Rio-Grande

One of the most spectacular and remote national parks in America where the Chisos Mountains rise dramatically from the Chihuahuan Desert and the Rio Grande carves deep canyons along the Mexican border. The Window Trail is the signature family hike leading to a pour-off with desert basin views that kids never forget. The Santa Elena Canyon Trail walks right into a 1,500-foot limestone canyon with the river echoing off the walls. The night sky here is among the darkest in North America and the stargazing alone is worth the drive.

The largest state park in Texas at over 300,000 acres of raw Chihuahuan Desert backcountry along the Rio Grande. This is genuine wilderness and best suited for families with older adventurous kids who are ready for rugged terrain and remote conditions. The scenic River Road drive between Lajitas and Presidio is one of the most dramatic drives in Texas with desert canyons and the Rio Grande visible below.

Home to some of the oldest known pictographs in North America in the Fate Bell Shelter which is accessible only by guided tour. Kids who are into ancient history and archaeology will be absolutely captivated seeing 4,000-year-old rock paintings in their original setting deep in a limestone canyon. The canyon rim trail offers dramatic views of the Rio Grande and Pecos River confluence. This is a remote park that rewards families willing to make the drive.