Big Bend National Park’s visitor centers are open daily. Panther Junction and Persimmon Gap (after May 2025) are open 8:30 am – 5:00 pm. Chisos Basin is open 8:30 am – 4:00 pm, and Rio Grande Village from November to April is open 9:00 am – 4:30 pm.
The entrance fee at Big Bend National Park is $30 per vehicle for a 7-day pass. Annual passes are $55, and America the Beautiful passes, which include senior and military passes, range from free to $80. Youth 15 and under enter free.
From Midland, take I-10 to Fort Stockton, then US 385 south through Marathon, immersing yourself in West Texas’s vast, untamed beauty.
At Big Bend National Park, parking is limited. The Chisos Basin visitor center has a filled-up parking lot by 8:30 AM. Lost Mine Trail has only a handful of spots along the road. Santa Elena Canyon has a 25-car lot. No overnight parking. $30 vehicle entrance fee, no extra for RVs or motorcycles.
Accessibility & permits
Emergency
- Cell service availability:Partial
Big Bend National Park, situated in the vast expanse of Texas, is a realm of breathtaking diversity, where the Rio Grande carves a serpentine path through layered sandstone, limestone, and volcanic rock. This park, named for the wide bend in the river that skirts its southern edge for 118 miles, is a tapestry of desert and mountain landscapes. The Rio Grande, a ribbonlike oasis, supports a vibrant ecosystem; cottonwood, acacia, willow, and mesquite trees line its banks, while beavers and catfish inhabit its waters. Above, sandpipers, tanagers, cardinals, and cliff swallows paint the sky with their colors.
Rising from the desert floor are the Chisos Mountains, reaching an elevation of 7,825 feet at Emory Peak. Here, forests of juniper, oak, and piñon pine thrive, accompanied by Douglas firs, quaking aspens, and Arizona cypresses. The cooler temperatures and higher precipitation in these mountains create a distinct environmental zone, home to white-tailed deer and pumas.
For the adventurous, float trips through the Santa Elena, Mariscal, and Boquillas canyons offer an exhilarating way to explore the Rio Grande. Hikers can traverse over 150 miles of trails, including the popular Chisos Basin Loop and the more challenging South Rim Trail. As night falls, the park transforms into a celestial showcase, with unparalleled night skies.
During the summer, ranger-led canoe tours and stargazing events enhance the park experience. For those seeking comfort, the historic Chisos Mountain Lodge provides cozy accommodations. Nearby, the artisan town of Terlingua offers a glimpse into local culture, with its eclectic shops and annual festivals like the Terlingua International Chili Championship. Local outfitters such as Big Bend River Tours and Far Flung Outdoor Center provide essential gear and guides for exploring this natural wonder. Whether you come for the majestic scenery, the rich wildlife, or the serene solitude, Big Bend National Park promises an unforgettable journey through one of America’s most unique landscapes.
- Area (mi²)
- 1252
- Annual visitors
- 509 129
- Established year
- 1944
Top 3 Facts about Big Bend National Park
The park encompasses over 1,000 miles of the Rio Grande River, which forms the border between the U.S. and Mexico, highlighting its unique geopolitical and ecological significance.
In this arid yet vibrant landscape, over 1,200 plant species thrive, including 60 types of cacti and colorful wildflowers like bluebonnets and desert marigolds. The diverse ecosystem supports more than 450 bird species, 75 mammals, and 56 reptiles. Mexican long-nosed bats, black-capped vireos, and the rare Big Bend mosquitofish call this place home, alongside unique flora like the Chisos hedgehog cactus and Guadalupe fescue grass. This convergence of eastern and western species creates a rich tapestry of life, inviting exploration and discovery.
In the heart of this desert landscape, the Chisos Mountains rise, formed by magma chambers that surfaced between 42 to 25 million years ago. These volcanic rocks, with their distinctive reddish hue, stand tall and erode slowly, creating a dramatic backdrop. The mountains’ temperatures can be 20 degrees Fahrenheit cooler than the desert floor below, supporting unique ecosystems and distinct plant life.
Family programs
- Junior Ranger
- Ranger-led Tours
- Night Sky & Astronomy
- Family Camping & Overnight
Travel Tips
Plan Ahead
Plan a 3-4 day trip, ideal during cooler seasons like fall or spring. Arrive early, park at the visitors center, and anticipate rugged terrain. Bring ample water, snacks, and rest often. Enjoy scenic drives like Ross Maxwell Scenic Drive and hike the South Rim Trail. Limited dining options on site.
Pack Appropriately
Pack layers for varying temperatures, sturdy hiking boots, sun protection, ample water, and a first aid kit. For camping, include a 3-season sleeping bag, weather-resistant tent, and cooking equipment. Check the season for specific gear needs.
Respect Wildlife
Maintain a safe distance from wildlife, at least 25 yards from animals and 100 yards from bears. Avoid feeding and never run if encountered. Check gear for snakes and scorpions, especially in desert areas. Respect the wild, keep children close, and stay informed about local conditions.
Stay Informed
Wear protective gear, stay informed about weather and fire restrictions, and carry a map, compass, and first aid kit. Avoid narrow canyons and dry washes due to flash flood risks. For emergencies, call park authorities at 915-477-2251. Stay cautious on trails and near water.
Seasons
Spring brings warm days and cool nights, with temperatures ranging from 55°F to 88°F. April showers are light, making it ideal for hiking and scenic drives. Attend the annual Rio Grande Village Nature Festival in April to immerse in nature and culture. Perfect for outdoor enthusiasts.
Summer in the desert: temperatures soar to 100°F, but fewer crowds and star-filled nights make it ideal. Enjoy the Viva Big Bend music festival in July or outdoor theater productions under the stars. Bring sunscreen and plenty of water.
In the fall, from September to November, enjoy pleasantly warm temperatures (56-85°F) and breezy weather. Join guided hikes and evening programs, or stargaze under clear skies. No specific annual events are scheduled during this season, but the scenic beauty and outdoor activities make it an ideal time to visit.
Visit from December to February for mild winters with daytime highs in the 60s-70s°F and clear skies, despite occasional cold snaps and chilly nights. Ideal for a serene, breezy escape.
Frequently Asked Questions
Ready to dive into what Big Bend National Park has to offer? Let’s tackle some of the burning questions you might have as you plan your visit!
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The closest major cities are Midland and Odessa, Texas, which are about 235 miles away. For smaller towns, Marathon, Texas, is often considered the closest gateway town, approximately 88 miles from the park.
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The Santa Elena Canyon Trail is a top choice for kids, offering an easy 1.7-mile out-and-back hike with stunning views and a unique canyon experience. The trail involves a short creek crossing and paved steps, leading to a vista and then down to the water’s edge. It is highly recommended but check for any flooding at Terlingua Creek before heading out.
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Yes, you can take your pet on all the trails as long as they are on a leash no longer than 6 feet. However, pets are not allowed inside buildings or cemeteries. You must also collect and remove all pet excrement from the area.
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Parking is limited and fills up quickly, especially at popular spots like the Chisos Basin visitor center and the Lost Mine Trail. The Chisos Basin visitor center has a fair amount of parking, but it can be full by 8:30 AM. Santa Elena Canyon has a smaller parking lot for about 25 cars. It’s best to arrive early to secure a spot.
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Start your day with the Lost Mine Trail, a 4.8-mile moderate hike offering stunning views of the Chisos Mountains and Mexico. In the afternoon, hike the Santa Elena Canyon Trail, a 1.5 to 2-mile trail that takes you through a canyon with 1000-foot walls along the Rio Grande. End your day with a visit to Boquillas Canyon Trail, a 1.4-mile loop trail known for its scenic views and occasional donkey sightings from across the river.
