Neches River Adventures will launch its 2026 public tour season at 10 a.m. Saturday, March 21, at Collier's Ferry Park, 5390 Pine St. in Beaumont, inviting the public to explore the natural beauty and rich history of the Neches River.
Operated by the Big Thicket Association, Neches River Adventures offers guided excursions aboard the Ivory Bill, a 45-foot covered boat captained by a U.S. Coast Guard-licensed captain. Tours travel along the scenic Neches River and into the backwaters of Ten Mile Bayou, a cypress-tupelo swamp within the renowned Big Thicket National Preserve.
The two-hour interpretive tour highlights the region’s ecology, wildlife, conservation efforts, and cultural history. Guests may observe wading birds such as herons and egrets, raptors overhead, turtles and alligators basking along the banks, and the diverse plant life that makes the Big Thicket one of the most biologically diverse areas in North America.
Public tours are offered on most Saturdays from March through November. Private charters and educational tours are available year-round for schools, civic groups, and special occasions.
Reservations are required. For tickets and additional information, visit nechesriveradventures.org or call (409) 651-5326.