The Lone Star State is home to one of the only salt lakes in America, and hardly anyone seems to know it exists. La Sal del Rey, located just off TX-186 in Edinburg, is one of the most unique natural wonders in Texas, sitting on a whopping four million tons of salt. You can practically walk on water on the Salt Lake in Texas!

Located within the Lower Rio Grande Valley National Wildlife Refuge, La Sal del Rey (which means "The King's Salt" in Spanish) is a natural wonder unlike anything you've ever seen before. One of several salt lakes in the area, this hypersaline lake sits on a whopping four million tons of salt - that's over four times saltier than normal seawater.

This salt lake in Texas is situated along the Rio Grande Valley Civil War Trail, appealing to history buffs and nature lovers alike. Both Spanish explorers and local residents mined the lake for salt during the war - for many, it was the only source of sodium in their diet.

Only a handful of salt lakes exist in America, which makes the experience of visiting La Sal del Rey that much more special.

At low tide, you can see the salt deposits that have accumulated on objects in the water...like this animal skull.

When the salt content is high enough, you can practically walk on the surface of the water. How incredible is that? So if you’re wondering if you can swim in La Sal del Rey? Not when the salt is high! But when the water is higher, some people soak in the small pools.

After you've soaked up all the saltwater your heart desires, head to one of the observation boardwalks to enjoy panoramic views of the area. You can also read informational signs highlighting the wildlife that resides in the refuge, including a number of rare bird species.

The lake also features a sandy beach almost as pristine as the salt crystals themselves. Combine that with the secluded nature of this hidden gem natural wonder, and you just may never want to leave.

Accessing the lake requires an approximately three-mile walk, and the parking area can be found on Brushline Road. The best time to visit La Sal del Rey is during spring or fall when the temperatures are under 80° F. or so. The lake completely dries up in the summer, and the heat in this shadeless expanse can be intense. Get the sun protection and hiking gear you'll need at Backcountry. Admission to the wildlife refuge is always free. Visit the U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service on the web for more information about the Lower Rio Grande Valley National Wildlife Refuge.

Have you ever visited La Sal del Rey, this Salt Lake in Texas? If so, we'd love to hear all about your experience in the comments! Don't forget to check out our previous article for a nearby state park where you can see more bird species than almost anywhere else on earth.