A Small Town in Texas Is Hiding an Unforgettable Airbnb Experience

Experience the rugged desert of Big Bend like never before with this unique Airbnb experience in Texas. The ghost town of Terlingua, Texas, is home to fewer than 200 people, and it's hiding an Airbnb experience in Texas that outdoor enthusiasts won't want to miss. This region is so special because the remote location, combined with the soaring canyon walls, evokes a magical, otherworldly feeling that words can't fully explain. Hosted by Big Bend Boating & Hiking Company, this guided canoe or kayak excursion takes you along the mighty Rio Grande at either Big Bend National Park or Big Bend Ranch State Park.

You won't find scenery like this anywhere else in Texas, and the experience is perfect for families, couples, and solo travelers alike. The only requirement is an adventurous spirit! Paddling through the canyon, which extends up to 1,500 feet high on either side, creates a core memory you'll cherish forever.

Why This Unique Airbnb Experience in Texas Is Worth Booking

After booking this unique Airbnb in Texas, you'll meet your guide at Big Bend Boating & Hiking Company in Terlingua, one of the coolest small towns in Texas. From there, you'll hop in a car with the rest of the group and ride down to the river. You won't know which park you're heading to until the morning of, so the element of surprise is something else to look forward to. The type of boat you'll take (canoe or kayak) will also be a surprise, as it depends on the water level.

Once you hit the water, the magic begins. If you end up at Big Bend National Park, you'll float the iconic Santa Elena Canyon. Paddling through the narrow passageways feels like navigating a maze; it's full of twists and turns, and you don't know where you're heading until you get there.

What to Know Before Booking

Tours depart at 8:45 a.m. and cost $140 per person. All ages and skill levels are welcome, as the waters are calm, and children can ride tandem with adults. Bring plenty of water, lunch (a cooler is provided), sunscreen, and anything else you need for several hours in a remote location, such as personal medications. You'll need to pay the park entrance fee ($15 per person at Big Bend National Park, and $5 per person at Big Bend Ranch State Park)—if you have the America the Beautiful Pass, bring it with you!

To book this Airbnb experience in Texas, visit the official Canyon Float Trip on the Rio Grande listing. And check out more things to do in Terlingua, Texas, if you need help beefing up your itinerary. Extending your trip by exploring more of Big Bend National Park is always a good idea! For more information about Big Bend tourism, including unique places to stay in Texas, Visit Big Bend has you covered.

If you're interested, don't wait until the last minute. This popular excursion is among the best Airbnbs in Texas (I think the nearly 5-star rating with 600+ reviews speaks for itself), so booking early increases the odds that your desired date and time will be available. And I think it's clear by now that missing out on one of the best small town getaways in Texas would be a shame. It allows adventurous travelers to journey deep into the mystical desert landscape of Terlingua, Texas, and admire the rugged terrain that makes this region feel so far removed from the rest of the world.