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Logging operations that began in the late 1800s left only scrub hardwoods and a few isolated "islands" of young pines on the land now known as Big Slough, the smallest Wilderness in Texas. You'll still encounter large stumps and evidence of the narrow-gauge trams that supported tree-hauling railroads. You'll also see a regrown forest, 66 percent of which is composed of hardwoods (oak, hickory, sweet gum, willow) and 26 percent of shortleaf and loblolly pine. Hardwoods and pines cover 4 percent of the area, and Big Slough's waters cover the remaining 4 percent. Warmth and moisture characterize the Gulf Coastal Plain climate, encouraging poison ivy, poisonous snakes, chiggers, ticks, mosquitoes, and irritable, ground-nesting yellowjackets. Deer and smaller mammals live here, too. Despite the large number of dead trees that were killed by the Southern pine beetle, some USFS employees rate this as one of the most interesting Wilderness areas on Texas national forestland. The Neches River forms the entire eastern boundary and joins the idle water of Big Slough. Hickory Creek drains hills along the western boundary and eases eastward to meet the river. Well-marked hiking trails crisscross the area, including the 20-mile Four C National Recreation Trail, which runs north-south and cuts through two miles of the higher southern portion. Try to wear bright outer clothing in the fall season, as hunting (for deer, wild hogs, and squirrels) is allowed. Anglers don't pose any threat, except perhaps to the catfish, bass, crappie, and sunfish.
Maps
Digital and paper maps are critical tools for wilderness visitors. Online maps can help you plan and prepare for your visit ahead of time. You can also carry digital maps with you on your GPS unit or other handheld GPS device. Having a paper map with you in the backcountry, as well as solid orienteering skills, however, ensures that you can still route-find in the event that your electronic device fails.
Online Maps
Printed Maps
Rules & Regulations
Motorized equipment and equipment used for mechanical transport is generally prohibited in all wilderness areas.
This includes the use of motor vehicles, motorboats, motorized equipment, bicycles, hang gliders, wagons, carts, portage wheels, and the landing of aircraft including helicopters.
Wilderness-Specific Regulations
Learn more about
why regulations may be necessary in wilderness.
Applicable Wilderness Law(s)
Date: October 30, 1984
Acreage: 3,000 acres
Texas Wilderness Act of 1984 - Public law 98-574 (10/30/1984) To designate various areas as components of the National Wilderness Preservation System in the national forests in the state of Texas
For more information (To download or see all affected Wilderness areas) visit our law library for 98-574 or special provisions for 98-574 or legislative history for 98-574 for this law.
Want to Volunteer for Wilderness?
Citizens who volunteer their time to steward our wilderness areas are an essential part of wilderness management. Contact the following groups to inquire about volunteer opportunities.