Location
Big Bend National Park is a remote park on the United States/Mexican border in Far West Texas. The park contains over 800,000 acres of the Chihuahuan Desert and is larger than the state of Rhode Island. 244 miles of the famous Rio Grande river flow through the park.
The Rio Grande provides great water recreation for families. Rafting on the river is a popular activity and a number of outfitters offer rafting trips. Since the Rio Grande represents an international border, people rafting are considered leaving the country and must show appropriate documentation to re-enter the country at the conclusion of their trip.
More than 150 miles of trails are available for day hikes and backpacking. A popular trail is the moderate Chimneys Trail which provides a 4.8-mile round trip hike to chimney rock formations in the desert. For family members interested in an easier hike, the .75-mile Rio Grande Village Nature Trail loop provides great birding and wildlife viewing.
Camping is another popular family activity in Big Bend. There are developed and group campsites at Rio Grande Village and Chisos Basin campgrounds. In addition, there is a group campsite at Cottonwood campground.
A Civilian Conservation Corps (CCC) camp operated in what is now Big Bend National Park between 1934 and 1942. They developed roads, trails and buildings within the park - many of which are still in use.
