Fort Travis Seashore Park, Bolivar Peninsula
Fort Travis Seashore Park sits at the tip of the Bolivar Peninsula near the ferry landing. The park has concrete bunkers and gun emplacements from the early 1900s, a fishing jetty, and good birding. It is a quick stop on your way to or from Crystal Beach.
History of Fort Travis
Fort Travis was built in the early 1900s as a coastal defense installation at Point Bolivar. The fort was designed to protect the entrance to Galveston Bay, which was a major shipping channel. Gun batteries and observation posts were constructed along the shoreline to guard against naval threats.
The fort saw use during both World War I and World War II. During WWII, the military expanded the site and added additional gun emplacements, bunkers, and support buildings. After the war ended, the military decommissioned the fort. Galveston County eventually took over the property and turned it into a public park.
What to See at Fort Travis
The main attractions are the concrete bunkers and gun emplacements that remain from the military era. You can walk through some of the old battery positions and see where the big guns were mounted. The thick concrete walls and narrow passageways give you a real sense of the scale of the fortifications. Some of the structures are partially buried in sand dunes, which makes for interesting exploration.
Graffiti and weathering have taken a toll over the years, but the core structures are intact. You can also find old tunnels and connecting passages between some of the bunker positions. Bring a flashlight if you want to poke around inside the darker areas.
Activities at the Park
Beyond the historic ruins, Fort Travis has a rock jetty that extends into the ship channel. It is a popular spot for fishing. Anglers catch redfish, sheepshead, and drum from the rocks. The jetty also gives you a front-row view of the massive container ships passing through the channel on their way to the Port of Houston.
The park grounds are good for birding, especially during spring and fall migration. Picnic tables and open grassy areas are available if you want to eat lunch. There is no entry fee at most times, though the county has occasionally charged a small fee for parking. Check the Galveston County website for current hours and any fee updates before you go.
Getting There
Fort Travis is located at Port Bolivar, right next to the Galveston-Bolivar Ferry landing on the peninsula side. If you are coming from Crystal Beach heading west on Highway 87, you will reach the park just before you get to the ferry. It is well-signed from the road.
The park is part of the Galveston County park system. It is a good first stop or last stop if you are taking the ferry to or from Galveston Island. You can easily spend 30 minutes to an hour exploring the ruins and walking the jetty.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Fort Travis open to the public?
Yes. Fort Travis Seashore Park is a public park operated by Galveston County. The ruins, jetty, and grounds are open to visitors. Check with Galveston County for current hours, as they can vary seasonally.
Is there a fee to visit Fort Travis?
The park has historically been free or has a very low parking fee. Fees can change, so check the Galveston County Parks website for the latest information before your visit.
What is there to do at Fort Travis?
You can explore the WWII-era concrete bunkers and gun emplacements, fish from the rock jetty, have a picnic, and do some birding. The jetty also offers great views of the ship channel and passing cargo vessels.
Where to Stay in Crystal Beach
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