Bird migration and ranch history offer two distinct ways to explore Bailey County. At the Paul’s Lake observation site, an elevated viewing platform overlooks a lake and wetland; many wetland birds stop there during migration. In Muleshoe, historic buildings tell the story of local heritage and ranching.

Birdwatching along the Muleshoe Loop

The Muleshoe Loop runs from the intersection of US 84 and FM 54 via FM 37 and Texas 214 to the Muleshoe National Wildlife Refuge. Check the route before setting out. At the Paul’s Lake observation site, an elevated platform offers views of the lake and wetland. Migration season is a special time to look out for the many wetland birds there.

The grasslands and playa lakes of the Muleshoe National Wildlife Refuge also define the area’s natural character: each year, they host one of the largest concentrations of lesser sandhill cranes in North America. The wetland birds at Paul’s Lake and the cranes in the refuge represent different facets of the birdlife.

Ranch Heritage and Local History in Muleshoe

The Muleshoe Heritage Center was established to preserve local heritage and provide a venue for community activities and events. A large horseshoe stands at the entrance: it is 22 feet high and 17 feet wide at its widest point. The Santa Fe Depot at the Heritage Center was moved there in 1985 and dedicated in 1987.

The former Figure 4 Ranch House was originally located in southern Bailey County and now stands at the entrance to the Heritage Center. The center also includes the Muleshoe Ranch cookhouse and a one-room bunkhouse; both came from the former Muleshoe Ranch. The Janes Ranch House has a ballroom on the second floor and an office and game room in the basement.

The Virginia City Hotel is a two-story boardinghouse and the only surviving boardinghouse from the Muleshoe area. Visitors who want to take a closer look at the Heritage Center’s historic buildings can use the virtual tour offered by the Muleshoe Heritage Foundation.

The Hugh Earl Young Visitors Center is also located at the Muleshoe Heritage Center. It houses the Chamber of Commerce office; the Chamber welcomes visitors interested in historic landmarks and homes in the area.

More Things to See and Do in Muleshoe

Muleshoe is home to “Ol’ Pete,” a life-size mule statue. It is considered the only national monument representing the role of mules in United States history. Another recreational option is the disc golf course: it was established in 2011 and is jointly maintained by the Muleshoe Parks and Recreation Department and the Muleshoe Disc Golf Club. Course details may change, so it’s best to check before visiting.

The Muleshoe Water Park has a zero-entry pool, lap lanes, a waterslide, a diving board, and a lazy river. It operates seasonally, so check whether it is open before your visit. Muleshoe City Park Lake, a one-acre lake, is located in Muleshoe City Park in Bailey County.

For RV travelers, the Ray and Donna West Free RV Park offers eight developed sites with water, sewer, and electricity hookups, as well as an on-site dump station. Muleshoe Municipal Airport is located in Muleshoe at 2313 County Road 1090.

Discover more destinations: Muleshoe, Gonzales, Llano, Concho, Clay, Cameron, Kendall County, Gillespie County.

For the main travel overview: Texas.