Big Bend Ranch State Park

About

Big Bend Ranch State Park is Texas' biggest state park, encompassing rugged mountains, steep canyons, and high desert terrain along the U.S.-Mexico border. The park offers solitude and backcountry adventure with 238 miles of multiuse trails for hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding, plus 70 miles of unmaintained 4WD roads. The Rio Grande provides opportunities for paddling and rafting. Camping options include primitive drive-in sites in both the Interior District (accessed via 27 miles of rugged dirt road from Sauceda) and the River District (along FM 170/River Road at locations like Arenosa, Madera Canyon, La Cuesta, and Grassy Banks). Backcountry hike-in camping is also available for those seeking maximum solitude. All sites are primitive with no hookups, water, or electrical service. Drive-in sites include a picnic table and fire ring. Campers must be entirely self-sufficient: bring all drinking water, pack out all trash and human waste, and bring your own firewood as gathering is prohibited. Due to extreme desert conditions with temperatures regularly exceeding 100°F, thorough preparation is essential. All visitors must check in at either Fort Leaton State Historic Site (west entrance) or Barton Warnock Visitor Center (east entrance).

Directions

Located in far west Texas along the Rio Grande. Access the River District sites via FM 170 (River Road) between Presidio and Terlingua. Interior District sites require traveling 27 miles of rugged dirt road from Sauceda. Check in at Fort Leaton State Historic Site (west entrance near Presidio) or Barton Warnock Visitor Center (east entrance near Terlingua).