What to Expect: The gates will be open from 10 AM - 5 PM for self-guided exploration, and you are welcome to arrive at any time during the day. Gates will close at promptly 5 PM unless you are registered for our evening activities. We recommend you anticipate spending at least two hours on the preserve.
Self-Guided Exploration: You are free to follow the marked trails and explore on your own. The trails are unimproved and will lead you to Pecan Springs and Elm Bat Cave, a round-trip of about 3 miles, with plenty of beautiful scenery along the way.
Guided Nature Hikes: If you like, you can also go on one or more of our guided hikes, departing every 90 minutes. Our nature hikes will be led by Texas Master Naturalist Andrew Harrod and TPWD Urban Wildlife Biologist Natasia Moore and will offer a more in-depth exploration of the plants and animals of the preserve.
Special events for the Early Birds and Night Owls:
Birding Hike 8 AM - 10 AM: Kick off the day with an early morning bird hike led by Texas Master Naturalist Mikael Behrens. Discover the native birds that thrive in the preserve’s natural habitat. General admission is included in this ticket, so feel free to stay and explore after the hike concludes!
Evening Hike and Exploration 5 PM - 8 PM: For an evening adventure, join us for some extra special evening activities. Take a bat walk with Bat Conservation International, explore the hidden wonders on a UV night hike with Central Texas Mycology, and go mothing with Texas Master Naturalist Jack Cochran. Don’t miss this special chance to experience the preserve after dark. General admission is included in this ticket if you would like to arrive a little early.
Please Note:
The Preserve is unimproved, with no amenities or drinking water sources. While portable toilets, handwashing stations, and water refilling stations will be available, there are no indoor facilities. Please plan accordingly. Additionally, pets are not permitted on the Preserve. Hill Country Conservancy is a Texan by Nature Conservation Partner. Click here to see more conservation events across Texas.
