We are trying to plan another joint trip with the Austin Happy Campers and we're trying to figure out the best date for everyone. The Big Slough area of the Piney Woods is the crossroads of several ecosystems, including the U.S. Deep South, coastal swamps, luxurious forests, black-soil farmland, and more. There are both all-day and three-hour canoe trips available on the Trinity River, and lots of backpacking areas. Camping at Davy Crockett National Forest is easy, uncrowded and convenient to other activities like the Texas State Railroad's steam-engine trip through the woods between Rusk and Palestine. The dogwoods and azaleas bloom at the end of March/first half of April. While there are other blooms, these alone almost make a trip worth while. *After mid-April it gets increasingly, uncomfortably hot.

1) Big Creek (5.5 miles): (RIFLE HUNTING SEASON; WEAR ORANGE IN THE FOREST.) FM 2666, 1.2 miles east from TX 105 approx. 15 miles northwest of US 59. OR 2) Explore Galveston's historic district as you view some of the most magnificent turn of century architecture. Enjoy the breezes of the sea as you walk (10 km). 506 14th Street @ Post Office Street From Houston take I-45(Gulf Freeway) to Galveston. I-45 becomes Broadway. Turn left on 14th Street to Sunflower Bakery & Cafe on corner of Post Office Street in Columbus Street Market.