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    Big Bend Ranch State Park

    4.6 (17 reviews)

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    One of many beautiful picnic spots along the Rio Grande river.
    Robert M.

    Big Bend Ranch State Park is often overlooked as people over visit it's National Park neighbor to the east. However, when it comes to epic terrain, beautiful lands, awesome wildlife & flora - Big Bend Ranch State Park is just as good. In fact, in my book it is better because it is less visited, more remote, and you often have tens of thousands of acres all to yourself. The facilities are clean & well maintained. Plenty of places to camp, get wet, hike, take pics, etc. This has GOT to be on your bucket list of State Parks to visit. Make sure you get there, get a map, and have a FULL tank of gas.

    Welcome sign entering park
    Ashley G.

    To visit the larger State park in texas was a big accomplishment for us The views are breathtaking. I love roller coasters, but my tummy was a little uneasy going through the steep hills and winding roads. Felt a bit dizzy, and yet enjoyed every moment. A must see for sure!

    Jake H.

    Big Bend State Park is such a vast state park. The roads are not paved, you've been warned. I like the space, hardly saw many people over the long weekend. There are so great trails and spectacular views!! The state park is about 2 hours from the national park. It does take a good amount of time to get from the entrance to the trails. Bring an extra tire, check your tires before you take the trek. The park has 238 miles of trails. Stayed the first night at the overnight spot because it was too far of a drive into the park at nighttime. The second day we went to our spot at South Leyva Campground which is close to headquarters as well as the showers. There are eco toilets at the overnight spot as well as South Leyva Campground. This is not like a porta potty but nice clean toilets. There was no smell!! The wind out at Big Ben was crazy!! Closed Canyon Trail, Cinco Tinajas Loop, Soitario Viewpoint are great hikes. Go to a high spot for sunset!! Big Big State is beautiful!

    Looking north at the Rio Grande-the views are spectacular.
    Marie M.

    Absolutely fantastic state park! Possibly my favorite in Texas. Many trails, with several being off the main road and easily accessible. Stunning views on the drive from Lajitas to Presidio! And who knew we have hoodoos in Texas?!? Do not miss this park if you are visiting the area.

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    Ask the Community - Big Bend Ranch State Park

    Review Highlights - Big Bend Ranch State Park

    On the east side of the park, in Lajitas, there is a nature center that explains the flora and fauna of this west Texas desert.

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    Gage Gardens

    Gage Gardens

    4.9(18 reviews)
    79.5 mi

    What a beautiful hidden gem! The moment you step through the gates it feels like you've entered a…read morewhole new world. My wife and I spent about 45 minutes just wandering, chatting, and taking it all in, we still didn't make it through all 27 acres. The garden is meticulously maintained, with an incredible variety of native Texas plants thoughtfully arranged to highlight the natural beauty of the region. Everywhere you turn, there's something to appreciate from colorful blooms to shaded pathways that invite you to slow down. The fountains and water features are absolutely stunning, adding a sense of calm and tranquility to the walk. The sound of the water pairs perfectly with the natural surroundings, making it a peaceful escape. We noticed lights strung throughout the garden, which makes me think an evening stroll here would be absolutely magical perfect for a date night. If you find yourself in Marathon, don't miss the chance to step inside this garden oasis. It's a place where time slows down and nature truly takes center stage.

    I had a little time to kill while traveling from Big Bend National Park and happened to see this…read moreplace on Google maps. Decided to stop by, and very glad I did. This is a desert oasis that is exceptionally well maintained and cared for. Beautiful dark green grass, big shade trees, and wandering walkways invite you in to relax by a fountain and just enjoy nature. Lots of plants and birds. Dogs are welcome. There is even a little putting green if you have clubs with you and feel so inclined. I stopped in late morning on a Monday and there was only 3 other people I saw while there. Definitely worth a visit!

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    Gage Gardens
    Gage Gardens
    Gage Gardens

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    Camp Peña Colorado Post Park

    Camp Peña Colorado Post Park

    5.0(2 reviews)
    75.3 mi

    Nice little park south of Marathon. Looks like 1 road in and out. Good for a jog or a bike ride…read more Nice well maintained park. Little pond with ducks. Also looks like there was a pool at some point. Plenty of space for picnics or a little BBQ.

    This hidden gem of a historic public park lies just 5 miles south of tiny Marathon, Texas…read more(population 430). Camp Peña Colorado (today simply known as "Post Park") was the site of a U.S. military encampment around the spring-fed Peña "Colorada" Creek in the late 1800s and now serves as a perfect little picturesque picnic stop on your way out of Big Bend if you're headed back to Austin. If you're lodging in Marathon or otherwise have the time, the nearly deserted scenic road (southbound Avenue D, aka Post Road, the only one to cross the railroad tracks) out to the park is ideal for running, walking, and biking; bicycles can be rented from the Gage Hotel. Located in the middle of the Combs Ranch and generously donated to the county by the family in 1935, the land was converted from the ruins of the old cavalry post to a public park by the Works Progress Administration (WPA). Brewster County now maintains the place, which is surrounded by the Los Caballos Novaculite Mountains. If you're from around these parts, you have likely attended many a public event at Post Park, such as the long-running annual 4th of July Dance, the summer Chili Cook-Off, and the West Fest Cabrito Cook-Off in September. Check the Marathon, Texas tourism page https://www.marathontexas.com/events for details on upcoming events. The park features several educational historic markers and interpretive nature plaques, a few picnic tables & grills, some covered tables, a couple of cinder-block restrooms, a large concrete slab/dance floor, tons of cottonwood shade trees, and a dammed up portion of the creek that is often home to several species of birds and any other critters seeking a free drink. Wildlife such as deer, javelinas, turkey, jackrabbits, quail, and the occasional fox can be seen in the early morning or around sunset. Fishing is allowed. A weathered old wooden sign suggests that camping *could* be an option with a permit, but it's not clear how one would obtain such a permit. You might try calling Brewster County offices to check on that. More info about the park site's history: http://texasmountaintrail.com/plan-your-adventure/historic-sites-and-cities/sites/post-park

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    Camp Peña Colorado Post Park
    Camp Peña Colorado Post Park
    Camp Peña Colorado Post Park

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    Fort Davis National Historic Site - Parlor room, commandants house

    Fort Davis National Historic Site

    4.7(40 reviews)
    77.4 mi

    A beautiful historic site that's a great place to stop if you're on a road trip or swinging by the…read moreMcDonald Observatory. The visitor center is great with nice bathrooms and a ton of informative displays, some of them very beautiful! There's also a small shop if you want any keepsakes and if you have a national park passport book, you can also grab a stamp to commemorate your visit. The guy that helped us was so nice, and the pamphlet you get when you buy your pass has a great layout of the fort with explanations. The walk around takes maybe 30-45 minutes, and they've kept so many of the original structures and foundations, and there are plenty of signs that help you identify what you're looking at. With the cliffs behind the fort, it's really a beautiful walk and we enjoyed stretching our legs and learning about this unique and well-tended fort!

    As a historic site, this frontier fort is very well packed with information…read more Hidden outside the small West Texas town of Fort Davis you can find the old fort grounds with remnants and renovated parts of the original fort It speaks to the experience of settlers of the area and their skirmishes with bands of native Americans for the little resources that the land had to offer. The 10th Cavalry - Buffalo Soldiers were posted here and made their mark in West Texas. The first bAfrican American to graduate West Point LT Henry Flipper was also posted here. They have a museum in the visitor center, but the entire site is the museum. There are exhibits, interactive activities. Hey, the Junior Ranger program is for everyone, not just kids . For the outdoorsy, the historic site also has some hiking. We took the short hike up the hills to the top to view the down upon the site. It's not a big place, but we spent a good two hours there, and didn't see all of it. There was much more hiking to do, so if I were in the area again I'd be interested in how an undressed (for Xmas) Fort Davis NHS would look Recommended.

    Photos
    Fort Davis National Historic Site - Enlisted scouts garb

    Enlisted scouts garb

    Fort Davis National Historic Site - What!?!? Kareem is the narrator of the historic video here.

    What!?!? Kareem is the narrator of the historic video here.

    Fort Davis National Historic Site - 2.15.2025

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    2.15.2025

    Big Bend National Park - Big Bend Welcoming

    Big Bend National Park

    4.7(155 reviews)
    69.2 mi

    My husband and I made a trip out to Big Bend National Park before the Texas summer heat.....but it…read morewas unfortunately unseasonably hot this year. The dessert was beautiful and the park as a whole was very well taken care of! Old Mine Trail: Since we went around "Spring Break", the parking lot was very busy and spaces were limited. I would recommend downloading the "All Trails" app to gauge how busy the trails are. By 7:30, all the spots in the small parking lot were already taken. The trail itself was very well managed. Although the parking lot was busy, the trail was not bad! We were pretty spaced out between hikers! Take lots of water and snacks! The views up top are spectacular. Star Gazing: We were at Sotol Vista (for panoramic stars). The stars were especially beautiful inside the park because there was no light pollution (aside from the headlights from passing cars down below us).

    I once hiked to the bottom of the Grand Canyon and spent a few nights camping down there. While…read moredown there, an elderly man easily every bit of 70 years old asked me if it was my 1st time down at the bottom. I told him that it was and asked him if it was his 1st time. He chuckled and said, "No this is my Sanctuary". After my 3rd visit to Big Bend in 12 years, I think Big Bend may be my sanctuary. Big Bend is in the middle of nowhere. You do not just stumble upon Big Bend; it is a planned destination. You won't find a Gatlinburg like town next to it or an exit sign off the interstate saying 8 miles from here. It's miles from anything. The type of place you don't pass a gas station, and you carry a case of water in the vehicle. We have hiked various trails before and canoed Santa Elena Canyon, but I will focus on the trails we hiked this visit. Note: I have only done day hiking here, so no Insite in this review about backpacking although I would love to at some point. We started off at the visitor's center at Panther Junction as everyone should do in my opinion. Rangers can give you up to the minute updates like telling us the Hot Springs road was still closed because of a flood this past July (2025). She said we could still hike it but it would add an additional 4 miles (2 each way) to our trip. Good Insite. Our 1st hike was a short one in Boquillas Canyon. It was a short 1.4-mile round trip up a small cliff and back down to the Rio Grande river. It was an extremely easy hike that anyone who can walk can do. we then did a forementioned Hot Springs hike. This is a very cool spot with old, abandoned buildings from a time when the area was a resort. There is still a hot spring alongside the river that had people soaking as we walked past. The only downfall of the area was it still hadn't been repaired since the flood, so picnic tables were under sand, and I don't want to tell you what the bathroom looked like. The next day we did the Window Trail and it's a 5.6 miles hike right in the middle of the Chisos Basin. This one was I guess I would call moderate, but I am also an overweight old fart. It's really not bad except if it's hot out because you will be in the direct sun and the small number of switchbacks on your return trip. Other than that, the views are gorgeous. Just don't slide off the rocks at the "window", it's a long way down. The last hike we did was the Grapevine Hill's Trail aka The Balanced Rock. This one is a little more challenging to get to as you have to drive miles down a dirt road that is a little rocky. You don't need a 4-wheel drive, just don't be a speed demon. The hike itself is short, 2.2 miles each way and 95 percent of it is easy. The last little bit is a rock scramble up to see the balanced rock. It is worth it. Amazing views. We had the whole area to ourselves for most of the hike but saw lots of people on the way back so go early. Big Bend is amazing but requires some planning. Don't wing it. Bring lots of water and be smart. Cell service is limited but a lot better than 13 years ago.

    Photos
    Big Bend National Park
    Big Bend National Park - Octillo blossom

    Octillo blossom

    Big Bend National Park - Ernst Tinaja | Instagram: @telephonesmoothie

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    Ernst Tinaja | Instagram: @telephonesmoothie

    Davis Mountains State Park - Overlook at sunset

    Davis Mountains State Park

    4.5(62 reviews)
    76.8 mi

    Davis Mountains State Park is a park that I've always wanted to come back to and I finally did…read moreafter 8 years. As one of two Texas state parks that provides mountain trail access, this place can offer some phenomenal views of nearby mountains both near and far. I came here for a two-night camp. I made all my reservations online and arrived before the office closed to check in. The campsite I reserved had both water and electric hookups, which I did occasionally use during my time here. There are many hiking trails to choose from, although some trail access was restricted due to recent flooding. But all the trails I hiked were well-maintained and clearly marked. My favorite trail, Skyline Drive Trail, took me up the side of the mountain via switchbacks up to the mountain ridge. The trail leads all the way to the famed CCC overlook that allowed me to see differently-shaped mountains in the distance. I thought it was cool that I could see the University of Texas McDonald's Observatory from the overlook, even though it requires a 13-mile drive to get there from the park. During my stay, I also had the opportunity to attend a ranger talk. The ranger came from the nearby Fort Davis National Historical Park with some relics of times past. The talk was informative and entertaining. I enjoyed the clean bathrooms near the campsite, though you'll have to bring your own shampoo and body soap to shower. The water provided at the campsite is potable and I thought it tasted better than the tap water I get at home! I thoroughly enjoyed my time here and would love a chance to come back in the future!

    Stumbled upon this stunning state park during a short stay in Fort Davis. We did a scenic drive on…read morethe Skyline Trail, and did some short hikes to enjoy the absolutely stunning vistas o west Texas from various viewpoints. We also briefly visited the recently renovated Indian Lodge (open for breakfast and lunch), which we hope to stay at next time. This state park is a hidden gem and absolutely worth a visit!

    Photos
    Davis Mountains State Park - Rays for days

    Rays for days

    Davis Mountains State Park - Mule deer

    Mule deer

    Davis Mountains State Park

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    The Marfa Lights - Local flora

    The Marfa Lights

    4.2(69 reviews)
    56.0 mi

    As another reviewer mentioned, the actual Marfa Lights Viewing Area is not located inside the city…read moreof Marfa and the address for this Yelp entry is wrong. To get to the actual viewing area, go East from Marfa on US-90 and you'll see it off the highway on the right. There's a nice roadside building with a parking lot, bathrooms, a few signs on the strange history of the lights, and a nice viewing platform with some built-in binoculars. There's plenty of space for people to stand or sit, some people even sat out camp chairs, but it is open air so be prepared if it's cooler or windy (we were freezing over New Year's with the wind gusts)! The Marfa Lights are such a cool mystery in West Texas and I'm so glad we stopped here on our way back from the McDonald Observatory's star party, even if we didn't get to see the mysterious lights for ourselves... "I want to believe!"

    The Marfa Lights remain as West Texas's predominant mystery…read more If you gaze towards the Chinati Mountains, you might see them. The Lights are supposedly not like the Aurora Borealis which I have seen. They have been described as glowing orbs. I have heard many unusual and some humorous possible explanations, but there are still only theories... I took my girls with me on 2.16.2025 to try to catch a glimpse. Our luck was non-existent. I encourage you to visit The Marfa Mystery Lights Viewing Area, a few miles outside of Marfa, TX. And I know many folks won't have time to do this, but visit the viewing area during operating hours, then return a bit before sunset for the possibility of a light show. Here's my review of the Viewing Area: https://www.yelp.com/biz/marfa-mystery-lights-viewing-area-marfa?hrid=D5Ko7O4dg7iXuqJ-9-3-zQ&utm_campaign=www_review_share_popup&utm_medium=copy_link&utm_source=(direct) Five stars because I love earth's "living museum" plus Marfa is a fun place to visit for a day or two. Happy trails to you...

    Photos
    The Marfa Lights - Historic sign for Marfa Lights

    Historic sign for Marfa Lights

    The Marfa Lights - Surrounding garden

    Surrounding garden

    The Marfa Lights

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    Davis Mountains Preserve - Davis Mountains Preserve 2.15.2025

    Davis Mountains Preserve

    5.0(5 reviews)
    79.2 mi

    Davis Mountains Preserve - which is separate from the Davis Mountains State Park - is home to…read moreMadera Canyon Trail. While searching for an appropriate hike for my crew, I came across the the 32,844-acre Preserve established by The Nature Conservancy (TNC). This trail unlike others within the preserve is open to the public. No permit required. The beautiful, slightly moderate 2.4-mile trail is also open all year long, from sunrise to sunset, regardless of the closure of the Davis Mountains Preserve. My young daughters, my Black Mouth Cur, and I are now fans. We hiked the entire loop on 2.15.2025. A sign-in sheet was at the large kiosk at the entrance. There was a somewhat snobby couple that came in after us that neglected to sign in. But I digress... Yes, contrary to Shannon B.'s review from Apr 2, 2018, leashed dogs have always been and still are welcome... there is a dog waste bag station near the trail's entrance. Remember to leave no trace - only footprints. Best part of all of this beautiful nature? Free parking & entry. Thank you, TNC and DMP. What a Lonestar State gem. Here's more info: https://www.nature.org/en-us/get-involved/how-to-help/places-we-protect/davis-mountains-preserve/

    The Davis Mountains Preserve is a privately-held 33,000-acre treasure managed by the Nature…read moreConservancy approximately 25 miles northwest of Ft. Davis on Hwy. 118 (about 10 miles past McDonald Observatory and about ¼ mile past the Lawrence E. Wood Picnic Area; 30.70723, -104.09968) in Jeff Davis County in the northeastern Chihuahuan Desert. No, this isn't the state park with a similar name, but a wholly different destination that you should add to any Fort Davis, Texas itinerary if you love the outdoors. The Conservancy established the Davis Mountains Preserve in 1997 from the lands of the historic U Up U Down Ranch, with the heart of the preserve being the evergreen-covered, 8,378-foot Mount Livermore, the highest peak of the Davis Mountains and the 5th highest in Texas. They describe the place as "a unique sky island with plants and animals found nowhere else in the world." It took until 2004 to acquire the total acreage and the Conservancy continues its vital efforts today to restore and protect this sensitive region through innovative partnerships with ranchers and other landowners, as well as service & educational groups like the Boy Scouts and the Texas A&M Forestry Service. These later agreements with owners of the surrounding lands have created an additional 70,000-acre buffer zone around the preserve. The majority of this nature preserve is closed to the general public, but we can get a taste of what's inside by hiking the 2.5-mile loop known as the Madera Canyon Trail (map: https://www.nature.org/ourinitiatives/regions/northamerica/unitedstates/texas/multimedia/madera-canyon-trail-map.pdf; information about what you'll see: https://www.nature.org/ourinitiatives/regions/northamerica/unitedstates/texas/multimedia/madera-canyon-trail-fact-sheet.pdf). The trailhead is adjacent to the Lawrence E. Wood Picnic Area just off Hwy. 118, and the trail is open to the public year-round from dawn until dusk. Hikers should sign in at the trailhead kiosk prior to departing upon the trail. Be sure to bring plenty of water, stay on the trail, take only photos, and leave only footprints. At a small number of annual special "Open Days" events (generally bi-monthly, around 7 per year), the public is invited inside the preserve for a more intimate look throughout the entire property: hiking, biking, camping, horseback riding, picnics, photography, birding, stargazing and other outdoor activities. You can check the calendar for those 2018 dates and start planning your trip here: https://www.nature.org/ourinitiatives/regions/northamerica/unitedstates/texas/events/davis-mountains-2018-open-days.xml Know before you go to the special Open Days: * Only high clearance street legal vehicles will be allowed past the McIvor Conservation Center. * Only camp stoves are allowed, and ground fires are prohibited. * Restrooms are available at the McIvor Center. * Guests should bring their own food and drinks, and take their trash home with them. * Hikers should bring their own binoculars, cameras, sunscreen, hats, appropriate footwear and plenty of water to drink. * Firearms and any technology that disrupts quiet enjoyment are not permitted. * For safety reasons, children must be supervised by parents or other designated adults. * No pets are permitted on the Preserve, other than service animals for assistance. More about the Davis Mountains Preserve and scenic drives in the area: http://www.davis-mountains.com/pages/Davis%20Mountains/nc.html https://tshaonline.org/handbook/online/articles/rjd03 https://tpwmagazine.com/archive/2017/jan/ed_3_ponderosa/index.phtml http://www.texashighways.com/travel/item/257-postcards-davis-mountains-scenic-loop

    Photos
    Davis Mountains Preserve - Davis Mountains Preserve 2.15.2025

    Davis Mountains Preserve 2.15.2025

    Davis Mountains Preserve - Cacti everywhere! Davis Mountains Preserve 2.15.2025

    Cacti everywhere! Davis Mountains Preserve 2.15.2025

    Davis Mountains Preserve - Dogs ARE allowed. Leashed only. Davis Mountains Preserve 2.15.2025

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    Dogs ARE allowed. Leashed only. Davis Mountains Preserve 2.15.2025

    Big Bend Ranch State Park - rafting - Updated May 2026

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