How to Send Messages to Inmates

You can use your phone or computer to send emails, letters, and photos to an inmate. Messages are sent electronically to inmate tablets or kiosks at the facility. If you would like to send a message, start by searching for an inmate at Bowie County Correctional.

Sending Photos and Postcards

A great way to send love and support to a loved one at Bowie County Correctional is to send photos and postcards. It only takes a few minutes to send photos from your phone and it makes a huge difference. You can also mail postcards with words of support and inspiration, or design your own postcard for special moments like birthdays and holidays.

Important! Be sure not to send any explicit photos or they may not be approved by the facility. You can also use a photo printing app like Penmate to make sure your photos are printed at the correct size (4x6 or 3x5) and are mailed according to the rules and regulations of Bowie County Correctional.

Frequently asked questions about Bowie County Correctional

1. How long does it take to deliver a message?

   If you're sending an email message your letter is usually delivered within 24-48 hours. For messages sent via mail you should expect delivery within 3-7 days. All messages will need be approved by Bowie County Correctional.

2. How much does it cost to send a message to Bowie County Correctional?

   You can send a message free using your phone or mail a message via USPS for the price of a $0.60 stamp and envelope. You can also purchase credits or e-stamps from services starting at $1.99.

3. What services can I use to contact an inmate at Bowie County Correctional?

   Penmate

   You can use Penmate to send letters and photos to an inmate from your phone. It's an easy way to stay in touch during your loved one's incarceration. Use the inmate locator to find an inmate's location and contact information, then you can send messages within a few minutes.

   Securus messaging

   Securus may be another option for communicating with an inmate at Bowie County Correctional. You can create a friends and family account and purchase credits to send messages. All messages will be reviewed and must be approved by the facility.

   JPay

   Some county jails and state prisons may support sending messages with JPay. You must register an account with the system, find your loved one, and purchase stamps to send messages. For some locations you can also attach photos.

   Smart Jail Mail

   You may also check if Smart Jail Mail is available at Bowie County Correctional. Smart Jail Mail is operated by Smart Communications and has contracted with some state and county jails. After purchasing credits, your messages and photos are sent to the facility, printed out, and then handed out to your loved one.

4. What is the mailing address of Bowie County Correctional?

   Mailing address:

   Bowie County Correctional
   105 W Front St
   Texarkana, TX 75501
   Phone: (903) 798-3505

5. What are the visiting hours at Bowie County Correctional?

   Visiting hours at Bowie County Correctional vary by housing unit and security level. Generally, visits are scheduled on weekends and holidays, with some facilities offering weekday visits. Contact the facility directly at (903) 798-3505 or check their website for the current visiting schedule. Visits typically last 30-60 minutes and must be scheduled in advance.

6. What items are prohibited when sending mail to Bowie County Correctional?

   Prohibited items typically include: cash, personal checks, stamps, stickers, glitter, glue, tape, staples, paperclips, polaroid photos, musical or blank greeting cards, hardcover books, magazines with staples, and any items containing metal or electronics. Only send letters on plain white paper with blue or black ink. Photos must be printed on regular photo paper (no Polaroids). Always check with Bowie County Correctional for their specific mail policies.

7. How do I send money to an inmate at Bowie County Correctional?

   You can send money to an inmate at Bowie County Correctional through several methods: 1) Online using JPay, Access Corrections, or the facility's approved vendor, 2) Money orders mailed directly to the facility with the inmate's name and ID number, 3) Kiosks located in the facility lobby, or 4) Over the phone using a credit or debit card. Fees vary by method, typically ranging from $2.95 to $11.95 per transaction.

8. Can I schedule a video visit with an inmate at Bowie County Correctional?

   Many facilities now offer video visitation as an alternative to in-person visits. At Bowie County Correctional, video visits may be available through services like Penmate, Securus Video Connect, GTL, or ICSolutions. Video visits typically cost $10-20 for 20-30 minutes and must be scheduled in advance. You'll need a computer or smartphone with a camera and reliable internet connection. Contact the facility for their specific video visitation policies and approved vendors.

9. What identification do I need to visit an inmate at Bowie County Correctional?

   All visitors must present valid government-issued photo identification such as a driver's license, state ID, passport, or military ID. Minors must be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian who can provide the minor's birth certificate. Some facilities require visitors to be on the inmate's approved visitation list, which may require a background check. Contact Bowie County Correctional for specific ID requirements and visitor approval procedures.

10. How can I find out an inmate's release date?

    To find an inmate's release date at Bowie County Correctional, you can: 1) Use the online inmate search tool if available, 2) Call the facility's records department, 3) Contact the inmate's case manager or counselor, or 4) Have the inmate provide this information during a call or visit. For privacy reasons, some facilities only release this information to immediate family members.

Programs & Services

Personal growth and skill development take center stage through structured opportunities designed to prepare those incarcerated for successful community reintegration. The facility typically emphasizes building practical capabilities while maintaining a secure environment that supports both safety and personal advancement. These offerings often focus on developing essential life skills and work readiness that may prove valuable upon release.

Educational opportunities frequently include civic education programming that helps participants understand community responsibilities and civic engagement. Vocational training offerings may furnish hands-on experience in various trade skills, allowing those incarcerated to develop marketable abilities during their time at the facility. These educational components often emphasize practical knowledge that can translate directly into employment opportunities.

In addition to these foundational programs, work programs typically provide structured daily activities that build work habits and responsibility. Faith-based initiatives may offer spiritual support and community connection for interested participants. Support services often include housing assistance guidance to help with reentry planning, while printing operations may furnish both vocational experience and practical facility functions. These comprehensive offerings work together to create multiple pathways for personal development within a secure, structured environment.

Daily Life & Visitation

Family connections and social bonds remain central to how those incarcerated navigate their time at Bowie County Jail. Today’s routine consistently revolves around maintaining these relationships while adapting to the structured environment. Those incarcerated typically begin each day with early morning counts, followed by meal service and opportunities for communication with loved ones through phone calls and video visits.

Living accommodations generally consist of shared housing units where individuals may develop supportive relationships with fellow residents. The facility typically furnishes basic necessities while allowing personal items from approved commissary purchases. Meals are usually served in common dining areas, creating natural opportunities for social interaction and community building among those housed together.

In addition to this daily structure, recreational activities and work assignments often provide meaningful ways to stay engaged. Those incarcerated may participate in educational programming, religious services, or exercise periods that help maintain physical and mental well-being. Despite this institutional setting, visitation policies generally allow regular contact with family members, while mail correspondence and phone privileges help preserve important outside relationships. Work details within the facility typically include kitchen duties, cleaning assignments, and maintenance tasks that contribute to the overall operation while providing structure to daily routines.