Paddle Village Creek

Canoeists on Village Creek

NPS Photo / Ian Kessler

Village Creek Paddling Trail

Whether you have half a day or all day, paddling on Village Creek is a great way to experience the beauty and tranquility of the Big Thicket. The creek flows past beautiful white-sand beaches and towering trees, such as bald cypress and river birches. Several boat ramps along the creek allow paddlers to make trips of several varying lengths, from 2.1 miles to 21 miles. The short trip distances, large sandbars, and generally calm waters make this a great canoe or kayak trip for novices and families.

Distances

The shortest paddling trip begins at the public boat ramp at TX 327 between Kountze and Silsbee. From there, it is 2.1 miles downstream to the Baby Galvez Road boat ramp in Silsbee, a trip that can be done in less than 3 hours.

Distances between kayak/canoe launch points from north to south:

FM 418 to TX 327	8.6 mi
TX 327 to Baby Galvez Road	2.1 mi
Baby Galvez Road to US 96	7.1 mi
US 96 to Village Creek State Park	3.2 mi
Total	21 mi

Before You Go

• Check the Water Level – While generally very calm, Village Creek is a free-flowing waterway with no dams, so water levels can vary considerably. During low water levels (< 3 ft), paddlers should expect to encounter exposed sandbars and logs. High water (10+ ft) can create hazardous conditions involving swift currents. Check the USGS website for the current gage height.

• Safety Gear – Make sure you have enough life jackets for everyone in your group, drinking water, supplies, and a map.
• Boat Rentals – The preserve does not rent boats or provide shuttles. Check with local outfitters for these services.

More Information

Read more about paddling in the Big Thicket and the Village Creek Paddling Trail.

Details

Duration

2-6 Hours

Activity

Paddling

Pets Allowed

Yes

Use a life jacket for your pet, even if they can swim! On land, pets need to be leashed (6 foot maximum length).

Activity Fee

No

There is no fee for using the creek but boat rental fees may apply. Check with local outfitters for kayak, canoe, and boat rentals.

Location

Kountze, Silsbee, and Lumberton, TX

Village Creek has several access points between Kountze, Silsbee, and Lumberton. Find creek access on FM 418, TX 327, Baby Galvez Road, US 96, and at Village Creek State Park.

Reservations

No

Season

Year Round

Time of Day

Day

Accessibility Information

River access and boat launch areas are generally not wheelchair-accessible. Some assistance may be needed when getting into a boat.