Things to do in Big Bend National Park, Texas

When I first heard about Big Bend National Park, my reaction was somewhere between “Sounds cool” and “Is it actually big?” (Spoiler: yes, it’s massive). As a solo female traveler, I knew I wanted to tackle this Texan treasure on my own terms—bold, curious, and with a suitcase full of snacks. What followed was an unforgettable mix of breathtaking landscapes, a few minor missteps (more on that later), and plenty of solo travel wins. Here’s your guide to doing Big Bend National Park solo, complete with tips for where to eat, sleep, and accidentally make friends with a javelina.

Getting to Big Bend: The Journey Is Part of the Adventure

Driving to Big Bend is a road trip lover’s dream: long stretches of open road, quirky pit stops, and views that scream “Wild West.” If you’re coming from San Antonio (check out my guide here), stock up on road trip snacks and good playlists because it’s about a 6-hour drive.

Pro tip: Rent a car and take a quick detour to Marfa on your way. It’s the artsy little town famous for the Prada storefront that’s not a store (but a great photo op). You’ll need the break before diving into Big Bend’s grandeur.

Where to Stay: Campsites, Cabins, and Cozy Beds

For my fellow solo adventurers, you’ll find no shortage of places to rest your weary feet after a day of hiking and stargazing.

• Camping: The Rio Grande Village Campground is a solid choice if you’re the “I-love-nature-but-not-bugs” type. It has restrooms and water, which are lifesavers in the desert.
• Glamping: If you’re feeling fancy but still want those nature vibes, check out Terlingua Ranch Lodge. It’s rustic yet comfortable, with an epic view of the Chisos Mountains.
• Hotels: For a touch of luxury (and a comfy bed), head to Lajitas Golf Resort. It’s a splurge, but the onsite restaurant serves heavenly margaritas. You’ve earned it.

Psst—want more solo travel inspo? Check out my San Antonio foodie guide for tips on eating your way through Texas here.

Hiking for the Brave (and Sometimes Clumsy)

Big Bend is famous for its hikes, ranging from “relaxing stroll” to “Why did I think this was a good idea?” As a solo traveler, safety is key, so always tell someone your plan and carry more water than you think you’ll need.

1. Lost Mine Trail: This moderate 4.8-mile hike offers jaw-dropping views without leaving you gasping for air. I spent a good 20 minutes at the top, eating trail mix and marveling at the endless mountains.
2. Santa Elena Canyon: Easy and iconic. The trail leads you to the Rio Grande, where you can wade into the water and pretend you’re starring in your own adventure movie. if you want to join water tour with Far Flung Adventures, it is so much fun! (Book here)
3. Emory Peak: Feeling ambitious? Tackle this 10.5-mile trek to the highest point in the park. Just remember, scrambling up rocks is fun until you realize you have to scramble down.

Eats and Treats: Refueling Like a Pro

After a day of trekking, you’ll want food that’s satisfying and Instagram-worthy (because, priorities).

• Breakfast: Start your day at High Sierra Bar & Grill in Terlingua with their Tex-Mex breakfast plates. Pro tip: The migas will give you life.
• Lunch: Pack a picnic! The park’s visitor center sells snacks, but nothing beats munching on a sandwich while soaking up views at Panther Junction.
• Dinner: For an unforgettable meal, head to The Starlight Theatre in Terlingua. Yes, it’s a restaurant in an old ghost town, and yes, the chili relleno is a religious experience.

Stargazing Like a Pro: Your Ticket to Awe

Big Bend is a designated International Dark Sky Park, meaning the stars here will knock your hiking boots off. Find a comfy spot at the Chisos Basin or Rio Grande Village, lay back, and let the universe remind you how small your Wi-Fi struggles are.

Surviving (and Thriving) as a Solo Female Traveler

Big Bend might feel remote, but it’s surprisingly solo-travel friendly. Here are a few survival tips to make your trip smooth and memorable:

• Download offline maps because cell service is about as rare as snow in the desert.
• Talk to park rangers. They’re a goldmine of info and can help tailor your trip.
• Don’t skip the visitor centers. They’re full of fascinating exhibits and, more importantly, air conditioning.

Parting Words: Big Bend Is Big on Adventure

Big Bend is more than a national park; it’s a place where you can lose yourself in nature and find yourself in the process (usually while sweating on a trail). Whether you’re snapping pics of Santa Elena Canyon, making friends with a cactus, or just soaking in the solitude, Big Bend has something for every solo traveler.

Got questions about solo travel? Or maybe you’re planning to visit San Antonio on your Texas adventure? Dive into my guide here for more tips and tricks.

Now, pack your bags, lace up your boots, and let Big Bend blow your solo-traveling mind. You’ve got this!