B.A. Steinhagen Lake at a Glance
About B.A. Steinhagen Lake
B.A. Steinhagen Lake — officially known as Town Bluff Reservoir — is one of Deep East Texas's most ecologically extraordinary lakes. Sitting at the confluence of the Neches and Angelina rivers in Tyler and Jasper counties, this 13,700-acre U.S. Army Corps of Engineers reservoir was completed in 1951 primarily for flood control. The Corps manages the vast majority of the shoreline, with virtually no private waterfront development — making Steinhagen one of the most naturally intact large reservoirs in Texas.
The lake's southern border abuts the Big Thicket National Preserve — the 'American Amazon,' one of the most biologically diverse protected areas in North America. Where the river-bottom forest, cypress sloughs, and upland pine country come together around Steinhagen, the result is extraordinary: 70+ fish species, 200+ bird species, alligators, bobcats, rare pitcher plants, and forest types found nowhere else on the continent. This ecological richness makes Steinhagen one of the great nature destinations of East Texas.
Martin Dies Jr. State Park occupies the western shore, offering camping, hiking, paddling, and fishing access. The park's location between the lake and the Big Thicket creates a staging ground for remarkable wildlife encounters. Woodville and Jasper — the county seats of Tyler and Jasper counties — provide services for park visitors and anglers.
Fishing
B.A. Steinhagen is legendary among specialized anglers for its trophy alligator gar — one of the premier destinations in the world for this ancient species. Gar over 100 pounds are caught here regularly, and the lake's remote, river-influenced character produces fish of exceptional size. Largemouth bass fishing in the river arms and sloughs is outstanding, particularly in spring. Crappie, catfish, bream, and the rare chain pickerel also inhabit the lake. The confluence of two major East Texas rivers creates extraordinary habitat diversity that supports one of the richest freshwater fisheries in Texas.
Recreation & Activities
Martin Dies Jr. State Park provides camping (tent, RV, and screened shelters), boat ramps, fishing piers, and hiking trails through the beautiful river-bottom forest. Paddling — by canoe or kayak — is an exceptional way to explore the cypress sloughs and quiet backwaters of the lake. The adjacent Big Thicket National Preserve offers guided hikes, birding tours, and nature programs through the National Park Service. Wildlife photography opportunities here are exceptional — the lake's location in the Big Thicket ecosystem means rare species sightings are common for patient observers.
Getting There & Access
From Woodville: take US-190 East approximately 15 miles to the lake's western access and Martin Dies Jr. State Park — about 20 minutes. From Jasper: take US-190 West approximately 20 miles. From Beaumont: take US-190 West approximately 60 miles — about 1 hour. From Houston: take US-69 North through Woodville — approximately 2.5 hours. Martin Dies Jr. State Park entrance fee applies.
Nearby Towns & Services
Woodville, TX
The Tyler County seat, about 15 miles west of the lake. Woodville provides grocery, schools, Tyler County Hospital, and serves as the primary western gateway to the lake.
Jasper, TX
The Jasper County seat, about 20 miles east. Jasper has Christus Jasper Memorial Hospital, Walmart, and full city services. The primary eastern service hub for lake visitors.
Martin Dies Jr. State Park
On the western shore — 705 acres of river-bottom forest with camping, boat ramps, and hiking. A Texas Parks and Wildlife park named for a former U.S. Congressman.
Looking to Buy East Texas Waterfront?
B.A. Steinhagen Lake's shoreline is protected public land with no private real estate available. These nearby East Texas lakes have active waterfront listings and motivated sellers: