Overview
About Big Bend National Park.
There is a place in Far West Texas where night skies are dark as coal and rivers carve temple-like canyons in ancient limestone. Here, at the end of the road, hundreds of bird species take refuge in a solitary mountain range surrounded by weather-beaten desert. Tenacious cactus bloom in sublime southwestern sun, and species diversity is the best in the country. This magical place is Big Bend...
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Weather
Big Bend is in the Chihuahuan Desert. Sunshine is abundant year-round. Spring (March) is typically warm and pleasant and is the park's busiest season. Summer heat begins in May. It is extremely HOT. Temperatures vary greatly between the desert which is usually well above 100 degrees F by late morning, and the Chisos Mountains, which can be 10-15 degrees cooler. May - August are the hottest months. Fall and Winter (Nov-Feb) are mild and pleasant, but some freezing does occur. Snow is rare.
Entrance Fees
Entrance - Private Vehicle$30.00
Admits one private, non-commercial vehicle (15 passenger capacity or less); valid for 7 days.
Entrance - Per Person$15.00
Admits one individual. Typically used for bicyclists and pedestrians; valid for 7 days.
Commercial Entrance - Motor Coach$200.00
Companies conducting business in the park are required to obtain a commercial use authorization. The only exception is companies travelling in a 26-person capacity or greater vehicle; such vehicles are charged a flat fee of $200 (commercial use authorization not required).
Entrance - Non-commercial Groups$30.00
Organized groups such as Scouts, clubs, etc. that do not qualify for an academic fee waiver are charged as follows: $30 per non-commercial vehicle with a capacity of 15 or less. $15 per person traveling in a non-commercial vehicle with a capacity of 16 or more. Fees will not exceed the commercial rate for the same sized vehicle. Youth 15 and younger are free. Individuals or families with a valid annual or lifetime pass may use their pass for themselves and up to 3 others.
Commercial Entrance - Mini-bus$100.00
This fee is valid for seven consecutive days. A commercial use authorization is required. https://www.nps.gov/bibe/learn/management/cua.htm
Gallery
Photos of Big Bend National Park.
12 images
Things to do
Discover Big Bend National Park.
Backpacking Big Bend
Big Bend National Park is a backpacker's paradise. For those who come prepared, there are hundreds of miles of trails, and vast expanses to explore.
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Become a Big Bend Expert
The bookstore carries a large variety of educational books, videos, park information, and high quality souvenirs to help you learn more about the park and its resources or just help you remember your trip to Big Bend.
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Big Bend Junior Rangers
Big Bend National Park invites young visitors to become official Junior Rangers.
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Bike Big Bend
Lightly traveled roads and varied terrain make Big Bend a premier bicycling location.
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Birdwatch at Cottonwood Campground
15-60 MinutesSituated near the Rio Grande, under the shade of numerous large cottonwood trees, Cottonwood Campground is a great place to look for birds and other wildlife.
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Birdwatch at Rio Grande Village Nature Trail
15-45 MinutesRio Grande Village is consistently one of the best places to find a large number of birds in Big Bend National Park. The principal area to search is the Nature Trail, located in the southeastern corner of the campground.
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Enjoy Sunset at Rio Grande Village
Photography can be a rewarding experience for visitors. One of the best places is the Nature Trail at Rio Grande Village
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Explore Backcountry Roads
If you have a high-clearance, four wheel drive vehicle, Big Bend's primitive dirt roads provide many opportunities to get off the beaten path and explore the remote corners of this park.
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Find The Perfect Sunrise & Sunset
Where is the best place to see the sunrise or sunset? Truly, the answer is anywhere in the park! With huge horizons and dramatic scenery, it is spectacular wherever you are.
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