Wildfire Strikes Castolon Historic District in Big Bend National Park

On May 22, 2019, a wildland fire that started along the Rio Grande was driven by high winds through dried invasive grasses, creosote bush and scattered mesquite toward the Castolon Historic District of Big Bend National Park.

Wind gusts showered embers across the historic buildings, igniting the latrine and barracks (which housed the La Harmonia Store and Visitor Center) and threatening the other buildings.

Despite valiant efforts, structural and wildland fire crews were unable to safely extinguish the fire before both buildings suffered extensive damage.

The story map is a visual summary of the actions taken that day and the lessons that were learned. Click the "view full screen" option below the story map to begin scrolling through.

The Big Bend Conservancy has established the Castolon Recovery Fund to assist the park in designing a plan for the future of this historic site. Stay updated as we move forward to honor and share the rich history of this area.