Cherokee Neches Paddling Trail
Paddle this 6.6 mile trail to enjoy some of the natural wild beauty of the Neches, including quiet pools, small riffles, and plenty of wildlife.
Trail Access
FM 747/River Run Park
- Type:
- Put In
- GPS Coordinates:
- 31.9456, -95.4445
From Hwy 79, 1.6 miles west of Jacksonville, Texas, take FM 747 north. Continue 10 miles to Neches River Run Park (address is 2001 CR 3315). Check in at the office for directions to the put-in.
US HWY 79
- Type:
- Take Out
- GPS Coordinates:
- 31.8927, -95.4312
The take-out is on the North Side of Hwy 79 at the Neches River. There is an access road to the take-out off of CR 3212 at Hwy. 79.
Navigating the Trail
Trail Length: 6.6 miles
Float Times:~3-5 hours (depending on water level and flow rate)
Trail Description
A variety of water types including quiet pools and several small riffles are present. Although there are no man-made obstructions on this reach, there may be snags to avoid, especially when water levels are low. Heavy rains and high water can create dangerous conditions. This section of the Neches River is a natural river that is unrestrained by flood control dams or other man-made structures. As such, the Neches River is readily influenced by rainfall runoff that may create temporary high flows and undesirable water quality conditions.
Private Property
Respect private property by not trespassing or littering and keeping noise levels down. This river is classified as navigable, which permits public use of the streambed and, if necessary, the banks to portage any hazard. Any other use of private river banks without permission of the landowner can be considered trespassing. Under Texas Penal Code (§30.05), criminal trespass occurs when one enters property after receiving notice not to enter. Notice includes verbal notice, a fence, sign(s), purple paint on posts or trees, or the visible presence of crops grown for human consumption.
Trail Map
Things to Do and See
Fishing
This section of the river supports numerous species of fish including several species of gar (spotted, longnose and alligator), channel catfish, drum and spotted (Kentucky) bass. Small lures such as jigs, plastic worms, spinner baits and light-line are recommended.
Wildlife and Ecology
The riparian corridor of the Neches River supports a great diversity of plant and animal life along the river and beyond the banks. Birds spotted here include an occasional Bald Eagle, crows, kingfishers, Great Blue Herons and seasonal migratory waterfowl and songbirds. Pristine oak trees grow along the river making this hardwood forest a unique wildlife habitat. Common wildlife encountered include feral hogs, whitetail deer, river otter, beaver, squirrels, turtles, snakes and an occasional alligator.
Partnership
This trail was made possible through a partnership between Texas Parks and Wildlife Department, Jacksonville Chamber of Commerce, Neches River Run Park, Friends of the Neches River, and Texas Conservation Alliance.