Davis Mountains Preserve Open Weekends

FAQs

General

• Is the Davis Mountains Preserve open to the public year-round?

  The Nature Conservancy’s Davis Mountains Preserve is open to the public during our Open Event dates, which are posted on this webpage at the beginning of each calendar year. Our Open Event dates change each year.

• Do you have your Open Event dates set for next year?

  We set our Open Event dates at the beginning of each new calendar year.

• Why only four Open Events at the Davis Mountains Preserve in 2024?

  In an effort to expand our education and outreach opportunities throughout West Texas in 2024, we are hosting four Open Weekends at the Davis Mountains Preserve. This will allow TNC to offer public access to other West Texas Preserves throughout the year, including Marathon Grasslands, Diamond Y Spring and Sandia Springs.

• Do I need reservations for the Open Events? Where and when can I make them?

  Reservations are no longer required to attend Open Events; however, reservations are required to attend one of our guided tours.

• How can I stay up to date on the latest info about Open Events at the preserve?

  Sign up for our TNC Texas Nature News, “Like” The Nature Conservancy in Texas on Facebook or sign up for our email list by contacting kaylee.french@tnc.org.

• Can I hike Mount Livermore/Baldy Peak outside of the Open Events?

  No. Mount Livermore/Baldy Peak are only accessible to the public during our Open Events.

• What does high clearance mean? Do I need high clearance? Do I need 4WD?

  Per The National Park Service, a high-clearance 2WD vehicle is defined as an SUV or truck type vehicle with at least 8 inches of clearance or more, from the lowest point of the frame, body, suspension or differential, to the ground.

  A high-clearance vehicle is required to drive anywhere past our McIvor Conservation Center at the entrance of the Davis Mountains Preserve, including to the trailhead for Mount Livermore/Baldy Peak. There are several trails accessible from our McIvor Center that do not require you to have a high-clearance vehicle.

  NOTE: During our rainy season (July – September), our Madera Canyon Road has several water crossings that can be impassible. Other trails are available, if this is the case.

  A 4WD vehicle is not required but is helpful.

• Can I bring my pet?

  No pets are allowed on the Davis Mountains Preserve. However, pets are allowed on the Madera Canyon Trail.

Camping

• Can I camp anywhere on the preserve?

  Camping is available only in our 4 designated camping areas. A map with our camping areas can be found on our Davis Mountains Preserve page.

• Can I book a campsite ahead of time?

  No. All campsites are first come, first served.

• Can I drive up to the campsites?

  Yes. All campsites can be driven up to.

• Are the campsites primitive?

  Yes. Campsites do not have water or electricity available.

• Can I use a camp stove? Generator?

  When we are not in a burn ban, camp stoves are allowed.

  Generators are not allowed.

• Are there bathrooms on the preserve?

  Yes. Our McIvor Conservation Center has a men’s and women’s bathroom, each with two showers available for use during our Open Weekends.

• Is there a water faucet outside? Is it potable?

  Yes. There is a water faucet along the main road, close to our McIvor Conservation Center. It is potable, but we’d suggest bringing your own water anyway.

• Is there a place to wash dishes?

  No. We suggest bringing your own water so you can wash dishes at your campsite with biodegradable soap.

• Is there a trash can?

  No. We do not have a trash service on the preserve and ask that you pack out everything you pack in.