Splendid Isolation: Big Bend

There is a place in Far West Texas where night skies are dark as coal and rivers carve temple-like canyons in ancient limestone. Here, at the end of the road, hundreds of bird species take refuge in a solitary mountain range surrounded by weather-beaten desert. Tenacious cactus bloom in sublime southwestern sun, and diversity of species is the best in the country. This magical place is Big Bend...

Plan Your Visit
Plan Your Visit

Outdoor adventure, wide open spaces, camping, hiking, scenic drives. Where to begin?

Learn About Your Park
Learn About Your Park

Nature, History, Plants, Geology, Fossils, Birds, and more! What's So Special About Big Bend?

Big Bend Top Ten Tips
Big Bend Top Ten Tips

Be prepared for summer in the desert. Remote, beautiful, and HOT.

Current Conditions
Current Conditions

Current weather, river levels, webcam view, visibility, and air quality readings.

Santa Elena Canyon at the end of the Ross Maxwell Scenic Drive.
Suggested Itineraries

Big Bend has lots to explore! Use these suggested itineraries to help get the most out of your visit.

Big Bend Camping
Big Bend Camping

There are four developed campgrounds in Big Bend National Park, and primitive backcountry camping too.

Day Hikes
Day Hikes

Big Bend is a hiker's paradise. More than 150 miles of desert and mountains trails to explore!

Nature
Nature

Delve into the park's flora and fauna, geology, ecosystems, and other natural features.

Join A Ranger!
Ranger Programs

Discover the many stories of Big Bend. Join a park ranger for fun, informative, and free guided programs.

Take a scenic drive to explore the park.
Scenic Drives

Hit the road and explore the park's gorgeous vistas. Paved highways and dirt roads provide access to an incredible array of experiences.

Bookstore
Park Bookstore

Prepare for your visit and learn about the park with books, maps, and guides from the Big Bend Natural History Association.

Last updated: May 4, 2023

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Contact Info

Mailing Address:

PO Box 129
Big Bend National Park, TX 79834-0129

Phone:

432-477-2251

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