Members of the International Park Commission pose in volcanic badlands near Castolon, 1936.
Big Bend, with its long and rich cultural history, is home to many stories, tales and legends. While almost all the stories told contain some degree of truth and authenticity many of the tales and legends from the region are probability more fiction then fact.
Human history in this harsh desert environment is a complex blend of cultures, boundaries, and the limits of economic and personal adventures.
On-line books Read all about Big Bend's history... more...
Talk like a local Learn how Big Bend place names are properly pronounced. more...
Texas' Gift to the Nation Learn more about how Big Bend was established. more...
Did You Know?
Before its establishment as a National Park in 1944, Big Bend was a Texas state park for eleven years. When established in May of 1933 the park was first designated "Texas Canyons State Park." The name of the new park was changed to Big Bend by the end of that year.
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