Attractions in Big Bend and Brewster County

The largest state park in Texas and one of the most visited national parks in the country all in one place? Welcome to Brewster County, a paradise for those who love the great outdoors. Rugged mountains stand above shrub-blanketed plains, while the Rio Grande flows past jagged canyons. All of this amounts to the perfect environment for hiking, mountain biking, horseback riding, camping, star gazing, and just about anything else. There’s so much to do in this corner of the Lone Star State that you’ll probably need some help figuring out where everything is. Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered. Check out our list of the attractions in Big Bend and Brewster County below.

Barton Warnock Center

Discover the archaeological, anthropological, and natural history of the Big Bend region at the Barton Warnock Visitor Center, located near Lajitas in Big Bend Ranch State Park. Browse the interpretive displays and learn about Big Bend’s colorful history dating back to when dinosaurs roamed the Earth. Once you’re done, pick up a souvenir from the museum’s gift shop that features books on Big Bend’s history and environment.
H.C. 70

21800 FM 170
Terlingua, TX 79852
(432) 424-3327

Big Bend National Park

Big Bend National Park is a geological and recreational treasure that is one of the state’s most iconic landmarks. Rugged mountains tower over arid cactus-covered valleys, one-of-a-kind historical sites tell the story of thousands of years of life, and dazzling night skies create lasting memories. All of this, combined with dozens of miles of hiking and biking trails, camp sites, and scenic driving routes, makes Big Bend a magical wonder worth exploring.

1 Panther Drive
Big Bend National Park, TX 79834
(432) 477-2251

Big Bend Ranch State Park

The remarkable mountains and canyons of Big Bend Ranch State Park offer much more than just amazing views. This park, located along the U.S.-Mexico border just west of Big Bend National Park, features nearly 240 miles of hiking, biking, and horseback riding trails; and 70 miles of off-roading routes. Camp sites provide unparalleled isolation and outstanding views of the night sky, while one-of-a-kind inns provide comfortable accommodations set in the amazing West Texas desert.

21800 FM 170
Terlingua, TX 79852 
(432) 424-3327

Hallie Stillwell Hall of Fame Museum

Discover the tall tales and remarkable experiences of Hallie Crawford Stillwell, one of the earliest settlers of the formidable land known as Big Bend. Along with being a “ranch woman,” Stillwell was an acclaimed author who penned two autobiographies: I’ll Gather My Geese and My Goose is Cooked. In addition to the museum, the Hallie Stillwell complex features a store, RV park, and camp sites.

Historic Lajitas

Lajitas is a historic desert village nestled on a bluff overlooking the Rio Grande in the western reaches of Big Bend National Park. The town is home to Black Jack's Crossing Golf Course, one of the top courses in Texas, as well as a resort, two inns, and an RV park. All of this is set among some of the most stunning landscapes of the Big Bend region.

Terlingua, TX 79852

Main Street in Marathon

For unique shopping and dining in Brewster County, head to Marathon’s Main Street. Highlights include Marathon Coffee, Pitaya Verde (a small boutique clothing and jewelry shop), and the historic Gage Hotel.

Marathon, TX 79842

Terlingua Ghost Town

Explore the ruins of the Terlingua Ghost Town, a collection of historic buildings and other sites set in a primitive West Texas landscape. The ghost town, located in Terlingua's scenic downtown, includes the Terlingua Trading Company — the go-to place for regional arts and crafts, savory snacks, books, and refreshments.

Terlingua, TX 79852