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 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.
A graphic showing Mars, Jupiter, stars, the Big Dipper, and 3 bats. Text reads: Junior Ranger Night; Saturday, April 19, 2025; 6:00-9:00 pm; Big Thicket Visitor Center, 6102 FM 420, Kountze, TX 77625, phone 409-951-6700.
Experience the Park After Dark at Big Thicket National Preserve
For the first time, Big Thicket is celebrating Junior Ranger Day at night! Head over to the visitor center to learn about bats, walk a night trail, and stargaze with us.
2 hunters, both wearing orange vests, ballcaps, and holding firearms, walking down a trail into the forest.
Big Thicket Announces Hunter Harvest Cards Due April 1, 2025
All hunters who received a hunting permit are reminded that harvest cards are due by April 1. Return your card to the visitor center via email, mail, or in-person.
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