The Fort Davis National Historic Site provides a fascinating account of a frontier military post. Located at the foot of the Davis Mountains in Fort Davis, the dog-friendly park includes a visitor center with orientation videos and tours throughout the furnished restored buildings and fort ruins. Dog are welcome throughout the complex and on the hiking trails. The McDonald Observatory is also located in the Fort Davis area, providing stargazing in the clean and dark skies of western Texas. The Davis Mountain RV Park is centrally located for area attractions.
Key Takeaways:
- History buffs will enjoy the Fort Davis National Historic Site; a family and dog-friendly park with several restored and furnished buildings
- The nearby McDonald Observatory takes advantage of the west Texas dark skies to provide exceptional stargazing
- The Davis Mountains provide a rugged backdrop for scenic drives
- Davis Mountain RV Park is a good RV stay to enjoy local attractions
Campground Review:
Davis Mountain RV Park provides full hookups, large pull-through sites and mountain views. This roadside park is a good option to visit the nearby attractions. There is little grass — a feature of western Texas — but plenty of open space to walk the dogs.
What to do:
- Tour the Fort Davis National Historic Site, starting at the Visitor Center for maps, exhibits and an orientation of this dog-friendly park; tour the restored buildings which include barracks, kitchen, and hospital, hike several trails in the park.
- Stargaze at the McDonald Observatory; advance reservations are required (plan ahead during weekends, holidays, Spring breaks)
- Visit Davis Mountain State Park for hiking, horseback riding and scenic drives
- Drive the 75-mile Scenic Loop on Texas 118 and 166 with views of the Sierra Viejo Mountains
- Visit nearby Marfa for shopping and dining; we enjoyed the popular Water Stop
Fort Davis Historic Site
Fort Davis Commissary
Fort Davis Enlisted Barracks
Fort Davis Cannon
Fort Davis Post Hospital
Fort Davis Officer Quarters
Fort Davis National Historic Site
McDonald Observatory
Chili & Cedar’s Review:
Fort Davis RV Park is fine for a two-night stay. We prefer more green space, dog parks, dog beaches — all the frills — but this park was just okay. It was so windy during our stay, we stayed in the RV alot. We did like our drive on the Scenic Loop. Fort Davis National Historic Site is dog friendly – woof!