Alerts & Conditions

Alerts

CLOSURES and Updates

• The road between Cottonwood Campground and Santa Elena Canyon is CLOSED until further notice due to flooding caused by heavy rain yesterday and last night.

• Old Maverick Road is also CLOSED until further notice.

 

Facilities:

• The road between Panther Junction and Rio Grande Village is OPEN, but a portion of the pavement between Mile Marker 10 and 13 has sustained considerable damage.
• Ross Maxwell Scenic Drive is OPEN but still has debris across the road at most low water crossings.
• The Lodge Restaurant is closed. A food truck is available outside the main Lodge building.
• Panther Junction Gas Station Store is closed for a remodel
• Visitor Centers:
  • Panther Junction VC Open Daily 8:30 am to 5:00 pm
  • Chisos Basin VC Open Daily 8:30 am to 4:00 pm. Closed for lunch (12:00 pm-1:00 pm)
• Cottonwood Campground is CLOSED for summer.

Boquillas Port of Entry

• OPEN Friday, Saturday, Sunday, Monday
  • 9:00 AM to 4:00 PM

Learn more about visiting Boquillas, Mexico

 

Do not attempt Big Bend's primitive dirt roads with an inappropriate vehicle.

Roads:

• Old Ore Road and Black Gap Road are extremely rough and only suitable for the most rugged of vehicles. Never leave the pavement without full 4x4 capability with good tires, good spare, jack, and water. No cars, minivans, or RVs.
• Travel on primitive dirt roads requires High Clearance AND true Four-Wheel Drive. These roads are NOT passable to passenger cars, minivans, motorhomes, and tiny crossover SUVs.

 

Hiking Trails

• Santa Elena Canyon Trail
  • Carefully assess conditions and your abilities before attempting to cross. If water levels are too high, do NOT attempt to cross.
  • To access the Santa Elena Canyon Trail, hikers must first cross the bed of Terlingua Creek, and climb a short but steep bank. Conditions change constantly at this location. Depending upon recent rainfall, Terlingua Creek may be dry sand, thick mud, or flowing water. Ask a ranger about the latest conditions.

 

Pardon Our Dust

Work on two large construction projects in the Chisos Basin will begin in Fall 2025 and continue for approximately two years. Disruptions in visitor access to the Chisos Basin area of the park are expected.

Follow Along

 

Helpful Information

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  Big Bend Weather

  Current Conditions

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  Park Facilities

  Operating Hours & Seasons

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  Visitor Guide

  The Big Bend Paisano Visitor Guide

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