Big Bend Ranch State Park

Big Bend Ranch State Park’s campgrounds redefine the concept of remote camping with unrivaled solitude, rugged beauty, and unparalleled stargazing under some of the darkest skies in North America. Located in the high desert of West Texas along the Rio Grande, this massive park spans over 300,000 acres of canyons, mountains, and arid plateaus. The remote setting immerses campers in nature, offering a genuinely off-grid experience that caters to self-reliant adventurers.

The park offers a variety of camping options, from drive-in primitive sites to hike-in backcountry zones, ensuring a match for varying levels of adventure. Primitive sites feature fire rings and picnic tables but lack running water or electricity, making self-sufficiency essential. Backcountry camping allows you to select your own site in the vast wilderness, provided it complies with park distances from water sources and cultural sites. With no designated campsites in the backcountry and limited amenities elsewhere, this park is ideal for those seeking serenity and rugged terrain. The Sauceda Bunkhouse provides a communal indoor option with bunk beds, plumbing, and a shared kitchen for those preferring slightly more comfort.

Situated near Terlingua, Texas, Big Bend Ranch State Park is adjacent to Big Bend National Park and only a short drive from quirky attractions like the Terlingua Ghost Town and the breathtaking scenic drive along FM 170 (River Road). Activities abound, from hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding to kayaking and wildlife spotting. With its Chihuahuan Desert setting, high mountains, and dramatic canyons, the park delivers not only a camping destination but an authentic connection to the raw, untamed West.