This field trip is free for everyone, but registration is required.
Date: Saturday, Sept 20, 2025
Time: 7:30am – 11am
Location: Sentinel Peak Nature Preserve (5800 FM 32, Fischer, TX 78623)
Join John Bloomfield and Hays County Parks staff for a bird walk at Sentinel Peak Nature Preserve. Formerly a Sam Houston Area Scout Camp, El Rancho Cima, Sentinel Peak Preserve is a 500+ Nature Preserve not yet open to the public. The preserve is composed of prime golden-cheek warbler habitat and a mile stretch of the Blanco River. In the upland portion of the preserve, you will encounter rocky canyons teeming with species such as Madrone, Red Oak, Persimmon, Live Oak, and Ashe-Juniper. Turkey and wild hogs are abundant, but many other wildlife species are present, including the ringtail cat. Golden-cheeked warblers are frequently seen here in the springtime. A 1-mile stretch of the Blanco River dominates the lower portion of the park where Native Pecan and Cypress line the waterway. Waterfowl and raptors are frequently spotted in the diverse riparian zone. A variety of songbirds have been spotted by park staff in this zone as well.
This birding opportunity will give you a sneak peek at one of the Hays County Parks Department’s newest and most exciting projects! We’ll explore a variety of habitats, while keeping an eye out for various resident and migrating birds. We’ll take time to observe and discuss bird behavior as we encounter it. Check out the eBird data for the park at https://ebird.org/barchart?r=L42051639. As you will see, there’s not much data in eBird yet, so in addition to birding a gorgeous place, our bird sightings will provide a better picture of what species use this space.
Please note that Sentinel Peak Preserve is not yet open to the public, and as such, lacks certain amenities. Currently there are no bathrooms and no running water. Cell service is improving but can be spotty for folks sometimes. This preserve is not ADA accessible. Several of the trails are steep, rocky, and rugged. One of those trails is aptly named Diablo’s Descent. Please prepare accordingly by wearing good hiking shoes/boots. The Preserve is located several miles down a private road, so please allow 10 extra minutes of travel time after arriving at the provided address.
Registration for this event is free, but we suggest a donation of $10 to assist with furthering our efforts of inspiring conservation through birding. This event is limited to 12 registrants. Please contact John Bloomfield at jm.bloomfield@outlook.com with any questions about this event.
