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.
On-line books Read all about Big Bend's history... more...
Talk like a local Learn how Big Bend place names are properly pronounced. more...
Texas' Gift to the Nation Learn more about how Big Bend was established. more...
Did You Know?
The Harte Ranch section of the North Rosillos Mountains was added to Big Bend National Park in 1987. Property owners Houston H. Harte and Edward H. Harte donated the 67,000 acre ranch to the Texas Nature Conservancy in 1985 with the understanding that it would eventually become part of the park.
