A 7,800-Acre Private Wildlife Refuge Sits Near Sinton

Robert Hughes Welder set up the foundation through his will in 1954. The refuge covers 7,800 acres of native South Texas land. It sits northeast of Sinton.

The refuge is privately owned. But it is open to the public for scheduled educational tours. More than 350 graduate students from over 65 universities have done research there since 1956.

For anyone moving to or visiting the county, this is a rare chance to see South Texas brushland habitat up close. This is not a regular public park. You need to plan your visit ahead of time. Check the foundation's website for current tour schedules and group programs.