Papalote Encino Campsite

Stretching along the Rio Grande in far west Texas, the Big Bend Ranch State Park is an amazing location for the adventurous. This remote park features rugged mountains, steep canyons, amazing views, unparalleled night skies, and solitude in a high desert setting. With 238 miles of multiuse trails, mountain biking is a great activity within the state park. Every February, the park helps host the Chihuahuan Desert Bike Fest, so definitely check it out!

Fishing is accessible for day use in the Rio Grande/Rio Bravo area. If you need it, you can purchase a fishing license inside the park.

Big Bend Ranch State Park is the biggest Texas State Park—so there’s plenty to explore. Hike around the 238 miles of multiuse trails. Most hiking trails are primitive, with rock cairns and few signs. If you’re looking for a shorter hike, take either the Cinco Tinajas or Ojito Adentro trail as you are exiting the park. The Cinco Tinajas Trail vistas of the inner reaches of the park are breathtaking.

In addition to riding on the trails, there are equestrian campsites available for overnight stays! There are a few rules you have to follow within the state park: all pack-and-saddle stock users must obtain a backcountry use permit, whether for day use or overnight, equestrians must bring their own weed-free horse feed, and all horses must have documentation of a current Coggins test.

For a day trip on the water, visit the Rio Grande/Rio Bravo corridor to raft, canoe, picnic and fish. Several access points lie along FM 170. Definitely expect a bit of a bumpy ride! The Colorado Canyon includes Class II and III rapids, however this section of the river is not dangerous except during floods.

Although there isn’t a great place for swimming inside Big Bend Ranch State Park, on your way in or out, stop for a dip in the world’s largest spring-fed swimming pool at Balmorhea State Park.

For a day trip on the water, visit the Rio Grande/Rio Bravo corridor to raft, canoe, picnic and fish. Several access points lie along FM 170. Definitely expect a little bumpy ride! The Colorado Canyon includes Class II and III rapids, however, this section of the river is not dangerous except during floods.

Big Bend Ranch State Park is the perfect location for beautiful geology, birds, animals, and plants. There are more than 300 bird species that live in the park’s various habitats. The landscape varies from river lowlands to deep canyons, from high plateaus to steep-sided mountains. In these landscapes, you can witness mountain lions, mule deer, and bighorn sheep. Check out the available resources at the park for wildlife watching!