Visitation FAQ's

How do I visit Bracken?

Bracken cave is on protected property and open to visitors only on designated BCI Members Nights and for occasional special events. Only Bat Conservation International members and their guests can visit Bracken Cave on Member Nights. If you are not a member, you can join BCI now.

When can I go?

The bats are at Bracken roughly from March through October. BCI Members may visit Bracken Bat Cave by making advance reservations for one of several Member Nights. The schedule for changes from year to year. See this Summer's schedule and make your reservation.

"Private Nights" may be arranged at a cost of $2,000 per night.

How many guests can I bring?

Each member can bring up to three guests (adults and children) for a total party of four. No exceptions. A child that is old enough to walk is considered one guest.

Can I have a private event at Bracken Cave?

Yes. The cost of using the property for the evening is $2,000. Additional set-up and clean-up fees apply if meals are served. The maximum number of guests on a private night is 60 people (adults and children).

Where is Bracken Bat Cave?

The cave is located in Schertz, Texas, off Interstate 35 at exit 175 (Natural Bridge Caverns Road). It is about an hour's drive from downtown Austin and 20 minutes from downtown San Antonio. When your requested date is confirmed, you will receive an email with detailed directions to the property.

When should I get there?

Depending on when the bats are emerging, you should be at the gates as early as 6 p.m. and as late as 6:30 p.m. We will inform you of the exact time via email a few days prior to your visit. Each group of visitors must enter and exit the property together. This means you will not be able to leave before the rest of the group, so be prepared to stay until 9:30 p.m.

How far away is the cave from the parking area?

The viewing area is a short, gentle (but slightly uphill) walk from the parking area. Bracken is also wheelchair accessible.

What if it rains?

Members Nights are held rain or shine, unless you are called by a Bat Conservation International staff member. Decisions to cancel are made at 3:30 p.m. on the day of the event.

What can I bring?

- Comfortable, closed-toed shoes with socks

- Sunscreen

- Insect repellent

- Flashlights

- Food and non-alcoholic beverages

- Camera (photographic and/or video)

- Lawn chairs

- Binoculars

What CAN'T I bring?

- Pets

- Alcohol

- Anything flammable: cigarettes, matches, lighters, fireworks, etc.

Smoking is a fire hazard and is not allowed on the Bracken property.

What type of car should I bring to Bracken?

Regular cars are just fine. However, It is best to not bring low-ground-clearance vehicles (such as Mini Coopers, roadsters or coupes) when visiting Bracken as the roads are relatively rough.

If I'm flying in, what airport should I use?

Out-of-state visitors can fly into the San Antonio International Airport (SAT) or the Austin Bergstrom International Airport (AUS). Bracken Cave is located approximately 20 miles north of downtown San Antonio and approximately 65 miles south of Austin