The cool weather is finally on the way.

Weather reports show a cold front should blow in by the weekend and give us a much needed break from the heat.  This cooler weather always makes me want to spend more time outside in the great outdoors.

There are so many opportunities that we can take advantage of and so many sights to see.  If you are looking for an autumn adventure, you don’t need to travel far.  Here are a few of the outdoor activities that can be enjoyed in Southeast Texas:

1. Bird watching
That’s right bird watching!  Most of the time I write about killing birds, but it can also be fun just to watch them.  The Anahuac National Wildlife refuge, and the Audubon Society on High Island are both world class places to view many species of birds and waterfowl.  This is a cheap outing and can be lots of fun for the whole family.  Be sure to bring binoculars and a good camera!

2. Camping
Now that the weather is cooling down, tent camping is once again an option. There are more places to camp than I can even list.  Sea Rim State Park and Galveston Island State Park are two beach camping areas that come to mind.  Be sure to bring plenty off!  Both of the places can accommodate tents camping as well as just about and trailer or Motorhome. They have 20, 30 and 50 amp service available along with water hookups.  A dump station is available as well. Fall can be a great time to camp and enjoy the cool weather so make your reservations now.

3. Duck hunting
In just a few short weeks duck season will open. There are several of the best public duck hunting places in the country right in our area.  McFadden NWR, Anahuac NWR, and JD Murphree WMA offer some of the finest waterfowling in the country for little to no cost.  However, there are various restrictions that apply so be sure to follow all of the regulations.

4. Deer hunting
While most people in Texas hunt on private land, that does not mean that there is no public hunting available.

Sabine National Forest, Angelina National Forest, Davy Crockett National Forest, and the Big Thicket are all public and all offer great deer hunting opportunities. These deer will not be easy to hunt, and you will need to spend some time scouting in advance to help ensure success.  However, there are some Giant East Texas bucks that call these places home and if you manage to harvest on, it is very rewarding.  Once again be sure to check for any special regulations before you hunt.

5. Squirrel hunting
This is often an overlooked type of hunting for most.  However, it is very fun and is many times the first hunt a child ever goes on.

I have great memories hunting squirrels as a youngster in the woods around Sam Rayburn.  These little critters are a challenge to hunt and provide a great opportunity to get into the outdoors on a cool autumn morning.  If you find an oak bottom, squirrels are guaranteed to be somewhere close.  Each of the areas I listed for deer hunting also have squirrel hunting opportunities as well.

6. Bass fishing
Everyone is aware of the fishing opportunities at Sam Rayburn and Toledo Bend.  They are listed among the top lakes nationwide year after year in Bassmaster Magazine.

What most folks don’t realize is that you don’t have to drive all the way to the lake to catch bass.  The Neches, Angelina, Sabine, and Trinity Rivers are full of bass and once you learn to fish them they can provide some great stringers as well.  Our local bayous are also great for bass fishing.  The key is to get out and fish.

After a few trips, most good fishermen learn to adapt to the changing tides and figure out a way to put large numbers off bass in the boat without ever venturing too far from home.

7. Red fishing
These giants. An he caught all over the gulf coast.  As the water cools down, many anglers enjoy chasing them in the shallow marshes and cuts.

Reds are often fun to sight fish since their tails can often be seen in the shallow water. A gold spoon, or top water bait are often a great choice for some heart stopping action.

There are many other outdoor activities that God has blessed us with in Southeast Texas. This list is just the beginning. There is something about a nice cool autumn breeze that refreshes the soul.  If you don’t believe me, then plan an adventure and see for yourself.

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Brian Johnson, originally of Port Neches, is pastor of the Outdoorsman’s Church in Winnie, owner of DuckDogTrainer.com and outdoors writer for The News.