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Big Bend Ranch State Park adventures

Big Bend Ranch State Park Adventures

Big Bend Ranch State Park is Texas' largest state park, offering a rugged landscape perfect for adventurous visitors seeking hiking, camping, and stunning desert vistas.

311,000
Acres Protected
238
Miles of Trails
25,000
Annual Visitors
1988
Year Established

About Big Bend Ranch State Park

Big Bend Ranch State Park
 

Big Bend Ranch State Park, the largest state park in Texas, spans over 300,000 acres and offers a rugged and remote desert experience. Situated along the Texas-Mexico border in the Chihuahuan Desert, the park features diverse landscapes, including canyons, mesas, and mountains. The park's geology is marked by the presence of ancient lava flows and volcanic remnants, providing a unique terrain for exploration. Ecologically, the area supports a variety of wildlife including javelinas, mule deer, and over 300 species of birds, making it a haven for wildlife enthusiasts. The park's history stretches back thousands of years with evidence of Native American habitation, and more recent usage includes ranching which gives the park its name. Outdoor activities abound with over 238 miles of multi-use trails for hiking, biking, and horseback riding. River activities are also popular along the Rio Grande. The park's isolation offers unparalleled stargazing opportunities, further enhanced by its designation as an International Dark Sky Park.

Highlights

Highlight

Sauceda Ranch House – A historic building now serving as the park headquarters.

Highlight

The Solitario – An enormous geologic formation offering insight into the area's volcanic past.

Highlight

Ojito Adentro – A desert oasis with water, rare greenery, and wildlife viewing opportunities.

Highlight

The Rio Grande – Offers scenic rafting and canoeing opportunities along an international boundary.

Notable Natural Features

The Solitario

A geologic marvel that is a large ring structure formed by volcanic activity and erosion.

Fresno Canyon

A picturesque canyon offering challenging hikes and incredible vistas.

Closed Canyon

A narrow slot canyon ideal for hiking and exploring dramatic rock formations.