Bright Leaf Natural Area & Friends of Bright Leaf
Bright Leaf Natural Area is a wonderful 217 acre area of natural land that resides within our neighborhood boundaries. It was donated to the State of Texas by Georgia Lucas in 1995. Her will stipulates that the area should remain in a minimally developed state. Her residence remains there as the Lucas Conference Center, along with many trails. Texas Park and Wildlife managed the property for years but is in the process of turning it back over to the Austin Community Foundation.
Entrances: The area has restricted access but it is possible to enjoy the area through many various activities. Two main entrances exist and both are gated:
One entrance is off 2222: From 2222 turn south on Creek Mountain Road (between Mesa and Mt Bonnell Rd) and continue around the curve until you see the green gate/parking lot. This is the entrance used for guided hikes.
The second entrance is located at the corner of Crestway Drive and Monte Vista. This entrance leads to the Lucas Conference Center where meetings are normally held.
At one time several neighborhood paths existed that connected to the main trails in Bright Leaf but these entrances have been (will be) fenced off over time.
Access: Docents lead regular guided hikes on the second Saturday and second Sunday of each month and there are frequent activities coordinated by the Friends of Bright Leaf as noted on their website.
Park Managers: John Mahan who lives on the premises.
Friends of Bright Leaf
The Friends of Bright Leaf is a very active local group of volunteers that is dedicated to conserving and enhancing Bright Leaf. They coordinate many events, provide educational information and provide a great way to get involved and enjoy the area.
Friends of Bright Leaf President: Nancy Woolley
Friends of Bright Leaf Website
Friends of Bright Leaf Membership form - print and mail
Friends of Bright Leaf Yahoo Group Site - for member communications/calendar
By joining Friends of Bright Leaf you will be supporting the following activities:
Quarterly Newsletter
Bright Leaf Workdays, Trail Maintenance, Nature Day events,
Appreciation events
Monthly guided hikes by docents (second Saturday and second
Sunday of every month)
Docent training
Guided tours by special appointment
Coordination of service projects (Eagle Scout projects,
etc)
Wildlife and Botanical Educational Material
Availability for rental of the Georgia B Lucas Conference Center (maximum of 25
people)
Program Meetings with special speakers (2nd Tuesday of odd months, 7:00)
Board meetings (2nd Tuesday of even months,
7:00)
On-site portable bathroom facilities for the Creek Mountain Road entrance
Last updated on 04/09/2006