For 196 miles, this free-flowing stretch of the Rio Grande winds its way through desert expanses and stunning canyons of stratified rock. For the well prepared, an extended float trip provides opportunities to explore the most remote corner of Texas and experience the ultimate in solitude, self-reliance, and immersion
Yes — your pass gets you in.
Your pass covers the $30 park entrance fee.
- Fee type Entrance fee — The standard per-vehicle park entrance fee. Entrance - Private Vehicle: $30
- HoursRio Grande Wild & Scenic River is open 24 hours a day, 365 days per year.
- Source National Park Service ↗
- Last verifiedJuly 6, 2026 · Confirmed
- Official pagewww.nps.gov ↗
- Contact (432) 477-2251 · bibe_info@nps.gov
Several highways lead to Big Bend National Park: TX 118 from Alpine to Study Butte or FM 170 from Presidio to Study Butte (then 26 miles east to park headquarters) or US 90 or US 385 to Marathon (then 70 miles south to park headquarters). Distances between towns and services are considerable. Be sur
Common questions
Quick Yes / No / Depends answers for Rio Grande Wild & Scenic River — always confirm with the managing site before you go.
Yes Does the America the Beautiful pass work at Rio Grande Wild & Scenic River?
Yes — your pass covers the entrance fee here.
Yes Can you fish at Rio Grande Wild & Scenic River?
Yes — fishing is one of the listed activities here. You’ll need a valid state fishing license.
Yes Can you kayak, paddle, or boat here?
Yes — there’s water for boating and paddling at Rio Grande Wild & Scenic River. Hand-launched craft usually need no permit; motorized boats may need registration or a launch fee.
Yes Can you camp at Rio Grande Wild & Scenic River?
Yes — camping is available. Reserve ahead where required; you can check availability on Recreation.gov.
Depends Can you have a campfire?
Sometimes — campfires are subject to seasonal fire restrictions and bans. Always check current fire conditions first.
Depends Can you bring a dog?
Usually only leashed and in developed areas, campgrounds, and paved paths — not on most trails or in buildings. Pet rules vary by park, so check first.
No Are drones allowed?
No — launching, landing, or operating drones is prohibited on National Park Service land.
Yes What are the hours?
Rio Grande Wild & Scenic River is open 24 hours a day, 365 days per year.
Nearby sites
NPS National Park Service Big Bend National Park
ConfirmedYour pass covers the $30 park entrance fee.
NPS / E Paola National Park Service Amistad National Recreation Area
ConfirmedFree entry — there is no entrance fee here, so you won’t need your pass to get in.
