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Big Bend National Park State Parks
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Welcome to Presidio, Texas
Presidio is located in one of the oldest continuously inhabited areas in North America. Traditionally known as La Junta de los Rios, it is found at the junction of the Rio Grande and the Rio Conchos rivers. Prior to the establishment of the border between Texas and Mexico in 1848, the settlement called Presidio del Norte rested comfortably on both sides of the Rio Grande. The end of the US- Mexican War caused the separation of the community into two parts, the larger part in Mexico renamed Ojinaga, and the smaller northern section shortened to simply Presidio.
Close ties between the sister cities result in strong Mexican influence in Presidio where restaurants offer delicious, authentic Mexican food and shoppers can enjoy visits to both sides of the border, as well as duty free shopping.
The Port of Entry between Presidio and Ojinaga is the only legal border crossing between Del Rio and El Paso, leading the way to some of Mexico’s most beautiful mountain countryside. Visitor information is available at the Presidio Chamber of Commerce.
FEATURED EVENTS & ATTRACTIONS
Downtown/St. Francis Plaza
O’Reilly Street in Presidio leads through a bustling commercial district to the International Bridge. St. Francis Plaza, a walled garden with benches and fountains, is dedicated to the contributions of Franciscan missionaries to Presidio and Ojinaga.
Fort Leaton State Historic Site
Visit a massive, fortified adobe trading post dating from the 1840s. Interpretive exhibits highlight area history. Day-use only. Picnic areas and guided tours available. www.tpwd.state.tx.us/park/fortleat/
Big Bend Ranch State Park
This massive park of almost 300,000 acres is one of the undiscovered jewels of the area. Flanking the “River Road” along FM 170 between Presidio and Lajitas, are trailheads, small recreation areas, primitive camping and river access points. www.tpwd.state.tx.us/park/bigbend/
Ruidosa
About 36 miles northwest of Presidio on FM 170, Ruidosa, a once triving agricultural community, today is home to a general store, the ruins of the historic Sagrado Corazon Mission, which was built in 1914, and cantinas that serve beer and wine in the evenings.
Chinati Hot Springs
Large pool at Chinati Hot Springs
At a constant 110 degrees, these mineral-rich waters have been regarded for their healing qualities for well over one hundred years. Fees are charged for baths, cabins, and camping. The graded dirt Hot Springs Road heads north from FM 170 just past Ruidosa. www.chinatihotsprings.com
Shafter
Twenty miles north of Presidio on Highway 67 are the remains of a once prosperous silver mining town. Extensive ruins are visible, though fenced against trespassing.
Ojinaga
An easy drive across the International Bridge, Ojinaga welcomes visitors with a variety of excellent restaurants and shops, a casual atmosphere, and friendly, helpful locals. The cultural museum is a must see on the road from the International Bridge. www.ojinaga.com
Peguis Canyon Overlook
Just 25 miles past Ojinaga on the old road to Chihuahua, a short path leads to one of the most dramatic views in the Big Bend Region, with walls carved to a depth of two thousand feet.
Presidio Chamber of Commerce
202 W. O’Reilly St.