Big Bend National Park, a key part of Texas’ natural landscape, is slated for significant enhancements starting May 1, 2025, thanks to the $6.5 billion Great American Outdoors Act (GAOA) Legacy Restoration Fund. This multi-year federal initiative aims to revitalize and upgrade the Chisos Basin area, a favorite among visitors for its stunning views and critical amenities.
The comprehensive renovations will require a temporary closure of the Chisos Basin area, affecting the roads, lodging, campground, restaurant, visitor center, camper store, and trails. The closure will facilitate the construction of a new Chisos Basin Lodge and a sweeping overhaul of the area’s water infrastructure. Planned improvements include replacing outdated water lines, storage tanks, hydrants, and water treatment systems. The new lodge will be equipped with modern amenities such as a dining room, lobby, convenience store, restrooms, and an outdoor terrace designed to elevate the visitor experience.
While the Chisos Basin undergoes these transformations, Big Bend National Park will remain open, offering access to its vast 800,000 acres filled with canyons, deserts, historic sites, diverse wildlife, and over 150 miles of hiking trails.
The project will also focus on enhancing accessibility and safety. Upgrades are planned to meet ADA compliance, add new exhibits at the Visitor Center, establish a new trailhead kiosk, demolish the existing Camper Store, and install electric vehicle charging stations. Pathways will be reconfigured to connect motel units and the Visitor Center with the new lodge, ensuring all major public facilities within the Basin are easily accessible.
Park Superintendent Anjna O’Connor expressed excitement about the initiative: “The funding from the GAOA is a transformative opportunity for Big Bend to meet high standards of energy, water, and operational efficiency. These improvements will not only enhance the experience for today’s visitors but will also preserve the park’s resources for future generations.”
The GAOA allocates up to $1.3 billion annually over five years, totaling $6.5 billion, to address deferred maintenance and infrastructure needs across U.S. national parks. This substantial investment demonstrates a national commitment to preserving and enhancing America’s parks, ensuring that natural treasures like Big Bend continue to inspire and educate visitors from Texas and around the world.
Texas Reporter 