Since the border crossing closure of May 2002, Mexican Nationals have been known to approach visitors from across the river to purchase souvenir items (walking sticks, bracelets, crafts, etc.) at certain river locations. If you agree to look at/or purchase their items and the Mexicans cross the river, they may be arrested for being in the U.S. illegally. They will be held until deported back to Mexico through Presidio (100 miles away). Mexican merchants will be arrested for illegal commercial operations which may result in a fine and/or additional incarceration while awaiting adjudication prior to deportation.

Items purchased will be considered contraband and seized by officers when encountered. Rocks, minerals, archeological items etc. cannot be purchased, imported, or possessed in the national park.

In addition, illegal trade impacts the resources of the park in a number of negative ways, including the creation of social trails, the cutting of cane along the river, erosion of riverbanks and an increased amount of garbage and contaminants along the Rio Grande watershed. Supporting this illegal activity contributes to continued damage of the natural resources along the Rio Grande, and jeopardizes the possibility of reopening the crossings in the future.

Ed Bollech

Mexican-made crafts, such as these walking sticks, must be purchased legally through giftshops or bookstores.

Mexican crafts now legally available in the park
The Big Bend Natural History Association and Forever Resorts, Inc., and have made arrangements to sell crafts made in Boquillas, Mexico. This enables you to legally purchase goods made in one of the park’s neighboring villages. Walking sticks, copper scorpions, and other craft items are now purchased directly from craft artists in Boquillas, Mexico, processed at a legal U.S. Port of Entry, and sold in Big Bend National Park. Genuine Boquillas-made walking sticks are available at the Panther Junction visitor center. Copper scorpions, and other craft items are available at the gift shop at the Chisos Mountains Lodge, or the camp stores at Castolon, Rio Grande Village, or the Basin. All wholesale proceeds go directly to the artisans in Boquillas, Mexico.

To help maintain this legal endeavor we once again remind you not to purchase any items from individuals selling crafts along the river or at overlooks.