In preparation for overnight freezing temperatures, the drinking fountain at the visitor center has been turned off through Friday 2/21. Restrooms are open.

No Drinking Water at Visitor Center

Big Sandy Creek Unit: The bridge over Big Sandy Creek on Sunflower Road is closed for construction.

Bridge Closure on Sunflower Road

Big Sandy and Birdwatchers trails are CLOSED due to damage from Hurricane Beryl. Work is ongoing to repair damaged bridges and washouts.

Storm Damage

Hunting is allowed in the following units: Big Sandy Creek, Beech Creek, Lance Rosier, Beaumont, Neches Bottom & Jack Gore Baygall. People entering those units should wear orange. Most hiking trails are NOT in hunting zones (exception: Big Sandy Trail).

Hunting Season Underway: Sep 28 to Feb 28

We usually reply to emails within one week.

Life of all types abounds in the Big Thicket. This national preserve protects the incredible diversity of life found where multiple habitats meet in southeast Texas. Hiking trails and waterways meander through nine different ecosystems, from longleaf pine forests to cypress-lined bayous. It is a place of discovery, a place to wander and explore, a place to marvel at the richness of nature.

Leafless bald cypress trees and knees stand in a swamp filled with leaves and branches in winter.

Wintry Cypress Slough

An iron bridge above a murky creek surrounded by dense woods.

Village Creek Bridge

a mossy bald cypress tree displaying fiery orange leaves amid a background of green forest.

Bald Cypress in Fall

A log cabin in a forest beneath a canopy of sprawling live oak trees.

Staley Cabin

A wooden boardwalk curving through dense ferns and pines.

Sundew Trail

Bright green swamp with shallow water and many kinds of trees and jungle-like plants.

Cypress Swamp

Close-up of a carnivorous pitcher plant with the shadow of an insect inside.

Pitcher Plant

A woodpecker with bright red head clinging to a dead tree.

Red-Headed Woodpecker

Shadowy-looking cypress knees and their reflections in still water.

Cypress Knees

Sunlight poking through the canopy of a sprawling oak tree.

Kirby Oak

Big Thicket

Big Thicket National Preserve is open 24 hours. To camp in the preserve, you need a backcountry camping permit, available from the visitor center.

All Park Hours

Hiking

<p>Free admission to Big Thicket National Preserve</p>

A wooden platform set in a clearing in a pine forest.

Longleaf Pine Trail

<p>6102 FM 420<br /> Kountze, TX 77625<br /> <br /> Trail begins on the east side of the visitor center parking lot. Look for a wooden boardwalk that leads to park headquarters and follow the trail signs.</p>

<p>Opened in 2024, the Longleaf Pine Trail begins at the visitor center and leads to a viewing platform in a young longleaf pine forest.</p> <ul> <li><strong>Distance:</strong> 1 mile roundtrip</li> <li><strong>Type:</strong> Out-and-back</li> <li><strong>Location:</strong> Turkey Creek Unit</li> <li><strong>Trailhead: </strong>Big Thicket Visitor Center on FM 420</li> <li><strong>Lat/Long:</strong> 30.458335, -94.387404</li> </ul> <h2>Overview</h2> <p>To begin, follow the boardwalk from the visitor center parking lot toward park headquarters. Trail signs point the way; head to the right along the service road, go past the maintenance yard, then go left to where the trail begins at the edge of the woods.<br /> <br /> From here, follow the winding path through shady forest, over small bridges, and eventually to a sunny, open longleaf pine forest. Eventually the trail meets an old road; turn right (south) along the road until you reach the newly-constructed observation platform.<br /> <br /> A little further past the platform, a 3-sided display provides information about the preserve's ongoing <a href="https://www.nps.gov/bith/learn/nature/longleaf-pine.htm">longleaf pine</a> restoration project. Many of the young longleaf pines in this area were planted by volunteers.<br /> <br /> To return to the visitor center, retrace your steps.</p> <h2>More Information</h2> <ul> <li>Download a <a href="https://www.nps.gov/bith/planyourvisit/images/Longleaf-Pine-Trail_map.jpg">trail map</a></li> <li>The <a href="https://www.nps.gov/bith/planyourvisit/visitor-center.htm">visitor center</a> parking lot is open 9:00 am–5:00 pm daily. After hours, park along FM 420 (do not block gates).</li> <li>Explore the <a href="https://www.nps.gov/bith/planyourvisit/turkey-creek-unit.htm">Turkey Creek Unit</a></li> </ul>

<p>Pets must be on a 6-foot leash at all times. Please pick up your pet's poop!</p>

1 mile roundtrip | Stroll through a longleaf pine forest near the visitor center on Big Thicket's newest trail.

<p>Visitor center parking lot open 9:00 am–5:00 pm daily</p>

Hike the Longleaf Pine Trail

Forests and Woodlands

Thickets and Shrublands

Kirby Bridge

<p>The Kirby Nature Trail is located about 7 miles north of Kountze. From US 69/287, go east on FM 420 for 2½ miles to reach the trailhead.</p>

<p>This is a great loop hike to see dense thicket, a bald cypress slough, and Village Creek. Connect with the Turkey Creek and Sandhill Loop trails for a longer hike.</p> <ul> <li><strong>Distance:</strong> 1½ to 2½ miles roundtrip</li> <li><strong>Type:</strong> Loop</li> <li><strong>Location:</strong> Turkey Creek Unit</li> <li><strong>Trailhead:</strong> Parking lot on FM 420</li> <li><strong>Lat/Long:</strong> 30.462122, -94.350825</li> </ul> <h2>Overview</h2> <p>The Kirby Nature Trail has 3 loops: 1½-mile inner loop, 0.3-mile cypress loop, and 0.9-mile outer loop. Combine them all into one big loop for a 2½-mile loop hike.<br /> <br /> The trail begins on Farm to Market Road (FM) 420 next to historic <a href="https://www.nps.gov/places/staley-cabin.htm">Staley Cabin</a>. Go past the kiosk and down the wooden ramp to reach the first junction at the start of the inner loop. Turn left to go clockwise and descend a gentle slope with a canopy of beech, magnolia, and loblolly pine overhead.<br /> <br /> After crossing a few wooden bridges, head left on the cypress loop to see a slough of large bald cypress trees and knees. If the water is high, take the high water bypass to skip the cypress loop.<br /> <br /> Continuing clockwise from the cypress loop, the inner loop follows Village Creek. At the next junction, the right fork takes the inner loop back south toward the trailhead. The left fork begins the outer loop and immediately enters a picnic area next to an iron bridge over Village Creek*. Continue past the bridge on the outer loop as it meanders clockwise and eventually meets up with the inner loop and trailhead.</p> <h3>*Extend Your Hike!</h3> <p><strong>Add an extra 3 miles roundtrip:</strong> Combine the Turkey Creek and Sandhill Loop trails with Kirby to make a 4½- or 5½-mile loop and out-and-back combination. The Sandhill Loop features a forest of tall longleaf pines, scattered cacti, and solitude.<br /> <br /> Cross the iron bridge over Village Creek to begin the Turkey Creek Trail. After 0.8 miles, cross a second iron bridge, over Turkey Creek. The Sandhill Loop Trail begins on the opposite (east) side of the bridge.<br /> <br /> Go right or left to begin the 1.4-mile Sandhill Loop. On the north end of the loop, there is another junction with the northbound Turkey Creek Trail, marked with a bench—go past it to continue on the Sandhill Loop. When you return to the iron bridge over Turkey Creek, cross it and follow the Turkey Creek Trail south to return to the Kirby Nature Trail and the trailhead.</p> <h2>More Information</h2> <ul> <li>Download a <a href="https://www.nps.gov/bith/planyourvisit/upload/Turkey-Creek-Unit-Trail-Map-508.pdf">trail map</a></li> <li>Get a Kirby Nature Trail Guide at the <a href="https://www.nps.gov/bith/planyourvisit/visitor-center.htm">visitor center</a> for a small fee.</li> <li>Explore the <a href="https://www.nps.gov/bith/planyourvisit/turkey-creek-unit.htm">Turkey Creek Unit</a></li> </ul>

1½ to 2½ miles roundtrip | Experience the Big Thicket on a gentle loop hike through different kinds of forest. See majestic bald cypress trees and knees and Village Creek.

Hike the Kirby Nature Trail

Wetlands

A trail meanders through a forest of pines and ferns in the early morning light.

<p>The trailhead is about 4 miles south of Warren and 14 miles north of Kountze. From US 69/287, head west on FM 2827, then turn left (south) onto County Road 1910. Follow the signs to the Sundew Trail parking lot.</p>

<p>Take a walk through a wetland pine savannah on the Sundew Trail to look for birds, longleaf pines, and carnivorous plants. The pavilion at the trailhead is a great place to have a picnic in the park!</p> <ul> <li><strong>Distance:</strong> 0.3 to 1 mile roundtrip</li> <li><strong>Type:</strong> Loop</li> <li><strong>Location:</strong> Hickory Creek Savannah Unit</li> <li><strong>Trailhead:</strong> Parking lot on County Road 1910</li> <li><strong>Lat/Long:</strong> 30.548225, -94.409754</li> </ul> <h2>Overview</h2> <p>From the trailhead, follow the paved path clockwise to reach a boardwalk through a small bog. In spring and summer, look for <a href="https://www.nps.gov/bith/learn/nature/carnivorous-plants.htm">carnivorous plants</a> here: tall, funnel-shaped pitcher plants and coin-sized, red sundews.<br /> <br /> Continue along the boardwalk to an open pipeline right-of-way. Sundews grow abundantly among the mowed grasses on the right-of-way during winter and spring. At the right-of-way, go right to continue on the inner loop or cross the pipeline and go left to follow the outer loop through a longleaf pine forest.<br /> <br /> Both loop options return to the trailhead.</p> <h2>Picnic Area</h2> <p>Bring lunch! The trailhead has a shaded pavilion with 4 picnic tables, 2 metal grills, and a vault toilet.</p> <h2>More Information</h2> <ul> <li>Download a <a href="https://www.nps.gov/bith/planyourvisit/upload/FINAL-Carnivorous-Plants-Brochure-July-2017-508.pdf">trail map</a></li> <li>Explore the <a href="https://www.nps.gov/bith/planyourvisit/hickory-creek-savannah-unit.htm">Hickory Creek Savannah Unit</a></li> </ul>

<p>Pets must be on a 6-foot leash at all times. Please pick up your pet's poop!</p>

<p><span style="color:null;">Sundews produce their small pink blooms from April into early summer. Sundews are most abundant in winter and spring, becoming much harder to find through the summer and fall.</span></p>

0.3 to 1 mile roundtrip | Search for tiny red carnivorous plants known as sundews on an easy loop hike through a lush wetland pine savannah.

<p>Go in the morning to see sundews sparkle in the morning sunlight.</p>

Hike the Sundew Trail

Unique Species

A leaf-covered path leads straight through shrubs and thick forest on a late fall day.

Woodlands Trail

<p>The trailhead is 5 miles north of Dallardsville on FM 1276, just south of US 190.</p>

<p>The Woodlands Trail is a pleasant loop hike through different kinds of forest scenery in the northwest corner of the Big Thicket. Short hills add a few ups and downs to this shaded hike.</p> <ul> <li><strong>Distance:</strong> 5 miles roundtrip</li> <li><strong>Type:</strong> Out-and-back and loop combination</li> <li><strong>Location:</strong> Big Sandy Creek Unit</li> <li><strong>Trailhead:</strong> Parking lot on FM 1276</li> <li><strong>Lat/Long:</strong> 30.679593, -94.699424</li> </ul> <h2>Overview</h2> <p>The Woodlands Trail has loop options of 3, 4¼, and 5 miles roundtrip.<br /> <br /> Start at the trailhead on Farm to Market Road (FM) 1276 and follow the trail signs past the information kiosk. Near Collins Pond, cross a pipeline right-of-way and continue into the forest.<br /> <br /> Go over a few short bridges through a floodplain until you arrive at a bench marking the beginning of the loop section. The left fork climbs through a hilly pine forest while the right fork follows Big Sandy Creek. There are 2 cutoff trails in the middle of the loop that shorten the loop to 3 and 4¼ miles.<br /> <br /> Some of the junctions have a bench with a map that indicates your current position. When you return to the beginning of the loop, follow the out-and-back section to return to the trailhead.</p> <h2>More Information</h2> <ul> <li>Download a <a href="https://www.nps.gov/bith/planyourvisit/upload/FINAL-Big-Sandy-Creek-Unit-Trail-Brochure-June-2017-508.pdf">trail map</a></li> <li>Explore the <a href="https://www.nps.gov/bith/planyourvisit/big-sandy-creek-unit.htm">Big Sandy Creek Unit</a></li> </ul>

5 miles roundtrip | The Woodlands Trail loops through different kinds of forest landscapes and some hilly terrain. Find a scenic pond near the beginning of the trail.

Hike the Woodlands Trail

River and Riparian

Colorful beech trees displaying red-orange-yellow colors along a trail leading through the forest.

Beech Woods Trail in Fall

<p>The trailhead is on FM 2992, 1.9 miles north of its junction with FM 1013 near Spurger.</p>

<p>Big Thicket is at the extreme southwest limit of the American beech's native range. Hike through a shaded forest of beeches on this easy trail.</p> <ul> <li><strong>Distance:</strong> 1½ miles roundtrip</li> <li><strong>Type:</strong> Out-and-back and loop combination</li> <li><strong>Location:</strong> Beech Creek Unit</li> <li><strong>Trailhead:</strong> Parking lot on FM 2992</li> <li><strong>Lat/Long:</strong> 30.719469, -94.227299</li> </ul> <h2>Overview</h2> <p>The Beech Woods Trail begins at the parking lot on Farm to Market Road (FM) 2992. Walk past the metal gate and follow an old dirt road down a forested corridor until you reach a junction marked with a wooden trail sign. Turn right at the trail sign and follow the meandering trail through the woods. The next junction marks the beginning of the loop section; go left or right to continue.<br /> <br /> After completing the loop, return the way you came.</p> <h2>More Information</h2> <ul> <li>Download a <a href="https://www.nps.gov/bith/planyourvisit/upload/Beech-Creek-Unit-Trail-Brochure-02062017-508.pdf">trail map</a></li> <li>Explore the <a href="https://www.nps.gov/bith/planyourvisit/beech-creek-unit.htm">Beech Creek Unit</a></li> </ul>

<p>See bright green foliage in spring; fall colors in late November and early December.</p>

1½ miles roundtrip | See a forest of American beeches on this pleasant loop hike in the northeastern corner of the preserve.

Hike the Beech Woods Trail

Pond reflecting the bright green trees growing from within and along its banks.

Beaver Slide Trail

<p>The trailhead is a pullout along FM 943. It is just west of the intersection with FM 1276 near Segno.</p>

<p>The Beaver Slide Trail is a hidden gem! See quiet ponds, sloughs, and Big Sandy Creek on this short hike.</p> <ul> <li><strong>Distance:</strong> 1 mile roundtrip</li> <li><strong>Type:</strong> Out-and-back and loop combination</li> <li><strong>Location:</strong> Big Sandy Creek Unit</li> <li><strong>Trailhead:</strong> Pullout on FM 943</li> <li><strong>Lat/Long:</strong> 30.573174, -94.642417</li> </ul> <h2>Overview</h2> <p>Begin the hike at the pullout along Farm to Market Road (FM) 943. From there, the trail descends into the woods, going over a few short wooden bridges to a scenic pond lined with bald cypress trees.<br /> <br /> Shortly after going over some large, exposed tree roots, you reach the beginning of the loop section. Take a glance around to familiarize yourself with this intersection—it can be easily missed when returning to the trailhead.<br /> <br /> Along the loop, you will pass several more scenic sloughs and eventually reach a bend in Big Sandy Creek. When you reach the loop intersection, return to the trailhead.</p> <h2>More Information</h2> <ul> <li>Download a <a href="https://www.nps.gov/bith/planyourvisit/upload/FINAL-Big-Sandy-Creek-Unit-Trail-Brochure-June-2017-508.pdf">trail map</a></li> <li>No Signage: The Beaver Slide Trail currently does not have signage along the road or on trail.</li> <li>Explore the <a href="https://www.nps.gov/bith/planyourvisit/big-sandy-creek-unit.htm">Big Sandy Creek Unit</a></li> </ul>

<p>The cypresses and beeches display bright fall colors in late November and early December. April is a great time to see bright green foliage. Mosquitoes are common in late spring and summer.</p>

1 mile roundtrip | The Beaver Slide Trail is a hidden gem. This short hike leads hikers past several scenic ponds and sloughs. Keep an eye out for beaver dams along the way!

Hike the Beaver Slide Trail

fly sitting on the lip of a carnivorous pitcher plant

Fly and Pitcher Plant

<p>From US 69/287 in Warren, go east on FM 1943 for 4.3 miles until you reach unpaved County Road 4850. Turn right (south) onto County Road 4850 and go 2 miles to reach the trailhead.</p>

<p>Walk this easy loop to see a natural garden of carnivorous pitcher plants and tall pines above.</p> <ul> <li><strong>Distance:</strong> 1 mile roundtrip</li> <li><strong>Type:</strong> Loop</li> <li><strong>Location:</strong> Turkey Creek Unit</li> <li><strong>Trailhead:</strong> Parking lot on County Road 4850</li> <li><strong>Lat/Long:</strong> 30.582233, -94.336456</li> </ul> <h2>Overview</h2> <p>Follow the paved path beginning next to the kiosk. The first ¼ mile passes through a forest of longleaf pines. As you walk, look for burn scars on the pines—this section is intentionally burned every few years to encourage new tree growth. Longleaf pines are able to survive low-intensity fires that burn the leaf litter on the forest floor.<br /> <br /> The wooden boardwalk begins at the entrance to the pitcher plant bog, where you can see hundreds of <a href="https://www.nps.gov/bith/learn/nature/carnivorous-plants.htm">carnivorous plants</a> in spring and summer. Pitcher plants are easy to spot, while tiny sundews and butterworts are harder to find.<br /> <br /> After the boardwalk ends, the trail heads into the woods where it joins the Turkey Creek Trail for a short distance before looping back to the trailhead. Keep making left turns to continue counter-clockwise on the Pitcher Plant Trail.</p> <h2>More Information</h2> <ul> <li>Download a <a href="https://www.nps.gov/bith/planyourvisit/upload/Turkey-Creek-Unit-Trail-Map-508.pdf">trail map</a></li> <li>Hike <a href="https://www.nps.gov/bith/planyourvisit/upload/FINAL-Carnivorous-Plants-Brochure-July-2017-508-2.pdf">carnivorous plant trails</a></li> <li>Explore the <a href="https://www.nps.gov/bith/planyourvisit/turkey-creek-unit.htm">Turkey Creek Unit</a></li> </ul>

<p>See pitcher plants' large yellow flowers in late March and April. The pitcher plants are usually small in the spring and reach their peak size in summer and early fall. The plants dry up in fall and winter.</p>

1 mile roundtrip | Follow an easy loop that leads to a boardwalk through a pitcher plant bog where you can look for carnivorous plants in spring and summer.

Hike the Pitcher Plant Trail

A pine-needle covered path leads straight through a corridor of tall pine trees.

Sandhill Loop Trail

<p>4½-mile option: Use Kirby Nature Trail on FM 420.<br /> 9.4-mile option: Use Turkey Creek Trail (southbound) on Gore Store Road.</p>

<p>The Sandhill Loop Trail offers solitude in an unusual arid sandyland ecosystem that is home to longleaf pine and prickly pear cactus.</p> <ul> <li><strong>Distance:</strong> 4½ to 9.4 miles roundtrip</li> <li><strong>Type:</strong> Out-and-back and loop combination</li> <li><strong>Location:</strong> Turkey Creek Unit</li> <li><strong>Trailhead:</strong> 2 options—<em>see below</em></li> </ul> <h2>Overview</h2> <p>The Sandhill Loop Trail is a 1.4-mile loop but to reach it you will need to hike 4½ to 9.4 miles roundtrip via one of two options:</p> <h3>Option A: From the South</h3> <ul> <li><strong>4½ miles roundtrip </strong>via Kirby Nature Trail and Turkey Creek Trail</li> <li><strong>Trailhead: </strong>Kirby Nature Trail on FM 420</li> <li><strong>Lat/Long:</strong> 30.462122, -94.350825</li> </ul> <p>This route begins on FM 420 and follows the Kirby Nature Trail and Turkey Creek Trail north to the Sandhill Loop Trail. Depending on which Kirby loop you choose, you can make this a 4½- or 5½-mile hike.<br /> <br /> Begin the Kirby Nature Trail next to Staley Cabin. Go left on the loop to head north on the inner loop. On the north side of the loop, there is a picnic area next to an iron bridge that crosses Village Creek. Cross the bridge to begin the Turkey Creek Trail. After 0.8 miles on the Turkey Creek Trail, cross another iron bridge and begin the Sandhill Loop Trail.<br /> <br /> Go right or left to begin the 1.4-mile Sandhill Loop. On the north end of the loop, there is another junction with the northbound Turkey Creek Trail, marked with a bench—go past it to continue on the Sandhill Loop. When you return to the iron bridge, cross it and follow the Turkey Creek Trail south to return to the Kirby Nature Trail and the trailhead.</p> <h3>Option B: From the North</h3> <ul> <li><strong>9.4 miles roundtrip </strong>via Turkey Creek Trail</li> <li><strong>Trailhead:</strong> Turkey Creek Trail (southbound) on Gore Store Road</li> <li><strong>Lat/Long:</strong> 30.521094, -94.343759</li> </ul> <p>This route begins on Gore Store Road and follows the Turkey Creek Trail southbound to the Sandhill Loop Trail.<br /> <br /> After 4 miles on the Turkey Creek Trail, you reach the beginning of the Sandhill Loop Trail, marked with a couple of benches. Head left to go clockwise and explore a forest of longleaf pine with a few scattered patches of prickly pear cactus.<br /> <br /> After completing the loop, return the way you came.</p> <h2>More Information</h2> <ul> <li>Download a <a href="https://www.nps.gov/bith/planyourvisit/upload/Turkey-Creek-Unit-Trail-Map-508.pdf">trail map</a></li> <li>Explore the <a href="https://www.nps.gov/bith/planyourvisit/turkey-creek-unit.htm">Turkey Creek Unit</a></li> </ul>

4½ to 9.4 miles roundtrip | Look for longleaf pines, cacti, and solitude on this out-and-back and loop hike that leads to an arid sandyland ecosystem.

Hike to the Sandhill Loop Trail

Biking

Big Thicket National Preserve does not charge entrance fees.

low angle view of a mountain bike on a trail in the forest

Biking Big Sandy

The trailhead is on Sunflower Road, about 3 miles west of FM 1276 near Dallardsville.

<p>The Big Sandy Trail is a wide path on old logging roads through pine and hardwood forest in the preserve's Big Sandy Creek Unit. It's the only trail in the Big Thicket open to bicycles. Spend a whole day riding the whole trail or spend a couple of hours riding down to the tupelo swamp and wooden bridge over Simmons Branch.<br /> <br /> Don't be fooled by the name! The Big Sandy Trail is not sandy—it's named for nearby Big Sandy Creek. As you ride, you might notice some burned sections of the forest. Recent prescribed fires in the area keep the pine forest healthy by clearing away thick brush on the forest floor. Longleaf pines thrive in this fire-adapted environment.</p> <h2>Distance</h2> <p><em>18 miles roundtrip</em><br /> <br /> The Big Sandy Trail is mostly out-and-back with a short loop section at the end.</p> <h2>Getting Here</h2> <p>GPS Coordinates:<br /> 30.614785, -94.670931<br /> <br /> The trailhead is on Sunflower Road, about 3 miles west of FM 1276 near Dallardsville.</p> <h2>The Ride</h2> <p>Start at Sunflower Road and head south on the Big Sandy Trail. The beginning might be washboarded, but it smooths out further down the trail. Cross a wooden bridge over the Simmons Branch of Big Sandy Creek and ride past a scenic tupelo swamp. This section is the lowest part of the trail and may involve a few muddy crossings. You'll encounter a few junctions along the way; follow the horse trail signs to stay on the Big Sandy Trail. Eventually you'll arrive at the beginning of the loop; go left or right to continue.<br /> <br /> Once you complete the loop, follow the Big Sandy Trail back to the trailhead on Sunflower Road.</p> <h2>Safety</h2> <p>Here are a few potential hazards and things to know before you ride:</p> <ul> <li><strong>Hunting</strong> is allowed in the area from October 1 to February 28. Wear orange if you go during hunting season.</li> <li><strong>Mountain bikes recommended</strong> due to uneven terrain</li> <li><strong>Hazards </strong>include exposed tree roots and muddy crossings</li> <li><strong>Several junctions</strong>—follow signs for horse trail</li> <li><strong>E-bikes are allowed</strong> but using the electric motor to move an e-bike without pedaling is prohibited.</li> <li><strong>Wear a helmet!</strong></li> </ul> <h2>Trail Map</h2> <p><a href="https://www.nps.gov/bith/planyourvisit/upload/FINAL-Big-Sandy-Creek-Unit-Trail-Brochure-June-2017-508.pdf">► Big Sandy Creek Unit Trails</a></p> <h2>More Information</h2> <p>Read more about the <a href="https://www.nps.gov/bith/planyourvisit/big-sandy-creek-unit.htm">Big Sandy Creek Unit</a> of Big Thicket National Preserve.</p>

Pets must be on-leash (no longer than 6 feet). Please pick up your pet's poop!

Hunting is allowed in the area from Oct 1 to Feb 28. Wear orange if you go during hunting season.

Take your mountain bike on an 18-mile roundtrip trail through the woods of the Big Sandy Creek Unit. See different kinds of forest habitats along the way.

Bike the Big Sandy Trail

Junior Ranger Program

Hand holding a wooden badge that says Junior Ranger, Big Thicket National Preserve.

Junior Ranger Badge

Big Thicket Visitor Center<br /> 6102 FM 420<br /> Kountze, TX 77625

<h2>Explore • Learn • Protect</h2> <p>Begin your junior ranger adventure at the <a href="https://www.nps.gov/bith/planyourvisit/visitor-center.htm">Big Thicket Visitor Center</a>, where you can get a free activity book and meet a park ranger. Bring your activity book with you as you explore the visitor center exhibits, watch the park film, and hike a trail. When you're finished, show your book to a ranger at the visitor center to earn a junior ranger badge.<br /> <br /> All ages are welcome to participate!<br /> <br /> <a href="https://www.nps.gov/bith/contacts.htm">Contact us</a> if you would like us to send you an activity book.</p>

Pets on leash are allowed on trails but not inside the visitor center (only service animals are allowed inside).

Get a free activity booklet from the visitor center and earn a junior ranger badge. All ages are welcome!

Become a Big Thicket Junior Ranger

Animals

Alligators or Crocodiles

Birds

Fish

Trails

Swamps

Picnicking

picnic table and metal grill in a forest next to a river

Edgewater picnic table

The Edgewater Day-Use Area is at the east end of Edgewater Drive in Beaumont.

<h2>Edgewater Day-Use Area</h2> <p>This quiet picnic area offers a place to relax along scenic Pine Island Bayou. Enjoy a meal at the picnic table, stroll down the path along the water, or fish from the riverbank.<br /> <br /> The picnic table at the entrance has a metal grill for grilling with charcoal. There is a picnic table at the end of the path as well, about 1/3-mile from the parking area.</p> <h2>Getting Here</h2> <p>GPS Coordinates:<br /> 30.177640, -94.171093<br /> <br /> Edgewater Day-Use Area is north of Beaumont. To get here, exit the US 69/96/287 freeway at Tram Road and go east until it ends at Sherwood Drive (after the railroad tracks). Turn left to go north on Sherwood and then turn right on Broadoak Street. Follow Broadoak until it becomes Edgewater Drive, then continue on Edgewater until you reach the day-use area.</p> <h2>More Information</h2> <p>Read more about the <a href="https://www.nps.gov/bith/planyourvisit/beaumont-unit.htm">Beaumont Unit</a> of Big Thicket National Preserve.</p>

Have a picnic next to Pine Island Bayou at Edgewater Day-Use Area. A short trail starts here and follows the bank of the bayou.

Picnic by the Bayou

Watersheds

Backcountry Camping

Big Thicket National Preserve does not charge entrance or camping fees.

Camping at Big Thicket

Get your free permit at the visitor center, located at 6102 FM 420, Kountze, TX 77625.

<h2>Choose Your Own Adventure</h2> <p>Big Thicket doesn’t have any campgrounds. Instead, you’re welcome to camp in much of the preserve’s backcountry with a free permit. Many miles of trails on land and water offer backcountry camping opportunities for hikers and paddlers.</p> <h2>Get Your Permit</h2> <p>Stop by the <a href="https://www.nps.gov/bith/planyourvisit/visitor-center.htm">visitor center</a> to get a free camping permit. You’ll need to know where and when you’ll be camping. If you’re unsure, ask a ranger for their recommendations.</p> <h2>Choose Where to Camp</h2> <p>Camping areas vary by season. In spring and summer, you can camp in most of the preserve. In fall and winter, during hunting season (Oct 1–Feb 28), camping is limited to areas that do not allow hunting.</p> <ul> <li><strong>Turkey Creek Unit</strong> – all year</li> <li><strong>Village Creek Corridor</strong> – all year</li> <li><strong>Neches River Corridor</strong> – all year</li> <li><strong>Canyonlands Unit</strong> – all year</li> <li><strong>Loblolly Unit </strong>– all year</li> <li><strong>Big Sandy Creek Unit</strong> – all year with restrictions: camping during hunting season limited to Woodlands Trail area</li> <li><strong>Neches Bottom & Jack Gore Baygall Unit</strong> – all year with restrictions: camping during hunting season limited to Neches River sandbars</li> <li><strong>Beech Creek Unit</strong> – spring–summer only</li> <li><strong>Lance Rosier Unit</strong> – spring–summer only</li> <li><strong>Beaumont Unit</strong> – spring–summer only</li> </ul> <h2>More Information</h2> <p>Our <a href="https://www.nps.gov/bith/planyourvisit/backcountry-camping.htm">backcountry camping</a> page has all the information you need to plan your trip, including camping rules and regulations, FAQs, and more.</p>

You can pick up your permit on the same day as your trip. Also available in advance, if needed.

You can camp for free in much of the Big Thicket backcountry! Pick up a permit at the visitor center.

Backcountry Camp at Big Thicket National Preserve

Scenic Driving

rutted dirt road leading into green forest

Road to Nowhere

From FM 770 in Saratoga, take Rosier Park Road south, and then turn right on Teel Road, which leads into the unit.

<h2>The Heart of the Big Thicket</h2> <p>The Lance Rosier Unit is the historical heart of the Big Thicket, home to jungle-like swamps, palmetto forests, and historic sites.<br /> <br /> The site is named for Lance Rosier (1886–1970), a Saratoga resident and self-taught naturalist with an encyclopedic knowledge of the thicket. His work led to the eventual creation of the preserve in 1974. Take a scenic drive into the unit to explore the wild landscape that Rosier helped to protect.</p> <h2>Getting Here</h2> <p>The Lance Rosier Unit is south and east of Saratoga, Texas. Just east of Saratoga on FM 770, turn south onto Rosier Park Road, which leads into the unit after passing through active oil fields. At the Lance Rosier Unit entrance sign, there's a fork in the road—take the right fork to proceed onto Teel Road.</p> <h2>Teel Road</h2> <p>Teel Road is a narrow, unpaved road that leads into the dense forest of the Lance Rosier Unit. It dead-ends at Teel Cemetery. Enjoy a few scenic stops along the way:</p> <h3>Bald Cypress Swamp</h3> <p>GPS Coordinates:<br /> 30.263818, -94.513223<br /> <br /> Find a swamp full of large bald cypress trees on the west side of Teel Road. Here you can see the large, fluted trunks of bald cypresses as well as hundreds of their knobby knees growing out of the water. Nearly everything is green here in spring and summer, and the sounds of birds, insects, and frogs fill the air.</p> <h3>“Bridge to Nowhere” over Little Pine Island Bayou</h3> <p>GPS Coordinates:<br /> 30.260502, -94.525517<br /> <br /> At an unmarked junction (after the swamp), turn right to follow an old rutted road. It ends at an abandoned bridge known as the "Bridge to Nowhere." The slow-moving waterway flowing beneath the bridge is Little Pine Island Bayou, lined with bald cypresses. An unmaintained trail begins on the opposite side of the bridge and ventures into a dense thicket of dwarf palmettos.</p> <h3>Teel Cemetery</h3> <p>GPS Coordinates:<br /> 30.258308, -94.512203<br /> <br /> Back on Teel Road, follow it south until it dead-ends at historic Teel Cemetery. This small, quiet cemetery in the middle of the woods dates back to 1893. The Teel family moved from Alabama to Texas in the 1850s, settling in the Big Thicket. Many members of their family are buried here. The cemetery is privately-owned; please be respectful of the graves.</p> <h2>NPS App Self-Guided Tour</h2> <p>For an expanded tour with more stops, more detail, and a map to follow along, check out the <strong>Lance Rosier Unit Driving Tour</strong> on the NPS App. You can find the tour on the Big Thicket page, under Self-Guided Tours.<br /> <br /> Tip: Download the park's content for offline use, as mobile coverage in the Lance Rosier Unit can be spotty.</p> <h2>For a Safe Trip</h2> <p>Here are a few things to keep in mind as you explore the <a href="https://www.nps.gov/bith/planyourvisit/lance-rosier-unit.htm">Lance Rosier Unit</a>:</p> <ul> <li>The Lance Rosier Unit has no restrooms or facilities.</li> <li>Road signs are often missing or not visible—use your GPS-enabled device for navigation.</li> <li>Unpaved roads in the unit can be muddy and impassable after heavy rains.</li> <li>Hunting is allowed in the unit from October 1 to February 28. Wear orange if you visit during hunting season.</li> <li>Rosier Park Road, before it enters the park, passes through an active oil field. Watch out for large trucks entering and exiting.</li> </ul>

Hunting is allowed in the Lance Rosier Unit from October 1 to February 28. Wear orange if you visit during hunting season.

The Lance Rosier Unit is the largest, wildest area of the Big Thicket. Discover its secrets on this scenic, unpaved auto tour.

Explore the Rugged Lance Rosier Unit

Logging and Timber Cutting

Park Film

foggy river view with text that reads "Big Thicket: America's First National Preserve"

Big Thicket Video

The visitor center is located at 6102 FM 420, Kountze, TX 77625. We're at the intersection of US 69/287 and FM 420, about 8 miles north of Kountze.

<p>This 16-minute film tells the story of Big Thicket National Preserve. Learn about the area’s flora and fauna, as well as the early people and settlers who inhabited this place.</p> <h2>Viewing Options</h2> <ul> <li><strong>Visitor Center Theater</strong> – The film is shown on request between 9:00 am and 4:45 pm, 7 days a week.</li> <li><strong>Online</strong> – <a href="https://www.nps.gov/bith/learn/photosmultimedia/multimedia.htm">Watch the film online</a></li> </ul>

Pets are not allowed inside the visitor center. Service animals are welcome.

Watch a 16-minute film about the story of Big Thicket National Preserve at the visitor center or online.

The film is played on request between 9:00 am and 4:45 pm, 7 days a week.

Watch the Big Thicket Park Film

Colonization and Settlement

Native American Heritage

Paddling

There is no fee for using the creek but boat rental fees may apply. Check with local outfitters for kayak, canoe, and boat rentals.

2 people paddling a green canoe on a creek

Village Creek Canoeists

Village Creek has several access points between Kountze, Silsbee, and Lumberton. Find creek access on FM 418, TX 327, Baby Galvez Road, US 96, and at Village Creek State Park.

<h2>Village Creek Paddling Trail</h2> <p>Whether you have half a day or all day, paddling on Village Creek is a great way to experience the beauty and tranquility of the Big Thicket. The creek flows past beautiful white-sand beaches and towering trees, such as bald cypress and river birches. Several boat ramps along the creek allow paddlers to make trips of several varying lengths, from 2.1 miles to 21 miles. The short trip distances, large sandbars, and generally calm waters make this a great canoe or kayak trip for novices and families.</p> <h2>Distances</h2> <p>The shortest paddling trip begins at the public boat ramp at TX 327 between Kountze and Silsbee. From there, it is 2.1 miles downstream to the Baby Galvez Road boat ramp in Silsbee, a trip that can be done in less than 3 hours.<br /> <br /> <strong>Distances between kayak/canoe launch points from north to south:</strong></p> <table border="0" cellpadding="1" cellspacing="1" style="width:400px;" summary="table of distances between boat launch points on village creek"> <tbody> <tr> <td>FM 418 to TX 327</td> <td>8.6 mi</td> </tr> <tr> <td>TX 327 to Baby Galvez Road</td> <td>2.1 mi</td> </tr> <tr> <td>Baby Galvez Road to US 96</td> <td>7.1 mi</td> </tr> <tr> <td>US 96 to Village Creek State Park</td> <td>3.2 mi</td> </tr> <tr> <td> </td> <td> </td> </tr> <tr> <td><strong><em>Total</em></strong></td> <td><strong><em>21 mi</em></strong></td> </tr> </tbody> </table> <p> </p> <h2>Before You Go</h2> <ul> <li> <p><strong>Check the Water Level </strong>– While generally very calm, Village Creek is a free-flowing waterway with no dams, so water levels can vary considerably. During low water levels (< 3 ft), paddlers should expect to encounter exposed sandbars and logs. High water (10+ ft) can create hazardous conditions involving swift currents. Check the USGS website for the <a href="https://waterdata.usgs.gov/monitoring-location/08041500/#parameterCode=00065&period=P7D">current gage height</a>.</p> </li> <li><strong>Safety Gear </strong>– Make sure you have enough life jackets for everyone in your group, drinking water, supplies, and a map.</li> <li><strong>Boat Rentals </strong>– The preserve does not rent boats or provide shuttles. Check with local outfitters for these services.</li> </ul> <h2>More Information</h2> <p>Read more about <a href="https://www.nps.gov/bith/planyourvisit/paddling-the-big-thicket.htm">paddling</a> in the Big Thicket and the <a href="https://tpwd.texas.gov/fishboat/boat/paddlingtrails/inland/village_creek/">Village Creek Paddling Trail</a>.</p>

Use a life jacket for your pet, even if they can swim! On land, pets need to be leashed (6 foot maximum length).

Whether you want to go 2.1 miles or 21 miles, Village Creek is a great place for a paddle trip. Tall trees along the creek provide shade and white sand beaches invite paddlers to stop and relax for awhile.

Paddle Village Creek

Water Trails

<p>There is no fee for using the river or boat ramp but boat rental fees may apply. Check with local outfitters for kayak, canoe, and boat rentals.</p>

a person kayaking on a creek in the woods

Paddling a cypress slough

The paddling trail starts at the LNVA Saltwater Barrier boat ramp in Beaumont. From US 69/96/287, head northeast on E Lucas Drive, then turn left (north) on Bigner Road. Follow Bigner Road until it ends at the boat ramp.

<h2>Cooks Lake to Scatterman Paddling Trail</h2> <p>This scenic loop takes paddlers on an adventure from the wide span of the Neches River to a narrow, shaded waterway beneath towering tupelos and cypresses. Explore quiet oxbow lakes along the bayou as you pass under cypress trees draped with Spanish moss.</p> <h2>Distance</h2> <p><em>4.8-mile loop</em><br /> <br /> The paddling trail is a 4.8-mile loop with an out-and-back section at the beginning. Signs and arrows mark the route.</p> <h2>Getting Here</h2> <p><em>GPS Coordinates:</em><br /> 30.155200, -94.116000<br /> <br /> The Cooks Lake to Scatterman Paddling Trail begins at the LNVA Saltwater Barrier boat ramp in Beaumont. From US 69/96/287, head northeast on E Lucas Drive, then turn left (north) on Bigner Road. Follow Bigner Road until it ends at the boat ramp.</p> <h2>The Route</h2> <p>Start at the LNVA Saltwater Barrier boat ramp in Beaumont. Paddle north up the Neches River to its confluence with Pine Island Bayou. From there, go left and paddle up Pine Island Bayou until you reach Cooks Lake, on the right. Paddle toward the north end of Cooks Lake. After exploring the calm waters of Cooks Lake, follow the signs to the entrance of the cypress slough that leads east through a narrow, shaded waterway beneath cypress and tupelo trees. Exit the slough at Scatterman Lake and follow the south shore until you reach the Neches River. Head right and follow the Neches downriver, past the confluence and back to the boat ramp.</p> <h2>Before You Go</h2> <ul> <li><strong>Check the Water Level</strong> – The Neches River and Pine Island Bayou are generally calm waterways, though the Neches can be affected by tides and flood control from reservoirs upriver. Check the USGS website for the <a href="https://waterdata.usgs.gov/monitoring-location/08041780/#parameterCode=00065&period=P7D">current gage height</a>.</li> <li><strong>Safety Gear</strong> – Make sure you have enough life jackets for everyone in your group, as well as drinking water, supplies, and a map.</li> <li><strong>Boat Rentals</strong> – The preserve does not rent boats or provide shuttles. Check with local outfitters for these services.</li> </ul> <h2>More Information</h2> <p>Read more about <a href="https://www.nps.gov/bith/planyourvisit/paddling-the-big-thicket.htm">paddling</a> in the Big Thicket and the <a href="https://tpwd.texas.gov/fishboat/boat/paddlingtrails/inland/cookslake_scatterman/index.phtml">Cooks Lake to Scatterman Paddling Trail</a>.</p>

<p>Use a life jacket for your pet, even if they can swim! On land, pets need to be leashed (6 foot maximum length).</p>

Paddle from one river to another through a cypress slough! Explore quiet oxbow lakes and bayous along the way on this 4.8-mile paddling trail.

Paddle Through a Cypress Slough

Lakes

Birdwatching

woman in the woods looking upward with binoculars

birdwatcher

Park at the visitor center at 6102 FM 420 in Kountze, then walk 285 yards east on FM 420 to a tan gate across a dirt road leading into the savannah. Birders can also park along the road shoulder near the gate. GPS coordinates: 30.457401, -94.383218

<p>The dense woods of the Big Thicket make birdwatching a challenge, but this is a little easier in the open grassland and longleaf pine forest of the wetland pine savannah habitat. A prime example of this habitat, known informally as the “Solo Tract,” lies along the north side of FM 420 just east of the preserve visitor center and headquarters.</p> <h2>Getting Here</h2> <p><em>GPS Coordinates:</em><br /> 30.457401, -94.383218<br /> <br /> Park at the visitor center at 6102 FM 420 in Kountze, then walk 285 yards east on FM 420 to a tan gate across a dirt road leading into the savannah. Birders can also park along the road shoulder near the gate. Follow the dirt road into the pine savannah and wander as you please. There are no trails in this area. Use caution, as the numerous crawfish towers make the ground uneven. Muddy conditions are common.</p> <h2>What to Look For</h2> <p>Look and listen here for birds of the grassland and pine forest, including the rare Henslow’s sparrow and Bachman’s sparrow. Woodpeckers are common, including red-bellied and pileated, as are brown-headed nuthatches. Visit during the spring migration for the best chance at seeing a variety of species.</p> <h2>Naturalist Notes</h2> <p>Look carefully along the road for small red <a href="https://www.nps.gov/bith/learn/nature/carnivorous-plants.htm">sundew</a> plants, which grow there profusely during the winter and spring. As this is a longleaf pine restoration area, you’ll find <a href="https://www.nps.gov/bith/learn/nature/longleaf-pine.htm">longleaf pines</a> in many different growth stages. Preserve staff conduct periodic <a href="https://www.nps.gov/bith/learn/nature/wildlandfire.htm">prescribed burns</a> here to help maintain the ecology of this ecosystem.</p> <h2>More Information</h2> <p>Read more about the <a href="https://www.nps.gov/bith/learn/nature/birds.htm">birds of the Big Thicket</a>.</p>

<p>Pets must be on-leash (no longer than 6 feet). Please pick up your pet's poop!</p>

Birds are present year-round, but the annual spring migration is the recommended time of year for this activity.

Grab your binoculars and birdwatch in a popular spot for our local and migratory birds.

Alert: No Drinking Water at Visitor Center: In preparation for overnight freezing temperatures, the drinking fountain at the visitor center has been turned off through Friday 2/21. Restrooms are open.

Big Thicket

Overview

Hours

Fees & Passes

Map

Things To Do

Category

Hike the Longleaf Pine Trail

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Hike the Kirby Nature Trail

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Hike the Sundew Trail

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Hike the Woodlands Trail

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Hike the Beech Woods Trail

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Hike the Beaver Slide Trail

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