Big Thicket National Preserve
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The Preserve consists of nine land units and six water corridors encompassing more than 97,000 acres. Big Thicket was the first Preserve in the National Park System established October 11, 1974, and protects an area of rich biological diversity.
A convergence of ecosystems occurred here during the last Ice Age. It brought together, in one geographical location, the eastern hardwood forests, the Gulf coastal plains, and the midwest prairies.
December 15, 1981, the Preserve was designated an International Biospehere Reserve by the United Nations Education, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) Man and the Biosphere Program.
July 26, 2001, the American Bird Conservancy recognized the Preserve as a Globally Important Bird Area joining thousands of others around the world.
Big Thicket National Preserve's new "log cabin" Visitor Center opened in October 2001. The facility has a large lobby with book sales area, exhibit room, "Discovery Room", theater, public restrooms, porch, and ample public parking. This facility replaces the old one-room log cabin Information Station that the Preserve has operated for more than 20 years.
The Texas Department of Transporation (TxDOT) has also designated a "Big Thicket National Preserve Parkway" from Beaumont to Lufkin on U.S. Highway 69. A new sign marking the parkway is located at the Junction of U.S. Highway 69-297 and FM 420, seven miles north of Kountze.
Visitors Center Directions
Take the right turn exit onto FM 420, go one city block, and turn left into the Visitor Center parking area.
Visitors Center Hours: Daily 9-5
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