Cancel a Westcave Field Trip?
Westcave Field Trip Cancellation Policy: Groups will receive a full refund or credit with a two week notice of cancellation. Otherwise, a minimum charge for the group will be processed with the credit card on file. In the event Westcave has to cancel the event due to weather or other unforeseen circumstances, (weather, flooding, etc.) Westcave will either reschedule the event or offer a full refund. No-shows will be charged the full price of their scheduled field trip.
Payment Due?
Payment is due upon arrival. Westcave accepts credit cards, cash or checks made out to Westcave Outdoor Discovery Center.
Arrival Time?
Please arrive 15 minutes before your scheduled arrival time with your total number of participants. Should your group arrive late, your program may have to be shortened. Reduced fees are not offered if your program is shortened due to a late arrival.
How many chaperones can attend?
Chaperone Policy: As a policy no more than 2 chaperones per class are allowed due to limited space and to allow the kids to have the best possible experience. Please ask the chaperones to bring $10 in cash the day of the field trip for their entrance fee. Please contact the Education Manager if any questions.
What should my students have to be prepared?
Please inform your students that they will need to stay with the group and on the trail at all times. Everything at the preserve is protected an no leaves or flowers may be picked from plants.
The hike into the canyon and back is roughly one mile. Westave recommends all participants wear comfortable closed toe shoes and socks for hiking. Everyone should also be advised to wear comfortable outdoor clothes that is weather appropriate: light, loose clothing on a hot day and layers on a cold day.
For a picnic lunch everyone should have a packed lunch, and a water bottle. Placing the kids lunches and water bottles in bins to bring into the building during the program is recommended. The students do not need anything but themselves down on the trail.
Do you have restrooms?
Two composting toilets and sinks for hand washing are available for guest usage. Cleaning and disinfecting procedures are in place.
Do you have water at Westcave?
Westcave Preserve does not have sufficient water available to meet the needs of all students. We request that you bring water for each of your students.
Do you have a picnic area?
Picnic tables are available for your use. Bring sack lunches and water for your group to enjoy lunch under our beautiful Ashe juniper and oak trees.
Weather or rain day of Hike?
No tours can be conducted in the event of severe weather. Please contact the Preserve to discuss weather conditions and rescheduling your field trip if necessary.
Do you allow pets?
No pets are allowed on the premises of Westcave Preserve, even if on a leash. Pets are not allowed to be left in a vehicle. If you are found with a pet on the Preserve or locked in your vehicle, you will kindly be asked to leave.
Can we swim at Westcave?
There is no swimming or water contact at Westcave or access to the Pedernales River.
*Please note there is NO smoking and no drones are allowed on the property.