The Nature Conservancy’s Davis Mountains Preserve, a normally restricted area dedicated to research and conservation, is inviting the public to explore its stunning landscapes on select weekends throughout the year. Home to Mount Livermore and Baldy Peak, the preserve offers a unique opportunity for outdoor enthusiasts to engage in camping, hiking, biking, equestrian activities, picnics, photography, birding, and more.
Open Weekend Dates for 2025
The preserve will be open to visitors from 8:00 AM on Friday to 5:00 PM on Sunday on the following weekends:
- March 14 – 16
- July 11 – 13
- August 22 – 24
- November 7 – 9
No reservations are required to enjoy these weekends, making it easier for everyone to participate in the natural beauty of the Davis Mountains.
Location and Time
- Location: Davis Mountains Preserve
- Time: 08:00 AM – 05:00 PM CT (UTC -05:00h)
Visitor Guidelines
- High clearance, street-legal vehicles are necessary beyond the McIvor Conservation Center.
- Campfires and firearms are prohibited within the preserve.
- Visitors under 18 must be accompanied by an adult.
- Only licensed service animals are allowed; no other pets are permitted.
- All trash must be packed out, and visitors should be prepared for varying weather conditions.
Additional Opportunities
Aside from the preserve, the Madera Canyon Trail remains open to the public year-round, from sunrise to sunset. This separate trail offers additional access to the area’s natural beauty, regardless of the main preserve’s closures.
Hiking to Baldy Peak
For those seeking a challenge, the hike to Baldy Peak of Mount Livermore is classified as strenuous. This trail, with an elevation gain of 1,800 feet, typically takes a fit hiker 4-6 hours to complete. Visitors are reminded that gates close at 5:00 PM on Open Weekend Sundays, so planning your hike with time to spare is crucial.
More Information
For further details about the Davis Mountains Preserve, including trail maps and event specifics, contact Kaylee French at kaylee.french@TNC.ORG or call 432-426-2390. Maps and additional resources are also available to enhance your visit.
This open access is a rare chance to explore one of Texas’s most pristine conservation areas. Whether you’re an avid hiker, photographer, or simply a nature lover, the Davis Mountains Preserve offers an exceptional experience in one of the state’s most scenic environments.
