Big Thicket National Preserve

Knobby knees, extensions of the root system, are a distinctive feature of the bald cypress trees.
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.
Map showing location of park.
Four people in 2 canoes paddling through a barren cypress slough in winter. The canoeists are wearing bright pink, red, and green colors, contrasting sharply with the muted, gray color of the leafless trees.
Winter 2026 Happenings at Big Thicket National Preserve
Enjoy the cool winter weather at Big Thicket! Join us for a variety of ranger-led programs, a new art exhibit, volunteer opportunities, and feral hog trapping permit registration.
2 young boys holding grass seedlings next to their mother who is holding a planting tool while standing outdoors in a pine forest.
Big Thicket to Host Volunteer Planting Event this Winter
Volunteer at Big Thicket on December 13, 2025, to help us plant longleaf pines and native plants. All ages are welcome!
A group of 5 hikers following a park ranger down a trail through thick forest on a fall afternoon. Some of the trees along the trail are turning a golden color.
Big Thicket National Preserve Announces Fall 2025 Programs
Fall is a great time to explore Big Thicket! Join rangers for a series of free programs and special events in the preserve this fall season.
A man wearing hunting attire, including an orange vest and hat, and camouflage, kneels in a forested area while aiming a shotgun.
Reminder: Big Thicket Hunting Permits Available August 29, 2025
Big Thicket National Preserve begins issuing free hunting permits at the visitor center at 9:00 am on Friday, August, 29, 2025. Permits are available first-come, first-served through the end of hunting season.
Leafless bald cypress trees and knees stand in a swamp filled with leaves and branches in winter.
Photo by NPS Photo / Steve Heineke
Tupelo trees growing on the edge of a reflective pond in the woods in spring.
Photo by NPS Photo / Scott Sharaga
A leaf-covered trail leading through a tree tunnel of dense green vegetation.
Photo by NPS Photo / Scott Sharaga
A log cabin in a forest beneath a canopy of sprawling live oak trees.
Photo by NPS Photo / Scott Sharaga
A patch of palmettos glowing in warm afternoon sunlight in a forest.
Photo by NPS Photo / Scott Sharaga
Close-up of a carnivorous pitcher plant with the shadow of an insect inside.
Photo by NPS Photo / Scott Sharaga
A woodpecker with bright red head clinging to a dead tree.
Photo by NPS Photo / Nathan Pattee
A calm pond reflecting red, green, and yellow foliage of trees along its shore.
Photo by NPS Photo / Scott Sharaga
An iron bridge above a murky creek surrounded by dense woods.
Photo by NPS Photo / Scott Sharaga
Shadowy-looking cypress knees and their reflections in still water.
Photo by NPS Photo / Scott Sharaga
A wooden boardwalk meanders through a sunny forest of pines and ferns.
Photo by NPS Photo / Scott Sharaga