(Mission, Texas) – Sunday, August 12, from 9 am – 2 pm, the National Butterfly Center in Mission, Texas, will host Reclaim the River, a free, family-friendly event to promote the enjoyment of the Rio Grande River, and educate the public about this remarkable natural resource.

“The Rio Grande used to be a vibrant recreational area that contributed so much to our economy and quality of life,” states Marianna Trevino Wright, executive director of the National Butterfly Center. “While much in South Texas is changing, the river should remain a treasure for environmental tourism and outdoor sport. For this reason, we’re inviting everyone to come play for the day, at our ‘beach party’ on the riverbank!”

Planned activities include sand sculpting by the award-winning artist, Sandyfeet of South Padre Island; Segway test drives by SegValley; guided nature hikes; angler education and fishing for youth; Project WILD Aquatic lessons; guerrilla gardening for pollinators; tug o’ war; a wildlife petting zoo; pet adoptions by Mission Pawsible; and a blessing of the river and the flotilla by Father Roy Snipes of Our Lady of Guadalupe Church. All boaters are welcome to join us, above Anzalduas Dam, upriver from Riverside Club, to receive this blessing.

All of these activities will take place on the center’s property south of the levee, where cyclists and joggers are welcome! Families are encouraged to bring their bikes, beach chairs and a picnic.

Healthy dogs on leash are also welcome for one day, only.

For those interested in our Community Camp Outs, only one date remains to sleep over under the stars with staff from the National Butterfly Center. Our last camp our is scheduled for Saturday, August 11, rain or shine—and all fees have been waived for this special event, which will feature optional, outdoor activities led by staff, such as a night hike, owl hunt, and black lighting for insects and moths. A communal campfire will be provided for those who wish to enjoy a rustic camp experience, and of course, s’mores for everyone!

“Every year, our Girl Scout camp out sells out and community members ask when they may spend the night, here,” explains Wright, “So we this is our chance to dispel some myths about life out here and start some new traditions. We are excited to share the tranquility of our gardens and grounds at night, away from the noise and light pollution of town, with everyone who wants to join us.”

This is the perfect camping trip for beginners, who may be uncertain about striking out on their own somewhere far from home; as well as for experienced campers who just want to spend the night in the midst of the Lower Rio Grande Wildlife Conservation Corridor. The center also has a limited number of tents available for use by individuals or families that have not made the decision to purchase their own, yet, on a first-come-first-served basis.

The August 11 camp out and Reclaim the River will coincide with the one-year anniversary of the March to Save Mission rally against the border wall and include special activities to commemorate that event.

Pre-registration for the community camp out is required. This may be done online at www.NationalButterflyCenter.org, where more details and information may be found.

The National Butterfly Center is open to the public, for visitors and members, seven days/week. To learn more about us and how to join, visit www.nationalbutterflycenter.org, or call 956.583.5400. Your annual membership or charitable gift impacts the beauty of our community and helps preserve the biologically-diverse, natural treasures of deep South Texas.