Water, Wilderness and Garden Diversity
Hebert Reservoir is a historic 77-acre rice reservoir and is permanently protected as part of the Katy Prairie Preserve. A shaded out-and-back trail runs along the dam and is used for wildlife viewing. The site thus combines its history as a rice reservoir with permanent protection.
Indiangrass Preserve offers a different focus: opportunities for wildlife viewing, birdwatching, and photography. At Hebert Reservoir, the shaded trail along the dam is part of the nature experience; at Indiangrass Preserve, the focus is on a range of viewing and photography opportunities. You can choose between the two nature destinations based on the activities that interest you most.
The public John Fairey Garden is near Hempstead. More than 5,000 plants from over 1,500 different taxa grow across its 39 acres. The plant count describes the size of the collection, while the number of taxa reflects the variety of its botanical units. The garden is run by The John Fairey Garden Conservation Foundation, a nonprofit organization under Section 501(c)(3).
Produce and Seasonal Offerings
Neal's Berry Farm offers a U-pick experience; availability is seasonal. Its main crops include thornless blackberries and Muscadine grapes, which are also subject to seasonal availability. DiIorio Farms of Hempstead offers sun-ripened watermelons and fresh seasonal produce. Fresh produce is also available at the Farmers Market at The Hangout. While picking your own is part of the offering at Neal's, the other two options focus on their products.
History and Memorial Sites
Several layers of history come together at Liendo Plantation. The plantation was established in 1853 as the center of one of the state's earliest cotton plantations. From August to October 1865, General George Armstrong Custer, his wife Elizabeth (Libbie), and several U.S. Cavalry units camped there; the Gen. George and Libbie Custer Campsite marks the camp location. For planning a visit, its current status is important: Liendo Plantation is permanently closed to public tours and events. Plan a public visit only following a new official announcement; check access to the campsite separately.
The Donigan House was designated a Recorded Texas Historic Landmark in 1985. Prairie View A&M University was established on August 14, 1876, as Alta Vista Agricultural and Mechanical College of Texas for Colored Youth; its historic campus features historic markers. Place names also preserve change: John G. Kellner subdivided Kellner Townsite in 1893, before the place was renamed Brookshire. Field's Store Community developed after a general store opened in the early 1870s and served as a commercial center for the surrounding rural area.
The museum in Waller County recreates historical scenes and includes two exhibit rooms whose displays change every two months. The Waller County Aviation Museum features aircraft types ranging from historic airplanes and helicopters to experimental aircraft, racing planes, and military jets.
Events and Getting There
The Waller County Fair and Rodeo has been held annually at the fairgrounds since 1945. Dewberry Farm's fall festival features more than 40 rides and attractions, as well as friendly animals. Check the dates for each event as you plan your trip. For travel from Houston, Interstate 10 takes visitors through Waller County.
More Destinations
Discover more destinations: Waller, Brookshire, Hempstead, Williamson, Nueces, Milam County, Travis, Uvalde County.
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