Jeff Davis County

Jeff Davis County is an administrative division in southwestern Texas, with Fort Davis serving as the county seat. The area spans mountainous terrain with dry landscapes and is home to the McDonald Observatory.

The county was established in 1887 and named after Jefferson Davis, leader of the Confederate States during the American Civil War. The region developed as part of Texas's western frontier.

The McDonald Observatory draws visitors interested in observing the night sky and serves as a major center for astronomical research in the region. People come to experience the dark skies and learn about space through the facility's programs.

The best time to visit is during warmer months when weather is dry and roads are easily passable. Visitors should bring plenty of water and understand that amenities are limited in this sparsely populated area.

This county has an unusual pentagon shape and is the only one of its kind in the United States that touches Mexico at a single point. This geographical quirk makes it distinctly recognizable on a map.

Location: Texas

Inception: 1887

Capital city: Fort Davis

Shares border with: Hudspeth County, Reeves County, Pecos County, Brewster County, Presidio County, Guadalupe Municipality, Culberson County

Website: http://co.jeff-davis.tx.us

GPS coordinates: 30.72000,-104.13000

Latest update: December 20, 2025 15:57