Big Thicket Backcountry

publicCampground.modules.title.recommendsPercentage

discover.modules.lands.sites.sitesWithCount · publicCampground.modules.title.accommodationTypes.tent

In Big Thicket, you’ll be able to choose from 1,234,512,354,012,845 different campgrounds!

“Why this very strange number” you might ask? Well, basically we just typed a bunch of random figures to represent that the number is essentially infinite! Technically speaking, there are no developed campgrounds here, but we take that to mean that pretty much anywhere you drop your pack is a legitimate site! Provided you possess a valid Backcountry Use Permit of course (obtained at the Visitor Center). Just make sure to come prepared, hike in lots of water, hike out all the trash, and let Big Thicket National Preserve be your camping oyster!

discover.modules.lands.sites.sitesWithCountpublicCampground.modules.title.accommodationTypes.tent

Available campgrounds nearby

Top-rated for location, privacy, and amenities near Big Thicket National Preserve

97%

(182)

More to explore nearby

90%

5 ratings · 2 reviews

Tertius C.

June 6, 2017

Correction on the description: Fires are allowed and you can gather firewood to make them. Pets are allowed as well. Many great places to hammock or set up a tent.

Mandy G.

May 15, 2017

Correction on the description: Having no developed campgrounds does not mean you should take that as an infinite number of camping options. "Anywhere you drop your pack" isn't the best advice to give for a National Preserve. I suggest visiting NPS.gov and reading the camping regulations or visit the rangers at the visitor's center if you're dropping by. There ARE rules. I have canoed down Village Creek & camped in the Big Sandy Creek Unit. It's a great stretch of water w/some decent obstacles along the way. The sugar white sandbars are plentiful & are perfect for stopping for breaks & are acceptable camping spots. BUG SPRAY is a must. Campfires are allowed unless there is a burn ban. It's a great place to get away from everything!

Your guide to camping in Big Thicket Backcountry

Overview

Fishing

Fishing is allowed everywhere within Big Thicket National Preserve, as long as you have a current Texas State Fishing License. Make sure to check out the annual “Free Fishing Day” on the first Saturday in June. Having a fishing license or stamp while fishing that day is not required.

Hiking

With approximately 40 miles of hiking trails through Big Thicket National Preserve, hikers are able to check out many different ecosystems. The trails range in levels and lengths, from a 0.3 miles boardwalk loop, to a 15-mile hike.

Paddling

Looking to take a paddle along the river? The Village Creek and the Neches River provide many paddling options for canoes and kayaks, ranging from just a few hours to several days. There are two Texas State Paddling trails inside the preserve: the 21-mile Village Creek Paddling Trail and the 5-mile Cooks Lake Paddling Trail. Check out local outfitters if you are in need of equipment and shuttle services.

Wildlife watching

Big Thicket National Preserve is a great location for birdwatching. The preserve is in the path of 2 major migratory bird flyways. Looking for the best time of year to enjoy the bird migration? Bird migration peaks between March and early May. There are approximately 185 bird species that either live in the Preserve or migrate through it. Birds to definitely keep your eyes out for are the red-cockaded woodpecker, brown-headed nuthatch, and Bachman's sparrow. The Sundew Trail tends to be a good place to see nuthatches, woodpeckers, and other bird species. The visitor center sells a checklist of birds found in Big Thicket National Preserve