John Henry Kirby Memorial State Forest–630 Acres
In
1929, TFS received a gift of 630 acres of forestland from lumber baron John
Henry Kirby. Initially known as State Forest #4, the deed for the property
stipulates a portion of revenues from the tract must be donated to the Former
Student Association of Texas A&M University, for student loan purposes.
The forest resources of the property were heavily cutover prior to
acquisition. Longleaf pine was the dominant species, with loblolly pine found
along stream courses. Reforestation activities by TFS commenced immediately
following the land transaction. Due to superior growth characteristics,
non-native slash pine was the species of choice for much of the restoration.
In the 1930s, Civilian Conservation Corps enrollees planted trees,
conducted timber stand improvement and constructed a residence, roads, fire
breaks and bridges. A fire lookout tower was also erected on the site.
Silvicultural research and demonstration included prescribed burning for the
control of brown spot needle blight in longleaf pine, control of competing brush
competition and timber thinning. Since 1949, over $569,000 has been generated
for the Former Student Association student loan program.
Educational Opportunities
Forest resource education and nature study tours for schools and other civic groups are available by appointment only. No restroom facilities are available on this site.
No hunting is allowed on Kirby State Forest except for a weekend youth hunt conducted in cooperation with Texas Parks and Wildlife Department.
Recreational Opportunities
Hiking
Bird watching
Wildlife viewing
Special Attractions
Forest management demonstration sites
John Henry Kirby historical marker
Historical fire tower (not available for public use)
Pitcher plant bog
Open
The
forest is open year-round during daylight hours, to foot traffic only. Contact
the district office prior to entry. Special arrangements are needed for vehicle
access. Texas state forests are game sanctuaries with no
firearms or hunting permitted.
Information
Olive District Office
Hwy 69 just north of Kountze
Monday–Friday
8 a.m.–5 p.m.
409-246-2484
Map
Trail map