The Outpost Tour is a guided journey along the waterways of Adams Bayou on one of Shangri La Gardens’ specially outfitted pontoon watercraft. Once on the watercraft, the Outpost Tour takes participants on a journey through the natural ecosystems of Adams Bayou and, ultimately, to one of the Outpost Pavilions in the Cypress-Tupelo Swamp. A knowledgeable guide leads the Outpost Tour and provides interpretation of Adams Bayou, associated habitats, wildlife, and a brief historical overview of portions of Shangri La Gardens and the local community.
More importantly, the Outpost Tour is an opportunity for visitors to become immersed in the natural world for a short time and to gain a better understanding of the forces that shape the environment of the Gulf Coast region of Southeast Texas.
Passes & Boarding
Outpost Tour passes are first come, first served. Capacity is limited to 18 – 24 seats.
Passes are located at the garden entrance with the volunteer stationed at the visitor’s table for those who are not part of a reserved Group Tour or School Program.
Visitors with passes must meet at the Nature Discovery Center 15 minutes prior to departure time or risk being left behind. Please note that it is approx. ¼ mile walk from the garden entrance to the boathouse.
Outpost Tours are wheelchair accessible. Please call in advance to notify staff of needs.
Children under 4 years of age are not allowed on Outpost Tours. Children and visitors requiring assistance must have supervision at all times.
Departure Times
Tuesdays: 11 a.m. and 1 p.m.
Saturdays: Noon and 2 p.m.
Duration: Approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes
Outpost Tours may be cancelled in the event of inclement weather, heat index > 100, unsafe water conditions, or operational considerations beyond our control. Additional departure times may be added as warranted by demand.
Recommended
Visitors should pack plenty of water and wear appropriate outdoor attire given the season. Insect repellant, sunscreen, a camera, and binoculars are also encouraged.
Life vests are provided and must be worn at all times – no exceptions. For the enjoyment of all guests, we ask that cell phones be silenced and that passengers refrain from using their electronic devices for the duration of the tour, except for photography