Discover the most magical spots to pitch your tent or park your rig on your next Big Thicket National Preserve adventure.
Everything is bigger in Texas, and Big Thicket is no exception.
Discover this unspoiled land in southeast Texas. Around 40 miles of hiking trails take you through beautiful ecosystems. The longest loop covers 18 miles, so you might set aside an entire day for that jaunt. Walk through bogs, gigantic cypress swamps, and even see carnivorous plants.
Bring a boat since there is lots of water. Canoes and kayaks put you up close to swamp and marsh plants. You might encounter wading birds, woodpeckers, and herons.
The calm waters let you close your eyes and listen to the sounds of birds in the distance. Be on the lookout for alligators, although they generally keep their distance from boats.
There are no designated or developed campsites in the park proper. Backcountry campers should practice the "leave no trace" rules for overnight stays. Campsites must be at least 200 feet from all roads and 100 feet from the water.
The ideal time to visit Big Thicket National Preserve is during the cooler months from October to April, when the weather is mild and the mosquitoes are less prevalent. Summer brings heat and humidity, making outdoor activities more challenging.