Davis Mountains State Park

After my adventure at Lost Maples, I continued west towards one of my favorite areas of Texas, the Davis Mountains. I've always loved West Texas. I like the long views, the rugged terrain, the amazing light, the endless night skies, the sense of history and the tenacity of its inhabitants, human and otherwise. I spent the night at Davis Mountains State Park. They have a nice shady campground along a small creek. I stayed there once when my kids were little and it remains one of my favorites. The park is in bear and cougar country, so warnings to stay alert while hiking were mounted on the restroom doors.

Just a short walk from the campground is the historic Indian Lodge, a unique inn built in the 1930's by the Civilian Conservation Corp. The lodge was designed to resemble a multi-level pueblo village. When I'd stayed at the park before it had been closed for renovation. Since I love staying at historic hotels, I decided to check it out. I talked to the staff, enjoyed the peaceful patio fountains and swings, drooled over the restaurant menu and have to admit I was tempted to stay. In the end, I decided I'd rather stay in the campground and cook my own meals saving enough money for two tanks of gas.

I only camped for one night, but could easily have stayed for a week or more, there is so much to see. If you visit the Davis Mountains, these are some of the sights I would recommend:

Fort Davis-Texas' 2009 Official Best Small Town

Fort Davis National Historic Site-A restored Southwest Indian Wars' frontier military post.

McDonald Observatory-Considered one of the best places to stargaze in the world.

The Scenic Loop Drive-At 6700 feet, the highest and one of the best in Texas.

Balmorhea State Park-Home of the largest spring-fed pool in the world.

Where did I go when I left the park the next day? I had a picnic and went swimming at Balmorhea State Park. It was an unbelievable experience. The next time I'm in the Davis Mountains, I'll have to camp there for several days. Heck, I might have to move back to Texas just to see all the sights.