Park Menu
Introduction

Park Index

Activities
Hiking
Biking
Camping
Scenic Driving
Paddling
Wildlife Viewing
Rock Climbing
Fishing
Horseback Riding

Environment
Geology
History & Archaeology
Desert Flora

Features
Texas Whitewater Wilderness
Hiking High Desert Vistas
Biking the "Land of Razors and Easy Death"

Essentials
Transportation
Lodging & Camping
Weather
Special Services

Maps
Locator Map
Overview Map
Places Nearby

Resources
Books & Maps
Travel & Tours

Related Resources
Texas Resources

online favorites
PARKS
Big Bend National Park
Essentials

ADDRESS
Big Bend National Park
P.O. Box 129
Big Bend National Park, TX 79834

Web site: www.nps.gov/bibe/index.htm
E-mail: BIBE_Info@nps.gov

PHONE
(915) 477-2251

SEASON HOURS
The park is open 24 hours daily, all year. The Panther Junction Visitor Center is open daily, 8a.m. to 6p.m., but may be closed on Christmas Day. Other visitor centers have variable seasons and hours.

DIRECTIONS
Three paved roads lead to the park:
1) U.S. 385 from Marathon, TX, to the north entrance
2) State Route 118 from Alpine, TX, to the west entrance
3) Ranch Road 170 from Presidio to Study Butte, and then State Route 118 to the west entrance

Big Bend National Park headquarters is located 70 miles south of Marathon, TX, and 108 miles from Alpine, TX, via Hwy. 118.

TRANSPORTATION
There is no public transportation to or from the park. Amtrak serves Alpine, TX, 108 miles to the north. Bus service is available to Alpine and Marathon. The nearest airports are in Midland, TX (230 miles to the northeast), and El Paso, TX (325 miles to the northwest).

VISITOR CENTER/EXHIBITS
There are four visitor centers: Persimmon Gap, Panther Junction, Chisos Basin, and Rio Grande Village. The Panther Junction and Chisos Basin Visitor Centers are open year-round. All visitor centers provide information, backcountry permits, and limited exhibits.

LODGING AND CAMPING FACILITIES
Chisos Mountain Lodge is operated by National Park Concessions, Inc. For reservations call (915) 477-2291.

There are three developed campgrounds: Rio Grande Village (100 sites), Chisos Basin (63 sites), and Cottonwood (31 sites). All have water and rest rooms, but no hookups. Fees are currently $8.00 per night, subject to change. Campsite occupancy is limited to eight people and two vehicles, or one RV plus one vehicle.

FOOD/SUPPLIES
Limited groceries are available near all campgrounds. Gas is available at Panther Junction (park headquarters) and Rio Grande Village. Showers and laundry facilities are available only at Rio Grande Village. There is a restaurant in the Chisos Basin.

Return to *Top

RELATED GORP LINKS
*GORP Parks and Preserves
*Texas Resources
*GORPtravel



Related Southwest Trips

Road Trip Guides

National Park Guides

Hiking Guides

Today's Gear Guy

Gear Guides
[from Outside magazine]