Information on Big Bend National Park

Daniel Schwen

A visit to Big Bend National Park is best done with some planning, rather than as a last-minute day trip. It may take you all day just to drive there. Once at the park, revel in the fact that you can take in the best of river, desert and mountain landscapes all in one trip.

Location

Big Bend National Park is in the Chihuahuan Desert in the southwestern horn of Texas. The Rio Grande borders the park to the south, with Mexico on the other side.

Camping

Big Bend has many camping areas for both tents and RVs. There is only one public shower in the park, at Rio Grande Village, and backcountry camping is allowed, but you must register with the park service first.

Lodging

Within the park there is only one lodge: the Chisos Mountain Lodge. Reservations can be made by calling (432) 477-2291 or visiting chisosmountainslodge.com.

Gas

Big Bend has more than a hundred miles of paved roads and only two gas stations, so be sure to enter with a full tank. The stations are located at Rio Grande Village and Panther Junction.

Hiking

The Window and Chimneys trails are easy day hikes, each less than five miles round-trip. Longer options include the 30-mile Outer Mountain Loop and the 14-mile Marufo Vega trail.

Resources

Big Bend National Park

Article Written By Blake Guthrie

Blake Guthrie's articles have been featured in a variety of publications, including the "Atlanta Journal-Constitution" and "Creative Loafing." He earned a Bachelor of Arts in mass communications from Auburn University.

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