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Big Bend National Park

4.8(6,338)National Park

About Big Bend National Park

Big Bend National Park encompasses an expansive 801,163 acres of river canyons, desert, and mountains across Texas, USA. Earning an impressive 4.8-star rating from 6,339 Google reviews, this vast expanse is an outdoor enthusiast's haven filled with abundant wildlife and opportunities for open-air adventure. The park offers an array of incredible views and hiking options for all experience levels, making it the kind of sprawling destination where guests can easily spend several days exploring its diverse natural landscapes.

Popular highlights include the Lost Mine Trail, a rewarding hike that treats travelers to breathtaking overlook views of the Chisos Mountains. Explorers can discover the towering scenery of Santa Elena Canyon along the Rio Grande, or retreat to Chisos Basin, which offers a cooler climate and distinct vegetation at an elevation above 5,000 feet. Guests often choose to stay in the Chisos Basin area, keeping in mind that lodging amenities like the Chisos lodge have faced renovation pauses, while taking advantage of unforgettable outdoor activities under the expansive Texas sky.

Reviews

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Jeanette Fox

2 months ago

5.0

Lost Mine Trail was hands down one of the highlights of our trip to Big Bend. The hike is challenging enough to feel rewarding without being overwhelming, and every turn seems to reveal an even better view. By the time you reach the overlook, you're treated to breathtaking views of the Chisos Mountains that make every step worth it. Be sure to bring plenty of water and start early if you can, but don't let the climb intimidate you. If you're visiting Big Bend, this trail is an absolute must-do. The views are unforgettable, and the photos don't even come close to doing it justice. Watch out for Rattle Snakes!

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Hiker Shirl

5 months ago

5.0

You need to visit this park no later than March, maybe April because it gets really hot. We visited mid March and it was 100 degrees the day we visited Santa Elena Canyon on the Rio Grande. We stayed at Chisos Basin and that area has a cooler climate and different vegetation since its above 5,000. Ft elevation. Many of the campsites at Chisos Basin are tight for parking and on an incline. Each site has a picnic table with a shade pavilion. There are no electric hookups @ the campsites . Water is available but not at each campsite. Large RVs cannot go to Chisos Basin - the road is windy and sites are too small. Beautiful views in all directions and well marked hiking trails. Rio Grande Village has a campground w/ hookups for larger RV’s. Its near the Rio Grande and much hotter. There is a small visitor center. At Panther Junction there’s a store and visitor center . Just outside Panther Jct there’s is a gas station which also has diesel.

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Jason Cain

2 months ago

5.0

Loved it here, incredible views and hikes. Great options for everyone, plan to spend several day's and you still likely won't have seen everything there is to see. Shame that the Chisos lodge renovations were paused/canceled or whatever by the current administration. Desperately needed IMO. Don't miss the next-door Big Bend Ranch state park as well.

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Jennifer Werenskjold

4 months ago

5.0

Amazing!!! I've wanted to go here for many years. It was a quick trip, but we'll be back. It's vast, yet small. Easy to do alot in a day. Just depends on what you plan to do. Very well maintained roads. Mind your speed and watch for wildlife. So many different options and scenery. It's kind of mind blowing how different a mile or 2 can make. Prepare for being able to feed yourself. Your GPS or watch may change time, but it's wrong. Stay on CST or you'll miss dinner.

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Tu Ngo

6 months ago

5.0

Our family had a wonderful time at Big Bend National Park. My daughter loved spotting roadrunners and exploring the easy trails near the Rio Grande. The park is huge, but very safe and well‑maintained. It’s a great place to enjoy nature, and make memories together.