Big Thicket National Preserve

Big Thicket National Preserve is a vast natural area located in southeast Texas. Covering over 113,000 acres, it is home to a diverse range of ecosystems and offers visitors numerous recreational opportunities.

Located within the Piney Woods region, Big Thicket National Preserve is situated in parts of Hardin, Liberty, Tyler, San Jacinto, and Polk counties. Its proximity to major cities like Beaumont and Houston makes it easily accessible to visitors from urban areas.

The preserve holds significant historical and cultural value. It served as a refuge for various Native American tribes, including the Atakapa, Akokisa, and Cherokee, who utilized the area's abundant natural resources. Later on, European settlers arrived and engaged in logging, farming, and oil extraction activities within the region. In 1974, Big Thicket was designated as a national preserve to protect its unique and diverse biological systems.

Exploring Big Thicket National Preserve offers visitors a chance to immerse themselves in its rich natural beauty. The preserve is home to at least 40 species of mammals, over 200 bird species, countless reptiles and amphibians, and more than 1,000 species of flowering plants. It features a variety of ecosystems, including hardwood forests, cypress stands, wetlands, longleaf pine forests, and savannas.

There are numerous activities to enjoy within Big Thicket National Preserve. Hiking trails weave through the diverse landscapes, providing opportunities for both short walks and longer backpacking excursions. Some popular trails include the Kirby Nature Trail, Beaumont Boardwalk Trail, and the Turkey Creek Trail. Canoeing or kayaking along the various waterways within the preserve, such as the Neches River and Village Creek, is another popular activity. Wildlife observation, birdwatching, and nature photography are also common pastimes for visitors.

In addition to exploring the preserve's natural wonders, visitors can also discover nearby attractions. The nearby town of Beaumont offers cultural and historical sites, such as the Beaumont Botanical Gardens and the Art Museum of Southeast Texas. Beaumont is also known for its vibrant music scene, regularly hosting live performances and festivals. The city of Houston, with its world-class museums, restaurants, and entertainment options, is within driving distance as well.

Overall, Big Thicket National Preserve provides a captivating escape into nature, showcasing the diverse ecosystems and rich history of southeast Texas. Whether hiking, kayaking, or simply taking in the beauty of the surroundings, visitors are sure to find this preserve a rewarding destination.

Big Thicket National Preserve is located in the southeastern region of Texas, encompassing parts of several counties, including Polk, Tyler, Hardin, and Jasper. Situated on the Gulf Coastal Plain, this unique preserve covers approximately 113,000 acres of diverse and rugged landscapes. Geographically, Big Thicket is characterized by its vast swamps, dense forests, and meandering rivers, forming a mosaic of ecosystems unlike anywhere else in the state. The area is known for its rich biodiversity, with numerous plant and animal species, making it a haven for nature enthusiasts and researchers alike. With its proximity to the Gulf of Mexico and intricate rivers, Big Thicket National Preserve serves as a vital refuge preserving the natural heritage of this remarkable region.

Address & Contact

6102 FM 420
Kountze, TX 77625
Driving Directions
Phone: 409-951-6700
Web: Link

Weather & Seasonality

The best time to visit Big Thicket National Preserve would be in February or November. These months offer relatively mild temperatures, with average maximum temperatures ranging from 66°F to 73°F, and average minimum temperatures ranging from 41°F to 47°F. Additionally, the average monthly precipitation during these months is around 3.6 inches to 4.5 inches, allowing for enjoyable outdoor activities. In terms of visitor count, these months also attract fewer crowds compared to the peak months of April, May, and October.

Activities

Some of the activities you can do in Big Thicket National Preserve are: Food Picnicking Hands-On Junior Ranger Program Wildlife Watching Birdwatching Park Film Shopping Bookstore and Park Store Gift Shop and Souvenirs Biking Camping Backcountry Camping Hiking Boating Canoe or Kayak Camping Fishing Hunting and Gathering Hunting Paddling Canoeing Kayaking Citizen Science

Topics

Learn about these topics at Big Thicket National Preserve: Animals Birds Industry Logging and Timber Cutting Cats (wild) Tortoises and Turtles Fire River and Riparian Trails Water Trails Unique Species Mining Watersheds Burial, Cemetery and Gravesite Forests and Woodlands Wetlands Social Movements Conservation Movement Thickets and Shrublands Endangered Alligators or Crocodiles

Visitor Centers

Big Thicket Visitor Center

Start your trip here! Get free maps and information, meet a park ranger, and learn about the Big Thicket's plants, animals, and history. Staying awhile? Watch a short film in the theater and browse the bookstore. Outside, enjoy a shaded picnic and go for a short hike on the Longleaf Pine Trail.

Passport Stamp locations

The following locations have passport stamps for your "Passport to Your National Parks" booklet: Big Thicket Visitor Center.

Campsites within or near Big Thicket National Preserve

This park doesn't have any campsites within its boundaries (or we haven't found them yet)).

Hotels within or near Big Thicket National Preserve

La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Lumberton

Located in Lumberton, La Quinta Inn & Suites by Wyndham Lumberton is a 5-minute drive from Adventure Kingdom and 7 minutes from Village Creek State Park. Featured amenities include complimentary wired Internet access, a business center, and a 24-hour front desk. Free self parking is available onsite.
Address: 104 North LHS Dr, Lumberton, Texas 77657
Web: Link

Days Inn by Wyndham Lumberton

Located in Lumberton, Days Inn by Wyndham Lumberton is within a 10-minute drive of Adventure Kingdom and Village Creek State Park. Featured amenities include complimentary wired Internet access, a business center, and express check-in. Free self parking is available onsite.
Address: 131 N LHS Drive, Lumberton, Texas 77657
Web: Link

Book Nook Inn

When you stay at Book Nook Inn in Lumberton, you'll be within a 10-minute drive of Adventure Kingdom and Parkdale Mall. Featured amenities include complimentary wired Internet access, a 24-hour business center, and complimentary newspapers in the lobby. Free self parking is available onsite.
Address: 10405 Cooks Lake Road, Lumberton, Texas 77657
Web: Link