When
05/16/2026
10:00 am - 12:00 pm
Location
Big Spring
925 Pemberton Hill Road
Dallas, Texas
Big Spring is located in the Great Trinity Forest. Sam Houston camped here on his way to Bird’s Fort in 1843. John Neely Bryan lived here with his family before he was committed to the State Asylum. Edward Case Pemberton purchased the property from Bryan’s widow in 1878 and kept it in the family for more than a century. Acquired by the City of Dallas in 2003. Texas Historical Marker 2014. Dallas Historical Landmark 2016. Located on Pemberton Hill Road in southeast Dallas. Ample paved parking but no other facilities.
Our host: M C Toyer
What to see: Active spring with flowing water. The Big Spring Burr Oak designated by the Texas Historic Tree Coalition. Ancient Walnut tree with iron spike at high water mark of 1942 flood. Native American artifacts found at the site. Wildflowers will be in full bloom in May. Bryan’s Slough (a narrow stream) carries water output from Big Spring to White Rock Creek. A guide from the Texas Stream Team which monitors the water quality will be present. Master Naturalists restored native plants and added new ones may also be present. Archeologist can be present to explain artifacts and native culture in the region. Opportunities for bird watchers and wild animals.
