There is a wide variety of wildlife to be seen in Big Bend including mountain lions, black bears, coyotes, racoons, deer, javelinas, rabbits, and many species of birds including the elusive roadrunner.
CAMPING is on a first-come, first-served basis at Rio Grande Village, the Chisos Basin and Castolon for $8 a night. You can also primitive camp in the Chisos Mountains and along backcountry roads. Backcountry permits are obtained in park visitor centers.
The only hookups available for RVs are at the Rio Grande Village(25 sites).
LODGING is available at the Chisos Mountains Lodge at the Chisos Basin. Call 915-477-2291 for reservations.
You can rent or bring your own HORSES to ride in the park through designated areas. If your bring horses, you may want to reserve the Government Springs campsite, which is about 3 miles from Panther Junction and has a corral big enough for 4 – 8 horses. Can be reserved up to ten weeks in advance: 915-477-1158.
Otherwise, call
- Lajitas Stables (west of the park) at 915-424-3238
- Big Bend Stables (at Study Butte) at 1-800-887-4331
- Spring Creek Remuda (North of the park) at 915-376-2260
- Ben’s Hole Creek Ranch (in Terlingua – west of the park) at 915-371-2954
RAFTING can be done along some of the 118 miles of the Rio Grande on the southern boundary. There are three major canyons along the river at Santa Elena, Mariscal, and Boquillas.
You can bring your own equipment(remember to obtain a permit in the park) or hire a guide service.
- Big Bend River Tours (in Lajitas) at 1-800-545-4240
- Far Flung Adventures (in Terlingua) at 1-800-359-4138
- Rio Grande Adventures (at Study Butte) 1-800-343-1640
- Texas River Expeditions (at Study Butte) 1-800-839-7238
You can RENT YOUR OWN EQUIPMENT at Desert Sports, Rio Grande Adventures and Big Bend River Tours (see above for phone).