Flash Floods: High water is a threat during the flash floods that may follow summer thunderstorms. You must be alert for this, because a flash flood may travel down the watershed to you even though you were not rained on. Flash floods make roadway dips potential death traps. If you are caught in high water on the road, drive slowly to avoid stalling your engine. Campers must also take precautions against flash flooding. Do not camp in washes and arroyos, because they could turn into swirling rivers while you sleep. And you can't count on having the warning of raindrops to wake you.

Desert Creatures: The park contains copperhead snakes and four species of rattlesnakes, although the poisonous reptiles are seldom seen in daylight. To avoid them, stay on trails after dark and use a flashlight, and avoid bushes and damp areas. Tarantulas, contrary to horror films, will not bite you unless you annoy them. The park species of scorpion is not deadly, though you should get prompt attention if you are stung.

About two dozen mountain lions live in Big Bend National Park. Also called panther, cougar, or puma, mountain lions are most often seen in the Chisos Mountains. Lion attacks on humans are rare, yet two have occurred since 1984. If you encounter an aggressive lion, hold your ground, wave your arms, throw stones, and shout. Never run.

You are unlikely to encounter a black bear, although a small population lives in the Chisos Mountains year around. As you hike, pay close attention to the path ahead. Survey the landscape for wildlife. Keep a clean camp. It you encounter a bear, give it plenty of room. Report all mountain lion and black bear sightings, to a Ranger.

Medical Services (or lack thereof): There are no doctors or nurses in the park. . The nearest hospital is Alpine, 174 kilometers (108 miles) from park headquarters. A paramedic service is available at Terlingua, 42 kilometers (26 miles); from park headquarters. Carry your own first-aid supplies (including tweezers).

Services and Supplies

Groceries, cold drinks, camping supplies, and film are sold at the Basin, Rio Grande Village, Castolon, and Panther Junction. The Chisos Mountains Lodge has a gift shop. Minor auto repairs can be obtained at Panther Junction. Saddle horses, pack animals, and guides can be arranged for in the Basin with the Chisos Remuda by calling (915) 477-2374 or by writing Chisos Remuda, Basin Rural Station, Big Bend National Park, Texas 79834.

River Information

The Rio Grande forms the southern boundary of Big Bend National Park as well as the international boundary between the U.S. and Mexico. The river borders the park for 118 miles. In this distance it has carved three major canyons which vary in depth from 1200 feet to 1500 feet. Pursuant to a 1978 act designating the Rio Grande Wild and Scenic River, an additional 127 miles of river downstream from the park are managed for recreation and preservation by the National Park Service. Like the three canyons of Big Bend, the"Lower Canyons" are steep and sheer walled. In certain locations there is considerable whitewater which can be very dangerous to the novice. Between the canyons, the Rio Grande is generally slow and quiet. For river trips in Big Bend National Park or on the Wild and Scenic River, a free permit, obtainable at any visitor center, is required. Three options are available:

1) You can bring your own equipment;
2) You can rent equipment at Lajitas or Study Butte; or
3) You can hire a guide service.

Please request specific river regulations and information prior to making final plans for your trip.