TRIP OVERVIEW

The Big Bend area in west Texas derives its name from its location on the bend of the Rio Grande River, which separates the United States from Mexico. Big Bend National Park has massive canyons, vast desert, the Chisos mountain range, and the Rio Grande River. At just over 800,000 acres, it’s the fifteenth largest national park, but one of the least visited due to its remote location. Big Bend Ranch State Park is right next door with another 300,000 acres of mountains, canyons, desert and river. 

Our 2025 trip was a blast! Keep an eye out for 2026 dates

This trip is primarily along unimproved roads in both parks. While we’ll see the well-known features of the park, like Santa Elena Canyon, we’ll take the backroads and see parts of both parks that most people don’t even know exist and never get a chance to see. We will be airing down for a more comfortable ride and have an air compressor to assist in airing back up. All dinners and final morning breakfast are included.

THE AGENDA

*Itinerary subject to change based on road conditions

Day 1 – Explore the west side of Big Bend National Park

Meet at Panther Junction for quick orientation and introductions

Drive down Old Maverick Road

Santa Elena Canyon Trail and/or Dorgan House Trail hike

Ross Maxwell Scenic Drive

Drive to private campsite outside park

Glen Springs and River Road drive discussion

Group dinner provided

Day 2 – Glenn Springs to River Road

Depart Grapevine at 9AM 

Glen Springs Road

River Road East

Stop at Mariscal Mine (time and conditions permitting)

Camp at Rio Grande Village

Old Ore and Big Bend Ranch State Park discussion

Dinner provided 

Day 3 – Old Ore Road & over to Big Bend Ranch

Depart from Camp for Old Ore at 9AM

Old Ore Road to Ernst Tinaja hike

Old Ore back to Hot Springs

Drive over towards Big Bend Ranch State Park and camp

BBRSP primitive roads discussion

Dinner provided

Day 4 – Big Bend Ranch State Park

Breakfast from the griddle

Scenic drive along the river – often called “the most scenic drive in Texas”

Closed Canyon Trail 

Goodbyes and Depart midday

What others are saying:

“I didn’t know that 135 miles at 12 mph could be so fun. Definitely a “must do” trip. Very historic area..” – Phil B

“Mike and Karen are skilled Revelers. Having owned their vehicle for so long, they know how to make off-roading feel accessible to everyone, not just the hardcore. Their easy manner and gentle instruction helped to sharpen my skills and were were patient with reminders when I forgot a skill every now and then.

Their itineraries were never too ambitious, just the right amount of driving and taking scenic walks, and other much-needed breaks in the action. Karen is a wonderful cook, Mike a helpful and skilled problem solver, and they are also just delightful people. I’d definitely take another course of theirs – and you should, too.” – Meghan A

“Thanks Mike and Karen. We enjoyed our trip with you immensely. Food, itinerary, people, and campsites were top notch.” J & W

“John and I had a great time. The trip was everything we wanted it to be and more. Very well planned out and Mike’s knowledge of the van is amazing. Thank you guys again!” J & T

“I feel a lot more confident! Excited to keep my eyes open for more trips” RS