposed, so sun protection is strongly recommended.
Yes. This is a wetland environment. Mosquito activity varies seasonally, especially during warmer months. We recommend insect repellent during spring and summer.
Yes. You are welcome to picnic on the porch or lawn areas. Open flames, grilling, and cooking are not permitted.
Please pack out all trash.
Education & Programs
Yes. We offer TEKS-aligned environmental education programs for schools and homeschool groups.
Advance registration is required.
Yes. Seasonal camps and youth programs are offered throughout the year. Visit our Programs page for current offerings.
Yes. Our educational programs are aligned to Texas Essential Knowledge and Skills (TEKS) standards.
Membership & Support
The John Bunker Sands Wetland Center is a reconstructed wetland designed to recycle and polish wastewater, creating a habitat for wildlife while supporting water conservation. It is a rare example of infrastructure and conservation working together.
The wetland is owned by NTMWD and serves a water-reuse function. The Wetland Center operates as a nonprofit partner, providing education, conservation outreach, and public access.
We offer volunteer opportunities in education, events, stewardship, and special projects. Visit our Volunteer page for details.
You can support us by becoming a member, donating, attending events, shopping in our Nature Store, or volunteering your time.
Weather & Safety
The Wetland Center may close during severe weather events for safety. Updates are posted on our website and social media.
Maintain distance and do not approach or feed wildlife.
If you feel unsafe, calmly leave the area (slowly and facing the wildlife until out of view) and notify staff (972.474.9100).