Hebert Reservoir

Historic rice reservoir • Premier birdwatching destination • Shaded Trail • Open daily from sunrise to sunset

Why Visit Hebert Reservoir?

Looking for one of the best birdwatching destinations on the Katy Prairie Preserve? Start here.

Hebert Reservoir is a 77-acre historic rice reservoir permanently protected as part of the Katy Prairie Preserve. Today, it provides year-round habitat for waterfowl, wading birds, raptors, amphibians, reptiles, and native wetland plants.

An out-and-back shaded levee trail offers peaceful wildlife viewing, seasonal American Lotus blooms, and excellent opportunities for birdwatching and nature photography.

 

  • Help us protect wildlife and sensitive habitats by following preserve guidelines:

    • Stay on designated trails to protect the ecosystem.

    • Pedestrian use only: no bicycles, motorized vehicles, or horses.

    • Leave no trace: pack out any trash.

    • Do not feed or disturb wildlife.

    • Dogs and pets that aren’t service animals are strictly prohibited.

    • Smoking, alcohol, firearms, and loud music are prohibited.

    • Swimming is not allowed. American alligators are commonly seen here.

    • Fishing and hunting are not allowed without permission by CPC.

    • Minors under 18 must be accompanied by an adult.

Visitor Information

Hours

Public Access Hours

Open Daily

  • Dawn to Dusk

  • 365 Days Per Year

Location

Address

10023 Penick Road
Waller, TX 77484

Visitor Notes

  • No public restrooms available

  • Roadside parking only  - There is no designated parking lot at Hebert Reservoir. Please pull completely onto the grass with all four tires off the pavement, leaving the roadway clear for passing vehicles.

  • Not ADA accessible

Explore the Preserve

A short, shaded levee trail provides excellent opportunities to observe wildlife and experience one of the Katy Prairie's historic wetlands.

Explore Key Features

  • A shaded out-and-back trail with scenic wetland views and abundant wildlife.

  • Quiet places to stop, observe birds, and enjoy the landscape.

  • Originally constructed to irrigate rice fields, the reservoir now supports a rich diversity of wildlife, aquatic plants, amphibians, reptiles, insects, and birds throughout the year.

View AllTrails Route

The Story of Hebert Reservoir

Hebert Reservoir reflects the close relationship between agriculture and conservation on the Katy Prairie.

The reservoir was likely constructed by the Hebert family sometime during the 1940s or 1950s as a rice irrigation pond during the height of rice farming on the Katy Prairie. The Hebert family farmed lands in the region for several generations, with roots extending back to the 1860s.

In 2000, the Coastal Prairie Conservancy permanently protected the 77-acre property. Today, this former piece of agricultural infrastructure provides critical habitat for waterfowl, wading birds, amphibians, reptiles, and countless other species.

Help Us Understand the Prairie

Every wildlife observation helps us better understand and protect the Katy Prairie.

Visitors are encouraged to submit sightings through eBird and iNaturalist. These observations support research, habitat management, and long-term conservation across the preserve.

View Hebert Reservoir on eBird
View Hebert Reservoir on iNaturalist

Frequently Asked Questions

  • The trail is a short out-and-back route along the reservoir levee, making it an excellent option for a quick wildlife viewing excursion.

  • Yes. Much of the trail follows a shaded levee lined with mature trees.

  • No. Public restrooms are not available at Hebert Reservoir. Visitors may use facilities at the Katy Prairie Welcome Center during open hours.

  • The trail is a natural-surface path and is not ADA accessible.

  • Depending on the season, visitors may encounter migratory birds, waterfowl, raptors, amphibians, reptiles, alligators, beavers, pollinators, and a wide variety of wetland plants.

  • Early morning and late afternoon often provide the best wildlife viewing opportunities, though every season offers something different.

  • We recommend water, closed-toe shoes, binoculars, insect repellent, and a camera.

  • Absolutely. We encourage visitors to submit observations through eBird and iNaturalist to help support conservation and research efforts.