Crockett: History, Nature and Trails through the County

Crockett combines the history of Crockett County with distinctive nature and outdoor experiences. Historic buildings, an approximately one-hour walking tour through Ozona, a free interpretive trail and extensive off-road routes offer very different options for planning a trip. Those looking for a vacation rental or holiday home can therefore first consider whether they want to focus on culture, wildlife observation or active days.

Historic Traces in Crockett County

A prominent starting point for exploring the region’s history is the Crockett County Courthouse. The building was constructed in 1902 in the American Gothic style according to plans by Oscar Ruffini. The Crockett County Jail also dates back to the county’s historical development. It was built in 1892 and has been designated a Recorded Texas Historic Landmark since 1966. Its tower may have been intended for executions; however, a gallows was never installed.

Other stops tell stories of early settlements and changing uses. The Perner House has been designated a Recorded Texas Historic Landmark since 1975. It began as a three-room wood-frame house that T. L. Hammonds had moved to this location from nearby Emerald in 1893. Emerald was the first platted town in Crockett County in 1889. After losing the 1891 county-seat election to E. M. Powell’s water-well site, present-day Ozona, Emerald became a failed colonization site in West Texas.

The Old Ozona Hotel is also part of this historic picture. Built around 1893, it accommodated teachers, visiting sports teams and business travelers and is designated a Recorded Texas Historic Landmark. The Crockett County Museum is located in a building that has served as a Methodist church, hospital and courthouse annex since it was built in 1926. The High Lonesome Stage Stand from 1902 also provides insight into the history of one of the last commercial stagecoach lines in Texas. Wagon ruts remain visible at the site of the Comstock-Ozona Stage Stand.

On Foot through Ozona and along Nature Trails

Ozona’s Historic Town Square has been the center of the community for more than a century. The square can be explored on foot among historic limestone and stucco buildings. The approximately one-hour History on the Square walking tour provides insights into the past of Crockett County. Those who want to make their stay intentionally revolve around a historical walking tour will find a clear thematic focus here. Ozona’s Chamber of Commerce and visitor center is also located within the Heart of Texas West wildlife trail network.

Wildlife observation can be combined with additional educational content at the Crockett County Interpretive Trail. The trail includes a Rain Harvest Exhibit with explanations of rainwater collection, an area for observing wildlife and a water source for birds and butterflies. More than 200 plants from over 75 species grow on the grounds. A colorful brochure allows visitors to explore the site independently. The trail is free and designed for year-round visits.

Active Excursions and Special Travel Ideas

For more active days, the Escondido Draw Recreational Area offers a 3,500-acre off-road site for ATVs, side-by-sides, dirt bikes and four-wheel-drive vehicles. The trail network is 110 miles long and includes varying levels of difficulty. This clearly distinguishes the day’s plans from a leisurely walk or a cultural and historical exploration.

The 5,800-acre Twistflower Ranch Nature Retreat is a ranch and nature refuge with guest cabins and activities such as archaeology, West Texas birdwatching, yoga, photography, stargazing, hiking and wildlife observation. Another annual event is Crockett County DeerFest’s Hunter Appreciation Dinner, organized on the first Saturday in December.

Accommodation and Orientation for Your Trip

When looking for a vacation rental in Crockett, it helps to consider the daily routine you want: Culture enthusiasts can focus on historic sites and the walking tour in Ozona, while nature and active travelers can plan time at the interpretive trail, the off-road site or the nature refuge’s activities. For arrival orientation, Ozona Municipal Airport is located one mile north of Ozona. It has a 6,000-foot all-weather runway and can accommodate aircraft weighing up to 70,000 pounds.

If you would like to explore the surrounding area further, you can also visit the page for Ozona. Other destinations for your travel planning include Childress County, Mcmullen County, Somervell County, Ellis, Erath, San Augustine County and Robertson County.

For the broader travel overview: Texas.