The Fort Leaton State Historic Site is located on Farm to Market Road 170, in Presidio County in the U.S. state of Texas. The original adobe structure was a private residence dating back to the early 19th century. It was purchased in 1848 by Benjamin Leaton, who adapted it as a fortress.
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Built in the 1830s as a residence, Benjamin Layton converted the this adobe structure into a trading post and fortress in 1848. In 1967, it was deeded to the state of Texas and opened to the public in 1978 as a Texas State Historic Site. We happened to visit after a scenic drive on FM 170 from Lajitas, TX. It's easy to miss as you're coming down the road so watch for signs. In addition to the historic ruins, there are nature trails, exhibits with artifacts, a picnic area, a gift shop, and public restrooms. There's a $5 per Adult entry fee that applies to both the fort and to Big Bend Ranch State Park. Kids 12 and under are free and the off-peak season price is $3. They also have tours, but we just did the self-guided tour. Overall an interesting historical place to visit. There is even a Pokemon Go stop nearby to please the kids and the...
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What a nice stop right outside of Presidio! On our way in and out of #bigbendranchsp we try to schedule a stop here to stretch our legs. There's a really pleasant picnic area set up with shade and running water. The restrooms are up the walk, in the inside courtyard area. There's also a short 1/2 mile nature trail. You walk thru the gift shop/check-in desk to get to their museum and it is really a must-see. So informative of the unique history of the area and the fort. You walk through the fort to see all displays of how living areas were set up and you'll hear the rustling of the bats that reside just above your heads in the rafters. Such a unique building! I have 2 little...
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This Fort is really worth the tour. Original construction and ongoing restoration work can be seen. They have lots of the original rooms staged to get a feel for life in the Fort back in the 1800s. The thick adobe walls offer a substantial temperature difference from outside considering there's no heat or AC in place.
You can get all your State Park permits and reservations confirmed at the Fort office and there's a clean bathroom. That's the last non E-Loo toilet til you get to one of the other visitor centers. We found the staff to be friendly...
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