The Big Thicket Visitor Center is open from 9:00 AM to 5:00 PM, seven days a week, except for Thanksgiving, December 25, and January 1.
There is no entrance fee to visit Big Thicket National Preserve. It is free to access year-round.
From Beaumont, take Highway 69 north to FM 420, then head east to immerse yourself in a tapestry of nine converging ecosystems, rich in natural beauty and unique flora.
Parking is available at the Big Thicket Visitor Center and various trailheads. No specific size restrictions for RVs or motorcycles are mentioned. Parking is free and permitted during operating hours, but not overnight.
Accessibility & permits
Emergency
- Cell service availability:Partial
In the heart of southeast Texas, Big Thicket National Preserve stands as a testament to the region’s unparalleled biological diversity. This sprawling preserve, established in 1974, encompasses over 113,000 acres of varied landscapes, including pine and cypress forests, hardwood forests, meadows, and blackwater swamps. The convergence of eastern hardwood forests, Gulf coastal plains, and midwestern prairies during the last Ice Age has created a unique ecological tapestry here.
Hikers can explore over 40 miles of trails, each offering a glimpse into the preserve’s rich biodiversity. The preserve is home to over 1,320 species of plants and a plethora of wildlife, including four species of carnivorous plants such as Pale Pitcher Plants and Sundews. The waterways, totaling over 300 miles, are perfect for canoeing and kayaking, with opportunities to spot a variety of bird species that have earned the preserve its designation as a Globally Important Bird Area.
Seasonal changes paint the landscape in vibrant colors; spring blooms with wildflowers, summer brings lush greenery, and autumn transforms the forests into a kaleidoscope of hues. In the winter, the misty mornings over the swamps create an ethereal atmosphere. Visitors can participate in ranger-led canoe tours or join in the citizen science projects that help monitor the natural reforestation efforts.
Nearby, the Alabama and Coushatta Indian Reservation in Polk County offers a glimpse into the area’s rich cultural heritage. For those seeking local artisans and unique shopping experiences, the towns surrounding the preserve are filled with boutique shops and local eateries. Big Thicket National Preserve is not just a place to visit; it is an immersive experience that allows travelers to connect with one of North America’s most ecologically diverse regions.
- Area (mi²)
- 176
- Annual visitors
- 255 000
- Established year
- 1974
Top 3 Facts about Big Thicket National Preserve
This region is home to over 300 miles of waterways and supports 1,320 known species of plants, making it nearly as ecologically diverse as the Florida Everglades. Four species of carnivorous plants, including Pale Pitcher Plants and Sundews, thrive here.
In this diverse ecosystem, over 500 vertebrates thrive, including Virginia opossums, nine-banded armadillos, and white-tailed deer. Bald cypress and beech trees stand tall alongside azaleas and pine, while roadrunners and alligators inhabit the terrain. The skies are filled with a variety of birds, and the waters are home to river otters and American beavers. Unique flora includes orchids and cacti, creating a rich tapestry of life in this complex mosaic of ecosystems.
Explore a convergence of ecosystems where ancient waterways, including over 300 miles of scenic paddling routes, weave through diverse landscapes. Here, cypress sloughs reflect emerald hues, and wetland pine savannahs teem with life, hosting four species of carnivorous plants and a myriad of wildlife in a region once vast but now a precious remnant.
Family programs
- Junior Ranger
- Ranger-led Tours
- Workshops & Hands-on Activities
- Night Sky & Astronomy
- Family Camping & Overnight
- Virtual Junior Activities
- Water-based Adventures
Travel Tips
Plan Ahead
Plan a few days in autumn to explore 40 miles of trails and paddling routes. Check water levels and hunt seasons. Visit the visitor center, bring bug spray, and pack meals. Enjoy the fall wildflowers and ranger-led paddle programs.
Pack Appropriately
Pack lightweight, breathable clothing for hot, humid summers and layers for mild winters. Bring rain gear, sturdy hiking boots, and insect repellent. For camping, include a tent, sleeping bag, and water purification tablets. Check the season for specific gear needs.
Respect Wildlife
Wear light-colored clothing to spot ticks and insects. Avoid feeding animals and keep pets leashed. Be cautious of venomous snakes in dense brush. Respect wildlife and their habitats, especially during hunting season. Stay hydrated in high humidity and avoid swimming in dangerous waterways.
Stay Informed
Stay informed about weather, fire restrictions, and trail conditions. Exercise caution on trails, near ledges, and around water. Follow signs and park rules. For emergencies, call 911 or park authorities at the provided contact number.
Seasons
Spring brings mild temperatures (60s-80s°F) and vibrant blooms. Join rangers for night hikes and canoe trips. Ideal for bird watching, with peak migratory activity from April to May. Perfect time to explore diverse ecosystems before the summer heat.
Summer brings warm temperatures (90s°F) and humid weather, but it’s ideal for ranger-led canoe trips and nature walks. Join the summer programs, including Junior Ranger Day, and explore lush ecosystems amidst the heat.【Summer】
Experience autumn’s mild temperatures (60s-70s°F) and vibrant foliage. Join National Public Lands Day in September for trash clean-ups and native plant garden revitalization. Ideal for hiking, bird watching, and canoeing amidst crisp fall weather.
Winter, from December to February, brings mild temperatures, ranging from the 40s to 60s, with rare snow and freezing temperatures. Enjoy crisp, humid air and occasional cold spells in a serene, less crowded landscape, ideal for hiking and birdwatching.
Frequently Asked Questions
Ready to dive into what Big Thicket National Preserve has to offer? Let’s tackle some of the burning questions you might have as you plan your visit!
-
The closest city to Big Thicket National Preserve is Beaumont, Texas, which is about 30 miles away.
-
The easiest hiking trail is the Sundew Trail’s inner 0.3-mile loop, which passes through a small bog of pitcher plants and a savannah with summer wildflowers. This short loop is easily accessible and suitable for a quick and enjoyable hike.
-
Yes, you can take your dog on all the trails, but they must be on a leash no longer than 6 feet. Be cautious because hunting is allowed in the area. Dogs are also permitted at back-country campsites while on a leash.
-
Parking is free. There are no entrance fees or parking fees. You can park your camper, trailer, motorhome, or campervan without any additional cost.
-
You can hike on 40 miles of trails, go paddling or kayaking on the Neches River and Village Creek, camp in various backcountry sites, bike on certain trails, fish in the rivers and creeks, and hunt or trap in designated areas with the necessary permits. Bird watching is also popular, especially from mid-April to mid-May. Additionally, you can picnic, participate in interpretive programs, and enjoy boating and wildlife viewing.