eckert james river bat cave preserve

The bats fly out at dusk each evening. The tornado formation is very fascinating. The best time to view is June because you also get to see other wildlife eat the bats that collide with one another. There is approximately 14 million bats that fly each night.

I have seen bat flights across Texas and at Carlsbad. They all vary, but to see such a large number of bats leave so close to where you are sitting is incredible! I wish I had known about this sooner, as I would have been several times by now. The steward was very kind and helpful, the location was great off-the-beaten-path Texas hill country, the wildlife in the area is endless, and the bats will blow you away... quite literally, as they circle out of the cave in such numbers you feel their wind tunnel they create. It's a must-do activity.

How many times do you get to see 4 million bats leave their cave from a seat 10 feet away? The trip out is a beautiful drive in itself. It is best to call a head so the bat steward can tell you the best time to come out. It will make for a nice peaceful evening.

This was worth the drive. I can't believe how close we were to the bats. We got to see lots of other animals too that had come out for a dinner of bats.

We recently took our girls, ages 6 and 3, to Eckert bat cave. It was quite fascinating. The park ranger was friendly and knowledgable. Be sure you arrive early enough so that no one is trying to come down the hill when you're driving up. You'll find yourself backing down as there's no room to turn around. There's also a short hike up a hill from the parking lot to the cave - be sure to wear proper footwear.

Quite an impressive sight to see the bats depart at sunset. Make sure you go in a vehicle like a pickup if the river is flowing because you will need to cross the river at a low water crossing.

I took my grandsons to see the bats and was concerned about the roads. I am so glad that I took the time and trouble to take them because it is something i and they will not ever forget. We had a friendly and knowledgable guide and an up close look at an incredible bat emergence. I would highly recommend this cave and am now a supporter of the Nature Conservancy. Do pay attention to the suggestions and guidelines on their web site.

Went there about a year ago with my family and loved it. We wanted to go back there again this year but did'nt make it. It is something we will do again and again.