Management

Big Bend National Park was authorized by Congress in 1935 and established in 1944 to preserve and protect a representative area of the Chihuahuan Desert along the Rio Grande for the benefit and enjoyment of present and future generations. The park includes rich biological and geological diversity, cultural history, recreational resources, and outstanding opportunities for binational protection of our shared natural and cultural heritage.

Like each of its sister national parks, Big Bend must balance the competing demands of its mission—to provide a fulfilling visitor experience while preserving rare and fragile ecosystems. Key issues facing the park in the coming decade (identified in the General Management Plan) include, water quality and quantity concerns, air quality degradation, invasion of exotic species, management of endangered species, and degradation of natural ecosystems.

 

Staff & Departments

Our park staff and departments welcome you to your Park and wish you a good/safe visit.

Park Statistics
Park statistics and other information.

Law & Policies
Law and Policies of Big Bend National Park.
 

Learn More


Big Bend National Park Foundation Document 2016
Park description, significance, and fundamental resources and values

Rio Grande Wild & Scenic River Foundation Document 2016
Park description, significance, and fundamental resources and values

Administrative History
Landscape of Ghosts, River of Dreams: A History of Big Bend National Park

General Management Plan
Provides direction to park policy and decision making

Park Planning
Stay informed of current and past projects in Big Bend.

 

Last updated: December 1, 2022

Contact Info

Mailing Address:

PO Box 129
Big Bend National Park, TX 79834-0129

Phone:

432-477-2251

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