If you find yourself in South Texas and wish to visit Big Bend, here is a list of must-haves and must-dos.
Sections
5
Camping & Lodging Essentials
Hiking & Day Trip Gear
Scenic Stops & Experiences
Photography & Nature Tools
Road Trip & Visitor Comfort
Camping & Lodging Essentials
Whether you're pitching a tent under the stars or reserving a spot in the Chisos Basin, the right gear makes all the difference. This section includes trusted equipment for desert camping, backcountry stays, and basic comforts you’ll be glad you brou...
Ultralight comfort for rocky Texas ground. Your back will thank you.
NeoAir® XLite™ NXT Ultralight Sleeping Pad | Therm-a-Rest
Boil water in under 2 minutes, crucial when remote camping.
Jetboil Flash Cooking System | REI Co-op
Big Bend fees are covered,and every other national park for a year.
Entrance Passes (U.S. National Park Service)
Book early, Chisos Basin fills up fast during cooler months.
Big Bend’s trails range from riverside strolls to rugged mountain climbs. This section highlights daypacks, footwear, and trail-ready tools designed to help you hike smarter, stay hydrated, and be prepared for the desert sun.
Perfect size for Boquillas Canyon or Emory Peak hikes.
Talon 22 - Men's Ventilated, Lightweight Multi-Sport Backpack
Sun protection is not optional in Big Bend. This one works.
Bora Bora™ II Booney Hat
Backup hydration for long trails like Outer Mountain Loop.
The original award-winning straw-filter – LifeStraw Water Filters & Purifiers
Grippy and breathable for desert trails and slickrock.
Women's Salomon X Ultra 4 Mid GTX®
Offline maps help when cell service disappears (which it will).
AllTrails Pro Subscription
Roomy, breathable, and built to handle Big Bend’s desert nights.
REI Co-op Half Dome SL 2+ Tent
Scenic Stops & Experiences
Big Bend is more than a park, it’s an experience. These are the top views, quiet moments, and cross-border adventures you won’t want to miss. Each one offers something unforgettable, whether you're a first-timer or returning explorer.
Cross into Mexico by boat and support the local village. (Use this service for safety, border towns are not always safe out of towners.)
Boquillas Border Crossing Experience
Iconic river-carved canyon. Short, but unforgettable.
Santa Elena Canyon Trail
Big Bend is a Dark Sky Park, bring a blanket and look up.
Stargazing from the Chisos Basin
Soak in natural hot springs next to the Rio Grande.
Hot Springs Historic Trail
The best road for views. Don’t miss Mule Ears Overlook.
Ross Maxwell Scenic Drive - Big Bend ...
Photography & Nature Tools
From sunrise in Santa Elena Canyon to stargazing in the Chisos Mountains, Big Bend is a photographer’s dream. This section includes gear to help you capture nature’s beauty, spot wildlife, and record your journey without missing a beat.
Snap photos without digging through your bag constantly.
Capture Camera Clip | Peak Design Official Site
Catch glimpses of javelinas, roadrunners, and hawks.
Celestron Nature DX 8x42 Binoculars Waterproof
Compact, excellent in low light, ideal for sunrise shots.
Sony Alpha a6400 Mirrorless Camera ILCE-6400/B
Learn about the plants, animals, and geology around you.
Field Guide to the Big Bend Region
Great for sketching or journaling trailside thoughts.
Notebook & Waterproof Pen
Road Trip & Visitor Comfort
The park is remote, and that’s part of the magic. These picks will help you stay cool, charged, and comfortable while driving the long scenic routes or exploring roadside stops. Great for day visitors and full-week wanderers alike.
Stay hydrated and fed while you explore remote areas.
Yeti Hard Coolers: Durable, Long Lasting Ice Chests
No plugs out here. Keep your phone and headlamp charged.
BLAVOR 10000mAh Solar Wireless Charger
Mosquitoes and gnats can be surprisingly persistent.
