A nonprofit supporting Big Bend Ranch State Park is warning that plans for a border wall in the Big Bend region may be moving forward and could extend into parts of the state park, cutting off river access and affecting established campgrounds.
In an urgent message to supporters this week, Friends of Big Bend Ranch State Park said newly updated maps on the U.S. Customs and Border Protection website appear to show a planned physical barrier stretching from Presidio into the western reaches of Big Bend Ranch State Park — despite previous assurances that the region would rely on “detection only” and virtual wall technology rather than fencing.
The group said it initially believed the issue had been resolved after discussions earlier this year but now warns “the fight with the wall isn’t over,” citing what it described as shifting CBP plans with little communication to local officials.
According to the organization, the latest map indicates a physical barrier could run from Presidio westward into the park, potentially restricting public river access and impacting established campsites in one of Texas’ most remote and scenic state parks.
The group also warned that roughly 12 miles of razor wire planned west of Presidio could create flood-related safety concerns downstream, including within park areas.
“We want to be clear, this isn’t a political issue,” the organization wrote in its statement, saying members span the political spectrum but agree a physical barrier is unnecessary in the Big Bend region due to relatively low crossing numbers and the natural deterrent posed by the harsh Chihuahuan Desert landscape.
Friends of Big Bend Ranch State Park is now urging residents and park supporters to contact state and federal officials, including Gov. Greg Abbott, U.S. Sens. Ted Cruz and John Cornyn, along with Customs and Border Protection, to oppose physical wall construction in the region.
The organization said it believes public pressure is needed now as plans continue to evolve and before construction decisions are finalized.
