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Big Thicket Visitor Center is open year round 9:00 am to 5:00 pm. It is closed Christmas and New Years Day. The facility is located seven miles north of Kountze, Texas, in Hardin County on U.S. Highway 69 at the junction of FM 420. The Discovery Station will orient you to the world of Wildland and Prescribed Fire. Book sales, exhibits, theater, restrooms, pull through parking for large vehicles, and picnic tables are available here. Preserve Headquarters is open 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Monday through Friday; closed on all government holidays. The Preserve Visitor Center, the Sundew, Pitcher Plant, and Kirby Nature Trails are accessible. All picnic tables and rest rooms are wheelchair accessible.

In 1936 the regional study, Biological Survey of the East Texas Big Thicket Area, was completed by H.B. Parks and V.L. Cory. This report played a significant role in the future protection of the Big Thicket. It was the first effort by concerned people to document and begin a protection scheme of this unique landscape. At the time of the report, it was stated that the Big Thicket area was over one million acres in size.

Some 40 years after the Biological Survey, the U.S. Congress passed legislation that created the Big Thicket National Preserve. The legislation was signed by President Gerald Ford in October 1974 establishing the first National Preserve in the National Park System. The Preserve is composed of land and water units. In 1993, legislation was passed to expand the Preserve incorporating creek corridors and additional land areas. Today, the National Park Service manages over 97,000 acres of public lands in what was the original Big Thicket surveyed by Parks and Cory.

Big Thicket National Preserve was established to ensure the preservation, conservation, and protection of a portion of this once great forest complex. Big Thicket National Preserve consists of nine land units and six water corridors encompassing more than 97,000 acres. Big Thicket was one of the first Preserves in the National Park System established October 11, 1974, and protects an area of rich biological diversity. A convergence of ecosystems occurred here during the last Ice Age. It brought together, in one geographical location, the eastern hardwood forests, the Gulf coastal plains, and the Midwest prairies. December 15, 1981, the Preserve was designated an International Biosphere Reserve by the United Nations Education, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) Man and the Biosphere Program. July 26, 2001, the American Bird Conservancy recognized the Preserve as a Globally Important Bird Area joining thousands of others around the world.

Big Thicket’s Kirby Nature Trail was named after the famous timber tycoon, John Henry Kirby, who had set aside this area for employee hunting and recreation almost 100 years ago. Lance Rosier, a self-taught naturalist from Saratoga, was known as “Mr. Big Thicket.” He dedicated his life to the preservation of the Big Thicket.

Big Thicket offers lands richly diverse in biological resources with some of the richest diversity in North America. Natural processes have influenced the region over the millennium. The last Ice Age brought a character change on the natural systems found here. The cold environment “pushed” or encouraged species to move from separate ecological systems into a close “neighborhood.” Today, species from the Gulf Coastal Plains, Eastern Forests, and Central Plains share space with species indicative of swamps and bayous. Bald cypress swamps are a short distance from upland pine savannahs and sandhills. Roadrunners watch eastern bluebirds fly to and from their nests in nearby trees.

The Neches River is the primary drainage of Big Thicket National Preserve, capturing the majority of water from precipitation and overland flow. Variations in geology, climate, soils, elevation, and drainage have resulted in a rich biological diversity.

The Big Thicket area of east Texas, often referred to as a “biological crossroads,” is a transition zone where southeastern swamps, eastern deciduous forest, central plains, pine savannas, and dry sand hills meet and intermingle. The area provides habitat for rare species and favors unusual combinations of plants and animals.

The Upland Forests consist of several areas. Pine Sandhill: This is the driest of forests in Southeast Texas occurring on deep sandy terrace deposits along creeks and rivers. The best example in Big Thicket is in the southeast area of the Turkey Creek Unit. The Nature Conservancy’s Sandyland Sanctuary is the largest example. These areas can be recognized by their low, open woodlands (short forest) with relatively sparse herbaceous layer and much exposed sand. There is a scattered overstory of longleaf, loblolly and shortleaf pines; the understory is a layer of oaks. Compositionally, these areas are characterized by abundant bluejack and post oaks. Prickly pear and yucca are also present.

Pine Forest: These forests are found on reasonably well-drained uplands typical of the northern area of the Big Sandy Creek Unit. They are also found in less drained units of the south. The overstory is strongly dominated by longleaf pine. The understory varies due to historic human use and can be a dense oak growth or a sparse growth of shrubs like sumac, sassafras, and wax myrtle. Where woody plants do not dominate, the herb layer is very dense and consists of many forbs and grass species – especially bluestem. Bluejack oak is absent or rare.

Pine Savannah Wetland: Savannah’s occur in areas of poor drainage. Structurally, savannahs contain widely scattered longleaf pine usually the only tree present, although stunted individuals of blackgum and sweetgum may occur. Midstory shrubs are sweetbay, wax myrtle, titi, and gallberry holly. The herbaceous layer is diverse with insectivorous plants and orchids usually common. Sedges are also common; standing water is typical. In contrast, the Pine Sandhill and Pine Forest types seldom experience standing water. The Hickory Creek Savannah Unit (Sundew Trail) is the best example.

There are several slope forests. Upper Slope Pine Oak: These are the driest of the Slope Forests. They tend to occupy the upper portions of slopes. Structurally, they are the shortest of the Slope Forests and are taller and more closed canopy than Upland Pine Forests. The dominant overstory species are shortleaf pine and red, post, or blackjack oaks, as single specimens or in any combination. Loblolly pine is almost always present. Dominant shrubs are yaupon, flowing dogwood, and beautyberry. The herbaceous layer is restricted because of the well-developed canopy. White oak is absent as a large overstory tree. A good example is found at the start of the Kirby Nature Trail in the Turkey Creek Unit.

Mid-Slope Oak Pine: These are taller, are more closed canopy and have a greater proportion of hardwoods in the overstory than the Upper Slope. Overstory dominant species are red oak, white oak, and loblolly pine. Magnolia and shortleaf pine may be present. Dominate shrubs are flowering dogwood, American holly, and yaupon. The herbaceous layer is poorly developed. Beech is absent while white oak is co-dominant. A good example is found along the Kirby Nature Trail in the Turkey Creek Unit.

Lower Slope Hardwood Pine: Found on the gentle to steep slopes near creeks and creek branches. They have a dense closed canopy and are dominated by beech, magnolia, and loblolly pine. Sweetgum, blackgum and oaks are occasionally present in the overstory and are common in the understory. Dominate understory species are American holly, red maple, American hornbeam, horse sugar, and yaupon. Herbs are severely restricted. Again, visit the Turkey Creek Unit along the lower sections of the Kirby Nature Trail.

The Floodplain Forests are unique. Stream Floodplain: These occur along major creeks or streams on low, flat terrain that regularly floods. Beech and loblolly are dominate and water oak, basket oak, willow oak, and laurel oak are typical. Loblolly pine and magnolia are present. The understory is normally open with some small trees or ironwood and American holly. Herbs are sparse dominated by grasses and sedges including cane. There is an absence of leaf litter due to winter flooding.

River Floodplain: They occur on the broad flats of the Neches River floodplain and tributaries of Beech Creek and Pine Island Bayou. Tree growth is rapid and many trees reach great size – - accentuated by the open understory. Dominate overstory species are basket oak, cherrybark, overcup, willow, and laurel oaks, and shellbark hickory. The dense midstory trees are ironwood and American holly. Vines are important here, more so than in other types. A large number of herbs are found on sandbars and in light gaps. Ground surface is usually devoid of leaf litter. Beech and magnolia are not present.

Cypress-Tupelo Swamp: These occur in deeper backwaters, sloughs, oxbows, and depressions. Both species form large buttresses and may reach large proportions. Edge species may be buttonbush, Carolina ash, water elm, and water hickory. Visit the Pine Island Bayou Unit to see this association type.

There are two Flatland Forests. Flatland Hardwood Pine: This type is restricted to the Beaumont surface (geological formation) and is equivalent to the Lower Slope Hardwood Forests found elsewhere. It is restricted to the Lance Rosier Unit. The key to recognition is the absence of beech. White oak and southern red oak are dominate as are the magnolia, water oak, and loblolly pine. Some blackgum, laurel oak, and swamp hickory are present. Understory is dense with yaupon, American holly, horse sugar, and red bay. The herb layer is sparse.

Flatland Hardwood: These are also found in Beaumont formation, including the Lance Rosier Unit. These areas are found on low ground along creek drainage. Laurel oak and blackgum are the principal species. Basket oak, sweetgum, water oak, cherrybark oak, or willow oaks are common. Shrubs include palmetto and arrowwood. Pines and sweetgum occur on small mounds. Red oak, white oak, and magnolia are absent.

Baygalls may occur within most any of the major types listed here; where water accumulates and stands for most of the year baygalls may form. Principal species are titi, gallberry holly, sweetbay, red bay, and blackgum. Other species may be present depending on the surrounding forest type including wax myrtle, white bay, horse sugar, and azalea. Ferns are common and include these species – - Christmas, cinnamon, and royal. Sphagnum, other mosses, and liverworts are found here as well.

Spring, fall, and many winter days are near perfect for outdoor activities in the Big Thicket, Hiking, wildlife observing, nature study, canoeing, and picnicking all add to your enjoyment of the Big Thicket.

Hiking — There are eight hiking trails in the Preserve totaling more than 45 miles. The longest is 18 miles while the shortest is less than one quarter mile. A few of the trails are fully accessible. Please use caution during the summer months when temperatures and humidity readings are higher than normal. Hike only during the early morning or late afternoon hours. Kirby Nature Trail System, Turkey Creek Trail, Pitcher Plant Trial, Sundew Trail, Woodlands Trail, Beech Woods Trail, Beaver Slide Trail, and Big Sandy Creek Horse/Bike Trail all offer different views, plants (even carnivorous plants), and wilderness experience.

Fishing — Fishing is available along the Neches River, Village Creek, and Pine Island Bayou that offer a great fishing trip experience. Preserve rangers require that you comply with all State of Texas fishing regulations and have a valid State of Texas fishing license. Prohibited in all Preserve waters are Trot, Limb, Throw, and Jug Lines.

Hunting — A hunting program is managed on about one half of Preserve land units. The last three Saturdays in July of each year preserve staff issue a limited number of free hunting permits, issued in person only, for those open-to-hunting areas. Federal and State of Texas laws regulate all hunting. A valid State of Texas hunting license is required. Fur trapping is permitted in the Preserve on specific units. Trapping is permitted during the months of December and January only. Twenty-one free permits are available during the month of October at the Preserve Headquarters in Beaumont, Texas. For any additional information, please call (409) 951-6831, 8:00 a.m. – 4:30 p.m., Monday-Friday.

Birding — Dense tree canopies make birding for migratory song birds challenging though very doable in much of the Preserve. One of the best locations in the region for viewing migrants is at High Island, 45 miles southwest of Beaumont, Texas. The average best day for birding at High Island is April 14. The Preserve is part of The Great Texas Coastal Birding Trail and is listed in the Big Thicket Loop of the Upper Gulf Coast map and guide. Bird migrations peak between late March and Early May. In the fall, the migration is between October and November. The more sought after birds are the Red cockaded Woodpecker, the Brown-leaded Nuthatch, and the Bachman’s Sparrow. The last reported sighting of an Ivory-billed Woodpecker in the Big Thicket area was May 1971. The Ivory-billed Woodpecker is officially listed as extinct. Birdwatcher’s Trail, at the confluence of Menard Creek and the Trinity River, Menard Creek Corridor Unit, offers good birding opportunities for shorebirds, raptors, and migrant songbirds.

Photography — Any unit in the Preserve offers a wonderful photographic opportunity to grab an award winning national park picture. Time of year and day are important as all serious photographers know. Early morning or late evening in the spring and fall offer great weather. While spring offers the varied color of abundant wildflowers, fall offers the color of fallen leaves and cool, clear skies. Each season offers varied possibilities of great outdoor pictures of wildlife.

Horseback riding — Only one trail is available for horse back riding – The *Big Sandy Creek Horse Trial in the Big Sandy Creek Unit. (NOTE: This trail is closed during hunting season each year–from opening day of the State of Texas fall hunting season through the second Sunday in January. Call 409-951-6725 for exact dates.) This trail is about 18 miles long. You have to bring your own stock as there are no rentals currently available.

Off-road bicycling — If you are looking for an off-road experience, take your mountain bike to the *Big Sandy Creek Unit. The Big Sandy Horse and Bike Trail is open to off-road bicycling and offer you a chance to exercise yourself and your bike.

Canoeing, Kayaking, and Boating — Two canoe trails are available for your use, Cook’s Lake Canoe Trail and Franklin Lake Canoe Trail. Boating activities abound in the Preserve. The Neches River offers a sometimes wild river experience. Pine Island Bayou is a wonderful near primal experience as you paddle through Bald cypress and tupelo. Certainly, you are not limited to these two marked trails. There are many other canoeing, kayaking, and boating opportunities throughout the Preserve for plenty of adventure travel.

Fire is an important natural process in Big Thicket and is used by park rangers to maintain the health of the ecosystem.

An average rainfall of 55 inches is well distributed throughout the year. Summers are warm and humid with daytime temperatures between 85 and 95 degrees Fahrenheit with peaks to 100 or more. Moderate temperatures in the mid 50s to 60s are normal for winter. Spring and fall are very enjoyable and are the most pleasant seasons for outdoor activities. Wear comfortable outdoor clothing, a broad brimmed hat, good walking shoes, and carry rain gear.

Current Park Weather

Pets are allowed in Big Thicket National Preserve provided that visitors abide by the following regulations or restrictions: 1. Pets must be restrained on leashes no longer than six ( 6 ) feet in length ( 1.8 meters ). 2. Pets are prohibited at any special event or program open to the public and in all areas designated for hunting, trapping, and camping during times established for these activities.

For backpacking and camping you should bring: tent with rainfly, flashlight with extra batteries, campstove, sleeping bag, matches, fuel, food, water filtering system or tablets, map, compass, signal mirror or whistle, first aid kit, sleeping mat, multi-use tool, insect repellent, and good hiking boots.

During late summer months (June through September) caution is advised. The combination of high temperatures and humidity create extreme heat indices that can lead to heat stress or heat stroke. For example, an air temperature of 95° F and a relative humidity of 65% equates to a heat index of 114° F. To avoid heat stress you should acclimatize yourself to the environment you are visiting. Avoid outdoor activities between 11 a.m. and 3 to 4 p.m. An early morning or late afternoon hike is much wiser during the summer months. Drink plenty of water; keep yourself hydrated. Wear a wide-brimmed hat, light clothing (color and weight), and use a sun screen with a high Sun Protection Factor (SPF) rating. Rest often and do not over exercise in any activity.

Water hazards, such as currents, underwater debris, shifting sandbars and steep drop-offs, are common and change with floods. Choose quiet areas away from currents. Wear a life jacket or Personal Flotation Device, and never dive into the water.

Following simple rules can make boating fun and safe. Know the capacity of your boat and don’t exceed it. Be sure to have a PDF for each passenger. Learn boating rules and standards. Don’t drink and operate a boat.

While canoeing, stay off the river during periods of high water. Flood water canoeing is dangerous even for experienced canoeists. Always wear your PDF. If you are inexperienced, get some instruction in canoeing techniques and try an easy stretch of quiet water before venturing out into moving water. If you tip over in fast water, stay with the canoe until you reach a quiet spot. Stay on the upstream side of the canoe so you aren’t pinned between the canoe and a tree.

Don’t make yourself a target for lightening. Leave the water during storms. Seek shelter, but not under a lone tree. Avoid high exposed places. Hypothermia, a reduced body temperature caused by exposure to cold weather can strike in warm weather if the water is cold enough, as it is in early spring. Dress appropriately for the weather. Carry extra clothes in a waterproof container. If you fall into cold water, get into dry, warm clothing as soon as possible. Build a fire to get warm. Shivering is the first sign of hypothermia.

Dense tree canopies make birding for migratory song birds challenging though very doable in much of the Preserve. One of the best locations in the region for viewing migrants is at High Island, 45 miles southwest of Beaumont, Texas. The average best day for birding at High Island is April 14. The Preserve is part of The Great Texas Coastal Birding Trail and is listed in the Big Thicket Loop of the Upper Gulf Coast map and guide. Bird migrations peak between late March and Early May. In the fall, the migration is between October and November. The more sought after birds are the Red cockaded Woodpecker, the Brown-leaded Nuthatch, and the Bachman’s Sparrow. The last reported sighting of an Ivory-billed Woodpecker in the Big Thicket area was May 1971. The Ivory-billed Woodpecker is officially listed as extinct. Birdwatcher’s Trail, at the confluence of Menard Creek and the Trinity River, Menard Creek Corridor Unit, offers good birding opportunities for shorebirds, raptors, and migrant songbirds.

Collin’s Pond offers a variety of song birds and waterfowl like thrushes, warblers, herons, and egrets. Cooks’ Lake is a backwater area just to the north of Pine Island Bayou about one half mile west of the confluence with the Neches River. You will need a boat – preferably a canoe or kayak. This is a visually exciting area, the swamp and floodplain forest communities provide great habitat for herons, egrets, raptors, and swallows. Kirby Nature Trail is a good place for warblers, vireos, woodpeckers and resident song birds. McQueen’s Landing is a small boat launch area just below Steinhagen Reservoir that has been a good viewing area for Bald eagles in the winter. Pitcher Plant Trail is a good place for woodpeckers and warblers. Sundew Trail is open wetland savannah that is good habitat for pine warblers and brown headed nuthatches.

Many kinds of snakes are found in the Big Thicket. Most are harmless, although the venomous cottonmouth, coral, copperhead, and various rattlesnakes do make this their home.

Please respect the wildlife. Do not feed or harass the animals. Remember some of these are endangered species. Cold blooded reptiles often warm themselves in the sun. Stay on the trail so that you will have a clear view of where you are stepping.

There are no fees for preserve use.

Backcountry camping only is allowed with a free Backcountry Use Permit obtained prior to camping. You must use the Leave-No-Trace principles. This is your only opportunity for a camping experience as there are no developed campgrounds within the boundaries of the Preserve, but this allows for a unique camping trip and wilderness adventure. Contact a park ranger at the Information Station, Woodville Ranger Office, or Headquarters Office for a permit.

Jean Lafitte National Historical Park and Preserve is 265 miles away. Padre Island National Seashore is 315 miles away. San Antonio Missions National Historical Park is 282 miles away. Village Creek State Park, Martin Dies Jr. State Park, Roy E. Larsen Sandyland Sanctuary, Great Texas Birding Trail, and Beaumont, Texas are all nearby to the preserve.

The Southeast Texas Regional Airport, near Beaumont, Texas, has commercial airline service. Houston, Texas, about 100 miles from the Preserve, has two major airports served by a number of major airlines.

By car, enter Beaumont, Texas, via Interstate 10 and then take U.S. Highway 69-287 north from Beaumont. Seven miles north of Kountze, Texas, take FM 420 east and follow the signs to the visitor center.
Amtrak and Commercial Bus transportation are available in Beaumont, Texas.

Because the Preserve is composed of several units (land and water), one has to drive to each unit they wish to visit. The Official Map and Guide will assist greatly.

Approximate Mileage from the following major cities to Big Thicket Preserve:

By Car:

Houston, TX. – 115.89 miles

Beaumont, TX – 34.28 miles

Jasper, TX – 52.67 miles

Waco, TX – 245.99 miles

Woodville, TX – 24.80 miles

Silsbee, TX – 18.01 miles

By Plane:

Southeast Texas Regional Airport – 46.29 miles (Rental cars are also available)

Big Thicket National Preserve Headquarters, 3785 Milam Street, Beaumont, TX 77701-4724
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Visitor Center, 6102 FM 42, Kountze, TX 77625-7842
Visitor Information 409-951-6725
Headquarters 409-951-6700

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