This section is dedicated to take away all your "I wish someone had told me that before I went!" experiences. This way, you are better prepared for what to expect, what not to expect and can spend less time settling in, and more time making new friends in your chosen hostel. We share our insider knowledge of tips, tricks and important things to look out for in Fort Stockton. To help you make friends with Fort Stockton before you visit, we've included a few helpful and fun things you should know about the area. Enjoy!
Fort Stockton is a city in, and serving as the county seat of, Pecos County in Texas. Located on Intersate Highway 10 just between the Santa Fe Railroad, San Antonio, and El Paso, it is a small but thriving community known chiefly for its historical sites and for its prolific number of ranches. Initially named Camp Stockton during its initial foundation during the mid-nineteenth century, it was renamed Fort Stockton shortly after its founding, thanks to the American Confederacy, which made it a fort. Founded near Comanche Springs, Fort Stockton’s history is checkered with minor battles fought between Native Americans and the settlers who occupied, abandoned, and yet again tried to reclaim the area.
Nowadays, Fort Stockton is popularly known for its extensive and all-pervading ranching culture, a practice that dates back to the height of its foundation. It is also known for a select number of historical sites (of which only few remain) that hearken back to its earliest days. Upon arrival, you’ll immediately catch sight of the Fort Stockton Visitor Center (called the Old Depot). You can then visit the Grey Mule Saloon. Built in the late nineteenth century by the pioneers of Fort Stockton’s Old West days, it is nowadays a bar/café, which boasts a tasting room and an art gallery, and is definitely a must-see for folks inclined toward history, good food, and great drinks. If you’re looking for more history to absorb, visit the Annie Riggs Memorial Museum.
In a small and unassuming place like Fort Stockton, you can even find a speck of silliness in Paisano Pete, an eleven-feet tall roadrunner statue that is among the town’s most photographed sights. Stockton doesn’t lack for great grub spots either -- you will definitely find something to cater to your culinary cravings with the best of local and foreign fares. Fort Stockton is also home to a number of small, out-of-the-way eating joints that are worth the visit and the search.
Booking a hostel in Fort Stockton isn’t all that difficult, even during peak seasons and holidays, as this small but unassuming place is a quiet tourist spot that’s perfect for individuals who are after less hectic vacations.
Written by local enthusiast for Fort Stockton hostels
Angelica Burrage
