Big Bend National Park Quietly Reopens

August 11, 2020

Big Bend National Park has quietly reopened to the public/NPS file

Big Bend National Park has quietly reopened to the public/NPS file

Big Bend National Park, which is believed to be the only unit of the National Park System to close after reopening as a result of a positive Covid-19 test among park employees, has quietly reopened to the public.

The park in West Texas partially opened for day use last Friday at 9 a.m. local time. For this first phase of reopening, access is restricted to certain parts of the park only:

  • Paved roads will be open, with the following exceptions: Ross Maxwell Scenic Drive, and the road from Panther Junction to Rio Grande Village.
  • Most trails that begin from the open paved roads, including in the Chisos Basin, will be open for hiking.
  • All dirt roads and campgrounds will remain closed until further notice.

For a detailed list of what is opening and what will remain closed, visit the park's website.

The park will determine further reopening and closures according to the local and regional status of the pandemic, along with the advice of federal, state, and local public health officials.

Reservations are not needed to enter the park, but normal entrance fees are being collected at all park entrance stations.

Stories about:

A copy of National Parks Traveler's financial statements may be obtained by sending a stamped, self-addressed envelope to: National Parks Traveler, P.O. Box 980452, Park City, Utah 84098. National Parks Traveler was formed in the state of Utah for the purpose of informing and educating about national parks and protected areas.

Residents of the following states may obtain a copy of our financial and additional information as stated below:

  • Florida: A COPY OF THE OFFICIAL REGISTRATION AND FINANCIAL INFORMATION FOR NATIONAL PARKS TRAVELER, (REGISTRATION NO. CH 51659), MAY BE OBTAINED FROM THE DIVISION OF CONSUMER SERVICES BY CALLING 800-435-7352 OR VISITING THEIR WEBSITE. REGISTRATION DOES NOT IMPLY ENDORSEMENT, APPROVAL, OR RECOMMENDATION BY THE STATE.
  • Georgia: A full and fair description of the programs and financial statement summary of National Parks Traveler is available upon request at the office and phone number indicated above.
  • Maryland: Documents and information submitted under the Maryland Solicitations Act are also available, for the cost of postage and copies, from the Secretary of State, State House, Annapolis, MD 21401 (410-974-5534).
  • North Carolina: Financial information about this organization and a copy of its license are available from the State Solicitation Licensing Branch at 888-830-4989 or 919-807-2214. The license is not an endorsement by the State.
  • Pennsylvania: The official registration and financial information of National Parks Traveler may be obtained from the Pennsylvania Department of State by calling 800-732-0999. Registration does not imply endorsement.
  • Virginia: Financial statements are available from the Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services, 102 Governor Street, Richmond, Virginia 23219.
  • Washington: National Parks Traveler is registered with Washington State’s Charities Program as required by law and additional information is available by calling 800-332-4483 or visiting www.sos.wa.gov/charities, or on file at Charities Division, Office of the Secretary of State, State of Washington, Olympia, WA 98504.

INN Member

The easiest way to explore RV-friendly National Park campgrounds.

The Essential RVing Guide to the National Parks 

Here’s the definitive guide to National Park System campgrounds where RVers can park their rigs.

Our app is packed with RVing- specific details on more than 250 campgrounds in more than 70 national parks. 

You’ll also find stories about RVing in the parks, tips helpful if you’ve just recently become an RVer, and useful planning suggestions.

The Essential RVing Guide to the National Parks 

FREE for iPhones and Android phones.