Barton Warnock Visitor Center
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Pick up permits and get acquainted with the Chihuahuan Desert at the visitor center. -
Browse exhibits on the rich cultural and natural history of the Chihuahuan Desert. -
Learn about the plants that thrive in this harsh terrain in our two-acre desert garden.
Desert Gateway
Deep in the Chihuahuan Desert lies a special place: Big Bend Ranch State Park. Learn about this unique environment at the park’s eastern entrance, Barton Warnock Visitor Center, before setting out on your desert adventure!
Things to Do
Pick up permits for backpacking and camping, purchase river-use permits and licenses, and find information about the Big Bend region. Tour our visitor center, then wander through our two-acre desert garden.
In the park, you can hike, bike, camp (drive-up or backpack), paddle the river, and more. Learn more on Big Bend Ranch’s website.
Take the scenic route along River Road (Hwy. 170 between Lajitas and Presidio). National Geographic calls this one of the Top 10 Scenic Drives in the U.S.
For serious hikers, the 6.4-mile Fresno Divide Trail showcases the badlands region of the park. For a shorter adventure, try the Closed Canyon or one-mile Hoodoos trails. These are the only two dog-friendly trails in the park.
Visiting the park
The park is divided into two areas: River District and Interior District.
Keep these things in mind when planning your trip:
- None of our sites have hookups; many don’t have water nearby.
- You must display your day-use or camping permits on your vehicle while in the park.
- We only allow dogs in certain areas; read our policies on dogs.
- Learn more about camping at Big Bend Ranch State Park.
For reservations (day passes and camping):
- Interior District reservations
- River District reservations
- Call (512) 389-8900.
Obtain backcountry camping permits when you arrive; you cannot reserve these permits in advance.
Weather
We receive less than 10 inches of rain per year. Rains mostly occur as summer storms and creek beds are prone to severe flash flooding.
Plan carefully for your visit. Temperatures can fluctuate by 40 degrees in one day.
Expect extreme heat from April to September. Temperatures typically exceed 100 degrees by late morning and can reach as high as 130 degrees in the sun. Heat remains dangerously high even after sunset. Our trails do not have reliable shade.
Stay safe:
- Don’t hike in the afternoon during these months.
- Always carry extra water.
Visitor Center, Interpretive Center and park store
The Visitor Center is a one-stop shop for information. Rangers are on hand to help you plan your visit and obtain permits. The park store sells t-shirts, postcards, books and souvenirs.
The exhibit “Una Tierra – One Land” illustrates the natural history of the Big Bend region. It features interactive displays for the entire family. Most information is in English and Spanish.
Outside is a two-acre garden showcasing the plants of the Chihuahuan Desert.
Get involved
Volunteer at the park, online, or join the Friends of Big Bend Ranch State Park.
Donate to the Friends of Big Bend Ranch State Park.
Ranger Programs
Take a self-guided tour through the interpretive center and desert garden. Request a guided tour for a groups with at least two weeks’ notice.
- Check our Events page for upcoming programs.
- Learn more about the park:
Kids
Become a Junior Ranger!
- Borrow an Explorer Pack, loaded with tools for exploring the park.
- Pick up a free Junior Ranger Activity Journal at headquarters. Complete tasks to earn a badge.
- Big Bend Region Coloring Book | PDF
Teachers
This is a Texas Aquatic Science Certified Field Site.
Area Attractions
Nearby points of interest include Big Bend National Park, Terlingua Ghost Town, and Lajitas on the Rio Grande. For more information on this region, download the Texas Historical Commission's The Land of Endless Vistas | PDF.
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