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Big Bend National ParkThe Chisos Mountains rise above the desert landscape
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Big Bend National Park
Castolon Today
 
Today, visitors camp where farmers once worked the fields. Cottonwood Campground has 35 sites, but is the most primitive of Big Bend's "developed" campgrounds. There are no hookups or dump station. The campground has pit toilets and running water (although it is a good idea to bring your own drinking water). Cottonwood Campground is a popular place for birdwatching and, occasionally, solitude.

The La Harmonia Company Store is still in operation, although these days it caters to visitors instead of farmers and ranchers. The store is open from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. daily, closed for lunch. Prior to the closure of the border crossings in the park in 2002, many of the people from the village of Santa Elena, Mexico shopped and received their mail at the La Harmonia Store.

From November to April, volunteers and rangers present interpretive programs including guided walks, and evening programs (check the weekly activity schedule posted at visitor centers and campgrounds throughout the park). The visitor center at Castolon is also open seasonally during this time.

A Castolon Historic District guidebook is available for $1.00 at the visitor center, or from the La Harmonia Store.

Entrance to the La Harmonia store
What to do in Castolon
Highlights of the Castolon area.
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Hike into Santa Elena Canyon
Take a Dayhike on the West side
Take a hike on the west side of the park!
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Chisos Mountains seen from the presidio ruins  

Did You Know?
According to legend those who search for the Lost Mine in Big Bend National Park, must stand in the chapel doorway of the old Presidio de San Vicente on Easter morning and look toward the Chisos Mountains. The spot where the sun's rays first light the peaks is the hidden doorway to the lost mine.
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Last Updated: July 30, 2009 at 13:10 EST