THE BIG THICKET NATIONAL PRESERVE

The Big Thicket National Preserve is comprised of 12 units and covers 86,000 acres, virtually surrounding the Woodville, Tyler County area. There are many things to see and do in the Big Thicket. The preserve's information station is located 2.5 miles east of US 69 on FM 420 between Warren and Kountze. This station will provide you with all the information you need to maximize the enjoyment of this natural teasure. You can call the station at (409) 246-2337.

Hiking, Biking, and Horseback - Eight developed trails totaling over 45 miles are available for your recreational pleasure.

Backcountry Camping - Camping is encouraged in several camping zones throughout the preserve. Drive-in campgrounds can be found at state parks or privately operated campgrounds in the area.

Fishing and Hunting - All waters within the preserve are open to fishing (Texas fishing regulations apply). A fall hunting program is managed on about half of the preserve, governed by State of Texas hunting regulations.

AREA LAKES AND THE GULF COAST

East Texas contains the largest fresh water lakes in the state. Sam Rayburn, Toledo Bend, Lake Livingston, and B. A. Steinhagen Lake provide all the nearby water you could ever want for the boating, fishing, swimming, and camping recreation that you enjoy. But if it's salt water you're looking for, no problem, the sprawling Texas Gulf Coast is only a hop, skip, and a dive away. The beautiful beach resort areas of Galveston, Freeport, Surfside Beach, Brazoria, Quintana Beach, and many more await your arrival for year-round fun in the sun.

HERITAGE VILLAGE MUSEUM

One of Woodville's main tourist attractions is the Heritage Village, a historic working pioneer town. Heritage captures the spirit of the past, offering all the facets of a busy, historic hamlet. Come see the many buildings and shops such as the livery stable, blacksmith shop, barber shop/bath house, saloon, or visit the sheriff's office, jailhouse, and the railroad depot. Watch local artisans demonstrating the tools of their trade, then mosey over to the Pickett House for their famous boarding-style food.

DOGWOOD TRAIL FOREST

Escape the hustle and bustle of daily life with a walk on the Dogwood Trail. This eighty year old forest is home to a wide variety of beautiful trees like the loblolly pines, beech, magnolias, oaks, and a plethora of plants representative of the Big Thicket. Located three miles east of Woodville on State Highway 190, the Dogwood Trail Forest is open year round to the public and hosts a visitors center, picnic areas, walking trails, and wildlife observation.

THE ALLAN SHIVERS LIBRARY AND MUSEUM

Allan Shivers, born in the East Texas area, served as Texas State Governor longer than any other governor in the history of the state. Prior to his governorship, he was elected to the Texas State Senate in 1935, served a tour of duty in World War II, and was elected Lieutenant Governor in 1947 and 1949. Come visit this historical home which has been restored and turned into a museum for the collection and display of memorabilia of Allan Shiver's gubernatorial service.

ALABAMA-COUSHATTA INDIAN RESERVATION

Explore the beauty of the native American traditions at Texas' oldest Indian reservation. Enjoy the sounds of the Indian drumbeats as you watch the dancers in their colorful costumes perform cultural dances. Hop on an authentic 1800's train and behold the splendor of the many trees, plants, and wildlife of the Big Thicket National Preserve. The Living Indian Village hosts the Historical Museum, the Arts and Crafts Gift Shop, and the Inn of the Twelve Clans Restaurant to tempt your palate. Camping facilities are available at Lake Tombigbee Campgrounds. This complete campground offers a wide range of sites from primitive to RV with full hookups, as well as hiking, picnicking, and swimming in the glistening waters of the 26-acre lake.

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