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Fort Leaton State Historic Site

In 1848, this adobe fortress was a major regional trading center for explorers, soldiers, traders, Native Americans and Anglo settlers. Restored today and featuring a museum, colorful events and reenactments, Fort Leaton has gone from making history to actually being history.

Things to Do

Fort Leaton serves as the Western Visitor Center for Big Bend Ranch State Park. Permits for backpacking and camping (no hookups) at Big Bend Ranch State Park can be obtained at Fort Leaton or the Barton Warnock Visitor Center, on the eastern edge of the park near Lajitas. Visitors can also purchase river-use permits, licenses, and information about the Big Bend region.

The park is day-use only and offers picnicking areas, guided tours, plus exhibits on the history from 15th century, natural history, and archaeological history of the area. The site serves for historical study activities.

Ranger Programs

Tours: The park offers a variety of educational opportunities. There are guided tours available and self-guided tours of the Fort and its exhibits on the history of the Fort, as well as the natural and archaeological history of the area. Check the calendar for upcoming events or contact the park for special tours.

Area Attractions

Points of interest nearby include Big Bend Ranch State Park, Davis Mountains State Park; Barton Warnock Visitor Center; Big Bend National Park; and Ojinaga, Chihuahua, Mexico (gateway to Copper Canyon). For more information on this region go to the Texas Historical Commission - Texas Mountain Trail web site.

P.O. Box 2319
Presidio, TX 79845

Latitude: 29.542525

Longitude: -104.326809

(432) 229-3613

Entrance Fees
  • Adult - Peak Season: $5 Daily
  • Adult - Non-Peak: $3 Daily
  • Child 12 Years and Under : Free
Gate Hours

Open 7 days a week year-round.
8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

Busy Season

September through April

Climate

January average low temperature is 40 degrees. July average high temperature is 105 degrees. First freeze occurs late November. Last freeze occurs mid-March.

National Weather Service forecast for this area
Elevation

2594 feet.

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