Here in Texas, we’re fortunate to have a wealth of National Parks and Preserves within a few hours of driving. We’ve got one of the most spectacular parks in all of the United States (Big Bend) and tons of smaller, more accessible parks as well. Located just a couple of hours from our Waco headquarters is the small, quiet National Park known as Big Thicket. It may not have a long list of outdoor activities, but sometimes, that’s exactly what you need. Big Thicket is perfect for a long weekend, and doesn’t require you to prepare for weeks in advance. You can make the trip, enjoy nature and then head back home without a major ordeal.
Located about 75 miles northwest of the bustling city of Houston and 30 miles north of Beaumont, you’ll find Big Thicket. 106,000 acres of biodiverse growth and animal life that are perfect for hiking, canoeing, kayaking, bird-watching and hunting.
With approximately 40 miles of hiking trails, there is enough to make the nature-lover in your family happy. Try Turkey Creek Trail which takes you along the banks of Turkey Creek for 14.5 miles! Many of the other hiking trails are excellent ways to take in the surrounding areas and admire the birds, wildflowers and animals that call Big Thicket their homes.
Canoeing and kayaking in the Neches River and Village Creek are one of the main attractions at Big Thicket! There are many paddling options for canoeists and kayakers, ranging from just a few hours to several days. The preserve includes a 21-mile Village Creek Paddling Trail and a 5-mile Cooks Lake Paddling Trail.
Being situated in the path of 2 major migratory paths, you can see an expansive list of bird species between the months of March and May. Some of the more sought-after birds are the red-cockaded woodpecker, brown-headed nuthatch, and Bachman’s sparrow. There are also nutchatches, woodpeckers, and other bird species for the bird-lover in your party to seek out. Hunting is also allowed in Big Thicket during hunting season, but plan ahead and get there early, as they fill up quickly and operate on a first-come-first-serve basis.
Where should we stay?
Red Cloud RV Park
2351 US Highway 96 N
Silsbee, Texas 77656
(409) 385-3322
Mill Creek RV Park
1137 S Mill Creek Dr,
Silsbee, TX 77656
(409) 385-3053
Village Creek RV Park
2289 Indian Hill Drive
Silsbee, Texas 77656
(409)385-GO RV (4678)
