Meet Jim Farnsworth: Helping Lead the Kayaking Vision of Aransas Pathways
Discover the inspiring journey of Jim Farnsworth, a dedicated volunteer leader at Aransas Pathways, where kayaking transcends adventure to embrace community, conservation, and wellness. With over 25 years of experience in Scouting and outdoor education, Jim is passionate about connecting people to the stunning waterways of Aransas County. Join us as we explore how kayaking serves as a crucial pillar of Aransas Pathways, promoting sustainable tourism and enriching the coastal heritage. Dive into the stories and landscapes that make this region unique, and discover how you can be part of this transformative experience!
Kayak at Sunset | Aransas Pathways
Pathways in Motion: Paddle with Purpose Save the Date: June 19 | 6:00 PM–8:30 PM | Rockport, Texas Join Aransas Pathways for an unforgettable evening on historic Copano Bay during our community-focused kayaking experience, Kayak at Sunset. This special event brings together outdoor recreation, wellness, nature appreciation, and coastal heritage in the heart of Aransas County. Whether you are paddling across the bay or gathering at Murph Park to enjoy the sunset atmosphere, this event celebrates the people, waterways, and outdoor experiences that make Aransas County unique. Experience Historic Copano Bay at Sunset Kayak at Sunset is part of the Pathways in Motion initiative of Aransas Pathways. The program promotes healthy outdoor recreation while showcasing the natural beauty, history, and tourism experiences of the Texas Coastal Bend. Participants will paddle approximately three miles across scenic Copano Bay during golden hour while enjoying breathtaking waterfront views and community fellowship. This event highlights: Community connection and wellness Historic Copano Bay waterways Outdoor recreation in Aransas County Nature appreciation and coastal heritage Ecotourism and healthy lifestyle experiences Event Details Date & Time Friday, June 19 6:00 PM–8:30 PM Paddle Course Approximately 3 miles Estimated paddle time: 1–1.5 hours Paddlers Check-In Location Copano Bridge Boat Ramp Rockport, Texas Paddle launch begins at approximately 6:00 PM Shuttle service will be provided for paddlers after the event Paddlers may fellowship and gather at Murph Park following the paddle General Public Check-In Howard Murph Memorial Park 4701 Loop 1781 Rockport, TX 78382 Public check-in begins at 6:00 PM Event concludes at approximately 8:30 PM at Murph Park Registration Information Advance registration is required due to limited participant capacity. Participants must complete the online registration and required waiver forms before arrival. Register Online Eventbrite Registration: https://PathwaysKayayAtSunset.eventbrite.com Important Participant Information This event is designed for experienced paddlers. Participants should bring: Kayak Paddle Personal flotation device (PFD/life jacket) Drinking water Sun protection Appropriate outdoor attire Please note: Weather conditions will be monitored for participant safety Shuttle transportation is available for registered paddlers only Event details may be adjusted depending on weather conditions Important Registration & Waiver Information All participants are required to complete and sign the online event waiver prior to the event date. Each participant must submit their own waiver individually, including those registered under the same reservation or household. Participants who have not completed the required waiver may not be allowed to participate in the paddle event. Online Waiver Link https://acrobat.adobe.com/link/urn:aaid:sc:US:05a0e7d6 About Aransas Pathways Aransas Pathways is a community-driven initiative dedicated to connecting people with the natural beauty, history, trails, waterways, and outdoor experiences of Aransas County. Through partnerships, stewardship, and recreation, Aransas Pathways continues to promote Aransas County as a premier ecotourism destination in the Texas Coastal Bend. One County, Countless Adventures. Birding • History • Kayaking • Trails Organizer Contact Information Aransas Pathways Email: pathways@aransascounty.org Phone: 361-556-5308 Business Hours: Monday–Friday | 10:00 AM–5:00 PM
Early Bird U-Drive Tour – Aransas Bird Days 2026
In partnership with Aransas First Land Trust Start your morning with the birds. Join us for a self-guided birding experience at Cove Harbor, hosted in partnership with Aransas First Land Trust and Ms. Debbie Griffith. Drive at your own pace and explore coastal birding hotspots while enjoying the quiet beauty of the Texas coast. Date: April 19, 2026 Time: 8:00 AM – 10:00 AM Location: 2590 HWY 35 S, Rockport, TX 78382 First 30 guests to check in will receive a giveaway from Aransas Pathways and partners. Register here: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/aransas-bird-days-2026-early-bird-u-drive-tour-tickets-1985941731178 Waiver required (must be completed before arrival): https://aransaspathways.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/WaiverReleasePathways-with-emergency-contact.pdf All participants must complete the waiver prior to joining the tour. Birding. History. Kayaking. Trails.
Pathways Family Birding Event & Craft Time
Where: Connie Hagar Cottage Sanctuary 1429 S Church St, Rockport, TX Google Map Link: https://maps.app.goo.gl/7NMHh4NTvG6qXqLk8 What: Bring the whole family and enjoy a fun and educational day celebrating birds and nature at the beautiful Connie Hagar Cottage Sanctuary. This family-friendly event features a mini bird walk, an introduction to birding for all ages, hands-on nature crafts for youth, and opportunities to learn more about local birds and their habitats. Bring: sun protection, bug spray, hydration Accessibility: This event takes place on an uneven surface. Accessible parking nearby.
Aransas Pathways Guided Nature & Historical Tour of Aransas County
Registration Required – limited seating available Eventsbrite Tour Registration Link: https://www.eventbrite.com/e/1984933762316 Departure location: Aransas County Courthouse Parking Area 301 N Live Oak St, Rockport, TX 78382. The van departs promptly at 8:30am. Google Map Link: https://maps.app.goo.gl/KDJUjWkcaAcvehX78 What : A guided nature and history van tour of Aransas County. Discover the beauty, wildlife, and rich coastal heritage of Aransas County on this guided Nature & Historical Tour. Lunch is not provided. Bring : snacks and your sense of adventure!
Aransas Bird Days 2026: Pathways Bird banding at Linda Castro Nature Sanctuary
Live Bird Banding Experience: Science in Action Where: Linda S. Castro Nature Sanctuary, 4041 Hwy 35 N Bypass, Rockport, TX 78382 Google Map:https://maps.app.goo.gl/aar9sa58FBQrR8JZ8 What: Get an up-close look at the fascinating world of bird science during a live bird banding demonstration led by three experienced researchers working along the Texas Gulf Coast: Rebekah Rylander, Kelly Bryan, and guest bird bander Rebecca Bracken of the Gulf Coast Bird Observatory. Learn why and how this research is used. No registration required. Bring: a chair , hydration, bug spray, and sun protection Accessibility: This program is located on a flat surface with accessible parking on-site.
Join a Global Birding Moment — Right from Aransas County
A self-paced community science birding event inviting participants to observe and share bird sightings from anywhere in Aransas County, February 13–16, 2026.
🎄 Christmas on the Beach & Volunteer Thank You Day
📅 December 27, 2025 (Saturday)⏰ 6:00 PM – 8:00 PM📍 Rockport Beach, Texas Join us for a magical evening at Rockport Beach as Aransas Pathways celebrates the heart of our mission — our volunteers, partners, and community stewards who keep the spirit of Birding, History, Kayaking, and Trails alive all year long. This festive gathering is our way of saying thank you for helping Aransas County shine as a premier ecotourism and heritage destination in the Coastal Bend. What to Expect ✨ Cozy beachfront Christmas atmosphere✨ AP volunteer recognition moments✨ Meet the Aransas Pathways team & site stewards✨ Sign-up opportunities for 2026 volunteer programs✨ Light snacks & good community vibes✨ Perfect sunset photo moments along the shore Why This Event Matters Aransas Pathways is built on people — volunteers, partners, and local champions who share their time and heart to sustain our trails, birding sites, kayak launches, and history spaces. This special evening honors YOU — the hands, hearts, and stories behind our shared success. Volunteer Sign-Up & 2026 Opportunities Looking to get involved next year?Stop by our Volunteer Table to explore upcoming opportunities in: Events & outreach Birding programs & citizen science Trail stewardship Kayaking activities Historical and cultural programming 👉 Sign up here:www.AransasPathways.com/volunteer/?utm_source=website&utm_medium=events&utm_campaign=COTB2025
December in Aransas County — Where Community Shines Brightest
December in Aransas County is more than a calendar full of events — it’s a living reminder of our resilience, togetherness, and small-town charm. From shoreline lights to historic streets, every corner of Rockport–Fulton shines with community spirit all month long. December has arrived, and with it comes a season of celebrations across Rockport–Fulton and Aransas County. Our partners have lined up a full month of events that reflect who we are as a community — resilient, welcoming, and grounded in the spirit of togetherness. From Tropical Christmas and Christmas on the Beach, to historic home tours, art walks, concerts, markets, and holiday nights in the District — every corner of our county is alive with small-town charm and big-hearted energy. It’s a reminder that after everything this community has weathered, especially since Hurricane Harvey, Aransas County continues to rise with strength, creativity, and purpose. These festivities are more than events — they are proof of our shared resilience, our deep community roots, and the warmth that draws visitors, Winter Texans, and sojourners back year after year. As Aransas Pathways, we are grateful to stand alongside our partners in celebrating what makes this county extraordinary. And through our own Christmas on the Beach Volunteer Appreciation Night we want to kick off the month by inviting everyone to explore, support, and participate in the many holiday events happening throughout December. Every gathering, every stroll, every shared moment helps strengthen our community spirit — and that is the heart of our advocacy. Become Part of the Pathways Story If you believe in what we do, and if you want to be part of the small-but-mighty movement that keeps our trails, kayak sites, birding spots, and heritage venues thriving, we invite you to join us as a volunteer. Be part of the Pathways story. Become a Steward or Ambassador this season. Sign Up as a Volunteer: https://aransaspathways.com/volunteer-december Aransas Pathways Birding. History. Kayaking. Trails.One County, Countless Adventures. Photo Courtesy of Rockport-Fulton Chamber & Rockport Cultural Arts District
Howard Murph Memorial Park
4701 Loop 1781, Rockport, TX 78382 28°05’44.0″N 97°03’05.2″W (see map) Species – Greater Roadrunner, American Oystercatcher, Spotted Sandpipers, Caspian, Royal, and Forster’s Terns, assorted Sparrows in winter, Osprey, Little Blue Heron, Green Heron, Reddish Egret Left in its natural state the shoreline of the park is covered with oyster shell fragments and the shallow water has sandy and seagrass beds great for fishing and wading into the shallow water. The spot also makes for a great kayak launch site. The Park also has BBQ pits and covered seating for you to enjoy. Alligator Warning – We will warn you though that there have been spotting of coastal alligators in the area. Please keep an eye out if you decide to walk out. Howard Murph Memorial Park Site is also known as the Airport Park. Directions: FM 1781, directly behind the Aransas County Airport. This is a small park with access to Copano Bay. There are picnic facilities at this site. Howard Murph Park is an excellent location for enjoying sunsets, birdwatching, kayaking, fishing, and unwinding in a peaceful environment with picnic tables and benches.