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National Preserve

Big Thicket

Tupelo trees growing on the edge of a reflective pond in the woods in spring.
A still pond reflects the bright shades of green of early spring. NPS Photo / Scott Sharaga

Overview

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.

State: TX409-951-6700

Hours

  • Sunday: All Day
  • Monday: All Day
  • Tuesday: All Day
  • Wednesday: All Day
  • Thursday: All Day
  • Friday: All Day
  • Saturday: All Day

Fees & Passes

    Map

    Things To Do

    Category

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

      Hike the Longleaf Pine Trail

      Free

      Description

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

      More info
      Pet FriendlyTime:30-60 Minutes
      A trail leads through a forest of dense green shrubs and trees.

      Hike the Turkey Creek Trail

      Free

      Description

      14 miles one-way | The Turkey Creek Trail leads into the backcountry of the Turkey Creek Unit. Several trailheads at road crossings provide options for shorter hikes.

      More info
      Pet Friendly
      An iron bridge spans a calm creek in early fall with some trees turning red-orange.

      Hike the Kirby Nature Trail

      Free

      Description

      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.

      More info
      Pet FriendlyTime:1-2 Hours
      Pond reflecting the bright green trees growing from within and along its banks.

      Hike the Beaver Slide Trail

      Free

      Description

      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!

      More info
      Pet FriendlyTime:30-60 Minutes
      A wide, curving creek with trees and green shrubs lining its banks.

      Hike the Birdwatchers Trail

      Free

      Description

      ¾ mile roundtrip | This short hike leads to views of Menard Creek and the Trinity River, an important migration route for birds.

      More info
      Pet FriendlyTime:30-60 Minutes
      rutted dirt road leading into green forest

      Explore the Rugged Lance Rosier Unit

      Free

      Description

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

      More info
      Pet FriendlyTime:1-3 Hours

    More Images

    Tupelo trees growing on the edge of a reflective pond in the woods in spring.
    Tupelo trees growing on the edge of a reflective pond in the woods in spring.
    An iron bridge above a murky creek surrounded by dense woods.
    An iron bridge above a murky creek surrounded by dense woods.
    a mossy bald cypress tree displaying fiery orange leaves amid a background of green forest.
    a mossy bald cypress tree displaying fiery orange leaves amid a background of green forest.
    A log cabin in a forest beneath a canopy of sprawling live oak trees.
    A log cabin in a forest beneath a canopy of sprawling live oak trees.
    A wooden boardwalk curving through dense ferns and pines.
    A wooden boardwalk curving through dense ferns and pines.
    Close-up of a carnivorous pitcher plant with the shadow of an insect inside.
    Close-up of a carnivorous pitcher plant with the shadow of an insect inside.
    A woodpecker with bright red head clinging to a dead tree.
    A woodpecker with bright red head clinging to a dead tree.
    Leafless bald cypress trees and knees stand in a swamp filled with leaves and branches in winter.
    Leafless bald cypress trees and knees stand in a swamp filled with leaves and branches in winter.
    Shadowy-looking cypress knees and their reflections in still water.
    Shadowy-looking cypress knees and their reflections in still water.
    Sunlight poking through the canopy of a sprawling oak tree.
    Sunlight poking through the canopy of a sprawling oak tree.