2 national parks in Texas

National Parks in Texas

Texas has 2 national parks. Here's when each one is at its best, and the months that work for seeing several on one trip.

April and October are the best overall for Texas's parks. Big Bend: Oct–Apr; Guadalupe Mountains: Apr–May, Oct.

Season calendar

Park	Jan	Feb	Mar	Apr	May	Jun	Jul	Aug	Sep	Oct	Nov	Dec
Big Bend
Guadalupe Mountains

Texas · Best Oct–Apr

Desert, mountains and a river canyon at the edge of Texas, with the darkest skies in the lower 48.

Texas · Best Apr–May, Oct

The highest point in Texas and a hidden canyon of fall color in the desert.

4 parks · 6+ days · Best Oct, Apr

White gypsum dunes, a giant cave, the top of Texas and the dark-sky wilderness of Big Bend.

New Mexico · Best May–Oct

New Mexico · Best Mar–Apr, Oct–Nov

Arizona · Best Nov–Apr

Arizona · Best Apr–May, Oct

How many national parks are in Texas?

Texas has 2 national parks: Big Bend National Park, Guadalupe Mountains National Park.

When is the best time to visit national parks in Texas?

April and October are the best overall for Texas's parks. Big Bend: Oct–Apr; Guadalupe Mountains: Apr–May, Oct.

Last reviewed October 4, 2026. Ratings are editorial. Rules and road openings change each year, so confirm on the official NPS site before you go.