W.G. Jones State Forest

URBAN FORESTRY AND CONSERVATION

W.G. Jones State Forest, spanning 1,700 acres, is one of the nation’s largest working urban forests. Located near Conroe, The Woodlands, and unincorporated Montgomery County, it serves as a hub for resource education and sustainable forest management. Approximately 80,000 visitors annually explore its unique ecosystems, making it a vital resource for the region.

The camera faces down a pathway into Jones State Forest. The forest is dark but backlit by the setting sun. Down the path, a mist rises off the ground.

The camera faces a pathway leading into Jones State Forest. It is dark through the trees, but the sky is bright blue, and the sun (behind the camera) highlights the trees in front and turns the pine needle-covered path bright amber. There is a man in a gray sport jacket and black shorts running into the woods.

The camera faces down a pathway into Jones State Forest. The forest is dark, but the sky is bright and pockets of sunlight break through the trees.

URBAN FOREST RESEARCH & EDUCATION

The forest supports scientific research and education through its demonstration areas, showcasing techniques in forest management, reforestation, ecological restoration, and habitat protection.

BIRDING HOTSPOT

Recognized by the American Bird Conservancy as one of the 500 most important birding areas in North America, the forest offers exceptional opportunities to observe unique avian species, including the red-cockaded woodpecker.

VISITOR INFORMATION

Nesting Season: From March 15 to July 15, specific nesting areas are closed to limit disturbances to the red-cockaded woodpecker.
Recreation: Visitors can enjoy hiking, birdwatching, and exploring nature while learning about conservation and sustainable forest management.

PLAN YOUR VISIT

Discover the ecological and educational value of W.G. Jones State Forest, where conservation meets community. Connect with nature, learn about resource management, and witness efforts to sustain endangered species—all in one remarkable location.

View Map

The camera faces up toward the sky. In the middle of Jones State Forest, the tall pine trees look like they're bending over the camera to meet in the middle of the frame.

EDUCATIONAL OPPORTUNITIES

Schools, youth organizations, universities, and community groups visit the forest for hands-on learning experiences in forestry, environmental education, and atmospheric studies.

CONSERVATION EFFORTS

W. G. Jones State Forest is home to the endangered red-cockaded woodpecker, a species that thrives in the older-growth pine forest ecosystem. The Texas A&M Forest Service and Texas Parks and Wildlife collaborate to protect this rare bird, employing management practices like prescribed burning and habitat restoration.

Parks & Pathways

The Woodlands has more than 220 miles of hike and bike trails and 140 parks for you to enjoy.
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Birding

It's always a great day for birding in The Woodlands. There are a variety of birds you can see, including cardinals, eagles, egrets, warblers, woodpeckers, and so much more. The Woodlands' native tree...
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