Big Bend Station Inn & RV Ranch is an inviting, down-to-earth spot that captures the spirit of desert living and exploration.
53623 TX-118
Terlingua, TX 79852
(432) 371-3382
4:00 PM
11:00 AM
Big Bend Station Inn & RV Ranch was an experience steeped in the tranquility of nature and the welcoming warmth of the West Texas desert. Situated just a stone’s throw away from Big Bend National Park, this location offers a perfect base for those looking to explore the breathtaking landscapes of one of the most captivating national parks in the United States. Aramark, the parent company that owns Big Bend Station and the Chisos Lodge, is an authorized concessioner of the National Park Service.
Sitting on the front patio watching the sunset
Gorgeous desert sunset from the hotel
Getting There
The scenic drive to and from the ranch is a treat in itself, with expansive desert views that transform during golden hours into a canvas of vivid hues. The hotel is located in the town of Study Butte-Terlingua at 53623 TX-118, Terlingua, TX 79852.
Closest Airport
The closest airport to Big Bend Station Inn & RV Ranch and Big Bend National Park is Midland International Air & Space Port (MAF) in Midland, Texas, which is approximately 235 miles (around a 4-hour drive) away. Another option is El Paso International Airport (ELP), located about 300 miles (approximately a 4.5 to 5-hour drive) from the park. Both airports offer car rental services, making it convenient to drive to the Big Bend area.
Ease of Access
Getting to Big Bend Station Inn & RV Ranch can be a bit challenging due to its remote location, but the journey is part of the adventure. Most visitors arrive by driving from either Midland International Air & Space Port or El Paso International Airport. From both airports, expect scenic drives with stretches of open desert, small towns, and minimal traffic. The drive from Midland takes about 4 hours and involves taking I-20 west, then heading south on US-385 or US-67 to reach the Big Bend area. From El Paso, the drive is roughly 4.5 to 5 hours, primarily via I-10 east and then heading south on US-90 or US-118.
The roads are generally well-maintained, but travelers should be prepared for long stretches with few services or stops. Fuel stations can be sparse, so it’s wise to fill up the gas tank whenever possible. Additionally, cell service can be spotty in the more rural stretches, so downloading offline maps and directions beforehand is recommended to ensure smooth navigation.
For those seeking alternative travel options, there are a few to consider. Some visitors opt for private flights to Terlingua Airport, a small airstrip that’s closer to the ranch, though it is typically used by private pilots or charter flights. Train travel is another option, with Amtrak’s Sunset Limited stopping in Alpine, Texas. From Alpine, the drive to the inn is approximately 100 miles (about 1.5 hours).
While getting to Big Bend Station Inn & RV Ranch requires planning and a commitment to a long drive, the route itself is part of the unique experience of visiting such a remote and beautiful region. The reward is an unforgettable stay amid the serene, unspoiled landscapes of West Texas.
Check-In & Check-Out Process
The check-in and check-out procedures at Big Bend Station Inn & RV Ranch are straightforward, designed for convenience and to accommodate travelers’ needs. Typically, check-in begins in the afternoon, around 3:00 PM, although it’s always best to confirm the exact time with the inn. Upon arrival, guests should head to the main office or reception area to complete their check-in. The staff is usually on hand to greet guests, provide room keys, and offer helpful information about the facilities and local attractions. For those arriving late, notifying the inn in advance is essential, as they may provide instructions for self-check-in, such as where to find your room key or access code. You’ll also need to put a credit card on file for any incidentals.
Check-out time is generally around 11:00 AM, though confirming this with the inn is wise if early or late check-out is needed. The check-out process usually involves returning the room key to the reception or placing it in a designated key drop box. In some cases, the inn may ask for a quick room inspection upon departure to ensure everything is in order. Guests should be prepared to settle any outstanding charges or balances, such as fees for incidentals, during check-out.
Overall, these procedures are designed to be simple and stress-free, allowing guests to enjoy a smooth start and end to their stay. For specific details or to coordinate special requests, reaching out to the inn directly is recommended.
Another beautiful sunset behind the desert trees
Accommodations
The inn provides a selection of rustic yet comfortable rooms that blend harmoniously with the surrounding environment. The rooms, although simple, are thoughtfully decorated with desert-themed accents, creating a cozy atmosphere. Amenities such as clean linens, a mini-fridge, and air conditioning were appreciated given the fluctuating desert temperatures. For those traveling in RVs, the ranch offers spacious, well-maintained spots with full hookups, making it a popular choice for road trippers.
Hotel Statistics
- No Smoking
- Station Lodge Rooms: 32
- Mission Lodge: 36
- RV Sites: 120
- Duplex Rooms: 2
Room Types
The Mission Lodge offers a variety of deluxe room options. Guests can choose a room with a king-sized bed, complete with a mini fridge and microwave for added convenience. The lodge also features pet-friendly rooms with one queen-sized bed. Additionally, other queen-sized rooms come equipped with a mini fridge and microwave, providing comfort and essential amenities for all travelers.
The Station Lodge offers deluxe rooms featuring two queen-sized beds, along with a mini refrigerator and microwave for added convenience. Some of the rooms at the Station Lodge are also pet-friendly, allowing guests to bring their pets along for a comfortable stay.
The Windmill Suite offers a well-appointed and spacious retreat, featuring a comfortable queen-sized bed for restful sleep. In addition to the bed, the suite includes a fully equipped kitchenette, allowing guests the convenience of preparing their own meals during their stay. The suite also boasts a separate living room area, providing extra space to relax and unwind, making it an ideal choice for those seeking a more home-like experience with added comfort and privacy.
There are sites available for tent camping as well as those with campers and RVs. The RV sites offer 30-amp and 5-amp hookups. There are sites for pop-up campers up to 16 feet in length. For RV travelers, the ranch has reliable power and water hookups, and the layout of the park ensures that guests have enough space for privacy. The shared restrooms and showers were consistently clean, a testament to the staff’s dedication to maintaining a comfortable environment for all visitors. The resort has 41 pull-through sites and 79 back-in RV sites.
Note: Those looking for a more upscale stay should consider Lajitas Golf Resort. It’s further from Big Bend National Park (but closer to the state park) and includes expansive room choices, a dining area, an on-site golf course, and more. The Maverick Ranch RV Park is another camping area for those visiting Big Bend that is located next to Lajitas Mesa.
Beds
When booking a stay at any of the lodges, rooms are available with either one queen bed, one king bed, or two queen beds. Be sure to carefully select the room with the appropriate number and size of beds to suit your needs.
Bathrooms
Each room in the lodge features a private bathroom, much like a standard hotel setup. The bathrooms are equipped with a shower and bathtub combination, a toilet, and a sink. Toiletries are available upon request.
Kitchen
The only room that comes with a small kitchenette is the duplex Windmill Suites. Otherwise, most of the rooms have a mini fridge and a microwave, but no other kitchen facilities. Visitors should keep in mind that the area is remote, so meal planning or groceries for RV cooking are recommended. Bring your own snacks or groceries if you plan to cook along with adequate supplies; the remote location doesn’t have large stores nearby, although there is a small convenience store at the gas station on the property.
Laundry
There are laundry facilities in the building just south of the grill and gas station. They are coin machines so make sure you have quarters and your own laundry detergent.
Cleanliness
Overall, the hotel and lodge room we stayed in was pretty clean. There were a few places that could have had a little more attention to detail with the cleaning, but it is an old building and some of that could come down to maintenance as well. The hotel is in the middle of the desert, so everything is dusty, but that is to be expected.
Eating breakfast in the hotel room
Hotel Map
Amenities
Big Bend Station Inn is not a luxury resort, and that’s part of its charm. The facilities are geared towards travelers who value quiet nights and the ambiance of an authentic desert experience. The inn features a communal lounge area where guests can gather, share stories of their adventures, or plan their next day’s activities. While Wi-Fi is available, connectivity can be spotty—a reminder that sometimes it’s best to unplug and savor the solitude.
Pool/Hot Tub
There are no swimming pool or hot tub facilities available here.
Parking
Guests staying in lodge rooms have access to complimentary on-site parking near their accommodations, making it easy to unload luggage and access their vehicles during their stay.
Wi-Fi
Complimentary Wi-Fi is available to guests though it can be very spotty and difficult to connect your devices. In our experience, the wifi worked well if we were sitting in the lounge area in front of the lobby, but it didn’t reach down to our room at the end of the building.
Activities
There are only a few activities available at the Big Bend Station Inn. The hotel is made to be rugged accommodations in a remote desert for visitors to enjoy their surroundings.
Fitness Center
Big Bend Station does not have a fitness center on-site. For most, their exercise and fitness come from hiking through Big Bend National Park, Big Bend Ranch State Park, and the other acres of public land.
Lobby
The inn features a communal lounge area where guests can gather, share stories of their adventures, or plan their next day’s activities.
Dining
Though the inn does not have an on-site restaurant, it is close to several eateries that offer classic Tex-Mex dishes and hearty meals perfect for fueling up after a day of hiking or sightseeing. Right next door to the Station Lodge is the Big Bend Station Grill & Store which offers a variety of homecooked meals and desserts.
Takeout dinner from the restaurant nextdoor
Eating pizza at Big Bend Station Grill
Pet Policy
Pets are welcome under specific guidelines at this pet-friendly hotel. For lodge rooms, pets are only allowed in designated rooms with a nonrefundable fee of $25.00 per night, and there is a maximum of two pets per room. Owners are responsible for cleaning up after their pets, and additional cleaning fees may apply if the room requires excessive cleaning due to pet-related issues. For camping areas, there is no additional fee for pets; however, they must be kept on a leash at all times, and owners are expected to clean up after them to maintain the cleanliness and comfort of the grounds.
Accessibility
Big Bend Station Inn & RV Ranch offers some accessibility features, although, like many remote accommodations, the options can be limited. The inn strives to accommodate guests with mobility challenges, but it’s always a good idea to contact them directly to inquire about specific requests and availability.
While the main areas of the lodge and RV park are generally accessible, certain parts of the property, especially outdoors or in more rugged sections, might not be fully wheelchair accessible. However, accessible parking spaces are available near the main entrance for guests with disabilities.
Desert trees outsite the main office
Nearby Attractions
Big Bend Station Inn & RV Ranch is conveniently located near several iconic attractions and natural wonders that make West Texas a unique destination.
Big Bend National Park
Just a short drive from the ranch, Big Bend National Park is one of the main attractions, offering over 800,000 acres of diverse landscapes, including desert, mountains, and the scenic Rio Grande River. Visitors can enjoy hiking trails, river rafting, stargazing, wildlife viewing, and breathtaking viewpoints.
Terlingua Ghost Town
About 30 minutes away, Terlingua Ghost Town is a fascinating historic mining town with a quirky, artistic vibe. Visitors can explore the abandoned ruins, browse art galleries, and enjoy the famous Starlight Theatre, which hosts live music and serves Southwestern cuisine.
Santa Elena Canyon
One of Big Bend National Park’s most famous sights, Santa Elena Canyon features dramatic cliffs rising 1,500 feet above the Rio Grande. Visitors can hike the Santa Elena Canyon Trail for stunning views or take a river trip through the canyon.
Rio Grande Village
Located within Big Bend National Park, Rio Grande Village offers picnic areas, campgrounds, scenic views of the river, and access to the Hot Springs Historic Trail. This area is ideal for day trips and exploring the river’s banks.
Chisos Mountains
The rugged Chisos Mountains offer cooler temperatures and some of the park’s best hiking trails, including the Lost Mine Trail and the challenging Emory Peak Trail. The Chisos Basin Visitor Center is also a great spot for information on hiking and park resources.
Big Bend Ranch State Park
Just west of Big Bend National Park, Big Bend Ranch State Park is Texas’s largest state park and a perfect spot for hiking, mountain biking, horseback riding, and off-road adventures. This lesser-known park offers stunning, less-crowded trails and scenic views of the rugged landscape whether you are driving the interior roads or are on a horse riding adventure.
The Hot Springs
Located along the Rio Grande within Big Bend National Park, the Hot Springs are a relaxing attraction where visitors can soak in the warm waters surrounded by scenic cliffs. It’s accessible via a short trail and provides a unique experience of natural relaxation.
Big Bend
Big Bend Station Overall Experience
Positives
- One of the standout aspects of Big Bend Station Inn & RV Ranch is the friendly staff. The hosts were incredibly knowledgeable about the local area, offering great tips on hiking trails, dining spots, and hidden gems within the park that are often overlooked.
- The exterior appearance of the Big Bend Station Inn and the surrounding native plants help you feel immersed in the park’s setting.
- Evenings under the vast, star-filled sky were a highlight—no light pollution to mar the view, just constellations and the peaceful hum of the desert.
- You can’t beat the convenience of being so close to Big Bend National Park without staying in the park itself. It can be very difficult to get reservations in the park, so this is a great Inn alternative. This is a good base camp for exploring Big Bend since it has easy access to the Maverick Entrance area.
Negatives
- If you are coming as a camper, the park only has a three-number rating on RV Parky. They charge $2 for 6 minutes in the shower, and the ground is mostly dirt so not very level.
- Due to the remote location of Big Bend Station in Brewster County, power outages may occasionally occur as a result of county-wide issues beyond their control but refunds will not be issued in the event of power outages.
- The place claims to have wifi, but we had a difficult time connecting if we weren’t sitting right outside the lobby.