Big Bend National Park (NP) in Texas is the first of only two Texas NP. Designated in 1933 is it is the largest protected area of Chihuahuan Desert topography and ecology in the United States. It contains more than 3600 varieties of insects, 1,200 species of plants, more than 450 species of birds, 56 species of reptiles, and 75 species of mammals. Covering 801,163 acres it is the only NP to have an entire mountain range within its boundaries with Emory peak reaching 7832', second highest in TX. A variety of Cretaceous and Cenozoic fossil organisms. Artifacts estimated to be 9,000 years old. Historical buildings and 118 miles of the Rio Grande border with Mexico.