United States Department of Agriculture

The breathtaking beauty of the great outdoors is evident throughout the National Forests and Grasslands in .

The Texas Pineywoods stretch from the urban landscape of Houston to the Louisiana border and are home to the Angelina, Davy Crockett, Sabine and Sam Houston National Forests.

These four national forests have an amazing diversity of plant and animal life scattered across gently rolling hills, hardwood bottomlands and world-class fishing lakes.

North of the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex are the Lyndon B. Johnson and Caddo National Grasslands. Purchased by the government in the 1930s, these lands are made up of abandoned farms and ranches that suffered severe soil erosion but are now a thriving testament to proper land management.

Whether it’s boating, fishing and swimming in the numerous lakes and reservoirs, or camping off the beaten path, the National Forests and Grasslands in Texas offer an experience like no other.

Look Inside Explore Natural Treasures Throughout Texas Angelina ...... 2 With a wealth of recreation activities ramps, amphitheaters, interpretive trails Lake Crockett is 450 acres with two Davy Crockett ...... 3 within easy driving distance, more and and concession services. developed recreation areas—West Lake more vacationers are discovering the Excellent opportunities for bird Crockett has 11 camping units, while Sabine ...... 4 National Forests and Grasslands in watching and wildlife viewing abound. the east side has picnic areas and a boat Sam Houston ...... 5 Texas. The National Forests in Texas lie in ramp. Caddo/LBJ ...... 6 The Forest Service, U.S. Department the path of warblers, vireos and other The 45-acre Lake Fannin offers Experimental Forest...... 7 of Agriculture, manages more than species of neotropical migrants. fishing from the east side and an 675,000 acres of public land in Texas The Davy Crockett and Sam earthen boat launch site. Safety Information...... 8 consisting of four national forests and Houston National Forests are located In the Lyndon B. Johnson National Contacts...... 8 two national grasslands. where the pine forests of the Deep South Grasslands, Black Creek Lake OHV Regulations...... 8 The four national forests in Texas are join the blackland prairies. The result is Recreation Area has picnic units, and a the Angelina, Davy Crockett, Sabine a mix of eastern and western species of boat ramp. and Sam Houston. birds and other wildlife found nowhere Cottonwood Lake is north of Black The national grasslands are north of else in the state. Creek Lake and has a boat ramp, the Dallas-Fort Worth Metroplex and The Sabine and Angelina National and connecting the two areas is the include the Caddo and the Lyndon B. Forests are on the shores of Toledo Cottonwood-Black Creek Hiking Trail Johnson. Bend and Sam Rayburn Reservoirs, two with nearly 75 miles of multi-use trails The National Forests in Texas large lakes featuring fishing and other near Cottonwood Lake. provide a variety of outdoor recreation water sports. Lake Conroe and Lake opportunities including 25 developed Livingston offer water-related outdoor recreation areas, nearly 200 miles of recreation opportunities on and near the hiking trails, scenic areas, wilderness Sam Houston National Forest. areas, an off-road vehicle trail and more Primitive camping is allowed than 100 miles of horse trails. anywhere in the general forest area, Camping is offered on a first-come, except during hunting season or unless first-served basis in developed recreation posted otherwise. All campers are areas. A daily use fee is charged at most encouraged to practice “leave no trace” areas. camping, leaving an area in the same Campground facilities generally natural condition in which it was found. include tent pads, picnic tables, parking The Caddo National Grasslands spurs for trailers, lantern-holding contains three lakes. The largest, Coral bean adds a splash posts, fireplaces, potable water and Lake Coffee Mill, is 651 acres with of red to the forest. toilets. Some areas also have showers, a developed recreation area with 13 electricity, swimming beaches, boat picnic units and a boat ramp.

Forest National Forests and R8-RG 479 Service Grasslands in Texas February 2014 2 National Forests & Grasslands in Texas

122 CR

FM 225 CR 131 LOOP «¬ FM 353 108 224 «¬147 184 This map is meant to serve as a general guide and does not show exact boundaries Stephen F. Austin or all roads. It is the user’s responsibility to know his or her location in the forest. Users should be aware that some private property exists within the Forest Service boundary. Please respect our neighbors’ rights. Check with the Ranger District regarding special CR 142N Experimental Forest FM

regulations or boundary locations. 3448 400

To Nacogdoches To San Augustine «¬147 SFA FM 1277 Interpretive Trail «¬103 ¤£59 To Milam ¤£69 Turkey

Bannister Hill FM 705 !y FM 1 ¬103 « !9 WMA Wilderness Townsend FM 2024 Lufkin! «¬103 !Broaddus LOOP FM 1669 «¬287 FM 83 FM 2109 ! Huntington FM 83 ¤£69 FM 83 «¬147

Harvey FM 2390 FM 705 SamCreek Rayburn Reservoir !y

510A !^ 510F FM 2743 509 ! !y Zavalla «¬63 Caney

510B 531 ¤£59 !9Creek !y Sandy £69 Bayou ¤ !y Creek Boat Upland 303 «¬63 Launch Island 313 333 Wilderness ToHouston !9 Boykin Springs 314 8" Bouton Lake 0 5 10 Miles Sawmill Hiking Trail Ü

ocated in the heart of the Pineywoods, the 153,160-acre LAngelina National Forest spans Angelina, Nacogdoches, San Augustine and Jasper counties. The forest lies in the Basin and on the north and south shores of Sam Rayburn Reservoir, formed by the construction of Sam Rayburn Dam in the early 1960s.

Endangered species During winter, bald eagles have been seen soaring over the lake, perched since it was damaged by Hurricane Bouton Lake on a flooded snag or in pines along Rita in 2005. The historic picnic shelter Bouton Lake Recreation Area is on shorelines. and spillway have been restored to its a 12-acre natural lake near the Neches The red-cockaded woodpecker is classic 1930s era look and is a favorite River and offers primitive camping, also found throughout the forest. This spot for camping, picnicking, hiking and fishing and hiking amidst hardwoods small bird makes its home by pecking photography. and cypress trees. cavities in Visitors should note that the west large, older side of Bouton Lake is privately owned living pine and trespassing is forbidden. trees, and was Old Aldridge Wilderness designated an The Aldridge Sawmill and town The 5,473-acre Turkey Hill and the endangered site is located on a spur of the Sawmill 13,390-acre Upland Island Wilderness species Hiking Trail south of Boykin Springs Areas are set aside to allow the earth’s in 1973. Recreation Area. natural processes to shape and influence Wherever The sawmill was built in 1905 and the land. Hunting, horseback riding and these birds ran on a limited basis until 1923 when it hiking are allowed, while bicycles and are found, was closed. motorized equipment are not. emphasis is Although the town’s buildings are Wildlife directed toward providing the special gone, the shells of the four concrete mill Principal game in the forest are deer, habitat they require. buildings, various concrete foundations, Sam Rayburn Reservoir hog, squirrel, wild turkey, woodcock, Timber the mill pond and portions of the old In the middle of the Angelina quail, dove and duck. When the U.S. Forest Service railroad tram still remain. National Forest is the fishing, boating Fish and waterfowl abound in Sam acquired what is now the Angelina Hikers are welcome, but due to and skiing paradise that is Sam Rayburn Rayburn Reservoir and the habitat also National Forest in the 1930s, most of Reservoir. archeological concerns, off-road offers resting grounds for migratory the land was cut over, and almost no At 114,500 acres, it is the largest vehicles and horses are not allowed in birds before they fly south toward the commercial timber was left standing. lake wholly located within Texas. the area. Gulf Coast. Today, the Angelina is a second- or Forest Service boat ramps are located The 20,700-acre Bannister Wildlife As a structure listed on the National third-growth forest and most of the land at Townsend, Harvey Creek, Bayou Management Area is located north Registry of Historic Places, no digging, is productive for growing trees. Boat Launch, Sandy Creek and Caney of Lake Sam Rayburn and is a prime collecting of artifacts, use of metal Timber management practices are Creek where there are also camping and hunting area. detectors, damaging or defacing of the used to provide quality habitat for the site is allowed. picknicking spots. Texas Parks and Wildlife acts Additional boat ramps are located at as an advisor concerning wildlife wildlife as well as restore, enhance and Boykin Springs maintain longleaf pine and shortleaf Boykin Springs Recreation Area numerous U.S. Army Corps of Engineer management and it is a designated pine-oak communities. has undergone extensive renovations parks on the reservoir. Eastern Wild Turkey restoration site. www.fs.usda.gov/texas 3

Davy Crockett«¬21 National Forest

This map is meant to serve as a Neches general guide and does not show exact boundaries or all roads. It is the user’s !C Bluff responsibility to know his or her location Houston County in the forest. Users should be aware that some private property exists within ! Weches Four C Hiking Trail the Forest Service boundary. Please respect our neighbors’ rights. Check with FM 227 the Ranger District regarding special regulations or boundary locations.

«¬21 Big Slough Wilderness To Nacogdoches FM 227

Ratcliff Lake !C Recreation Area !^ «¬7 !9

! Kennard To Lufkin

232 FM FM 1669

To Crockett !Ë «¬94 Piney Creek Piney Creek Horse Trail Horse Camp !Ë Apple Springs FM 2262 White Rock FM 233 Horse Camp (514D) FM 2501

FM 2781 FM 358 FM 357 Alabama Creek Wildlife ¤£287 «¬94 Management Area FM 3154

FM 2262

Houston County Trinity County «¬94

To Groveton Boykin Lakeshore Trail 0 5 10 Miles Ü ¤£287

amed for the legendary pioneer, Davy Crockett National Forest Ncontains more than 160,600 acres of woodland streams, recreation areas and wildlife habitat. Located in Houston and Trinity counties, the forest is centrally located within the Neches River and Trinity River basins.

Ratcliff Lake Built in 1936 by the Civilian Conservation Corps, Ratcliff Lake Recreation Area surrounds a 45-acre lake that was a log pond for the Central stays on national forest land. either of the two horse camps and use Coal and Coke Company Sawmill that Walnut Creek Campsite is located of the horse trail system. A self-service logged the area from 1902 to 1920. on a small ridge about midway on the pay station is available at the site. An The area offers visitors camping, trail, and the Pond Campsite is near annual permit can be purchased for $50 picnicking, a swimming beach and mile 13. per vehicle at the Ranger’s office. bathhouse in a beautiful forest setting Spring and fall are the best times Trail riding groups of more than 75 often featured in travel magazines. of year to experience the trail, but persons (including spectators) need a The picnic shelters and camping the trail can be hiked year-round. special-use permit and should contact sites may be reserved from the Wearing bright orange is a must when the Ranger’s office three months prior National Reservation System online at hiking during hunting season (October to the event. www.recreation.gov or by calling 877- through January). The Four C Trail is During rainy weather, parts of the 444-6777. Horses, bikes and off-road vehicles are trail may flood. Four C Hiking Trail not allowed on the trail. The best seasons for using the trail The Four C Hiking Trail begins at are fall and spring, and camping is Ratcliff Lake Recreation Area and ends permitted anywhere along the trail or at the Neches Bluff Overlook. It was at one of the horse camps. Vault toilets named one of the top 10 trails in Texas are at each location but potable water by Texas Monthly magazine. and designated campsites are at the Named for the Central Coal and Piney Creek camp. Coke Company, it follows abandoned Big Slough Wilderness Area tramways through the national forest The 3,639-acre Big Slough except for a one-mile segment through Wilderness was set aside under the privately owned land, the Four C Trail Texas Wilderness Act of 1984 and remains natural and pristine and to Principal game includes white-tailed provide opportunities for solitude and deer, turkey, feral hog, waterfowl, challenge. dove, squirrel, quail and frogs. Piney Creek Horse Trail During wet periods much of the area In addition, the endangered red- The Piney Creek Horse Trail is covered by water, and it is possible cockaded woodpecker thrives within a meanders 54 miles along Forest to canoe along a four-mile loop from carefully managed old-growth habitat Service roads, tram roads, pipeline the Neches to Big Sough and back. in the forest. rights-of-way, game trails and Alabama Creek This area was established to provide highways. It is mostly on national Wildlife Management Area improved hunting and to demonstrate forest land, but there are crossings on The Alabama Creek Wildlife how wildlife habitat and ecosystem private property and public roads. Management Area provides for management are coordinated to the A $10 per day fee covers camping at intensive wildlife management. benefit of all resources. 4 National Forests & Grasslands in Texas he 160,806-acre Sabine National Forest is the easternmost of the This map is meant to serve as a general guide and four national forests in Texas does not show exact boundaries or all roads. It is the T user’s responsibility to know his or her location in the and forms part of the boundary between forest. Users should be aware that some private property Texas and Louisiana. The forest is exists within the Forest Service boundary. Please respect our neighbors’ rights. Check with the Ranger District situated on the western slopes of the regarding special regulations or boundary locations. Sabine River watershed within Sabine, San Augustine, Shelby, Jasper and Newton counties.

Recreation The eastern part of the Sabine National Forest outlines Toledo Bend Reservoir, the fifth largest man-made reservoir in the U.S. and a nationally known recreation attraction. Recreation developments adjacent to Toledo Bend Reservoir are extensive. Private facilities range from fish camps with marinas and primitive camping, to highly developed lodge and motel-type facilities. Boating Toledo Bend Reservoir offers the best in fishing and scenic shorelines. The Forest Service and private businesses provide boat ramps at all major recreation areas and other selected spots on the reservoir, giving boaters a wide choice of access points to the lake. Hunting and Fishing The Forest Service and the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department work together to offer prime habitat for game and fish populations in national forests. Moore Plantation is a 26,500-acre wildlife management area in Sabine County cooperatively managed by these two agencies. It is known for excellent deer hunting. Toledo Bend Reservoir is a nationally known bass fishing lake, and numerous tournaments are held here each year.

available for family reunions and other tradition with local fox hunters who day-use activities; reservations need to organize hunting events in the area, be made in advance for shelters and the and it offers excellent opportunities for amplitheater. hunting in the nearby forest. Boles Field is also home to the Willow Oak boat ramp is open and Wilderness National Cemetery Hall of Fame provides several walk-in campsites. Indian Mounds is a 12,369-acre for Foxhounds. Prized hunting dogs Developed campgrounds require a congressionally designated wilderness from across the country are buried in fee, but there are many opportunities for area set aside to allow the earth’s natural this picturesque setting. The area is a dispersed camping throughout the forest. processes to shape and influence the land. Hunting, horseback riding, and hiking are allowed. Bicycles, other Hiking wheeled vehicles and mechanized and The forest is the perfect place motorized equipment are not allowed. for hiking, horseback riding and Camping and Picnicking bicycling (no bicycles are allowed in Family camping areas in the Sabine the wilderness), and the many miles of National Forest are designed for those roads through the woods are perfect for wanting “elbow room” in a natural forest a scenic drive especially in the spring setting. Several units share a water tap, and fall. trash receptacle and toilet facilities. Hiking is best in the early spring Most parking spaces are suitable for when the forest is filled with native camping trailers. wildflowers, or in fall when the Red Hills Lake has picnic facilities, a hardwood leaves change color. Be sure swimming beach and dump station along to wear hunter orange during hunting with electrical hookups at several sites. season. Boles Field has a picnic shelter www.fs.usda.gov/texas 5 Sam Houston National Forest

This map is meant to serve as a general guide and does not show exact boundaries or all roads. It is the user’s responsibility to know his or her location in the forest. Users should be aware that some private property exists within the Forest Service boundary. Please respect our neighbors’ rights. Check with the Ranger District regarding special regulations or boundary locations.

shortleaf pines dominate ridgetops that are separated by a wide variety of hardwoods along creek channels. Big Creek Scenic Area The 1,920-acre Big Creek Scenic Area is noted for its unique plants and scenic qualities. No camping is allowed in Big Creek Scenic Area. The Lone Star Hiking Trail winds through the area and features four trail loops of various lengths. and the day-use area is open during the spring and summer. he Sam Houston National Forest On the east side of the forest is is located 50 miles north of Double Lake Recreation Area, built in THouston and contains 163,037 the 1930s by the Civilian Conservation acres of land in Montgomery, Walker Corps. This historic campground and San Jacinto counties. The forest is includes family and group camping, intermingled with private timber lands, picnicking, a picnic shelter, swimming small farms and a growing number of area, a concession stand and bathhouse. of-way are closed to off-road-vehicle subdivisions. It is also home to a popular mountain use except at designated crossings. Lone Star Hiking Trail bike trail. During wet, rainy days the trails are The 129-mile Lone Star Hiking Trail, Stubblefield Recreation Area, on closed,so check with the Ranger’s office a portion of which has gained National the north shore of Lake Conroe, has 30 before planning a trip. Recreation Trail status, winds through camping sites and access to the Lone Wildlife Double Lake, Stubblefield and Kelly’s Camping/Swimming/Fishing Star Hiking Trail. The Sam Houston National Forest Pond campgrounds. There are three developed Kelly’s Pond, just off the Multi-Use is the largest Wildlife Management Except during deer hunting season campgrounds in the Sam Houston Trail and west of Lake Conroe, offers Area in Texas. The Forest Service and when camping is restricted to designated National Forest: Cagle, Double Lake primitive camping. Texas Parks and Wildlife Department camps, primitive camping is allowed and Stubblefield, and a primitive Lake Livingston and Lake Conroe are cooperatively manage the forest for off the trail. Hikers should wear bright camping area at Kelly’s Pond. both popular weekend destinations noted game as well as non-game users. orange clothing during hunting season Cagle Recreation Area has 48 family for black bass and year-round fishing. Deer is the most popular game from October through January. Drinking campsites with grills, tent pads, electric Multi-use Trails animal in the forest followed closely by water is available at Double Lake and hookups and connections for water and Riding off-road vehicles (dirt bikes squirrels, ducks and hogs. Stubblefield recreation areas. wastewater for recreational vehicles. and four-wheelers), mountain bikes and Lake Conroe and the surrounding The trail, which is open to foot traffic There are restrooms, showers horses are some of the most popular forest provide habitat for the bald eagle only, is open year-round, but winter and and a boat dock. Paved and natural recreational uses of the Sam Houston and during winter months, they have spring are the most popular seasons for surface trails wind through the popular National Forest. Special areas and trails been seen soaring over the lake, perched hiking due to the mild climate. campground. are designated and developed for these on a flooded snag or in a tall pine along Little Lake Creek Wilderness Scotts Ridge Recreation Area, on the uses. the shoreline. The 3,855-acre Little Lake west side of Lake Conroe, has a boat Four trailheads along the multi-use The endandered red-cockaded Creek Wilderness, five miles north launch, swimming beach, picnic sites trails provide starting points and parking woodpecker also makes it home in the of Montgomery, is home to a rich and three picnic shelters. areas. Please stay on the marked trails. forest and is best seen early morning ecological mosaic. Loblolly and The boat launch is open year-round, Pipelines, powerlines, and other rights- and late in the evening. 6 National Forests & Grasslands in Texas Caddo and Lyndon B. Johnson National Grasslands

he 17,873-acre Caddo and 20,313-acre Lyndon B. Johnson (LBJ) National Grasslands are located Tin north-central Texas, northeast and northwest of the Dallas-Fort Worth metroplex in Fannin, Wise and Montague counties. Before the federal government purchased them in the late 1930s, the grasslands were mostly abandoned farms and ranches suffering severe soil erosion from poor agricultural practices. Since 1955, the national grasslands in Texas, along with the national forests, have been managed by the Forest Service. The national grasslands in Texas are part of the western and eastern cross-timbers vegetation type, with both hardwood forests and open grasslands. The national grasslands provide recreation areas and lakes for camping, swimming, hunting, fishing and habitat for wildlife.

Grasslands management restores native prairies and These maps are meant to serve as a general guide and does not show improves wildlife habitat and the Forest Service reseeds exact boundaries or all roads. It is the user’s responsibility to know his or her location in the forest. Users should be aware that some private property rangeland, provides water, builds and maintains fences exists within the Forest Service boundary. Please respect our neighbors’ and conducts prescribed burning. LYNDON B. JOHNSON NATIONAL GRASSLANDS rights. Check with the Ranger District regarding special regulations or Windmills and ponds provide water for livestock. boundary locations. Oil and gas wells are a common sight on the Caddo and LBJ National CADDO NATIONAL GRASSLANDS Grasslands. The United States does not own all the mineral rights for these Monkstown Telephone ! lands because a few of the sellers retained !

!Duplex permanent mineral ownership. FM 2554 The counties in which national grasslands FM 273 lie receive 25 percent of the income from Lake mineral leasing and royalties as well as from Fannin «¬P34 FM 100 grazing permits, special land use fees and !C FM 409 recreation fees. These funds are returned to !9 the counties to be used for schools and roads. !9 !y FM 2029 Wildlife White-tailed deer, small mammals, Coffee Lake coyotes, bobcats, red fox, waterfowl, Mill Lake Crockett bobwhite quail, turkey and songbirds thrive in the diverse habitats provided by the FM 1396 ! Carson grasslands. !Lamasco !Selfs Largemouth bass, blue, channel catfish and perch are common catches at the grasslands’ many lakes. In spring, migratory neotropical birds from Central and South America make their way across the grasslands, and wildflowers FM2990 blanket the gently rolling hills in color. CR 3395 Recreation FM 68 The national grasslands offer various facilities for camping, picnicking and other CR 3355

outdoor activities. Popular areas are East CR3925 and West Lake Crockett Recreation Areas, «¬34 Coffee Mill Recreation Area, Black Creek Recreation Area, TADRA Point Trailhead, CR Bois D’Arc Trailhead and Cottonwood Lake. «¬34 CR 39103905 Visitors to the national grasslands should CR 3900 CR 3930 be extremely careful with fire because the Ü prairie grasses can be highly flammable. 0 1 2 Miles Windmills are a common sight in the grasslands. TADRA Multi-Use Trail - LBJ The 75-mile TADRA Multi-Use Trail is wildlife viewing and photography. open to horseback riding, mountain biking campsites, a concrete boat ramp and a four-mile hiking The 16,240-acre area attracts many hunters, and hiking. Access to the trail is provided at the TADRA trail. It is located off CR 2360 and CR 2461 with access recreational visitors and wildlife. Deer hunters are Point Trailhead. from FS 902. Primitive camping is allowed off FS 922. required to have the necessary permits isued by Texas The trail system consists of five loops that begin and Cottonwood Lake is approximately 40 acres with a Parks and Wildlife Department. end at TADRA Point. Additionally, open areas of the concrete boat ramp. Little Cottonwood Lake, located grasslands are popular for cross-country horseback riding. Fishing 300 yards to the southeast, is 10 acres. Both lakes can be There are approximately 400 lakes and ponds, ranging Because soils on the LBJ and Caddo Grasslands are reached from FS 900, which runs between CR 2560 and from less than an acre to more than 40 acres on the LBJ susceptible to erosion, vehicle travel is only allowed on CR 2474. National Grasslands. designated roads. The 18-acre Windmill Lake is for fly fishing only, and Bois D’Arc Multi-Use Trail - Caddo Lakes with boat launches include Black Creek, Cottonwood, Clear and Rhodes Lakes, but caution is is located off CR 1591. The trail system consists of three loops that begin and The 650-acre Coffee Mill Lake, off FM 409 in Fannin end at the Bois D’Arc Trailhead. The trail is 28 miles and advised as some ramps are primitive. Catfish, largemouth bass and perch are common County, has a paved boat ramp, tent camping and limited offers views of Coffee Mill Lake and Lake Crockett. RV space. Caddo Wildlife Management Area catches at most of the lakes and ponds. Crappie have been caught in Cottonwood and Clear Lakes. In addition, there Lake Crockett, at 450-acres, is noted for crappie fishing A diverse habitat among the grasses and trees of the and is routinely stocked. The east side offers a paved boat area attracts small mammals, red and gray fox, waterfowl, are numerous small ponds that are not accessible by road that offer great fishing opportunities. ramp, fishing pier and a picnic area. The west side can gulls, quail, white-tailed deer, wild turkey and a variety In Wise County, the 30-acre Black Creek Lake is a accommodate RVs and has 12 campsites and hiking trails. of other birds. Visitors have excellent opportunities for developed recreational site with picnic spots, walk-in Entrances to both the east and west sides are off FM 409. www.fs.usda.gov/texas 7

How to Stephen F. Austin Recognize National Experimental Forest Forest Land Maps commonly show proclaimed he Stephen F. Austin national forest Experimental Forest boundaries. However, T(SFAEF), located all land within this eight miles southwest of boundary is not national Nacogdoches, offers quiet forest land; some is refuge to all who seek the privately owned. The natural enchantment of a forest land shown in green experience. Tucked away in on the maps indicate the heart of the Pineywoods, national forest land. the forest is bordered on its Red paint and signs southern and eastern boundaries mark the boundaries by the Angelina River and the between national Alazan Wildlife Management forest land and private Area. property. Recognition The SFAEF is a 2,560- of these markings and acre tract consisting of boundary signs helps approximately 1,800 acres of the visitor to be certain mature bottomland hardwood to stay on national with the remainder being forest land. southern pine and mixed pine/ Visitors should hardwood forest. comply with state law Part of the Angelina National and the owner’s rules Forest, SFAEF is administered when entering private by the Southern Research land. The Stephen F. Austin Interpretive Trail offers universal accessibility. Station through its Wildlife Entrance (portal) Habitat and Silviculture Laboratory signs. These signs in Nacogdoches. can be seen along Since its adoption into the national major roads entering forest system in 1945, the primary the national forests, objective of the experimental forest has usually on the first tract been wildlife and timber management of government land research. encountered. Generally, The site is also used as an outdoor portal signs are not classroom in the study of forest used on low traffic ecosystems for students majoring in volume roads. forestry, wildlife management, forest Welcome signs. recreation and environmental science. These signs are located In 1990, management objectives for on or just inside the the SFAEF were expanded to include boundaries or individual educational and recreational opportunities tracts of national forest for the general public. land where the road The Interpretive Trail System enters. The sign will be Completed in the summer of 1997, oriented so that the land the forest’s innovative interpretive trail behind the sign is public system represents the commitment of land. Generally, they the Forest Service to meet the changing are not used on dead- needs and perspectives of society. end or woods roads Unique in its concept and design, it or on small blocks of features the first major trail in this region public land. designed and constructed for universal Upon entering woods accessibility. Two separate loops, on public land, welcome spanning a distance of 2.9 miles, take signs will not be present visitors into some of the most dynamic and the visitor should and scenic areas of the forest. rely on property line Jack Creek Loop markings and boundary Jack Creek is a cool, clear, spring- signs. fed perennial stream which serves as Property line the centerpiece for this loop. Traversing marking and boundary gentle slopes along the banks of the signs. The boundaries creek, this barrier-free, 0.8-mile surfaced of individual national trail provides universal access to a mature forest tracts adjacent mixed forest where 100-year-old pines various stages of process. to other ownerships and hardwoods still stand stalwart against Not just a path through the forest, are marked with brown the rush of modern time. the trail is like a corridor through and yellow property The rich moist soils along the time. Integrated into the management boundary signs. creek support diverse vegetation that objectives for each different area, it The small metal is dominated by large, old hardwoods permits visitors to witness firsthand the boundary signs are that offer a soothing environment for forest’s response to various treatments fastened either to trees exercise as well as opportunities for quiet across the years. or posts located on the boundary line and at reflection and relaxation. General Information Since these trees also provide cover Approximately half of the more than road crossings, and the and food, which support many species 300 species of birds which are common signs are placed so that public land is behind the of birds and mammals, wildlife viewing to this area of Texas are found in the sign. Red paint spots (especially birding) is an inherent part of forest. on trees define the the unobtrusive visitor’s experience. More than 80 species of butterflies boundary line through Management Loop add color and quiet beauty, while the woods. As environmental issues become anticipation of catching a glimpse of one While the majority increasingly a part of public awareness of the roughly 30 indigenous mammals of boundaries are and concern, the Forest Service is taking makes each visit exciting for wildlife identified and posted, the initiative to provide and promote lovers. occasionally visitors conservation education. The temperate climate permits year- may encounter an area Experiential learning opportunities round use of the trail and allows visitors where signs have been offered in a living outdoor classroom to appreciate the beauty each season vandalized or lines are geared toward fostering respect for brings. The parking lot provides both are not yet marked. In our forest resources and appreciation of Binoculars and cameras can enhance handicap and bus spaces, and shaded these cases, visitors sound management principles. lasting memories. picnic tables are adjacent to the parking should be alert to avoid Winding two miles through five Visitors may wish to bring their own area. accidently trespassing different units on the forest, this loop water, as fountains are available only Accessible restrooms are available. on private land. provides visitors a chance to view an near the parking area. Insect repellent is Pets must be kept on leashes and firearms array of forest management practices at advised from May through September. are prohibited. 8 National Forests & Grasslands in Texas

For More Information

Angelina National Forest 111 Walnut Ridge Road Zavalla, TX 75980 936-897-1068   

Davy Crockett National Forest 18551 Hwy. 7 East Kennard, TX 75847 936-655-2299   

Sabine National Forest 5050 Hwy. 21 East Hemphill, TX 75959 The red-cockaded woodpecker makes its home in pines throughout the 409-625-1940 Camping Motorized and Toll Free: 866-235-1750 National Forests in Texas. Developed recreation areas offer Off-highway Vehicles    conveniences such as showers, restrooms and The National Forests and Grasslands mercury due to their food habits. picnic facilities. in Texas has implemented the Travel Please observe the Texas Department of Primitive camping is allowed except in Management Rule that requires all registered Health’s advisory for similar lakes in the Sam Houston designated scenic areas or where otherwise motor vehicles to be limited to designated area. Adults should limit consumption of National Forest prohibited. roads shown on the Motor Vehicle Use Map largemouth bass from these lake to no more 394 FM 1375 West During hunting season – September (MVUM). Depending on seasonal use, the than two eight-ounce meals per month. through January – camping is permitted only New Waverly, TX 77358 roads on the map will be open to licensed Children should limit consumption of in designated camps in the Angelina, Davy 936-344-6205 street-legal vehicles. largemouth bass from this lake to no more Crockett, Sabine and Sam Houston National Toll Free: 888-361-6908 OHVs riding is allowed only on the Sam than two four-ounce meals per month. Forests. For safety’s sake, always wear hunter Houston National Forest designated OHV orange during hunting season.    trail. The 85-mile Multiple-Use Trail allows Target Practice Pack drinking water, maps, sunscreen, motor vehicles less than 50 inches wide. Call There are no target practice areas in the insect repellant, compass, raincoat, and a Caddo/LBJ the Sam Houston Ranger Office at 936-344- National Forests and Grasslands in Texas first-aid kit. 6205 before you visit to determine if the trail except for a designated area in the LBJ National Grasslands Don’t rely on your cell phone. There is is closed due to water on the trails. Grasslands which is open to clay pigeon 1400 US 81/287 minimal cell coverage in national forests. Hiking, bicycling and horse back riding shooting with shotguns. P.O. Box 507 Camping in the national forests is limited also are allowed on the trail. to 14 days during a 30-day time period. Decatur, TX 76234 Visit our website for MVUM maps and Bringing Your Dog 940-627-5475 additional information, or call or visit the In campgrounds, picnic areas, parking    Nature’s Hazards ranger’s office of the forest where you are areas, and trailheads, your dog must be on Copperhead, Canebreak rattlesnake, visiting (8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Monday through a leash no longer than six feet and under Maps and general information Cottonmouth, Coral and Pigmy rattlesnake Friday). control at all times. If you tie your dog, find a are five poisonous snakes native to this area Volunteering to help maintain trails is can be obtained from: shady spot and give him a lot of attention to of Texas. All have triangular-shaped heads a great way to show your support and get minimize barking which could disturb other and slit-shaped pupils. Of course the best involved. Contact your local Forest Service forest visitors. Forest Supervisor’s way to deal with an encounter with a snake is office to see how you can help. Office to not get close enough to see its eyes! Maps National Forests and Leave snakes alone. Be careful when Maps and general information for each of Grasslands in Texas walking in tall grass or other places where the forests and grasslands may be purchased you cannot see your feet. 2221 North Raguet St. from ranger offices or the forest supervisor’s n n n office in Lufkin. Lufkin, TX 75904 Ticks and chiggers are common insects These maps are good for determining 936-639-8501 found in the woods. Ticks attach themselves locations of roads, trails and other TDD: 936-639-8560 to your body and can transmit diseases. If you recreational sites on the districts. find one on you, gently pull it off, record the Forest maps are $10 each and wilderness    date on your calendar, and notify your doctor. maps are $4 each. Chiggers, also known as redbugs, cause Order forms are available on the Web at: you to itch and are more of an irritant than a www.fs.usda.gov/texas Sam Rayburn Reservoir danger. Avoid sitting in grasses and directly Or call 936-639-8501 for more U.S. Army Corps on the forest floor, especially in pine needles. information and for postage and handling of Engineers Use insect repellant. charges. n n n State Regulations Route 3, Box 486 Poison ivy makes most people break out in for OHVs Jasper, TX 75951 an itchy rash. The oils on this plant can cause All OHVs driven on public lands in 409-384-5716 an allergic reaction, with or without leaves. Texas (or on lands purchased through Texas It is active in all seasons. The vine has roots Recreational Trails Grant funding) must    or little hairs on it throughout the year. This, follow these state guidelines: and the fact it has three leaves, is an easy way n Display a current Texas OHV decal Toledo Bend Reservoir to identify the plant. Remember, “Leaves of available for $16 from Texas Parks and U.S. Department of Agriculture Sabine River Authority three, let it be!” Wildlife. For more information on the OHV Forest Service Route 1, Box 270 n n n decal, visit www.tpwd.state.tx.us/spdest/ohv/ Southern Region Burkeville, TX 75932 Our national forests are a refuge for n Take an ATV Safety Rider Course and The U.S. Department of Agriculture carry your certificate (call 1-800-887-2887 409-565-2273 wild animals, such as bears, alligators and (USDA) prohibits discrimination in all its venomous snakes. Wild animals can be upset for information). programs and activities on the basis of race,    by human presence and can unexpectedly n Wear a D.O.T. approved helmet and color, national origin, age, disability, and become aggressive. Feeding wildlife causes eye protection. where applicable, sex, marital status, familial dependence on campers, an increase in n status, parental status, religion, sexual Texas Parks Do not carry passengers orientation, genetic information, political camper disturbance and interaction, and can n Operators under 14 years of age must and Wildlife Department make wildlife more aggressive. Do not give beliefs, reprisal, or because all or a part of be under direct supervision of parent or an individual’s income is derived from any Old Texas Plaza them a reason or an opportunity to attack. guardian. public assistance program. (Not all prohibited 4100 S. Medford Dr. Always keep your distance. Your safety is bases apply to all programs.) Persons with Suite 204B your responsibility. Observe wildlife only Mercury Warning disabilities who require alternative means from a distance. Lufkin, TX 75901 Largemouth bass in Ratcliff and Boykin for communication of program information Springs Lakes have shown elevated levels (Braille, large print, audiotape, etc.) should 936-632-1311 contact USDA’s TARGET Center at 202-720- of mercury. This is a common occurrence www.tpwd.state.tx.us/ Firearms 2600 (voice and TDD).To file a complaint of No discharge of firearms is allowed in in area lakes. Sources may be natural and discrimination, write to USDA, Director, Office developed recreation areas, across from made soluble by naturally acidic soil and of Civil Rights, 1400 Independence Avenue, or within 150 yards of all roads, trails and water. Only largemouth bass and bowfin SW, Washington, DC 20250-9410 or call 202- camps where people are likely to be. State are affected. Sunfish and channel catfish 720-6382 (voice or TDD). USDA is an equal laws apply to all firearm use. do not accumulate significant levels of opportunity provider and employer.