take our survey   We want to hear from you about your park experiences. Take our quick  10-question survey. Outdoor activities:
Day Use Only Hiking & Walking Trails Natural Science Center Outdoor Education & Recreation Programs Guided Tours Meeting / Conference Facilities Restrooms	Children explore cave formations at Westcave Preserve in western Travis County. Dan Lester of the University of Texas' McDonald Observatory explains how to track the sun's movement during the dedication of the learning center at Westcave Preserve.

Westcave Preserve is located about 30 miles west of downtown Austin.

The 30-acre preserve is a natural wonder and Hill Country treasure, a breathtaking cave formation with waterfalls and deep pools, carpeted with lush vegetation and teaming with wildlife.

LCRA acquired the property in 1983 and operates it in partnership with Westcave Preserve Corporation. Tours allow visitors to view these natural formations along with the variety of natural vegetation.

A 3,000-square-foot learning center, named the Warren Skaaren Environmental Learning Center at Westcave Preserve, was opened in 2003. The facility's design includes a sun aperture in the ceiling above the solar exhibit where sunlight is projected on the floor and crosses a meridian at local noon time each day.

For information on fees, tours and hours, see Westcave Preserve Web site.

For more information on LCRA's natural science programs, see:

• Nature parks and natural science programs overview
• Cooper Farm Natural Science Laboratory
• Canyon of the Eagles Nature Park
• Matagorda Bay Nature Park
• McKinney Roughs
• Nightengale Archaeological Center

See Map of parks, preserves and natural science centers.