Roy E. Larsen Sandyland Sanctuary
Description
The 5,654-acre Roy E. Larsen Sandyland Sanctuary is a jewel of East Texas, opened to the public by its owner, The Nature Conservancy. Lying in the heart of the Big Thicket, Larsen Sandyland harbors a rare biologically-rich combination of swamp, southern pinelands, floodplain plant communities, and open-floor forest, including one of the last remaining longleaf pine communities in Texas. The preserve’s remarkable diversity sustains 582 plant species, some of which are rare or endangered, and 234 animal species. Six miles of trails give hikers access to habitats as varied as arid sandylands, baygalls, sloughs, and bogs. The sanctuary has been named one of the Top 500 birding sites in the country by the American Bird Conservancy and is included on the Great Texas Coastal Birding Trail. The eight-mile stretch of Village Creek that flows through the preserve is included in the Village Creek Paddling Trail, a State Paddling Trail designated by Texas Parks and Wildlife Department.
Amenities: Hiking, paddling, bird watching, wildlife viewing, photography, nature study. Interpretive programs by request. Canoe and kayak rentals available from local vendors on Village Creek. No dogs allowed.
Directions: From Highway 69/287 North exit at Hwy 327. The sanctuary’s public entrance is approximately three miles from Hwy 69/287 North. The visitor parking lot is located directly east of the Village Creek bridge on Hwy 327. Look for the Great Texas Coastal Birding Trail sign on your left.
Admission: Daylight hours only.
Contact: 409-658-2888
Helpful Links:
Roy E. Larson Sandyland Sanctuary Info