National Park Expansion Proposal Under Consideration for Big Bend
Plans are underway to potentially expand Big Bend National Park, one of America's largest and most frequented national parks, by acquiring additional land along its western boundary. The."Big Bend National Park Boundary Adjustment Act," currently under consideration, would authorize the National Park Service to acquire approximately 6,100 acres of land adjacent to Terlingua Creek, a tributary of the Rio Grande River.
The proposed expansion aims to preserve the area's unique ecosystem, particularly the Terlingua Creek region, which hosts heritage homesteads, fossil beds, and an abundance of nesting birds, according to Loren Riemer, executive director of the Big Bend Conservancy.
The legislation is in the process of being reviewed by lawmakers. The National Park Service could potentially acquire the land through donation or exchange, as per the bill's terms. If passed, this expansion could contribute to the protection of critical habitats, safeguard archaeological and historical sites, and potentially improve public access to the park's recreational opportunities.
Big Bend National Park, located in Southwestern Texas, spans over 800,000 acres of North American wilderness. Each year, the park attracts over 500,000 visitors who come to hike, run, camp, and climb in the rugged Texas wilderness. However, the park faces challenges, with President Trump's workforce cuts impacting daily operations and approximately 500 US soldiers expected to be stationed at the park in the coming months to curb illegal border crossings.
Opponents have described the military presence as a "manufactured crisis." The park borders about 118 miles (190 km) of America's southern border, though there are relatively few crossings compared to other areas, according to government data.
If passed, the Big Bend National Park Boundary Adjustment Act would contribute to the park's growth through private donor generosity. The bill's current status in the 119th Congress is "Introduced." It was introduced by Rep. Tony Gonzales (R-TX-23) on March 25, 2025, and has been referred to the House Committee on Natural Resources. The bill has not progressed past this stage at this time.
The proposed expansion of Big Bend National Park could enhance the protection of critical habitats and improve public access to outdoor-living opportunities, such as hiking and camping, within the park. The acquisition of adjacent land along Terlingua Creek may also contribute to the preservation of home-and-garden-style heritage homesteads and support the growth of the lifestyle associated with outdoor-living, while safeguarding archaeological and historical sites, and potentially improving sports and recreational activities.
