Healing on the River: Veterans Find Connection in Big Bend

In October 2025, National Park Trust hosted a three-day overnight paddling and camping weekend at Big Bend National Park for Texas veterans and their families, allowing them to experience the wonders of their state’s largest national park.

The families arrived on Saturday and received a guided hiking tour of the petroglyphs that surround Big Bend, as well as a dinner at a local restaurant. On Sunday, the group was up early to hit the Rio Grande River. Canoes were put in at the entrance to Santa Elena Canyon, and they spent the day paddling to a campsite located 5 miles up the river.

After pitching tents and dinner, participants spent the evening gathered around the fire. The conversation, guided by the Warrior Research Institute, created space for veterans and their families to open up about how time spent in nature fosters healing, resilience, and emotional well-being. On Monday, the group paddled back down the canyon for a late afternoon departure from the park.

We are grateful for the funding from NPS and USAA funding, addressing mental health in the veteran community, and was one of over 40 events the Park Trust has run serving active duty and veteran military members and their families in 2025.