Texas' Tucked-Away Gem For Big Thicket Camping Is An Idyllic State Park Brimming With Local Plants

Village Creek State Park, which is not to be confused with the patch of untamed wilds in Wynne, Arkansas, of the same name, is nowhere near the most popular wilderness spot in Texas. But it still harbors its own kind of quiet, unspoiled appeal nonetheless. Don't take our word for it, though. On Tripadvisor, one past visitor called it "the hidden gem of Hardin County." Another urged adventurers to stop by. "Give this great, little State Park a chance," the reviewer wrote. "You won't be disappointed."

The nature haven of Village Creek State Park is tucked away in a corner of southeast Texas, in Lumberton, just outside the city of Beaumont. The roughly 2,500 woodsy, swampy, and flora-filled acres serve as a gateway to the Big Thicket Preserve, one of Texas' most underrated national sites. Named after the Village Creek, which twists through the park on its way to the Neches River, the recreation area is a prime stomping ground for hiking, paddling, and camping. 

Village Creek State Park is open from 8 a.m. to 10 p.m. each day. However, the Texas Parks & Wildlife Department recommends reserving day-use slots and campsites because the park can fill up quickly, especially during the busy months between February and September. The natural area is only $4 to enter, at the time of writing, and kids 12 and under get in free. Just be sure to visit the park's website for updates on closures, so you know what's available to explore when you arrive.

Village Creek State Park definitely deserves a mention on the list of the best unsung RV destinations in America. As the Texas Parks & Wildlife Department notes online, the recreation area has 25 campsites with electric and water hookups, the majority of which have enough room to dock a trailer. The spaces also feature a picnic table and a fire pit, with restroom and shower facilities close by. Best of all, you'll only have to fork over $16 per night to hunker down in the Big Thicket bliss. 

If you'd prefer an even more rugged retreat, then grab all your best gear for a camping adventure and reserve one of the park's primitive campsites. There are just over a dozen spots, which do require some hiking to get to. On the flipside, the backcountry areas will only cost you $10 per night. The park also has a couple of group sites if you're visiting with a big crew.

Splurge on a cozier stay by booking the park's only cabin. On Tripadvisor, one camper said the rustic abode was "one of the best cabins in the state." It sleeps six and has all the very best homey fixings — namely, a kitchen, bathroom, and running heat and air conditioning. Just remember to bring your own towels, bedding, and kitchen utensils, as you won't find any on-site. The nightly rate is $130, plus a $100 cleaning deposit. Note that all stay prices are as of this writing and may be subject to change or include other fees and taxes.

The native plant life in southeast Texas' Village Creek deserves a shoutout. According to the Texas Parks & Wildlife Department, the park's scenery is incredibly diverse, thanks in part to the region's proclivity for rain. From thickets of beech and magnolia trees to patches of prickly pear cactus and yucca, there's plenty to see. Admire the different types of flora as you wander the trails. You can also stop by the nature center to learn more about the park's rich habitats and its history.

The lush landscape is home to a plethora of local critters, too. While exploring the watery wetlands, you might see "beaver and river otter, as well as for many kinds of fish, snakes, turtles and frogs," according to the Texas Parks & Wildlife website. "Bobcats, white-tailed deer, rabbits and opossums roam the woodlands, as do lots of amphibians, insects and reptiles," it adds. From armadillos and roadrunners to even scaly gators, you can expect to see just about any kind of wildlife around these parts.

Village Creek State Park is beloved by winged creatures, too. The protected area could easily rank among the best birdwatching destinations in the U.S. The birding site eBird reports that almost 200 species of birds have been spotted in the park. Print out the Village Creek birding checklist to keep track of what you see, and of course, don't forget to bring along a pair of binoculars.