Directions To Davis Mountains State Park

One of the most scenic parks in Texas is located in the Davis mountains, near the small town of Ft. Davis. Davis Mountains state park was created by the Texas state legislature in the 1930′s. This park is one of my favorites and I have been there over a dozen times.  Many of the park’s buildings and camping areas were constructed by the C.C.C. or Civilian Conservation Corps, a public works project that helped the unemployed during the Great Depression.  Things to do in Davis Mountains State park include hiking on miles of scenic trails, bird and wildlife watching, stargazing (the stars in remote West Texas are amazing) and touring the nearby Ft. Davis historical site.  There are primitive campsites for tent camping as well as RV sites with water, electricity and cable. You may also be able to reserve a room at the historic Indian Lodge hotel, which is located in the heart of the park. It features native American and Western decor, a pool and a restaurant, all of which are operated by the park service.  During the times my wife and I have stayed in the park we have seen a variety of wildlife, from Montezuma quail to mule deer, fox and even bobcat. The Davis Mountains are home to a great variety of wildlife including songbirds so be sure to take your binoculars and camera. A scenic trail leads to a summit high above the park, which offers lovely sunsets and views of the desert.  Alpine, which is about a half hour drive from the park, offers a wide variety of shopping, art galleries and dining opportunities.

The old fort in nearby Ft. Davis was built in the mid 18oo’s to protect settlers and travelers from Apache, Comanche and Kiowa raiding parties.  It was named after the former U.S. secretary of war Jefferson Davis, who also later served as president of the Confederacy.  Ft. Davis was later home to the Buffalo Soldiers.  A nearby “must see” is McDonald Observatory, operated by the University of Texas  which is open to the public.  Telescopes are available for stargazing at the base of Mt. Locke.

Below is a map of Ft. Davis State Park

Below is a highway map of Davis Mountains State Park.

Directions to Davis Mountains State Park:

To visit Davis Mountains State park, drive 1 mile north of Fort Davis on State Highway 17 to State Highway 118N.  Travel west on State Highway 118N for 3 miles to Park Road 3 where you will enter the park.  Phone number for Davis Mountains state park is 432/426-3337

There are frequently burn bans in Davis Mountains State park when wood and charcoal fires may be prohibited. You can call the park phone number for information on burn bans and for reservations. Don’t miss this beautiful state park. It has much to offer visitors of all ages.