Located along the Falcon International Reservoir on the United States-Mexico border, the small town of Falcon Lake Estates is home to some of the best bass fishing in southern Texas. Its main attraction is the reservoir, commonly referred to as Falcon Lake, which lies along the Rio Grande and covers 84,000 acres. Folks from all over the state flock here to enjoy boating, water-skiing, and fishing. Fish cleaning stations and barbecue pits allow you to prepare and cook your catch while enjoying the sounds of the many bird species that frequent the area. Around Falcon Lake, you’ll find rolling hills covered in cacti, wild olive, persimmon, and native grasses that provide a habitat for the area’s diverse wildlife. A short trip over the Falcon Reservoir Bridge lands you in the town of Zapata and its additional dining and entertainment options.

There is no bad time to stay in one of the Falcon Lake cabins, though spring and fall offer warm and pleasant weather, making those seasons perfect for enjoying outdoor activities on or off the water. If you plan to fish, the winter months are the best to catch catfish and largemouth bass. However, the weather can get chilly, so be sure to pack a warm layer. If you come during December, you will experience boats twinkling with holiday lights during the Falcon Lake Christmas Boat Parade. The summer months typically experience hot temperatures and relatively high humidity, so come prepared to cool off with a dip in Falcon Lake.

Falcon State Park

At the southern end of Falcon International Reservoir, Falcon State Park covers more than 570 acres that attract anglers, hikers, and campers. The park is also a great place for bird watching, with tropical species like the green jay and the vermilion flycatcher making frequent appearances. The 2.8 miles of mostly flat trails that wind through the park are a great way to explore the grounds. The park also has easy access to the reservoir, with multiple boat-launching areas.

Zapata County Museum of History

Across the Falcon Reservoir Bridge, fewer than five minutes’ drive from Falcon Lake Estates, the Zapata County Museum of History is home to numerous displays and interactive exhibits that create a storyline of the area’s history. Learn about the diverse flora and fauna in this part of the state, and how the creation of the Falcon Dam affected the region. Exhibit descriptions are in Spanish and English.

The Outlet Shoppes at Laredo

Located in downtown Laredo, an hour’s drive from Falcon Lake Estates, this shopping district features 50 shops in an open-air, two-story shopping center. Alongside the usual big fashion brands, this colorful retail space regularly hosts pop-ups from local vendors, especially around the holidays. Check the event calendar to view popular happenings, which include folk dancing, art displays, and ice sculptures.