Fort Davis National Historic Site

Fort Davis National Historic Site is located in Jeff Davis County, Texas. It is situated in the Davis Mountains, approximately 175 miles southeast of El Paso. The site spans 474 acres and preserves a well-preserved military post from the 19th century.

The fort, named after Secretary of War Jefferson Davis, was initially established in 1854 to protect travelers along the San Antonio-El Paso Road. It played a crucial role in the defense of West Texas during the Civil War and later served as a home for the Buffalo Soldiers, the all-African American cavalry troops. The fort was manned until 1891 and was designated a national historic site in 1961.

Visitors to Fort Davis National Historic Site have the opportunity to explore the numerous historic buildings and structures that remain. The fort features more than 24 restored buildings, including officer's quarters, enlisted men's barracks, a hospital, and a commissary. Visitors can take a self-guided tour through the fort, learning about life on the frontier and the fort's roles in various conflicts.

Additionally, the historic site offers interpretive programs, including ranger-led tours and living history demonstrations, providing a deeper understanding of the fort's history. Visitors can witness reenactments of military drills, interact with costumed interpreters, and gain insight into the daily lives of the soldiers who served at the fort.

Apart from the fort itself, the surrounding area offers several attractions for tourists to explore. Nearby is the Davis Mountains State Park, where visitors can go hiking, camping, birdwatching, or have a scenic picnic. Additionally, the McDonald Observatory, situated on Mount Locke, offers stargazing opportunities and educational programs.

For those interested in the history and natural beauty of the area, Fort Davis National Historic Site provides a fascinating glimpse into the life of soldiers stationed on the Texas frontier and offers an enriching experience for visitors of all ages.

Fort Davis National Historic Site is located in West Texas, specifically in the scenic Davis Mountains of Jeff Davis County. Situated at an altitude of approximately 5,200 feet, the historic site provides a captivating experience with its breathtaking natural surroundings. The fort is set against a backdrop of rugged, picturesque mountains, which offer panoramic views and add to the site's unique charm. Its western Texas location lends itself to a climate characterized by hot summers and mild winters, making it an attractive destination year-round for history enthusiasts and nature lovers alike.

Address & Contact

101 Lt. Flipper Dr. #1379
P.O. Box 1379
Fort Davis, TX 79734
Driving Directions
Phone: 1-432-426-3224
Web: Link

Weather & Seasonality

The best time to visit Fort Davis National Historic Site would be in the months of March, April, and October. During this time, the average maximum temperatures range from 74°F to 81°F, and the average minimum temperatures range from 41°F to 48°F. The average monthly precipitation is relatively low, ranging from 0.4 inches to 1.2 inches. These months provide pleasant weather for outdoor activities without extreme heat or cold, and the precipitation levels are moderate, making it an ideal time to enjoy the site.

Activities

Some of the activities you can do in Fort Davis National Historic Site are: Food Picnicking Guided Tours Self-Guided Tours - Walking Junior Ranger Program Wildlife Watching Birdwatching Park Film Museum Exhibits Shopping Bookstore and Park Store Gift Shop and Souvenirs Arts and Culture Hiking Front-Country Hiking Backcountry Hiking Living History Historic Weapons Demonstration Craft Demonstrations

Topics

Learn about these topics at Fort Davis National Historic Site: Animals Birds Geology Architecture and Building Native American Heritage Westward Expansion Cats (wild) Tortoises and Turtles Rock Landscapes and Features Military US Army African American Heritage Forests and Woodlands Scenic Views Forts Infantry and Militia Wars and Conflicts Cavalry Indigenous and Native Warrior Indian and Frontier Wars Medicine Hospital

Visitor Centers

Visitor Center

Fort Davis National Historic Site has one Visitor Center where you can pay the entrance fee, receive orientation, grounds map, and watch the parks introductory video.

Passport Stamp locations

The following locations have passport stamps for your "Passport to Your National Parks" booklet: Visitor Center.

Campsites within or near Fort Davis National Historic Site

This park doesn't have any campsites within its boundaries (or we haven't found them yet)).

Hotels within or near Fort Davis National Historic Site

Hampton Inn Alpine

Located in Alpine, Hampton Inn Alpine is within a 5-minute drive of Kiowa Gallery and Big Bend Regional Medical Center. Featured amenities include complimentary wired Internet access, a business center, and express check-out. Free self parking is available onsite.
Address: 2607 W Highway 90, Alpine, Texas 79830
Web: Link

Holiday Inn Express & Suites Alpine Southeast, an IHG Hotel

With a stay at Holiday Inn Express & Suites Alpine Southeast, an IHG Hotel in Alpine, you'll be within a 5-minute drive of Big Bend Regional Medical Center and Kiowa Gallery. Featured amenities include a business center, a 24-hour front desk, and multilingual staff. Free self parking is available onsite.
Address: 2004 E Hwy 90, Alpine, Texas 79830
Web: Link

Fort Davis Inn & R.V. Park

Located in Fort Davis, Fort Davis Inn & R.V. Park is within a 5-minute drive of Davis Mountains State Park and Overland Trail Museum. Featured amenities include complimentary newspapers in the lobby, a 24-hour front desk, and laundry facilities. Free self parking is available onsite.
Address: 2201 N State St, Fort Davis, Texas 79734
Web: Link

Davis Mountains Inn

Located in Fort Davis, Davis Mountains Inn is within a 5-minute drive of Overland Trail Museum and Fort Davis National Historic Site. Free self parking is available onsite.
Address: 43417 State Hwy 17, 1/2 Mile South Hwy 17, Fort Davis, Texas 79734
Web: Link

Americas Best Value Inn Alpine

With a stay at Americas Best Value Inn Alpine in Alpine, you'll be within a 5-minute drive of Sul Ross State University and Big Bend Regional Medical Center. Featured amenities include complimentary newspapers in the lobby, a 24-hour front desk, and multilingual staff. Free self parking is available onsite.
Address: 2010 Hwy 90 East, Alpine, Texas 79830
Web: Link

Fort Davis Drug Store and Hotel

Located in Fort Davis, Fort Davis Drug Store and Hotel is within a 5-minute drive of Overland Trail Museum and Fort Davis National Historic Site.
Address: 113 State Street, Fort Davis, Texas 79734
Web: Link

South Gate Lodges

Located in Fort Davis, South Gate Lodges is in a state park, within a 5-minute drive of Overland Trail Museum and Fort Davis National Historic Site. Free self parking is available onsite.
Address: State Hwy 118, Fort Davis, Texas 79734
Web: Link

OYO Hotel Alpine TX near University

Located in Alpine, OYO Hotel Alpine TX near University is within a 15-minute walk of Kiowa Gallery and Murphy St. Raspa Co.. Featured amenities include a 24-hour front desk and luggage storage. Free self parking is available onsite.
Address: 809 E Holland Ave, Alpine, Texas 79830
Web: Link

Langridge Lodge 801 - studio Br Residence

When you stay at this vacation home in Alpine, you'll be in the mountains, within a 15-minute walk of Kiowa Gallery and Murphy St. Raspa Co.. Free self parking is available onsite.
Address: 801 East Avenue E, Alpine, Texas 79830
Web: Link

Alpine Bed and Breakfast

With a stay at Alpine Bed and Breakfast in Alpine, you'll be 17.4 mi (27.9 km) from Marfa Lights Viewing Center and 19.5 mi (31.3 km) from Chihuahuan Desert Nature Center and Botanical Garden. Featured amenities include express check-out, complimentary newspapers in the lobby, and luggage storage. Free self parking is available onsite.
Address: 403 N 8th St, Alpine, Texas 79830
Web: Link