A remarkably well-preserved frontier military post with an impressive backdrop at the foot of Sleeping Lion Mountain, Fort Davis was established in 1854 and abandoned in 1891. More than 20 buildings remain – five of them restored with period furnishings – as well as 100 or so ruins.
It’s easy to picture the fort as it was in 1880, especially with bugle calls sounding in the background. It’s even easier in the summer months, when interpreters dressed in period clothing are on hand to describe life at the fort.
The fort is strategically located at the foot of Sleeping Lion Mountain and Hospital Canyon . The site serves as the trailhead for several hikes, ranging from the 1-mile Tall Grass Loop to the more ambitious 3-mile trek to Davis Mountains State Park . Ask for a trail map in the fort's visitor center.
