In Big Thicket National Preserve, wetlands meet a biologically diverse region at the intersection of several major biomes. The preserve also extends into Jasper County; at least 40 percent of its area consists of wetlands. Visitors choosing the region for a trip can combine its natural and water-related attractions with historic places and buildings.
Wetlands and Water Trails
The Big Thicket landscape includes floodplains, oxbow lakes, swamps, and changing water areas, as well as bogs, tributaries, and smaller creeks. This gives the preserve a strong connection to water, which is also reflected in its recreational offerings: there are three official Texas Paddling Trails. Free, ranger-led paddling tours are also offered. Dates may vary, so check the tour schedule in advance.
Boat ramps are another point of reference for water activities: there are 13 in total at B.A. Steinhagen Lake and around Town Bluff. One is maintained by Jasper County. Town Bluff Dam is in the northwestern part of the county, beyond the confluence of the Neches River and Angelina River. Sandy Creek Park also has an accessible canoe launch. These details offer different starting points for planning, without implying that they form a single route.
Martin Dies, Jr. State Park is also part of the area’s natural attractions. The 705-acre recreation area is on B.A. Steinhagen Reservoir between Woodville and Jasper, and comprises three units in Jasper County and Tyler County. Archaeological finds show that people lived in the park area for several thousand years. The Caddo are also part of the region’s history: they made pottery from East Texas clay and often wove baskets and mats from reeds.
Local History and Historic Buildings
Bevilport was an important transshipment and trading point for river traffic on the Angelina River. Cotton, hides, and other East Texas products were shipped from there to markets in New Orleans. This trade offers a different perspective on the county’s history from its preserved buildings and religious communities: the focus here is on the movement of goods between East Texas and more distant markets.
The Jasper County Courthouse is designated a State Antiquities Landmark. The Beaty-Orton House adds to this architectural perspective: the two-story Victorian home was built from local pine in 1888 and later restored by the City of Jasper. The Waggoner-Scarborough Home blends Colonial Revival influences with those of the bungalow style.
The history of religious communities is also reflected in the county’s historical landmarks. Zion Hill Missionary Baptist Church was founded in 1852; Reverend John Bean was its first pastor. The oldest marked grave in Zion Hill Cemetery belongs to Joseph Wood, who died in Jasper County on September 16, 1854. The history of Dixie Freedom Colony began in 1853 with the construction of Dixie Missionary Baptist Church. Dixie Baptist Church has continuously served the colony’s community since 1853.
Little Hope Primitive Baptist Church was officially established in 1893. The church, school, and cemetery at Little Hope were also known as “Seed Tick.” In Kirbyville, the Gulf, Beaumont, and Kansas City Railroad reached the town on May 1, 1895; this event is associated with the town’s founding.
Sandy Creek Park and November Events
Sandy Creek Park is in the center of Jasper. Its listed amenities include playground equipment, fishing ponds, a walking trail, picnic areas, basketball courts, and a pavilion over the water. Individual amenities may change, so it is worth checking the city’s current information when planning your visit. The park’s range of amenities differs from the nature-focused paddling opportunities in Big Thicket and the historical themes that take center stage in other parts of the county.
The City of Jasper holds CHRISTMAS IN THE PARK at Sandy Creek Park every year, on the Saturday of Thanksgiving weekend in November. The program described includes illuminated Christmas displays, musical and animated exhibits, a drone show, and fireworks. Family activities include visits with Santa, rides on Santa’s Choo-Choo Train, arts and crafts, ice skating, and other events for children. Since dates and programming may vary from year to year, check the details before your visit.
Discover More Destinations
Discover more destinations: Kirbyville, Gregg, Hamilton County, Bastrop, Mitchell County, Dickens County, Dewitt County, Crosby County.
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