Explore This Park

• Plan Your Visit
  • Basic Information

Basic Information

Physical Address

6044 FM 420
Kountze, TX 77625

Directions

Big Thicket National Preserve consists of 15 units spread across 7 counties. The visitor center is located approximately 30 miles north of Beaumont, and 8 miles north of Kountze, along US 69/287.

Directions Details

Operating Hours & Seasons

All Park Hours

Big Thicket National Preserve is open 24 hours a day. Primitive camping is permitted only with a camping permit, available at the visitor center.

Standard Hours

• Sunday: Open 24 hours
• Monday: Open 24 hours
• Tuesday: Open 24 hours
• Wednesday: Open 24 hours
• Thursday: Open 24 hours
• Friday: Open 24 hours
• Saturday: Open 24 hours

Weather

Big Thicket National Preserve is generally very hot and humid during the spring and summer. Winters are mild. Snow and subfreezing temperatures are uncommon.

Fees & Passes

Entrance Fees:

Free Admission - $0.00

Big Thicket National Preserve does not charge an entrance fee.

Visitor Centers

Big Thicket National Preserve Visitor Center

Learn about the animals, plants, and ecosystems of the Big Thicket in the visitor center exhibits. Watch our 15-minute movie to learn about the early settlers of the Big Thicket and why this area became protected as a national preserve. Browse through the many educational and souvenir items in our bookstore. Kids can do activities to become Junior Rangers.

 

Exploring the Big Thicket

Big Thicket National Preserve protects 113,121.96 acres of land and water spread over 7 counties in southeast Texas. While public roads connect the units of the preserve, few roads lead into it; the best way to explore and experience this area is by foot or by boat. Approximately 40 miles of hiking trails and countless miles of creeks, bayous, and the Neches River wind through the Big Thicket. Most visitors come to walk, birdwatch, canoe, and kayak.

The best place to start your trip is at the Big Thicket National Preserve Visitor Center. Educational displays and a 15-minute orientation film provide information on the cultural and natural history of the area, and preserve staff can help you plan your visit.