Places

Recreating at Fort Cavazos: A Guide for Outdoor Enthusiasts

October 28, 2024

Connor Merritt

Connor Merritt

Fort Cavazos, a sprawling military installation in Texas, offers abundant recreational opportunities for soldiers, Department of Defense (DOD) personnel, retirees, and even the general public. Whether you’re an avid hunter, fisherman, or general outdoorsman, this fort provides a diverse array of activities throughout the year. Before heading out to explore this rich natural environment, here’s everything you need to know to make the most of your experience. 

Who Can Recreate at Fort Cavazos? 

Recreational activities at the fort aren’t limited to military personnel. In fact, the base opens its doors to a variety of groups: 

  • Active-duty soldiers and DOD personnel 
  • Retirees and military family members 
  • Civilians, including the general public 

How to Get Started 

The first step for anyone looking to enjoy Fort Cavazos’ outdoor offerings is to visit the fort’s iSportsman website. This website serves as a hub of information, helping you understand the requirements and processes necessary for safe and lawful recreation on the base. Be sure to familiarize yourself with the following key documents: 

  • Annual Hunting, Fishing, and Natural Resources Use Guide: This guide outlines all the requirements for obtaining a permit and what to expect when recreating on Fort Cavazos. 
  • Fort Cavazos Regulation 210-25: This document provides a thorough understanding of the regulatory framework, including prohibitions and penalties for non-compliance. 
  • Fort Cavazos Circular 210-22: This one lists the seasons and bag limits for various game species, whether you’re hunting or fishing. 

Recreational Opportunities at Fort Cavazos 

Fort Cavazos offers an extensive range of outdoor activities. Whether you’re planning to hunt, fish, or anything else, the base has something for everyone. 

Hunting at Cavazos

The fort is a great destination for hunters. Popular game includes: 

  • Wild Pigs 
  • Deer 
  • Turkey 
  • Waterfowl 
  • Dove 
  • Quail 
  • Other small game species 

Hunters are encouraged to review the circular for specific bag limits and seasons, which generally run from September to January every year. 


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Fishing at Cavazos

Anglers will be delighted by the fishing opportunities at the fort. The base features: 

  • 17 managed ponds open year-round 
  • Hundreds of seasonal lakes and ponds, accessible outside the fall hunting season, which runs from September through January. 

These bodies of water provide excellent fishing opportunities, with various species available depending on the season. 

General Recreation 

Fort Cavazos offers more than just hunting and fishing. The base supports a range of general recreational activities: 

  • Hiking and biking through scenic trails 
  • Horseback riding for those who prefer exploring on horseback 
  • Birdwatching, perfect for nature enthusiasts 
  • A variety of other outdoor activities such as picnicking and wildlife observation 

Like hunting and fishing, the general recreation season runs from September to January annually. 

Fort Cavazos recreation

Steps for Planning Your Trip 

To ensure an enjoyable experience at Fort Cavazos, follow these steps: 

  1. Visit the Fort Cavazos iSportsman Website: Familiarize yourself with the rules and available opportunities. 
  2. Review the Annual Guide: Make sure to understand the guidelines and ensure that your planned activity complies with rules and regulations. 
  3. Verify Eligibility: Ensure you are eligible to access the installation by visiting the Visitor’s Center and obtaining any necessary clearances. 
  4. Complete Your iSportsman Account Setup: 
    • Register and create an account in the iSportsman system. 
    • Complete the mandatory safety brief. 
    • Purchase the necessary permits for your activity. 
  5. Check-In/Check-Out: Use the iSportsman system to obtain authorization and log your visit whenever you enter or leave the area. 

A Fun Outdoor Experience 

Recreating at Fort Cavazos offers the perfect balance of adventure and relaxation in a unique military environment. Whether you’re hunting, fishing, or exploring the natural surroundings, be sure to follow all guidelines and use the iSportsman system to enhance your outdoor experience while ensuring safety and compliance. The fort’s well-managed natural resources and recreational facilities offer something for every outdoor enthusiast, making it a great destination for adventure. 

For more detailed information and to begin planning your visit, head to the Fort Cavazos iSportsman website and start your next outdoor journey.

Read more about Fort Cavazos on iSportsmanUSA.
Photo courtesy of DVIDs. The appearance of U.S. Department of Defense (DoD) visual information does not imply or constitute DoD endorsement.

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