A Living Classroom
Spicewood Ranch offers educational opportunities that reflect its larger mission of protecting, restoring, and sharing the beauty of the Hill Country. Through botany tours, restoration management tours, birding tours, and private group visits, the ranch gives people a chance to see firsthand how thoughtful land stewardshipcan improve the health of a landscape over time. These experiences help showwhat is possible through pragmatic land management, patience, and a long-term commitment. By sharing what we have learned, the ranch hopes to inspire others to begin restoration work on their own properties.
Botany Tours
On these tours we utilize Bill Carr’s list of over 500 plant species identified on the ranch. The introductory botany tour focuses on the most common species, while the intermediate botany tour challenges participants to identify some of rarer, less common species.
Restoration Management Tours
On these tours we share information about prescribed burns, deer management, invasive management, seed harvesting and sowing, as well as the use of “exclosures” to understand how palatability is used as a guide for the gradual re-introduction of species.
Prescribed Burn Demonstrations
When the winter weather conditions are right, the ranch conducts prescribed burn demonstrations for the public. These tours the safe application of fire to reduce hazardous fuel buildup and stimulating native plant growth. Participants learn about fire behavior, safety protocols, and how to use tools like drip torches.
Birding Tours
The restored habitats of Spicewood Ranch are home to over 150 bird species throughout the year. From painted buntings in summer to sparrows and hawks in winter, each season brings new sightings. Our guided birding tours explore diverse ecosystems along Alligator Creek and through open prairie and woodland edges.
Nature Hikes
And what better place than the Hill Country! Enjoy the health benefits of connecting with nature as we walk the ranch, listen to birdsong, surround ourselves with native plants and wildflowers, and inhale the fresh air.
News & Insights
Restoration, Conservation, Inspiration
Restoration isn’t just about land — it’s about people who love and care for it. Whether you’re a neighbor, researcher or volunteer—your curiosity and care will help this place thrive.