Big Thicket National Preserve
TX
Park Alerts (2)
About Big Thicket National Preserve
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.
Things To Do
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Backcountry Camp at Big Thicket National Preserve
You can camp for free in much of the Big Thicket backcountry! Pick up a permit at the visitor center.
Hike the Sundew Trail
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.
Hike the Longleaf Pine Trail
1 mile roundtrip | Stroll through a longleaf pine forest near the visitor center on Big Thicket's newest trail.
Bike the Big Sandy Trail
Take your mountain bike on a 14.7-mile roundtrip trail through the woods of the Big Sandy Creek Unit. See different kinds of forest habitats along the way.
Hike the Big Sandy Trail
14.7 miles roundtrip | The Big Sandy Trail follows old logging roads through the woods. This is the only trail in the preserve open to bicycles and horses.
Hike the Kirby Nature Trail
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.
Available Activities
Weather
SPRING: Expect comfortable weather in Mar/Apr, with heat & humidity increasing in May. SUMMER: High heat, high humidity, and thunderstorms are common. Hurricane & tropical storm activity peaks in late summer.
FALL: Early fall can be hot, while Oct/Nov bring pleasant temperatures. WINTER: Mild, chilly weather with occasional cold spells. Snow is rare.
Some Dec/Jan/Feb nights may dip below freezing.
Getting There
The main corridor through the Big Thicket is US Hwy 69/287 between Beaumont and Woodville. Many smaller roads and highways branch off of the main corridor to reach trailheads and scenic areas. The visitor center is located at the intersection of US 69/287 and FM 420, about 7 miles north of Kountze and 30 miles north of Beaumont.
Plan Your Visit
Let Roamze help you plan the perfect trip to Big Thicket National Preserve with AI-powered itineraries.
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All Park Hours
Big Thicket National Preserve is open 24 hours. To camp in the preserve, you need a backcountry camping permit, available from the visitor center.
