Travel to Big Bend National Park
Journey to the wild heart of Texas — where desert, mountains, and river canyons meet under endless skies.
Plan Your AdventureAbout Big Bend
Discover the wild heart of Texas
Stretching across 800,000 acres of rugged wilderness, Big Bend National Park is a natural masterpiece along the Rio Grande. It's known for its sweeping desert landscapes, striking canyons, and star-filled night skies — one of the darkest in the continental U.S.
Location
Southwest Texas, along the Rio Grande
Area
801,000 acres
Established
1944
Highlights
Desert, mountains, river, and stargazing
Top Attractions
Must-see destinations in Big Bend National Park
Santa Elena Canyon
Towering limestone walls carved by the Rio Grande. This iconic canyon is one of the park's most photographed features and offers stunning views from both the U.S. and Mexico sides.
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Chisos Mountains
Lush peaks offering cooler hikes and breathtaking views. This mountain range is the only one in the U.S. entirely contained within a national park.
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Lost Mine Trail
A moderate hike with panoramic vistas at the summit. This 4.8-mile round-trip trail offers some of the best views in the Chisos Mountains.
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Boquillas Canyon
Peaceful river scenes and echoing canyon walls. This canyon is the longest in Big Bend and can be explored by hiking or kayaking.
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Hot Springs Historic Area
Relax in 105°F natural springs beside the Rio Grande. The historic area also features remnants of an early 20th-century resort.
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Ross Maxwell Scenic Drive
A 30-mile route through desert highlights and overlooks. This drive offers stunning views of the Chihuahuan Desert and access to several trailheads.
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Activities and experiences in Big Bend National Park
Hiking & Backpacking
Explore over 150 miles of trails, from desert hikes to mountain climbs. Trails range from easy nature walks to challenging multi-day backpacking adventures.
Camping
Stay at Chisos Basin, Rio Grande Village, or primitive sites under the stars. The park offers both developed campgrounds and backcountry camping options.
Scenic Drives
Experience stunning desert views from the Ross Maxwell Scenic Drive. This 30-mile route offers numerous pullouts with spectacular vistas.
River Adventures
Kayak or canoe the Rio Grande through majestic canyons. Guided trips are available for both beginners and experienced paddlers.
Stargazing
Enjoy some of the clearest night skies in North America. Big Bend is an International Dark Sky Park with minimal light pollution.
Travel Information
Everything you need to know for your visit
Getting There
Drive from El Paso or Midland; nearest airport is in Midland-Odessa. The park is remote, so plan for a full day of travel from major cities.
Where to Stay
Lodges, campgrounds, and nearby accommodations in Terlingua. The Chisos Mountains Lodge is the only lodging within the park.
Best Time to Visit
Fall and spring offer mild weather; summer is extremely hot. Winter can be cold, especially in the mountains, but offers beautiful clear skies.
Park Entry Fees
Purchase online or at the entrance station; valid for 7 days. Annual and interagency passes are also available for frequent visitors.
Maps & Directions
Navigate your way through Big Bend National Park
Safety & Visitor Tips
Important guidelines for a safe and enjoyable visit
Bring at least one gallon of water per person per day. The desert climate is extremely dry, and dehydration can occur quickly.
Protect yourself from sun and heat. Wear a hat, sunscreen, and light-colored clothing. Avoid hiking during the hottest parts of the day.
Tell someone your route before hiking remote areas. Cell service is extremely limited or nonexistent throughout most of the park.
Pack out all trash; respect wildlife. Help preserve the park's pristine beauty by following Leave No Trace principles.
Photo Gallery
Experience the beauty of Big Bend through these stunning images
Nearby Attractions
Extend your adventure to these nearby destinations
Big Bend Ranch State Park
Texas' largest state park offers rugged terrain, river access, and excellent stargazing opportunities just west of the national park.
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Terlingua Ghost Town
A former mining town turned artist community with historic buildings, unique shops, and the famous Terlingua Chili Cook-Off.
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Boquillas del Carmen
A charming Mexican village across the Rio Grande accessible by rowboat ferry. Experience authentic Mexican culture and cuisine.
Learn MorePlan Your Big Bend Adventure
Explore one of America's last true wildernesses — where desert solitude meets breathtaking beauty.
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