Gateway Town

Terlingua

Gateway Town

Mercury mining ghost town 23 miles west. Historic but minimal lodging—1 small hotel only.

Quick facts

Town Type
Historic Mining Village
Best Known For
1880s mercury mining heritage and preserved ghost town structures
About This Town
Terlingua's roots run deep in 1880s mercury mining. The boom brought thousands and left behind the Chisos Mining Company ghost town, which remains largely preserved today. It's a small, quiet village for history enthusiasts heading to or from Big Bend.
What Makes It Special
Preserved 1880s mercury mining ghost town. The mineral terlinguaite was first identified in this area.

Town overview

Town Type
Historic Mining Village
Best Known For
1880s mercury mining heritage and preserved ghost town structures
About This Town
Terlingua's roots run deep in 1880s mercury mining. The boom brought thousands and left behind the Chisos Mining Company ghost town, which remains largely preserved today. It's a small, quiet village for history enthusiasts heading to or from Big Bend.
What Makes It Special
Preserved 1880s mercury mining ghost town. The mineral terlinguaite was first identified in this area.

Park access

Distance From Park
37.5 km (23 miles) west

Where to stay & eat

Hotel Count
1
Bnb Count
0
Lodging Variety
1 small hotel; no bed-and-breakfasts
Restaurant Count
8

Visitor services

Banks Atms
0
Laundry Facilities
0

Things to do

Main Attractions
Chisos Mining Company ghost town, historic mining structures, abandoned mines, Big Bend access point

Planning advice

The Vibe
Small, quiet, historically-focused mining village. Not a polished tourist town—expect working-class character and remote setting. You'll need a car.

More details

Nearby Facilities
1 hotel, 8 restaurants/cafes/bars, limited other services

Location

Frequently asked questions

How many hotels are in Terlingua?

One small hotel. Book in advance, especially for summer.

What is Terlingua known for?

An 1880s mercury mining town, now a preserved ghost town and historic village.

How far from Big Bend National Park?

37.5 km (23 miles) west of the park center.

What attractions are there?

The Chisos Mining Company ghost town, historic mining structures, and preserved district from the 1880s boom.

Where can I eat?

Eight restaurants and cafes in the area. Call ahead to confirm hours.

What's the vibe of this town?

Small, quiet, and historically rich. Not a polished tourist town—expect authentic local character and remote feel.

Study Butte

Last gas before Big Bend. No frills, but a reliable stop.

Boquillas del Carmen

Remote Rio Grande border crossing with a handful of local restaurants. Day-trip only.

Some booking links below are affiliate links, which may support YourNPGuide at no extra cost to you. Affiliate disclosure.

Sources

  • YourNPGuide Editorial

Editorial review: YourNPGuide Editorial Team. Information is compiled from official sources, verified traveler reviews, and editorial research; no firsthand visit is implied unless explicitly documented. Learn how YourNPGuide works.

Last updated July 2026. Report an issue.