camp neville springs

Neville Springs is the site of a Fort Davis cavalry outpost. It was manned by Buffalo soldiers from Florida. Unfortunately, the Park has not seen fit to provide easy access to this historical site. If you like hiking across the desert it is relative easy to find.About 4 miles down Grapevine Hills gravel road one comes to a camping area on the right. (GPS: 29.377963,-103.221171). Park here and look East at about 85 degrees and you will see a clump of willows around 1.75 miles out. That is the location of the Outpost and Neville Springs, which is nearly dry right now. Be sure to carry plenty of water.About ½ mile from the parking area, be sure to turn around and look at the two most obvious peaks. You vehicle will be under the left one in a notch.. this is important as you will not be able to see the mountain to the right when you are at the springs, and it is easy to confuse the correct direction to head.Approach the springs 100 yards to the left of the trees and pick your easiest route (GPS: 29.380607,-103.200245). The Officer’s house is visible to you right about 100 yards from the spring. The soldier barracks are between the spring and the Officer’s house.There are quite a few historical objects to look at and wonder of their use. We found several cartridges from the era, as well as lots of horse shoeing metals and shoes. It takes some careful looking, but you will be rewarded with one of the few places in the park that still has objects to see. Of course, leave them where you find them so that others can have the same experience.On your way back to your vehicle, look for the many Indian middens or campfire circles, as they are numerous close to the Spring. Remember to look for the notch in the mountain as your guide.