This Southern US National Preserve Is A Must-Visit For Water Adventures

Sunlight trickling through the leaves onto the water is a lovely sight. The light glimmering on the waves creates an idyllic scene. It's peaceful. But the stillness doesn't mean an absence of fun. In fact, it's inviting. People may plunge into the water or kayak upon it. The scene becomes one of calm as well as adventure. All of this can be your reality at Village Creek State Park.

Water lovers, this national preserve is suitable for your next trip. On the Big Thicket National Preserve, you can spend your days in the waves and sunlight at Village Creek State Park, located in Lumberton, TX. The state park is on the free-flowing Village Creek and is 10 miles away from Beaumont, Texas. It's the perfect destination to connect with nature and spend time on the water. It's open to the public year-round from 8 am to 10 pm. Grab your gear for fishing, boating, or camping, and head over to this park for a wonderful time.

One thing that makes Village Creek State Park unique is the Village Creek Paddling Trail. This 21-mile trail takes you underneath a canopy of trees and past several beaches and sandbars, all of which you can stop at and spend some time on. Whether you swim or spread out your beach towel to tan, you can enjoy the sights and sounds of nature all around you. Wildlife abounds here, both in the water and on the shore. You can look out for it, be it the variety of fish in the water or the mammals on the shore as you paddle along. Also, keep your eye out for the birds. There are over 200 species in the area.

Bring your own boat or rent one from EasTex Canoes for the day. Choose from stand-up paddle boards, kayaks, and canoes. You can then venture onto the water for just an hour or the entire day. You have miles to paddle on, so go as far or short of a distance as you want.

Let's talk about fishing. If you enjoy this relaxing pastime, Village Creek State Park is perfect for you. Set up your spot and try catching various fish ranging from catfish to sunfish. You can bring summer fishing gear or borrow tackle for free, although sometimes there's a deposit required. This park does not require a fishing license, so anyone can fish. One important thing to note is that the park does have alligators. Hence, taking safety precautions, such as only swimming in the allotted areas and keeping your pets on short leashes, is necessary.

If you need a break from the water, you can hike or bike one of the trails in the park or the larger Big Thicket National Preserve. Camping is also permitted. You just need to pay the overnight fee of $16 for sites with electricity and $10 for sites without it, in addition to the entrance fee of $4. Everyone 13 and older has to pay the entrance fee of $4, even if you're not camping.