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.
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.
A woman wearing camouflage and an orange vest aiming a bow while hunting in a pine forest.
Big Thicket National Preserve Hunting Permit Registration Opens August 29, 2025
Hunters can pick up a free hunting permit beginning Friday, August 29, 2025. Big Thicket allows hunting for deer, hog, squirrel, rabbit, and waterfowl. Texas hunting license required.
A family of 4 paddles a green canoe through murky water in a mysterious cypress-tupelo forest with other canoeists in the background.
Summer 2025 Programs at Big Thicket
Join rangers at a variety of free programs and events this summer! Experience the park after dark, paddle a canoe, go fishing, explore off the beaten path, and more.
Tupelo trees growing on the edge of a reflective pond in the woods in spring.
Photo by NPS Photo / Scott Sharaga
An iron bridge above a murky creek surrounded by dense woods.
Photo by NPS Photo / Scott Sharaga
a mossy bald cypress tree displaying fiery orange leaves amid a background of green forest.
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 wooden boardwalk curving through dense ferns and pines.
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
Leafless bald cypress trees and knees stand in a swamp filled with leaves and branches in winter.
Photo by NPS Photo / Steve Heineke
Shadowy-looking cypress knees and their reflections in still water.
Photo by NPS Photo / Scott Sharaga
Sunlight poking through the canopy of a sprawling oak tree.
Photo by NPS Photo / Scott Sharaga