Explore the Rio Grande with a Half-Day Float in Big Bend Ranch State Park
Difficulty
easy
Duration
4 hours (including drive)
Fitness Level
Suitable for most fitness levels including children over 6; requires basic paddling ability
Overview
Discover Big Bend Ranch State Park from the water with a Half-Day Float on the Rio Grande. Perfect for families and beginners, this easy paddle offers stunning desert canyon views and a chance to immerse yourself in one of Texas’s most wild and scenic parks.
Half-Day Float
Ages 6+ • 4 hours (includes drive time) • Easy difficulty
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About This Adventure
Embark on a serene half-day float trip through the stunning landscapes of Big Bend Ranch State Park. Perfect for families and those short on time, this adventure offers a unique chance to connect with nature while paddling your own watercraft. Experience the beauty of the Rio Grande like never before!
Don’t miss out on this unforgettable experience!
We are currently running this trip. Please call or email if you have a party of 4 or more!
Duration
4 hours
*This trip needs at least 4 guests to operate. If the minimum has not been met online and you are a party of 2, please call our office at 432-371-2633.
About
Seeking a quick and tranquil getaway on the Rio Grande? Join us for a half-day float journey through the majestic terrain of Big Bend Ranch State Park. Whether you’re short on time or adventuring with young ones, this trip offers the perfect opportunity to soak in the natural beauty of the area.
Our half day trips run in the lower section of Colorado Canyon (Dark Canyon) in Big Bend Ranch State Park, not in Santa Elena Canyon.
*This trip is dependant on current water levels and may run in Big Bend National Park. A National Park pass is required if this trip runs in the National Park.
Please call our office at 432-371-2633 for any questions.
Includes
Guides, boats, equipment, waterproof bags; Guests should bring their own water bottle or vessel to hold water; Far Flung will provide plenty of iced water.
Special considerations
- This trip needs at least 4 guests to operate. If the minimum is not met, we will contact you to refund or reschedule.
- Beginner friendly, but keep in mind you will be paddling your own watercraft apart from rafts (very rare for us to run river trips in rafts).
- No Pets.
- Due to constant changes in water levels on the Rio Grande it is virtually impossible to predict, in advance, the section of river on which we will run this tour.
Far Flung Outdoor Center makes every effort to select a section of river and craft that, we believe, will give every guest the enjoyment of floating through one of our amazing Big Bend canyons!
Adventure Tips
Wear sun protection
Bring sunscreen, a hat, and sunglasses to shield yourself from intense Texas sun during the float.
Bring plenty of water
Stay hydrated with at least 2 liters of water per person as temperatures can climb quickly.
Use a personal flotation device
Always wear the provided life jacket to ensure safety on the river, especially with kids.
Protect your gear
Use dry bags to keep cameras, phones, and snacks safe from water exposure while paddling.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- River otters
- Great blue herons
History
Big Bend Ranch State Park was designated in 1991 to protect desert and river ecosystems in West Texas.
Conservation
Operators follow Leave No Trace principles to preserve the fragile desert river habitats, ensuring minimal environmental impact.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Lightweight, water-resistant clothing
Keeps you cool and dries quickly after river spray.
summer specific
Sun hat
Provides crucial shade and sun protection on exposed riverbanks.
summer specific
Hydration pack or water bottle
Ensures you stay hydrated in dry desert conditions.
Closed-toe water shoes
Protects feet from rocky riverbeds and offers good grip during launches.