Martin Dies Jr. State Park in Jasper, Texas
Known for its scenic beauty, abundant wildlife, and recreational opportunities, the Martin Dies Jr. State Park is a favorite spot for outdoor enthusiasts, families, and nature lovers alike.
Martin Dies Jr. State Park spans over 705 acres of forested land, wetlands, and open water. The park is named after Martin Dies Jr., a U.S. Congressman and Texas legislator known for his advocacy for public land preservation. The park opened to the public in 1964 and has since been a gateway for visitors to experience the diverse ecosystems of the eastern edge of Texas. The park’s landscape is characterized by its piney woods, hardwood forests, cypress sloughs, and expansive lake views.
The Neches River is a key feature of Martin Dies Jr. State Park, where it converges with the Angelina River to form the B.A. Steinhagen Reservoir. This convergence creates a beautiful, natural setting for the park, offering stunning views and a range of water-based activities, including boating, fishing, and kayaking. The Neches Rivers meandering flow and lush surroundings provide visitors with an opportunity to immerse themselves in nature while enjoying the park’s scenic trails and tranquil waters.
Amenities & Facilities at Martin Dies, Jr. State Park
Camping
Martin Dies Jr. State Park offers well-maintained facilities to ensure a comfortable visit. These include:
- Restrooms with showers
- Picnic tables and barbecue grills
- A group pavilion for gatherings
- Boat ramp, boat launches, and docks
- A park store for essentials and souvenirs
The campground at Martin Dies Jr. State Park offers a wide variety of options to suit different camping preferences, from rustic tent camping to comfortable RV accommodations and screened shelters. Its well-maintained facilities and scenic surroundings make it a favorite for both seasoned campers and those seeking a family-friendly outdoor getaway.
The campgrounds are surrounded by tall pine and hardwood trees, offering shade and a sense of seclusion. Many campsites are within walking distance of the lake, providing easy access for fishing, kayaking, or simply enjoying the view. Wildlife sightings, such as white-tailed deer, raccoons, and various bird species, are common, adding to the park’s charm.
The park is divided into two main units: Hen House Unit and Walnut Ridge, each offering distinct camping experiences. Both areas provide easy access to the lake and park trails, ensuring campers can enjoy the natural beauty without traveling far from their site.
Hen House Ridge Unit
- Tent and RV Sites: Equipped with water and electricity hookups (20/30 amps), these sites are great for both tent campers and RV enthusiasts. Each site includes a picnic table, a fire ring, and a lantern post.
- Full Hookup RV Sites: For campers who prefer added convenience, full hookups with water, electricity (50 amps), and sewer connections are available.
- Screened Shelters: Ideal for those who want some protection from insects and weather, these shelters provide a rustic but comfortable camping experience.
Walnut Ridge Unit
- Primitive Tent Sites: These sites are designed for a more back-to-basics camping experience, offering a quiet, secluded area for tent campers.
- Water and Electric Sites: Similar to Hen House Ridge, these sites cater to both tents and RVs and include basic amenities.
- Group Camping: Walnut Ridge has a designated group camping area, perfect for large gatherings, scout groups, or family reunions.
Additional Features
- Restrooms and Showers: Restrooms with flush toilets and hot showers are conveniently located in both units.
- Dump Station: Available for RV campers to empty tanks before departure.
- Playground: A small playground is available near the campground for families with young children.
- Camp Store: Visitors can purchase firewood, snacks, and camping essentials at the park store.
Campground Rules
- Quiet hours are observed from 10 PM to 6 AM.
- Campfires are allowed only in designated fire pits, and visitors should check for burn bans before arrival.
- Pets are welcome but must be kept on a leash and under control at all times.
Reservations
Campsites and shelters can fill up quickly, especially during holidays and weekends, so it’s best to book in advance through the Texas Parks and Wildlife website
Check-In Procedures
When arriving at Martin Dies Jr. State Park, visitors should first stop at the park headquarters or entrance station to check in. At the office, you’ll confirm your reservation if you’ve booked a campsite or day-use permit and receive a parking pass and any additional information about the park. If you’re planning to camp, the staff will provide directions to your campsite, as well as tips for using park amenities. Walk-up visitors can inquire about campsite or cabin availability if they haven’t reserved in advance. The park staff is friendly and can answer questions about trails, water activities, or park rules. Be prepared to show your Texas State Parks Pass, if applicable, or pay the daily entrance fee. Check-in times for camping typically begin at 2:00 PM, while day-use access is available during the park’s operational hours.
Martin Dies, Jr. State Park Facilities
Martin Dies Jr. State Park has a few key facilities that enhance the visitor experience, including a visitor center, park store, and nature center. These areas serve as important hubs for information, supplies, and education, ensuring that guests have everything they need to fully enjoy their time in the park.
Visitor Center
The Visitor Center is one of the first places you’ll want to stop when arriving at the park. Located near the park entrance, this is where you can get maps, ask questions, and learn more about the park’s history, natural features, and recreational opportunities. The friendly park staff can provide information on trail conditions, wildlife sightings, special programs, and upcoming events. It’s also a great place to pick up brochures about the park and surrounding areas for additional activities. The visitor center has clean restrooms and provides a comfortable space to take a break before heading out to explore.
Nature Center
While Martin Dies Jr. State Park doesn’t have a large, formal nature center, there are still educational programs and interpretive opportunities that give visitors a deeper understanding of the park’s ecosystems. Rangers often host nature walks, wildlife talks, and hands-on learning experiences at various times of the year.
The park’s natural features, including its wetland ecosystems and diverse flora and fauna, are also interpreted through signs along the trails and educational displays in the visitor center. These resources give visitors the chance to learn about the park’s unique habitats, wildlife, and conservation efforts while exploring the area.
The visitor center and park programs serve as a great starting point for anyone interested in learning more about the park’s biodiversity, geology, and history. Additionally, the staff is often on hand to answer questions about the best trails to take, local wildlife, and what to do in the park during your visit.
Together, these facilities make Martin Dies Jr. State Park not only a place for outdoor recreation but also a space for education and immersion into the natural world of East Texas.
Park Store
The Park Store is located near the entrance to the park and offers a variety of supplies and items to enhance your visit. Whether you’re a camper, hiker, or boater, the store is stocked with everything you might need. Some of the items available include:
- Camping gear (such as firewood, camping chairs, and tent stakes)
- Snacks and drinks
- Fishing supplies like bait, tackle, and fishing poles
- Souvenirs such as T-shirts, hats, and postcards
- Basic outdoor essentials like sunscreen, insect repellent, and maps
If you’re in need of a last-minute item or want to pick up a keepsake from your visit, the park store is a convenient stop.
Turtle that was hanging around the campsite when we arrived
Holding a flag retirement ceremony with the Cub Scouts
Pitching our tent for a weekend of scout camp fun!
What to do at Martin Dies, Jr. State Park
Things to do at Martin Dies, Jr. State Park
- Anglers can fish for catfish, crappie, perch, bass, and sunfish in B.A. Steinhagen Reservoir. The park has fishing piers and a fish-cleaning station.
- A designated swimming area provides a safe spot to cool off during hot Texas summers.
- Park rangers frequently host educational programs, including guided hikes, wildlife talks, and stargazing events.
- While the park's primary trails are designed for hiking, many of them are multi-use and allow biking. Riders can explore the park’s natural beauty while navigating the trails at their own pace.
- The park offers several picnic areas equipped with tables and grills, providing scenic spots for visitors to enjoy a meal surrounded by nature.
Paddling at Martin Dies, Jr. State Park
- Canoeing and kayaking are favorite activities thanks to the park’s paddling trails. The park rents canoes and kayaks for those who don’t bring their own. There are three main paddling trails in the park: the Cherokee Paddling Trail, the Neches Paddling Trail, and the Sandy Creek Paddling Trail.
- The Cherokee Paddling Trail is a beginner-friendly trail that winds through the scenic Walnut Slough, a calm waterway surrounded by cypress trees draped in Spanish moss. It’s perfect for a peaceful paddle and offers excellent opportunities for birdwatching and photography.
- The Neches Paddling Trail follows the Neches River and showcases its slow-moving waters, bordered by dense forests and wetlands. The route offers a mix of wide-open stretches and narrower channels, providing a balance of challenge and relaxation for paddlers.
- The 5.4-mile Sandy Creek Paddling Trail takes paddlers along Sandy Creek and into B.A. Steinhagen Reservoir. The route features winding creek sections and more expansive waters, offering varied scenery and experiences along the way.
Trails at Martin Dies, Jr. State Park
Martin Dies Jr. State Park features miles of hiking trails that wind through its diverse ecosystems, offering visitors the chance to explore the park’s forests, wetlands, and lakefront areas. Whether you’re a casual walker or an avid hiker, the miles of trails here provide beautiful views and opportunities for wildlife observation, photography, and connecting with nature. Take a walk on one of the short trails, trek through one of the longer trails, or even go on a night hike.
Slough Trail
1.5 Miles
Easy
The Slough Trail is a well-maintained, easy loop trail that takes you through the park’s cypress-tupelo swamps. As you walk, you’ll see towering cypress trees draped with Spanish moss, a quintessential feature of East Texas wetlands. The trail offers excellent opportunities for birdwatching, as many species frequent the wetlands. The soft, shaded trail is mostly flat and suitable for families and those looking for a short, tranquil hike.
Best for: Ideal for nature lovers, especially during the spring and fall migration periods when birds are abundant. The trail also has interpretive signs about the area’s unique ecosystem.
Island Trail
3.3 Miles
Moderate
The Island Trail is a moderate, more rugged trail that offers a bit of a challenge compared to the Slough Trail. It loops through a mix of dense pine forests and along the shoreline of B.A. Steinhagen Reservoir. The trail provides excellent views of the lake and features more varied terrain, including some gentle inclines and uneven surfaces. It is a great option for those seeking a bit more adventure, as it winds through scenic, untouched areas of the park.
Best for: Beautiful lake views, diverse forest habitats, and opportunities for wildlife sightings. It’s also a great trail for those looking to get away from the more trafficked areas of the park.
Pine Ridge Trail
0.8 Miles
Easy
This short trail is a relatively easy, peaceful path that takes visitors through a dense forest of tall pine trees. The Pine Ridge Trail offers a more intimate experience with the park’s woodland area and is perfect for a short, relaxing hike. The trail is mostly flat, with a few mild inclines, and it’s great for beginner hikers or those with small children.
Best for: Gorgeous wetland scenery, boardwalks that cross through swampy areas, and abundant wildlife. It’s perfect for birdwatchers and anyone interested in the park’s swamp ecosystems.
Park Road Trail
0.5 Miles
Easy
The Park Road Trail is a short, easy trail that is perfect for those looking for a quick walk or a place to stretch their legs after a day of fishing or paddling. It follows the road near the park entrance and provides a simple, paved path through the park’s forested areas. It’s not as remote as the other trails but offers access to beautiful surroundings with minimal effort.
Best for: A great option for a quick, easy stroll near the park entrance.
Forest Trail
1.0 Miles
Easy
The Forest Trail at Martin Dies Jr. State Park is a serene and immersive hike that allows visitors to explore the park’s lush, wooded areas.
Best for: Many different kinds of trees, shrubs, and woody vines attract hikers to this trail.
Sandy Creek Trail
2.5 Miles
Moderate
As you follow the trail, you’ll cross several small creeks and marshy areas, with some sections featuring boardwalks that help you navigate through the wetlands. The trail provides a mix of flat and slightly inclined terrain, making it a moderate-level hike that can be enjoyed by most visitors with a reasonable level of fitness.
Best for: Picturesque creek views ideal for nature photography, opportunities to observe diverse wildlife in their natural habitats, and a variety of terrains.
Big Slough Trail
2.2 Miles
Moderate
The Big Slough Trail is another great option for those interested in the park’s wetland areas. This loop trail meanders through a mix of forest and wetlands, providing the opportunity to see a variety of plant and animal species. It offers moderate difficulty, with a few inclines and a mixture of dirt and boardwalk surfaces. The trail crosses over several boardwalks, taking hikers over the marshy terrain, and it provides an immersive experience in the park’s natural beauty.
Best for: Gorgeous wetland scenery, boardwalks that cross through swampy areas, and abundant wildlife. It’s perfect for birdwatchers and anyone interested in the park’s swamp ecosystems.
Martin Dies, Jr. State Park Basics
634 Park Rd 48 S
Jasper, TX 75951
$4 per day for adults
Children 12 and under: Free
Central Time Zone
202
Location, Phone Number, and Address
Martin Dies, Jr. State Park is located in Jasper, Texas, about 2 hours northeast of Houston. The address is 634 Park Rd 48 S, Jasper, TX 75951 and the park’s phone number is 409-384-5231.
What are the Entrance Fees for Martin Dies, Jr. State Park?
All visitors over the age of 12 are required to pay a daily fee of $4 per person. Children age 12 and under are free.
What Time Zone is Martin Dies, Jr. State Park in?
The park is in Central Time in Texas.
When is the Best Time to Visit?
The best time to visit Martin Dies Jr. State Park depends on your preferred activities and tolerance for East Texas weather.
Spring (March to May) is one of the most popular times to visit, as mild temperatures and blooming wildflowers create a vibrant, inviting landscape. This is also a fantastic season for birdwatching, as migratory birds pass through the area, adding splashes of color and sound to the park’s already lively environment.
Fall (October to November) rivals spring as an ideal season, with cooler temperatures and brilliant foliage painting the park’s forests in warm hues of orange, red, and yellow. This time of year is perfect for hiking and camping, as the weather is comfortable, and pesky insects like mosquitoes are less active.
For water-based activities, summer (June to August) is a prime time to visit, offering long days for paddling, swimming, and fishing in B.A. Steinhagen Reservoir. However, East Texas summers can be hot and humid, so visitors should plan for early mornings or evenings to avoid the peak heat and pack plenty of water and sunscreen.
Winter (December to February) is the quietest season at the park, providing a serene atmosphere for those looking to escape crowds. While the weather can be chilly, it’s still mild compared to many other regions, making it suitable for hiking, wildlife viewing, and photography. Waterfowl and other migratory birds are also more visible in the winter months, offering unique opportunities for nature enthusiasts.
Ultimately, the best time to visit Martin Dies Jr. State Park depends on whether you prefer bustling activity or tranquil solitude, but each season brings its own charm and experiences to enjoy.
How many campsites are there at Martin Dies, Jr. State Park?
There are a total of 202 campsites at the park. This includes 9 cabins, 35 screened shelters, 48 campsites with water only, and 110 campsites with water and electric.
How Big is Martin Dies, Jr. State Park?
The entirety of the state park is about 705 acres.
Park Website
Always check the official park site for the most up-to-date information, hours, prices, and conditions.
Travel Tips for Martin Dies, Jr. State Park
Getting to Martin Dies, Jr. State Park
Getting to Martin Dies Jr. State Park is straightforward and scenic, making it an accessible destination for visitors from various parts of Texas. The park is located about 8 miles west of Jasper, Texas, along U.S. Highway 190, where the Neches and Angelina Rivers meet. From Houston, the drive takes approximately 2.5 hours, while those coming from Dallas can expect about a 4-hour journey. Travelers from Beaumont can reach the park in just over an hour. The roads leading to the park are well-maintained, and the route offers glimpses of the beautiful East Texas piney woods, setting the tone for your visit. Signage along the way ensures that the park entrance is easy to locate. For those using GPS, the park address is 634 Park Road 48 South, Jasper, TX 75951. Ample parking is available once you arrive, and the park’s layout makes navigation convenient for first-time visitors.
Tips for a Visit to Martin Dies, Jr. State Park
Bug Protection: The wetlands attract mosquitoes and other insects. Bring insect repellent, especially during warmer months.
Safety: Be mindful of wildlife, particularly alligators, and keep a safe distance.
Pack Essentials: The park is in a relatively remote area, so bring everything you need, including food, water, and camping gear.
Biking Trail Safety: The trails are shared with hikers and bikers so be mindful of those walking on the trails as you ride.
What is the Nearest City to Martin Dies, Jr. State Park?
The closest city to the park is Jasper, Texas, which is about 12 miles to the east along US Highway 190.
What is the Nearest Airport to Martin Dies, Jr. State Park?
The closest major airport to Martin Dies, Jr. State Park is Lufkin Airport (LUK) which is about 20 miles north of the park.
What are the Closest Parks to Martin Dies, Jr. State Park?
Village Creek State Park
50 miles • 1 hour drive
57 miles • 1 hour drive
Huntsville State Park
99 miles • 2 hour drive