Turning Basin Riverboat Tours
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Turning Basin Riverboat Tours - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (2024) - Tripadvisor
Turning Basin
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200 Bayou St
Jefferson, TX 75657
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Awesome 1-hour tour. Two minutes from Jefferson's downtown, this is a must-do boat tour for locals and tourists alike. My family loves taking this tour every time we visit Jefferson, especially when bringing family and friends who are visiting. The boat is covered and the captain of the boat provides history of the area and river during the boat ride, all at a fair price. Definitely recommended for all!
Owner / captain / boat guide!
Great time! John was fabulous. Very knowledgeable and entertaining. A fabulous way to see a slice of Texas history. We had fun!
This tour was awesome. Very informative and not too long, not too short. Definitely worth the 10 dollars. Also, the guide knew a lot about the local history and was glad to share during the cruise. Also impressed with the fact that he took our word for it that we would be back to pay him. I didn't have any cash and he does not take debit/credit cards. We shopped the rest of the day and stopped back by his place on our way back home to give him our money. Thanks again Capt. John Nance.
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Caddo Lake Bayou Tours
Book a tour today, 903-570-2169.
Come take a boat tour on one of the most scenic and beautiful lakes in the South. Caddo Lake is approximately 26,000 acres of Bald Cypress trees, Spanish moss, abundant wildlife, and scenery that you will never forget. The lake has everything from swamps, bayous and river ways that create a one of a kind experience.
Whether you are looking for a guided fishing trip, a sight seeing tour of the wildlife or just wanting to have a relaxing day or evening on the boat on Caddo Lake then look no further. Book a tour today to see some of the beauty that awaits you.
Also don't forget to like us on our Facebook page to see weekly updates and stay in touch with us!
A lake rich with history
Caddo Lake is steeped in history dating back to the early 1800's and one of the best ways to soak it in is with a guided boat tour. Sit back and relax while you take in the history which includes the Caddo Indian tribes that inhabited the area and the steamboat navigational trade from New Orleans to Jefferson, Texas are just some of the lakes rich history.
The names of certain areas of the lake such as Alligator Bayou, Starr Ditch, Ames Spring Basin, Potters Point, Britts Gap and Government Ditch among others give the lake a certain mystic created by the characters from it's past. It creates the perfect atmosphere for fishing, relaxing or watching the sunset.
Photography Tours
Looking to get some great pictures of the beautiful Bald Cypress trees covered in Spanish moss? Schedule a guided tour and go on an adventure to get all the images you need to complete your photography collection.
Whether you want to go on a wildlife photography tour with a group or with the peace and quiet of being alone to get those perfect shots, we can accommodate.
Featured on TravelAwaits Article
TravelAwaits is a great blog that features destinations all over the world and gives you great tips on things to do there.
We are lucky enough to have been mentioned in an article over things to do near Jefferson Texas.
Caddo Lake Bayou tours is number seven on the list and click the link below if you would like to read the full article!
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Photos from Caddo Lake
Take a look at some of the photographs that have been taken on Caddo Lake by various talented photographers.
Big Cypress Tours - 903-570-3319
Caddo lake boat tours.
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Hello folks. This is Michael Landrum, your Caddo Lake guide and owner of Big Cypress Tours. Welcome to one of most beautiful bodies of water in the world. Caddo Lake and surrounding wetlands comprise unique environs where magnificent flora and fauna thrive.
Let me take you on a tour of Caddo Lake, home of the world’s largest Bald Cypress forest, a watery wonderland unlike any other in the world. According to a study done in 2003, Caddo Lake flora and fauna includes 189 species of trees and shrubs, 75 grasses, 42 woody vines, 216 kinds of birds, 90 fish and reptiles, and 47 mammals, plus hundreds of alleged Bigfoot sightings.
Call me at 903-570-3319, to book a family or private adventure. I offer sunrise and mid-day tours. The experience can influence a young child’s life and become a memory they will never forget.
This is an experience you cannot find elsewhere in the world. Comparable environs simply do not exist. Don’t limit your view of Caddo by sticking to the shore.
Be the participant, not the audience.
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Turning Basin Riverboat Tour in Jefferson, Texas
Beautiful Reflections along the Bayou
Today’s photo essay features shots I took with my iPhone while floating down the Big Cypress Bayou in Jefferson, Texas. It was hard to restrain myself to only sharing six pictures with you because I could not stop taking photos. It was that beautiful! If, like me, you enjoy dreamy reflections, then a cruise with Turning Basin Riverboat Tours is made for you.
East Texas History & Lore
Our boat was captained by John Nance, who kept us entertained with a mixture of historical information, local lore and facts about nature. After showing us a photo of a huge snapping turtle, John told us how a high school buddy of his earned the name “Stumpy” after having several fingers bitten off by just such a creature while noodling for catfish. (In case you don’t know, “noodling” is the term for catching fish by hand. Pretty crazy activity to do in snapping turtle country!)
Informative, but Spontaneous
One thing I love about the bayou tour by Mr. Nance is how spontaneous he is. You know how some tour guides read a script, and you get the feeling that their mind is off planning their grocery list as they drive their route? With John Nance, you can tell that no two tours are alike. He just starts talking, and sure, he probably shows the same photos each time, but the information he relayed was in direct response to our reactions. You could just tell that he is full of stories.
Cypress Knees
In some places along the bayou, the gnarly tree roots stick upright, in rows. These are called “cypress knees,” but to me they look more like curious prairie dogs watching from the shoreline. Oddly enough, scientists don’t really know what function these unusual root structures serve. There’s an interesting blog post all about cypress knees at this link: Cypress Knees, What Are They Good For? (absolutely nothin’?)
Snakes on the Water
One thing that freaked me out as we cruised down the Big Cypress Bayou was seeing my first water moccasin. I don’t have a snake phobia, but what made me shudder in this case is that the snake swam across the bayou! I’m from Washington State, and while we do have rattlesnakes up there, they don’t make a habit of swimming. On fishing trips as a kid, I always took comfort in knowing that I wasn’t likely to encounter a venomous creature while wading or swimming.
Turning Basin Riverboat Tours = Money Well Spent
At $8 a piece, I thought the hour-long riverboat cruise down Big Cypress Bayou in Jefferson, Texas was well worth it. The boat captain is entertaining, the setting is beautiful, and shutterbugs will be in photo-heaven. (Speaking of, there is a gorgeous photo essay about this same bayou tour over at Debbi Robertson’s blog entitled The REAL La Salle’s Riverboat Expedition . Check it out!) If you ever take a jaunt to east Texas, I highly recommend checking out the Turning Basin Riverboat Tours website and booking a trip for yourself.
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Tui Snider is an author, speaker, and photographer who specializes in North Texas travel, cemetery symbols, and haunted lore. As she puts it, “I used to write fiction – but then, I moved to Texas!”
Snider’s best-selling books include Paranormal Texas , Understanding Cemetery Symbols , and 100 Things to Do in Dallas - Fort Worth Before You Die .
Snider has several more books in progress, and enjoys connecting with writers and readers all over the globe through social media, her newsletter and her website: TuiSnider.com .
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13 Comments
[…] The river plays such a big part in Jefferson’s history, that it’s well worth taking a ride on the Turning Basin Riverboat Tour. […]
[…] only is this little town full of antique shops, museums, and restaurants, but consider taking a guided trip down the bayou, or enjoying a mug of 5 cent coffee at the Jefferson General […]
Enjoyed seeing your presentation at the library in Denton! I have signed up to your newsletter and look forward to seeing you again. :)
Thank you, Audrey! I’m so glad you enjoyed my presentation. Thanks for signing up for my newsletter. You can always just hit reply to any of them if you ever have any questions or suggestions and I’ll get back to you as as soon as I can! :D
I love all the photos!
Thanks, Danny! I’m quite a shutterbug, as you can see! :D
You took those photos with your phone? Looks like a very pretty place!
Yes, CeeCee! I only had an iPhone 3 at the time, but I just got an iPhone 6 and the picture quality is a LOT better! Now, I just need to go back and take more photos! :D
Not sure I could have stayed in the boat if I seen a snake! Love all your photos. Are you on Instagram?
Haha! Actually, Carol, I know of someone who jumped out of a moving boat when she saw a snake in it with her. And, yes, I’m @TuiSnider on IG. If you’re there and you follow me, I will follow you back! :D
Those tree trunks look so cool.
Yeah, there’s something very animal-like about them. I really wanna go back to Jefferson, Texas. Heck, I’d move there!
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Turning Basin Riverboat Tours
- See all photos
Similar Experiences
Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.
Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as waiting time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.
Turning Basin Riverboat Tours - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go (2024)
Turning Basin Riverboat Tours
- See all photos
Similar Experiences
Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.
Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as waiting time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.
TURNING BASIN RIVERBOAT TOURS (Jefferson) - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go
Restaurant & Bar
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Auntie Skinners
Auntie Skinner’s Riverboat Club has been a destination establishment in Jefferson since opening in 1983. We offer good food at all times and live entertainment on Friday, Saturday nights.
Housed in a historic 1850s building in downtown Jefferson, Texas, Auntie Skinner’s is known nationwide as a western/biker/community bar and restaurant.
Every Year Auntie Skinner’s supports events throughout Jefferson and Marion County. In the spring is the colorful season of Mardi Gras. This event is big and bold just like our beautiful town, complete with a parade every day of the Mardi Gras weekend. For more information on Mardi Gras be sure to visit Mardi Gras Upriver
In April, the Outlaw National Car Show takes over Jefferson, Texas with hundreds of classic and custom cars to view and enjoy.
October is a HUGE month in Jefferson. The second weekend in October is the East Texas Burn Run . It fills the streets with bikes and people. Vendors and crafters take over entire blocks, offering an almost overwhelming plethora of items.
In December the Holiday Season kicks off with Jefferson Candlelight Tour . This tour features historic homes decorated lavishly for Christmas all over Jefferson.
For a complete calendar of events visit Marion County Chamber of Commerce or Visit Jefferson and come to Auntie Skinner’s for authentic old west ambiance and live entertainment by Texas bands and musicians.
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Welcome to Jefferson TX
Your first stop for tourist information
903-665-3733
Visit Jefferson Texas for fun on the Bayou.
This pre-civil war town has scenic streets, charming restaurants, quaint bed & breakfasts, historic hotels, RVs and picturesque landscapes. Jefferson, Texas is the perfect setting for your weekend getaway, wedding or any event.
Come to Jefferson and find out why the locals say...
Jefferson, it just makes me happy.
Jefferson, Texas
Historical markers, historic jefferson walking tour.
Jefferson has nearly 100 Historical Landmarks, many of which are also on the National Registry if Historic Places. Explore our markers or go on a tour of them using this interactive map.
Jefferson has several homes built before, during and right after the Civil War that are full of history. Available for tours with a group or individually. Contact the homes for days and times of tours.
Take a wonderful stroll past the historic homes, churches and attractions that give Jefferson it's history and old world charm. View pre-Civil War era structures that will transport you to a simpler time.
Sign up for our E-mail Newsletters about all of the exciting events in Jefferson
Our partners - click to view, printable map, brochure, walking tours and activity pack.
City of Jefferson Local Map (pdf)
City of Jefferson Brochure (pdf)
Riverfront History Tour (pdf)
Historic Jefferson Walking Tour (pdf)
Port Jefferson Nature and History Center Map (pdf)
Jefferson Kid's Activity Pack (pdf)
Testimonials
Jonathan r..
Just wanted to drop a little note and tell you how much we enjoyed the day we spent downtown. We are from Southern Illinois and had a very enjoyable day in Jefferson.
I love Jefferson. lts like stepping back in time. Everyone is so friendly and you can spend most of your time just looking at the beautiful historic homes.
Jefferson is my favorite town in Texas... Enchanting, friendly, and a refreshing escape from the modern world... I love this place, these people, and the old-fashioned spirit of the town!
Jefferson is an incredible fantastic historical town and it was a pleasure to visit it! I would recommend this to anyone. Thank you for a lovely experience!
I used to live in Jefferson and I loved it. Now I try to visit as much as possible.
Jefferson has been my favorite get-a-way for many years.
Jefferson Convention and Visitors Bureau
305 E. Austin St, Jefferson, TX 75657
Visit Jefferson Texas
Copyright © 2021 Visit Jefferson Texas (City of Jefferson Conventions and Visitors Bureau) All Rights Reserved. [email protected]
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Turning Basin Riverboat Tours
- See all photos
Similar Experiences
Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.
Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as waiting time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.
TURNING BASIN RIVERBOAT TOURS (Jefferson) - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go
Turning Basin Riverboat Tours
- See all photos
Similar Experiences
Most Recent: Reviews ordered by most recent publish date in descending order.
Detailed Reviews: Reviews ordered by recency and descriptiveness of user-identified themes such as waiting time, length of visit, general tips, and location information.
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1 Hour Trolley Tour and Bike Rentals in Jefferson, Texas. 45. Historical Tours. from . $19.25. per adult. Half-Day Private Kayak and Canoe Tours on Caddo Lake. Adventure Tours. from . ... Turning Basin Riverboat Tours offers entertainment and information at the same time. Read more. Written July 3, 2016.
Turning Basin Riverboat Tours, Jefferson, Texas. 2,266 likes · 2 talking about this · 274 were here. We offer an hour-long riverboat tour down the Big Cypress Bayou. Sharing with you and showing you... Turning Basin Riverboat Tours, Jefferson, Texas. 2,266 likes · 2 talking about this · 274 were here. ...
1. Turning Basin Riverboat Tours. 66. Boat Tours. By davidtI6638MZ. The captain relays historic landmarks and provides a broad picture of the long gone commercial waterway. Top Jefferson Boat Tours: See reviews and photos of Boat Tours in Jefferson, Texas on Tripadvisor.
1 Hour Shuttle Tour and Bike Rentals in Jefferson, Texas. 45. Historical Tours. from . $19.25. per adult. Half-Day Private Kayak and Canoe Tours on Caddo Lake. Adventure Tours. from . ... We were trying to decide whether to take the riverboat or train tour, and I believe we made the right decision. The entrance was just across the bridge.
Turning Basin Riverboat Tours, Jefferson: See 66 reviews, articles, and 42 photos of Turning Basin Riverboat Tours, ranked No.19 on Tripadvisor among 19 attractions in Jefferson. ... 1 Hour Trolley Tour and Bike Rentals in Jefferson, Texas. 45. Historical Tours. from ₹1,632.35. per adult. Half-Day Private Kayak and Canoe Tours on Caddo Lake ...
Location: Mobile, Jefferson, TX 75657 Message Us. Click to Call. Click to Copy. Claim Business. Email or call for working hours. We offer an hour-long riverboat tour down the Big Cypress Bayou. Sharing with you and showing you landmarks and history of our great little town. Read More Read More. Message Us. Click to Call. Click to Copy. 0 Reviews
Awesome 1-hour tour. Two minutes from Jefferson's downtown, this is a must-do boat tour for locals and tourists alike. My family loves taking this tour every time we visit Jefferson, especially when bringing family and friends who are visiting. The boat is covered and the captain of the boat provides history of the area and river during the ...
Turning Basin Riverboat Tours, Jefferson with kids: " For a close-up look at Big Cypress Bayou, once a major steamboat route that connected Texas to New Orleans, take a ride on a riverboat. The guided tour provides information on the area's history, nature, and wildlife.
1 Hour Shuttle Tour and Bike Rentals in Jefferson, Texas. 43. Historical Tours. from . $19.25. per adult. Half-Day Private Kayak and Canoe Tours on Caddo Lake. 0 reviews. Adventure Tours. from . ... We enjoyed this ride with good narration regarding the history of river boats and Jefferson. The tour guides were fun, knowledgeable, and ...
903-570-2169. Come take a boat tour on one of the most scenic and beautiful lakes in the South. Caddo Lake is approximately 26,000 acres of Bald Cypress trees, Spanish moss, abundant wildlife, and scenery that you will never forget. The lake has everything from swamps, bayous and river ways that create a one of a kind experience.
According to a study done in 2003, Caddo Lake flora and fauna includes 189 species of trees and shrubs, 75 grasses, 42 woody vines, 216 kinds of birds, 90 fish and reptiles, and 47 mammals, plus hundreds of alleged Bigfoot sightings. Forty-four of Caddo's native species were either endangered, threatened or rare. Call me at 903-570-3319, to ...
Beautiful Reflections along the Bayou Today's photo essay features shots I took with my iPhone while floating down the Big Cypress Bayou in Jefferson, Texas. It was hard to restrain myself to only sharing six pictures with you because I could not stop taking photos. It was that beautiful! If, like me, you enjoy dreamy reflections, then a cruise with Turning Basin Riverboat Tours is made for ...
Turning Basin Riverboat Tours, Jefferson: See 66 reviews, articles, and 42 photos of Turning Basin Riverboat Tours, ranked No.19 on Tripadvisor among 19 attractions in Jefferson. ... 1 Hour Trolley Tour and Bike Rentals in Jefferson, Texas. 45. from . C$26.49. per adult. Half-Day Private Kayak and Canoe Tours on Caddo Lake. from . C$137.61. per ...
Look no further than the captivating city of Jefferson, Texas. Known for its rich heritage, picturesque landscapes, and warm Southern hospitality, this hidden gem has something to offer every traveler. From charming historic districts to scenic riverboat cruises, Jefferson is a destination that will leave you spellbound.
1 Hour Shuttle Tour and Bike Rentals in Jefferson, Texas. 42. Historical Tours. from . $31.62. per adult. 2022. Half-Day Private Kayak and Canoe Tours on Caddo Lake. 0 reviews. Adventure Tours. from . $114.97. ... TURNING BASIN RIVERBOAT TOURS (Jefferson) - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go $ NZD. New Zealand
Theis boat tour down Big Cypress Bayou was well worth the $10 ticket. The bayou was picturesque passing by a Confederate powder magazine. The boat captain and owner was very friendly, informal, and informative. Don't visit Jefferson without taking this tour. Unfortunately the actual turning basin was filled in years ago.
Auntie Skinners. Auntie Skinner's Riverboat Club has been a destination establishment in Jefferson since opening in 1983. We offer good food at all times and live entertainment on Friday, Saturday nights. Housed in a historic 1850s building in downtown Jefferson, Texas, Auntie Skinner's is known nationwide as a western/biker/community bar ...
Visit Jefferson Texas for fun on the Bayou. This pre-civil war town has scenic streets, charming restaurants, quaint bed & breakfasts, historic hotels, RVs and picturesque landscapes. Jefferson, Texas is the perfect setting for your weekend getaway, wedding or any event. Come to Jefferson and find out why the locals say...
2. Riverbend Outfitters. 8. Kayaking & Canoeing. By pamt464. We will definitely use Riverbend Outfitters for our next trip to Caddo Lake.... Set sail on your destination's top-rated boat tours and cruises. Whether it's an entertaining and informative boat tour or a relaxing sunset dinner cruise, these are the best Jefferson cruises around.
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1 Hour Trolley Tour and Bike Rentals in Jefferson, Texas. 45. Historical Tours. from . £15.24. per adult. Half-Day Private Kayak and Canoe Tours on Caddo Lake. Adventure Tours. from . £79.16. ... TURNING BASIN RIVERBOAT TOURS (Jefferson) - All You Need to Know BEFORE You Go £ GBP. United Kingdom
Turning Basin Riverboat Tours: Lots of History disclosed - See 66 traveler reviews, 42 candid photos, and great deals for Jefferson, TX, at Tripadvisor.
Turning Basin Riverboat Tours, Jefferson: See 66 reviews, articles, and 42 photos of Turning Basin Riverboat Tours, ranked No.19 on Tripadvisor among 19 attractions in Jefferson. ... 1 Hour Shuttle Tour and Bike Rentals in Jefferson, Texas. 44. Historical Tours. from . AU$30.09. per adult. Half-Day Private Kayak and Canoe Tours on Caddo Lake ...
By beachboywantabe. The tour guide is a retired Federal Game Warden who has worked in Parks from the Mexican border to the Canadian border. 3. Historic Jefferson Ghost Walk. 125. Ghost & Vampire Tours. By tleeEvans. Our tour guide was excellent She is very knowledgeable on the history of the town and the buildings. 4.