Neches River Wilderness Trips

Canoeing the Big Thicket National Preserve

Texas Wilderness Canoe Camping Trips Lower Neches River Town Bluff (Dam B) to Evadale (US 96) 54 miles Experience Mother Nature's solitude and beauty

A very remote and secluded section of Big Thicket, this 54-mile section of the lower Neches River runs entirely within the boundaries of the Big Thicket National Preserve. Distinguishing features are the pristine scenery, abundant wildlife and a colorful Culture largely overlooked in Texas History books. Steamboat traffic, wharfs and warehouses, farms, ranches and ferry operations were all common along this section of the Neches River prior to and after Texas' Independence from Mexico and eventual Statehood. During the Civil War, union sympathizers and those evading confederate conscription hid out in the deep woods here (Deserters Island #1 and #2). As early as 1850, timber companies "logged" the giant Cypress and Pine trees near the river and floated large "rafts" of logs to Beaumont sawmills. By 1930, all first generation forests had been completely logged in Big Thicket and preservation efforts began. In the late 1950's and 1960's, the local residents, a.k.a. the "Dog People", formed an unlikely alliance with the National Park Service in effort to salvage their 'half-wild and fully-free' way of life. Today, all sign of human endeavor is gone, only the stories remain, as does the beauty of the wilderness, which for now, is protected for us all to enjoy.

In general, the water runs deep along this section except during a particularly long drought. Current is usually sufficient to enjoy a canoe trip even at lower water levels. The average stream width along this section is approximately 150 to 200 feet. Allow at least 3 days / 2 nights to complete this section at normal water levels. Boasting a wide variety of wildlife, this Big Thicket River is extremely primitive and features several cypress swamps, old river lakes and connecting

sloughs intermixed with pine and hardwood terraces. No particular hazards exist except logs and snags from fallen trees and the possibility of strong, deep currents. Large snowy-white sandbars are frequent and lend themselves to excellent camping and day use. At higher water levels, good campsites are available on the terraces overlooking the river and cutoff lakes. While this trip can be enjoyed year around, the most popular seasons are late fall through early spring (October - April) rather than during the hot summer season. A Camping permit is required within Big Thicket National Park boundaries. Camping Permits are Free and good for up to 5 days. Secure your permit in advance by calling (409) 246 – 2337. Remember, LEAVE NO TRACE. The only two roads crossing this entire 54-mile stretch: FM 1013 (12 miles) and US 96 at Evadale. The trip from FM 1013 (Sheffield's Ferry) to US 96 (38 miles) can be enjoyed in just 2 or 3 days. There is an additional 15 mile section below Evadale to the Lakeview Sandbar. Be prepared, this is a remote and isolated area, THERE ARE NO FACILITIES. Neches River Maps are available prior to your "Wilderness River Trip" at Eastex Canoe Trails Suggested Reading: "Reflections on the Neches", Geraldine Ellis Watson "Stories of I.C. Eason", Blair Pittman "Big Thicket – An Ecological Re-Evaluation", Pete A.Y. Gunter "Nature Lover's Guide to Big Thicket", Howard Peacock

Back to Top | Home