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Big Bend National ParkPaddling down Santa Elena Canyon
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Big Bend National Park
Stories
 
members of the International Park Commission pose in volcanic badlands near Castolon, 1936.
NPS Historic Photograph Collection
Members of the International Park Commission pose in volcanic badlands near Castolon, 1936.
 
Big Bend, with its long and rich cultural history, is home to many stories, tales and legends. While almost all the stories told contain some degree of truth and authenticity many of the tales and legends from the region are probability more fiction then fact.

Human history in this harsh desert environment is a complex blend of cultures, boundaries, and the limits of economic and personal adventures.

Longhorns of Big Bend cover
On-line books
Read all about Big Bend's history...
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Entrance sign
Talk like a local
Learn how Big Bend place names are properly pronounced.
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1957 Ford with Park Sign attached
Texas' Gift to the Nation
Learn more about how Big Bend was established.
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Persimmon Gap  

Did You Know?
One of the main Comanche trails entered Big Bend National Park at Persimmon Gap, continued south to Glenn Spring, and crossed the Rio Grande at what was then called Paso del Chisos, the flattish valley west of Mariscal Mountain.
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Last Updated: July 30, 2009 at 12:58 EST