Martin Dies Jr. State Park

Gateway to the Big Thicket — Cypress Sloughs, Paddling Trails & East Texas Wilderness

Martin Dies Jr. State Park sits at the edge of the Big Thicket, one of the most biodiverse regions in North America, where the Neches and Angelina Rivers converge to form B.A. Steinhagen Reservoir. This 705-acre park is a paddler’s paradise of moss-draped cypress sloughs, an angler’s dream with year-round fishing, and a birder’s haven at the crossroads of multiple ecosystems.

Paddling Trails

The park boasts nearly 14 miles of marked paddling trails — among the most extensive in the Texas state park system.

• Slough Trails: Paddle through enchanting cypress-tupelo swamps draped in Spanish moss. Alligators sun on logs, turtles slip into the blackwater, and herons stalk the shallows.
• Lake Crossings: Open water routes across Steinhagen Reservoir
• Neches River: Follow the river through Big Thicket habitat
• Canoe & Kayak Rentals: Available on-site, plus guided paddling tours led by rangers

Hiking & Wildlife

• 7 miles of scenic trails through diverse habitats — hardwood bottoms, pine uplands, and wetlands
• Slough Trail (2 miles): Boardwalks and the elevated “Swamp Deck” give eye-level views into the cypress swamp
• Birding: Outstanding — the intersection of eastern forests, coastal prairies, and swamplands creates exceptional species diversity
• Wildlife: Alligators, river otters, white-tailed deer, armadillos, and hundreds of bird species

Fishing

Cast for catfish, largemouth bass, crappie, and perch. No fishing license is required when fishing from shore or pier within the park — a rare perk in Texas state parks.

Camping

• 200+ campsites with water and electric hookups, many overlooking the lake or a slough
• Screened shelters and cabins for those preferring walls and a roof
• Modern restrooms, showers, and dump station
• Ranger programs, night hikes, and stargazing events throughout the year

Visitor Tips

• Best Time: Spring and fall for comfortable weather and peak wildlife activity. Summer is hot and humid but excellent for early-morning paddling.
• Big Thicket: The national preserve’s visitor center is nearby — combine your state park visit with Big Thicket exploration.
• Alligator Safety: They’re common. Maintain distance and never feed them.
• Entry Fee: $3/person (13+); free for children 12 and under.

Written by

State Parks Team

Editorial Team

The State Parks Team is a group of outdoor enthusiasts, researchers, and travel writers dedicated to showcasing America's state parks. Drawing on collective experience visiting parks in all 50 states, the team creates detailed guides, curated park lists, and practical tips to help visitors make the most of their state park adventures. Our mission: making America's state parks accessible and enjoyable for everyone.

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