Field Trips and Scouts

Field Trips

Curriculum-based guided programs that bring science, nature, and conservation to life for your students.

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Request a Field Trip

Looking for a private experience? Learn about Private Hikes. If you would like to schedule a private scout group hike that is not a part of our designated Scout Days, please make a request using the "Request a Field Trip” button above.

A group of children and an adult guide on a nature hike through a forest, with children listening and watching as the guide points at something in the trees.
A snake in a shallow, rocky stream surrounded by green foliage and moss-covered rocks.
A moss-covered rocky opening leading to a deep, dark freshwater pool or pond surrounded by mossy rocks and lush green foliage.
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Scout Programs

Outdoor learning designed for Scout groups to explore Westcave and work toward nature-related learning goals.

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View Scout Days

Explore Our Field Trip Programs

The Westcave Story

Students hike through two distinct habitats to the Grotto, exploring Texas Hill Country ecology and learning how the ecosystem recovered from 1960s overuse through ongoing conservation.

Hidden Gems: Central Texas’ Biodiversity

This biodiversity-focused program teaches students to identify local flora and fauna through an interactive habitat game and a hands-on biological survey during a guided hike.

Water: Lifeblood of the Earth

Students investigate watersheds, aquifers, and pollution before hiking to a natural spring-fed waterfall to study Westcave's rainwater collection and the importance of water conservation.

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Note: Field Trips can be booked up to a year in advance. One month's notice is needed for field trips during the week and a two-month notice is needed for field trips during the weekends. Requested dates are not guaranteed.

Currently taking bookings for 2026 & 2027 school year.

Request a Field Trip
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Student and Teacher Reflections

“We keep making the drive to Westcave because it is hands down the teachers and students' favorite field trip each year.”

— Teacher Reflection

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Student Word Reflection

“The guides are always so informative and patient. Each has their own style, but the message the kids receive is consistent.”

— Teacher Reflection

Frequently Asked Questions

  • Groups will receive a full refund or credit with a two-week notice of cancellation. Otherwise, there will be a minimum charge for the group. In the event Westcave has to cancel due to weather or other unforeseen circumstances, (i.e. flooding ), the field trip will be reschedule or full refund will be issues. No-shows will be charged the full price of their scheduled field trip.

  • Payment is due upon arrival. Westcave accepts credit cards, cash or checks made out to Westcave Outdoor Discovery Center.

  • 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.

  • As a policy no more than 2 parent chaperones per class are allowed due to limited space.

  • To ensure a smooth, safe, and enjoyable experience for your students, please review and implement the following guidelines before your arrival.

    Pre-Hike Snack & Bus Arrival

    • Quick Snack Option: We highly recommend allowing students to have a quick snack during the restroom break before the hike to hold them over until lunch. For maximum program efficiency, please ensure these snacks are easily accessible with the teachers when stepping off the bus, rather than packed deep inside student backpacks.

    • Students Grouped: Please have students hiking together grouped together on the bus. This helps with program timing/efficiency.

    Gear & Clothing Recommendations

    The hike into the canyon and back is roughly one mile and takes 1.5-2 hours. Please instruct everyone (students and chaperones) to come prepared with:

    • Footwear: Comfortable, closed-toed shoes and socks (essential for trail safety).

    • Clothing: Weather-appropriate outdoor wear.

      • Hot days: Light, loose clothing.

      • Cold days: Warm layers.

    • Hydration & Food: Please place all student lunches and water bottles into large bins. These bins will be brought into the building during the program. No food is allowed on the trails. Water bottles are highly encouraged to be carried during high temperature days for student safety.

    Trail Rules & Safety Briefing: Please review the following rules with your students before arriving:

    1. Stay on The Trail: Students must stay with the group and remain on the designated trail at all times.

    2. Hands to Yourself: Everything at the preserve is protected. No collection of any items is allowed, including rocks, sticks, leaves, and flowers.

General FAQs