Page last updated: 16 September 2024
How many people visit Big Bend National Park each year?
Over 509,129 tourists visited Big Bend National Park in 2023.
- Big Bend National Park welcomed 463,832 visitors in 2019. However, when the pandemic hit in 2020, this number dropped by 15% to 393,907.
- By 2021, visitor numbers (581,220) began to recover, exceeding the pre-pandemic year figure.
- Tourist numbers dropped to 514,107 visits in 2022, and 509,129 visits in 2023.
How much do visitors spend at Big Bend National Park every year?
In 2023, visitor spending at Big Bend National Park amounted to $48.51 million.
- In 2019, visitors to Big Bend National Park generated $41.3 million in expenditure. However, in 2020, visitor spending dropped by 19% to $33.54 million.
- Big Bend National Park recovered in 2021, with tourists spending $53.08 million.
- In 2022, tourist spending amounted to $48.06 million, and in 2023, this increased by less than 1% to $48.51 million. This growth highlighted a steady recovery, showcasing a 17% rise compared to the spending levels in 2019.
How many people visited Big Bend National Park in 2023?
- In 2023, Big Bend National Park welcomed a total of 509,129 visitors, with 135,782 overnight campers and 373,347 same-day tourists. This marked a 9% increase compared to the visitor numbers recorded in 2019.
How much did tourists spend in Big Bend National Park in 2023?
- Visitors to Big Bend National Park spent almost $48.51 million in 2023, exceeding the pre-pandemic spending levels by 17%.
Impact of Coronavirus
Big Bend National Park Tourism Statistics 2020 and 2021
- In 2020, Big Bend National Park visitor numbers fell to 393,907 due to the coronavirus pandemic. This marked a decrease of 17% from the 2019 figure of 463,832. In 2021, there was a 25% increase compared to 2020 with 581,220 visits.
- Tourist spending followed a similar trend. After 2019’s expenditure figure of $41.30 million, tourist spending dropped to $33.54 million in 2020, showcasing a drop of over 19%. However, in 2021, visitor spending reached $53.08 million, exceeding the 2019 tourist expenditure by 29%.
How popular is Big Bend National Park?
- Big Bend National Park is ranked 13th overall in the U.S as the “Best National Park in 2023”, with its strong performance driven by favourable weather conditions (ranked 7th), visitor reviews (ranked 23rd), manageable crowds (ranked 13th), and rich biodiversity (ranked 12th).
- Big Bend National Park ranked 40th as the most visited national park in the U.S.A. in 2023.
Read more about the U.S. National Park Ranking.
When is the best time to visit Big Bend National Park?
- The best time to visit Big Bend National Park is outside of the busiest periods, which typically occur from October to April, particularly during Thanksgiving, Christmas, New Year’s, Spring Break, and holiday weekends.
- For the best weather conditions, the most ideal seasons to visit are spring (March-April) and fall (October-November), when temperatures are moderate.
What were Big Bend National Park’s peak tourist months in 2023?
- March was the busiest month for Big Bend National Park, attracting 83,159 visitors due to Spring Break and favourable weather.
- April had 62,014 visits because of its mild temperatures and spring blooms.
- November attracted 56,400 visitors. Cooler fall weather and the Thanksgiving holiday brought more tourists.
- December had 54,534 visitors. The holiday season and pleasant winter weather draw many visitors.
- February welcomed 48,362 visitors. Early spring weather made it a great time for outdoor activities.
What were the most popular types of camping at Big Bend National Park in 2023?
- Backcountry Camping (58,919 visits): These adventurers prefer the remote wilderness and solitude, exploring the rugged landscapes of Big Bend.
- RV Campers (27,175 visits): This group enjoys the comfort of RVs while staying close to nature, taking advantage of park facilities.
- Tent Campers (23,647 visits): Traditional outdoor enthusiasts who embrace a more primitive camping experience under the stars.
- Concessionaire Lodging (22,346 visits): Visitors looking for convenience opt for lodges or cabins within the park.
- Concessionnaire Camping (3,695 visits): A smaller group prefers managed campsites provided by park concessions for a more structured camping experience.
Big Bend National Park Facts
- Diverse Ecosystem: Big Bend hosts a wide range of ecosystems, from deserts to mountainous terrains, supporting varied flora and fauna.
- Rio Grande Border: The park is bordered by the Rio Grande, which forms the natural boundary between the U.S. and Mexico.
- Rich History: Evidence of ancient Native American habitation, miners, and early settlers are preserved within the park.
- Wildlife Haven: Over 450 bird species, along with diverse mammals, reptiles, and amphibians, call the park home.
- Geological Wonders: Big Bend features unique volcanic and fossil formations.
What are the most common causes of death in Big Bend National Park?
There were 16 recorded deaths in Big Bend National Park between 2007 and 2023. Here are the main causes of death in the park:
- Environmental Accidents (10 death)
- Medical Emergency – During Physical Activity (7 death)
- Medical Emergency – Unknown (7 death)
- Medical Emergency – Not During Physical Activity (5 death)
- Falls (3 death)
- Drowning (2 death)
- Motor Vehicle Crash (1 death)
Big Bend National Park Safety Tips
When visiting Big Bend National Park, it’s essential to be mindful of safety precautions due to the park’s remote location and harsh conditions. Follow these guidelines:
- Carry sufficient water: At least one gallon per person per day, especially during hikes.
- Dress appropriately: Wear a hat, long sleeves, and sunscreen for sun protection.
- Avoid midday hikes in summer: Plan hikes for cooler parts of the day.
- Be prepared for extreme weather: Temperatures can fluctuate drastically, even in winter.
- Wildlife safety: If encountering bears or mountain lions, do not run. Stand tall, make noise, and report sightings.
National Park (NP) Tourism Statistics
References
- NPS: Facts and Figures – Visitation, Ranking and Mortality Data