Rio Grande Wild & Scenic River

Santa Elena Canyon on the Rio Grande River.
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 in natural soundscapes.
Map showing location of park.
tamarisk foliage
Temporary Closures for Herbicide Applications
From November 11 to November 12, a team will be cutting down and applying herbicide to invasive salt cedars (Tamarix spp.) in the Hot Springs area. During this time, visitors may encounter a temporary closure along the river from Gravel Pit to Hot Springs Canyon. Work is not expected to affect visitor access to the historic Hot Springs.
Canoeing Boquillas Canyon
Photo by NPS / G. Fisseler
View in Boquillas Canyon
Photo by NPS / G. Fisseler
A desert river with a backdrop of mountains in the distance.
Photo by NPS
People in two canoes paddle on a river threading through high canyon walls.
Photo by NPS
A desert river with a tree lined bank in the background.
Photo by NPS
A desert river with a rugged landscape of cliff faces and hills in the background.
Photo by NPS