About Rio Grande Wild & Scenic River
For 196 miles, this free-flowing stretch of the Rio Grande winds its way through desert expanses and stunning canyons of stratified rock. For the well prepared, an extended float trip provides opportunities to explore the most remote corner of Texas and experience the ultimate in solitude, self-reliance, and immersion in natural soundscapes.
Quick Facts
Entrance Fees
Entrance Fee to Big Bend National Park. This fee includes all occupants of a private, non-commercial vehicle and is valid for 7 days
Operating Hours
Rio Grande Wild & Scenic River is open 24 hours a day, 365 days per year.
Activities
Getting There
Several highways lead to Big Bend National Park: TX 118 from Alpine to Study Butte or FM 170 from Presidio to Study Butte (then 26 miles east to park headquarters) or US 90 or US 385 to Marathon (then 70 miles south to park headquarters). Distances between towns and services are considerable. Be sure you have plenty of gas, food, water, and supplies for your trip.
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Topics & Themes
Things To Do
Big Bend Junior Rangers
Big Bend National Park invites young visitors to become official Junior Rangers.
View the Night Sky
Far away from most city lights, Big Bend National Park preserves pristine darkness. Take this chance to stargaze, and experience…
Check the weather forecast, find a comfortable spot, bring your binoculars if you have them, a blanket if you want,…
See the Rio Grande
The Rio Grande is accessible from a number of places in Big Bend National Park, and a variety of hiking…
Popular trails that offer river access include: Boquillas Canyon Difficulty:Moderate; Distance: 1.4 miles round trip Begins at the end of…
Visit Boquillas, Mexico
Visiting the small village of Boquillas, Mexico through the park's Boquillas Crossing Port of Entry is an option for visitors possessing a valid…
Join A Ranger
Join a Park ranger for a guided hike, talk, or evening program. Discover the amazing stories behind the scenery of…
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…
Visitor Centers
Rio Grande Village Visitor Center
Rio Grande Village Visitor Center is located 0.25 miles north of the Rio Grande Village developed area and includes exhibits on Big Bend wildlife. River…
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