Malone Preserve
145-acre preserve in Rio Vista, TX
About the Preserve
Nestled just outside of Rio Vista, the 145-acre Malone Preserve is a testament to the beauty of North Texas. Acquired by TLC in 1995 through a generous gift from Vivian J. Malone, this hidden gem is poised to become a haven for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers.
With its woodlands, pocket prairies, riparian bottomlands, and a riverfront spanning 1,700 feet along the Nolan River, this preserve boasts not only breathtaking scenes but also provides vital homes for diverse native wildlife and plants.
Come explore Malone Preserve on the first Saturday & Sunday of every month! These open preserve weekends do not feature planned programming. Instead, these weekends offer an opportunity for visitors to explore the preserve at their own pace, enjoying its natural beauty and diverse landscapes.
Scroll down to read more about our plans for the preserve.
County: Johnson
Hours of Operation: Limited Access. Check our calendar for open weekends and special events.
Acres: 145
Trails: 3.4 miles
Year Protected: 1995
Prohibited Activities: Motorized vehicles, including dirt bikes and four-wheelers are never allowed at this preserve.
Location: County Road 1109B, Rio Vista, TX 76093
Support Malone Preserve with a Donation to TLC
Although there is no fee to visit this preserve, Texas Land Conservancy is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit and relies on the support of our donors, volunteers, and supporters to keep the preserve open and accessible. Please consider making a donation to help keep Malone Preserve a safe and welcoming natural escape.
Our vision for Malone Preserve includes more than just nature – it includes you! Enhanced signage and a well-kept gravel parking area provide a warm welcome to visitors, and improved trail maintenance ensures that your experience will be both enjoyable and worry-free.
Activities include hiking, birding, nature photography, and more, all against the backdrop of a natural landscape and sweeping views of the nearby hills.
How You Can Help
Over the past two years, we’ve received habitat restoration support from the Texas Master Naturalist, Rio Brazos Chapter, and One Tree Planted, along with a generous grant from HEB and donations from individuals during North Texas Giving Day that made it possible to build a new parking area, create trails, and prepare the preserve for visitors. Thanks to these efforts, the preserve is now open to the public on the first weekend of each month.
Businesses and individuals also have the opportunity to enhance the preserve by supporting trail maintenance while providing a tangible and lasting amenity for all trail users. More about sponsorships here.
Volunteer Opportunities
If you’re passionate about nature and conservation, consider volunteering your time and skills with trail maintenance and habitat restoration. If you are interested in volunteering, see our Volunteer Page or contact valeria@texaslandconservancy.org.
