Panther Junction Visitor Center — Attraction in Texas

Panther Junction Visitor Center – Big Bend National Park

I've been to Big Bend a few times, and each time I find myself returning to Panther Junction Visitor Center. It’s the main visitor center that stays open year-round, and during the summer, it's one of only two open (the other being Chisos Basin). The peace and quiet out here never gets old—there’s something calming about the desert landscape that keeps calling me back.

The stars at night are absolutely breathtaking—so many and so bright that my photos never quite do them justice. On a clear night, you can even catch the Milky Way. It’s truly a stargazer’s dream.

This visitor center is about 3.5 hours from where I stayed in Odessa. Coming from that direction, the visitor center is around 27 miles from the park entrance. Along the way, you’ll pass the Fossil Discovery Exhibit. The Persimmon Gap visitor is on the right as you enter the entrance. But close during the summer.

The staff here are really helpful and friendly—you can get all the information you need to plan your visit. Whether it's your first time or your fifth, Panther Junction is a solid starting point for exploring the park—especially in the hotter months when options are limited.

Thank you, Big Bend. I’m already looking forward to...

The park is a very pretty place with many hiking trails, and the visitor centers are very clean and fun to go to, with a helpful and friendly staff. There are a lot of things about this part I love, and could recommend, having traveled to many national parks.. however... I have not been in any way impressed with texas to start with, and in the national park, the bored and overly pretentious border patrol is in my view more of a danger to the the American, then to anyone illegally crossing the border.. for example. After coming from the visitor center and taking pictures, it doesn't take 3 patrol vehicles, with a full swat team, guns ready to kill us. To pull over 2 very American looking guys in an accent, with mid American plates.. and after being pulled over, and watch them stage ridiculously for ww3 right out of a movie, the ideal texas lawmen..?? Struts up to the car, short, fat, and wearing overly big aviation sun glasses, harrased us for a half hour. Most of that time was just the talking about the weather.. sadly this isn't a rare activity, even the local sheriff has issues with them. And it's a matter of time before they kill someone.. as is with most of the out of control and unchecked law enforcement..?? Rest assured I will not...

If you're looking for a beautiful and awe-inspiring place to explore nature, you simply can't go wrong with the Big Bend National Park. My recent visit was made all the more enjoyable and informative thanks to the fantastic staff at the Panther Junction Visitor Center.

From the moment I arrived, the rangers at the center were welcoming and eager to help me make the most of my visit. They provided me with maps and detailed information about the park's trails and attractions, making it easy for me to plan out my itinerary.

Throughout my stay, the rangers were always available to answer my questions and offer guidance. Their knowledge and expertise helped me truly appreciate the park's natural wonders, from the soaring Chisos Mountains to the winding Rio Grande river.

Overall, I highly recommend visiting the Panther Junction Visitor Center at the beginning of your journey. Big Bend National Park has something for anyone who loves nature and adventure. Whether you're an avid hiker, a photographer, a birdwatcher, or simply looking for a breathtaking escape from the hustle and bustle of everyday life, this park has something...