Jasper County: Water, Landscape, and History

Wetlands, paddling opportunities, and historic trading posts give Jasper County its varied character. The Big Thicket National Preserve protects a biologically diverse region at the intersection of several major biomes and also extends into the county. In addition, places and buildings tell stories of river trade, early communities, and regional architecture. On your trip, you can explore nature and waterways as well as cultural history.

Wetlands and Paddling in the Big Thicket

At least 40 percent of the Big Thicket National Preserve consists of wetlands. These include floodplains, oxbow lakes, swamps and fluctuating water areas, bogs, as well as tributaries and creeks. The landscape is therefore not limited to a single type of wetland. Three official Texas Paddling Trails offer a direct connection to the water; free ranger-led paddling tours are also available. Tour dates may vary, so check them as you plan.

There are also options for a water-focused visit outside the preserve. Sandy Creek Park has an accessible canoe launch. There are 13 boat ramps at B.A. Steinhagen Lake and Town Bluff, one of which is maintained by Jasper County. Town Bluff Dam is in the northwestern part of the county, beyond the confluence of the Neches and Angelina Rivers.

Martin Dies, Jr. State Park is a 705-acre recreation area on the B.A. Steinhagen Reservoir between Woodville and Jasper. Its three units are in Jasper and Tyler counties. The different details about the preserve, lake, and park show that water and landscape can be part of your trip planning in Jasper County in several ways.

River Trade and Historic Buildings

Bevilport was an important transshipment and trading post for river traffic on the Angelina River. Cotton, hides, and other East Texas products were shipped from there to markets in New Orleans. The trading post represents the connections that carried goods from the region along the river.

The history of architecture can also be traced through specific places. The Beaty-Orton House was built in 1888 from locally sourced pine as a two-story Victorian home; the City of Jasper later restored it. The Jasper County Courthouse is designated a State Antiquities Landmark. The Waggoner-Scarborough Home brings together influences of Colonial Revival and bungalow styles.

The history of communities is also tied to buildings and places. The history of the Dixie Freedom Colony began in 1853 with the construction of the Dixie Missionary Baptist Church. Zion Hill Missionary Baptist Church was founded in 1852, with Reverend John Bean as its first pastor. The oldest marked grave in Zion Hill Cemetery belongs to Joseph Wood, who died in Jasper County on September 16, 1854. Little Hope’s church, school, and cemetery were also collectively known as Seed Tick; Little Hope Primitive Baptist Church was officially founded in 1893.

Kirbyville and Traces of Different Eras

Kirbyville was founded when the Gulf, Beaumont, and Kansas City Railroad reached the town on May 1, 1895. Kirbyville adds a specific connection to railroad history to the area’s historic themes.

Around Martin Dies, Jr. State Park, the Caddo made pottery from East Texas clay and often wove baskets and mats from reeds. Museum offerings in Jasper include exhibits at the Jasper County Historical Museum about the Freedom Colonies established after the Civil War. The museum is housed in the former Hancock Drug Store on Courthouse Square. The Jasper Fireman’s Museum preserves firefighting memorabilia from all periods and is located in the Fire Hall.

Sandy Creek Park and Seasonal Events

Sandy Creek Park is in the center of Jasper. Its listed amenities include playground equipment, fishing ponds, a walking trail, picnic areas, basketball courts, and a pavilion over the water. Individual park amenities may change.

Every year, on the Saturday of Thanksgiving weekend in November, the City of Jasper hosts CHRISTMAS IN THE PARK at Sandy Creek Park. The program includes illuminated Christmas decorations, musical and animated performances, a drone show, and fireworks. Families can visit Santa, ride Santa’s Choo-Choo Train, enjoy arts and crafts and ice skating, and take part in other children’s activities. Dates and program details may change from one year to the next, so check the information for the year of your trip.

Jasper County offers specific points of interest for both interests.

Discover more destinations: Collin, Rusk, Hood County, Hill County, Lubbock, Crockett, Jackson County.

Go to the overarching travel guide: Texas.