1. Big Thicket National Preserve
Known as the first Preserve to be established in the National Park System, Big Thicket National Preserve protects a wide range of ecosystems and animals. There are over 108,000 acres that make up the preserve including areas of forests, prairies, and plains on the Gulf Coast. Thousands of birds call the Big Thicket National Preserve home, making it a great stop for avid bird watchers. Hikers will enjoy about 40 miles of trails that showcase the diversity of the ecosystem as well. Visitors can also jump on a canoe or kayak for year-round access to the Village Creek Texas State Paddling Trail as well as hunting, camping, and biking.
2. Beaumont Botanical Gardens
With 23.5 acres of land maintained by the Beaumont Council of Garden Clubs, the Beaumont Botanical Gardens are a great stop to enjoy beautiful plants as well as a nice walk in the sun. The gardens are the oldest public garden in Southeast Texas and admission is free for anyone who wants to enjoy it. The Warren Loose Conservatory located within the garden features 10,000 square feet of space that is home to many tropical plants as well as some ponds featuring koi and fancy goldfish. The gardens have seen major destruction from area hurricanes in the past but generous donors have worked together to bring the gardens back to life as well as install new features. Visitors can enjoy a large rock waterfall that was installed over the small pond as well as view a beautiful rose arbor. The Antique Rose Garden is a favorite for many as climbing and fragrant roses surround visitors as well.
3. Gator Country
Known as the city with the largest population of alligators in Texas, Beaumont features ways to get up close and personal with gators to learn all about this unique species. Gator Country is a theme park with a twist, as it solely focuses on educating the public about alligators and preserving their environment. Guests can hold baby gators as well as feed them making this a great stop for families. There are over 585 alligators living at Gator Country as well as other reptiles which include snakes, snapping turtles, and Caimans. The stars of Gator Country include two of the largest alligators in captivity in Texas: Big Al and Big Tex. Both of these animals are almost 14 feet long and weigh over 1,000 pounds each respectively. Gator Country also offers swamp tours to educate visitors about the importance of maintaining swamps and all of the animals that call the swamps around Beaumont home.
4. Cattail March Scenic Wetlands
Visitors can enjoy the 900-acres of wetlands located at Cattail Marsh. There is plenty to see with viewings of over 250 species of birds and aquatic mammals. Some of the most popular birds that call this wildlife refuge home are pelicans, red-winged blackbirds, ducks, egrets, ibis, doves, and roseate spoonbills. Cattail Marsh Scenic Wetlands includes a wonderful boardwalk that includes two covered platforms for easy viewing sights for visitors. Those who want to explore the marsh, while also getting in some exercise, can use the eight miles of roads that are included within the marsh as well.
Aside from being fun, spending time outdoors has numerous benefits including stress relief, increased immunity, and even better memory. Beaumont has a wide variety of options for enjoying the outdoors. Residents and visitors alike enjoy the beautiful plants at the Beaumont Botanical Gardens as well as bird watching at Cattail Marsh Scenic Wetlands. Those looking to spend a day outdoors can enjoy the miles of trails at the Big Thicket National Preserve and families will love the interesting activities at Gator Country. Check out any or all of these best ways to enjoy Beaumont outdoors.
