How To Apply For A CUA

Commercial activities in Big Bend

 

Thank you for your interest in commercial use in Big Bend National Park and Rio Grande Wild & Scenic River. We are here to help.

 

IMPORTANT

Please read the Application Instructions and Park-Specific Activity Conditions in the Big Bend CUA Handbook BEFORE applying.

Starting in 2026, the park is now issuing CUA's with terms of up to 2 years. A 2 year term is valid Jan 1, 2026 - Dec 31, 2027. All Permits will expire no later than Dec 31, 2027 regardless of the date of your application. For example if you apply June 1, 2027, your permit would not be valid past Dec 31, 2027. Permits may also be issued for one-time use. 

 

Application Instructions

Applicants must use and submit the 2026-27 CUA Application Checklist and all required forms to ensure a complete application packet.

To apply, please complete the application process through the NPS Online Application and Reporting System.

IMPORTANT: The park is only accepting electronic application packets through the NPS Online Application and Reporting System for operating term 2026-27. The video linked below provides detailed instructions on how the new system works.

Complete applications must be submitted a minimum 60 days in advance of first trip for processing. Applications are reviewed in the order they are received; incomplete applications are moved to the bottom of the list and may take longer than 60 days until fully executed.

The 2026-27 application period opens October 1, 2025.

 

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  How to Apply for a Commercial Use Authorization (CUA) Permit

  This video shows how a business can apply for a Commercial Use Authorization (CUA) permit through an online system.

  Duration:

  18 minutes, 31 seconds

 

Helpful Information

Required Forms

• 2026-27 CUA Application Checklist 
• 2026-27 Operating Plan 
• 2026-27 Safety Information
• 2026-27 Visitor Acknowledgement of Risk 

Guide Resources

Improve your guiding skills and knowledge by learning more about Big Bend National Park & Rio Grande Wild & Scenic River

• History and Culture 
• Nature 
• Science and Research 
• Park Safety (Heat, Wildlife, Backcountry, etc)
• Sustainability & Leave No Trace
• Current Conditions
• Chisos Basin Improvement Projects

Visitor Preparedness Video Series 
The following short videos provide a wealth of helpful trip planning tips, safety information, and important reminders for ALL park visitors. Thank YOU for helping us protect this special place!

• Preparing for Your Trip to Big Bend National Park (4:10m)
• Top Activities at the Park (4:34m)
• Experience Big Bend National Park Safely (4:17m)
• Play Your Part as a Big Bend National Park Visitor (3:11m)

 

Contact Us

If you have any questions concerning the Commercial Use Authorization program at Big Bend, please contact:

CUA Coordinator
P.O. Box 129
Big Bend National Park, TX 79834
[e-mail]