If you only stop at one Chihuahuan Desert exhibit in Big Bend country, make it this one, at the eastern entrance of Big Bend Ranch State Park, 1.4 miles northeast of Lajitas. Staffed by enthusiastic experts, it’s a great place to pick up information on regional history, natural history and archaeology, with displays laid out along a winding ‘Walk Through Time.’ Interpretive programs range from desert wildflowers to the habits of bats, and there's also a 2-acre desert garden.
Barton Warnock Visitor Center
Lonely Planet's must-see attractions
0.01 MILES
At 486 sq miles, this massive park is more than 11 times bigger than Texas’ next largest state park (Franklin Mountains in El Paso). Taking up almost all…
17.4 MILES
Dwarfed by the looming Sierra Ponce, the Castolon Compound buildings date from 1920. A half-mile historic stroll offers a brief look at frontier life…
10.12 MILES
For a leisurely lunch and a few photographs, plan to stop at this striking picnic area. You'll know when you see it – those tipis are hard to miss.
23.4 MILES
A short walk from the Ross Maxwell Scenic Drive, just five minutes or so in, you'll find the ruins of the Sam Nail Ranch. Nail arrived in 1909 and raised…
Nearby attractions
0.01 MILES
At 486 sq miles, this massive park is more than 11 times bigger than Texas’ next largest state park (Franklin Mountains in El Paso). Taking up almost all…
10.12 MILES
For a leisurely lunch and a few photographs, plan to stop at this striking picnic area. You'll know when you see it – those tipis are hard to miss.
17.4 MILES
Dwarfed by the looming Sierra Ponce, the Castolon Compound buildings date from 1920. A half-mile historic stroll offers a brief look at frontier life…
23.4 MILES
A short walk from the Ross Maxwell Scenic Drive, just five minutes or so in, you'll find the ruins of the Sam Nail Ranch. Nail arrived in 1909 and raised…