Barton Warnock Visitor Center
00 review21800 FM 170, TERLINGUA, Texas, 79852, United States
Barton Warnock Visitor Center
$5.00 - $5.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$0.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
Day use fee is $5 per person aged 13 and older.
About this campground
Step into the heart of the Chihuahuan Desert at the Barton Warnock Visitor Center, where your Big Bend Ranch State Park adventure begins. This welcoming oasis offers more than just park information—it's a full-service basecamp featuring fascinating exhibits that bring the desert's stories to life, meticulously maintained native gardens that showcase the region's surprising botanical diversity, and a well-stocked gift shop perfect for finding that special memento. The knowledgeable staff stands ready to share insider tips and trail recommendations, while practical amenities like the RV dump and fill station ensure you're fully prepared for the rugged beauty that awaits beyond these walls.
The Barton Warnock Visitor Center is not a traditional campground but serves as a key access point for Big Bend Ranch State Park. It does not provide actual campsites but facilitates outdoor activities and serves as a hub for exploring the area.
Weather and SeasonsTime your visit to experience the desert at its most magnificent during the golden window of late February through early May, when spring transforms Big Bend Ranch into a temperate paradise. Picture yourself waking to crisp morning air, spending days under brilliantly blue skies, and enjoying evening temperatures perfect for stargazing around the campfire. While summer brings its own stark beauty, the mercury can soar past 100°F, creating conditions that challenge even seasoned desert enthusiasts. Spring's gentle temperatures and minimal rainfall create ideal conditions for exploring every trail, vista, and hidden canyon this remarkable landscape has to offer.
Campsite details
Total Campsites0 campsites
Reserving a campsite
Tents
Tents are not allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are not allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made online.
Walk-in AvailabilityPasses can be reserved online, and services are available via a walk-up window.
Cancellation PolicyIf your plans change, please modify or cancel your reservation as soon as possible.
Amenities available
Dump station
Vault toilets
Activities you can enjoy
The Barton Warnock Visitor Center provides a gateway to various activities such as hiking, mountain biking, horseback riding, paddling, and fishing along the river. The center also offers trails for nature and interpretive walks and access to scenic overlooks.
Hiking
The center provides access to hiking trails, with rangers available to recommend specific routes. Highlights include nature and interpretive trails.Fishing
Fishing opportunities are available along the river access provided at the facility.Biking
Mountain biking trails are available for those seeking off-road adventures.Boating
A canoe/kayak launch is available for paddling activities.Water Sports
Kayaking and paddling are supported on the river.Campground rules
- Pets are not allowed
Hazards
Weather forecast
96
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Humidity: 21%
Very dry conditions, stay hydrated
Wind: 5.4 mph
Moderate wind, may affect light items
Clear sky
7-Day Forecast
Access to 7-day forecasts tailored to each campground—covering temperature, precipitation, wind, and sky conditions.
Daily & Hourly Insights
View hourly forecasts with expected weather patterns throughout the day.
Temperature Trends
Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.
Precipitation Trends
Plan around rain or snow with monthly visualizations of expected precipitation patterns.
Weather Summaries
Assess conditions with visuals for easier decision-making on when and where to camp.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
Phone service is available through the park's contact number at 432-424-3327, but there are no specific details about proximity to hospitals or police stations.
Good to know
Trash and recyclingTrash and recycling facilities are not explicitly mentioned in user reviews or authoritative sources.
Common complaints'Staff not real helpful,' 'long line to check in,' and 'attendant wasn’t very helpful' are some recurring complaints from visitors.
HostStaff interactions at the visitor center have mixed feedback. Some users noted helpfulness and guidance, while others reported unfriendliness or lack of initiative.
Campground Map
21800 FM 170, TERLINGUA, Texas, 79852, United States
Driving directionsFrom San Antonio: Take I 10 West to Fort Stockton. From Fort Stockton, 10 miles west, take Hwy 67 South to Alpine. From Alpine, take Hwy 118 South to Study Butte. From Study Butte, take Hwy FM 170 West, 16 miles towards Lajitas. Barton Warnock Visitor Center is located 1 mile east of Lajitas, Texas.
Camper Reviews
0.0
0 reviews
Barton Warnock Visitor Center has limited reviews, placing it in the bottom % of campgrounds based on reviews
Reviews indicate mixed experiences at the Barton Warnock Visitor Center, with visitors appreciating the helpful staff and available amenities but noting occasional issues with customer service and operational limitations.
Review Summaries
What Campers Love
Visitors praised the center for its well-maintained facilities, helpful staff, and the availability of maps and information for exploring Big Bend Ranch State Park. The gardens and exhibit areas were...
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Common Concerns
Some visitors found the staff less proactive in offering information and noted long lines at the check-in window. Others mentioned that certain facilities, like the museum, were closed due to social...
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Pro Tips & Recommendations
Arrive early to avoid long lines and ensure access to facilities before they close. Handle your digital needs at the center, as there is no Wi-Fi or cell service in the park.
Seasonal Insights
No specific seasonal trends are highlighted in the reviews; however, visitors noted that operational hours and available facilities can vary.
Camper Quotes
"Nice visitor's center, helpful staff, gift shop, impressive exhibit area, beautiful gardens and an RV dump and fill station." - Steve. "All passes are purchased by an outside window, and only...
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Site-Specific Reviews
The facility does not offer campsites; hence, no site-specific reviews are available.
Last updated August 10, 2025