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coastal plains, and the midwest prairies. December 15, 1981, the Preserve was designated an International Biosphere Reserve by the United Nations Education, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) Man and the Biosphere Program. July 26, 2001, the American Bird Conservancy
recognized the Preserve as a Globally Important Bird Area joining thousands of others around the world. CONTACTS Email - BITH_Administration@nps.gov Fax- 409-839-2599 Write to Headquarters 3785
Milam Street Beaumont, TX 77701-4724 - or - Visitor Center 6102 FM 420 Kountze, TX 77625-7842 Phone Visitor Information - 409-246-2337 Headquarters - 409-839-2689
TRAVEL BASICS
Operating Hours, Seasons Preserve
Headquarters is open 8:00 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Monday through Friday; closed on all government holidays. The visitor center is open 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m., daily. Closed on Christmas and New Years. Getting There PLANE - The Southeast Texas Regional Airport, near
Beaumont, Texas, has commerical airline service. Houston, Texas, about 100 miles from the Preserve, has two major airports served by a number of major airlines. CAR - Enter Beaumont, Texas, via Interstate 10 and then take U.S. Highway 69-287 north from Beaumont. Seven miles
north of Kountze, Texas, take FM 420 east and follow the signs to the visitor center. PUBLIC TRANSPORTATION - AmTrak and Commerical Bus transportation are available in Beaumont, Texas. Weather & Climate An average rainfall of 55 inches is well distributed
throughout the year. Summers are warm and humid with daytime temperatures between 85 and 95 degrees fahrenheit with peaks to 100 or more. Moderate temperatures in the mid 50s to 60s are normal for winter. Spring and fall are very enjoyable and are the most pleasant seasons for
outdoor activities. Wear comfortable outdoorwear, wear a broad brimmed hat, wear walking shoes, and carry rain gear. Accessibility The Preserve Visitor Center, the Sundew, Pitcher Plant, and Kirby Nature Trails are accessible. All picinic tables and rest rooms are
wheelchair accessible. Getting Around Because the Preserve is composed of several units (land and water), one has to drive to each unit they wish to visit. The Official Map and Guide will assist greatly. FEES/PERMITS
Permits BACKCOUNTRY
CAMPING Free! for 10 Days Backcountry camping is available. Campers must have a valid Preserve issued Backcountry Use Permit to camp in designated areas. Permits can be obtained at the visitor center or Headquarters offices.
CAMPING
Backcountry
Camping Only Open All Year Requires a valid, Preserve issued, Backcountry Use Permit (Form 10-404) For More Information on this campground please call 409-246-2337
LODGING
Lodging is only available in nearby communities Open
All Year The communities of Woodville, Kountze, Silsbee and Beaumont, Texas, all offer lodging.
FACILITIES
Visitor Centers BIG THICKET VISITOR CENTER Open All Year 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m. Phone - 409-246-2337 Location -
Seven miles north of Kountze, Texas, in Hardin County, on U.S. Highway 69. Turn right on FM 420 and follow the signs. Closures - Christmas and New Years Day Exhibits - The Discovery Station will orient you to the world of Wildland and Prescribed Fire. Available
Facilities - Book sales, exhibits, theater, restrooms, pull through parking for large vehicles, and picnic tables.
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