Martin Dies, Jr. State Park

Martin Dies, Jr. State Park is a Big Thicket area park where B.A. Steinhagen Lake meets the Neches River. Dense bottomland hardwoods, cypress-lined sloughs, and rich biodiversity make it one of the best wildlife-watching parks in East Texas. Alligators, river otters, and over 200 bird species call it home.

71 campsites|East Texas|4 hr from Austin|$4/person entrance fee

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Campsite Types

Cabin

$75/night

Cabins Loop · Sites Cabins 1-6 · 6 sites

Full amenities

Water + Electric

$22/night

Cherokee Unit Loop · Sites 1-30 · 30 sites

Water, 30-amp ElectricRV OKTent OK

Water + Electric

$20/night

Hen House Ridge Loop · Sites 31-49 · 19 sites

Water, 20-amp ElectricRV OKTent OK

Walk-in Tent

$12/night

Walnut Ridge Loop · Sites 50-65 · 16 sites

Water nearbyTent OK

Guide to Martin Dies, Jr. State Park

Best Campsites

For Families:Screened shelters (Hen House Ridge) — AC and beds, near trails

For Privacy:Sites 50-65 (Walnut Ridge) — wooded tent sites near the slough

For RVs:Sites 1-30 (Cherokee Unit) — pull-through with water/electric

When to Go

October through May. Summer is hot and humid with intense mosquitoes. Spring birding season is the biggest draw.

Tips

→Paddle the sloughs at dawn for the best wildlife viewing
→Spring warbler migration brings serious birders from all over
→Mosquito repellent is absolutely essential here — bring the strong stuff
→Watch for alligators along the shoreline, especially in warm months

Highlights

Big Thicket biological crossroadsAlligator and wildlife watchingCypress-lined sloughs for paddlingOver 200 bird species recordedExcellent kayaking on the Neches RiverScreened shelters available

Martin Dies, Jr. State Park FAQ — Camping tips, pricing, and booking advice →

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