For a chance to see many of the typical birds of the eastern Texas Piney Woods/Big Thicket region, you could hardly do better than to take a short (or longer) hike along the trails at this beautiful spot located just a few minutes off U.S. Highway 59. A specially designated area within the Sam Houston National Forest, Big Creek encompasses 1,460 acres of meandering creeks, lush pine-hardwood forest, and varied flora and fauna.

Hiking is a popular way to enjoy the forest and its beauty. The 128-mile (206 km) Lone Star Hiking Trail, a portion of which has gained National Recreation Trail status, winds through the Sam Houston National Forest. The trail, marked with two-inch by four-inch aluminum markers to guide hikers, has recreation areas available at three different points.

There are three developed campgrounds in the Sam Houston National Forest (Cagle, Double Lake & Stubblefield Recreation Areas). Double Lake facilities are available by reservations or on a first-come, first-served basis if site has not previously reserved. Cagle and Stubblefield are available on a first-come, first-served basis only. Reservation can be completed by calling the National Recreation Service at 1/877/444-6777 or by internet at www.recreation.gov

Both Lake Conroe and Lake Livingston offer fine pleasure boating and water sports. Lake Conroe and the southern section of Lake Livingston offer open water for sailing.