BIG BEND RANCH STATE PARK

Big Bend Ranch State Park is far less well-known than its neighbor Big Bend National Park, as it is far less spectacular, but it is nonetheless a very pleasant place to discover the landscapes of South Texas. It covers an area of 109,000 ha and its highest peak, Solitario Peak, rises to 1,459 m. Many activities can be enjoyed in the State Park: rafting, horseback riding, biking, 4x4, hiking, etc. The big difference is that here, private, gated ranches occupy part of the park. So the terrain is not entirely wild. You may encounter cows. If it's a longhorn, it's advisable to stay away, as they can be aggressive. The lucky ones may spot lynx or mountain lions. Wild boar and lizards are much more common. In terms of flora and fauna, we find here the same ecosystem as in its neighbor, Big Bend National Park, linked to the Chihuahua desert.

Good news for camping enthusiasts: there are dozens of possibilities in the park. All you need to do is notify the park authorities of your presence and pay the required fee for a pitch. Some campsites are accessible by car, others only on foot. Please note that some of the rough roads are only accessible by 4x4. Alternatively, you can sleep in the Sauceda Lodge Bunkhouse. There are only single beds.