PARK NEWS

Big Bend National Park warns of possible closure amid water crisis

Big Bend is in danger of closing due to a "critical water issue."

Photo by Mick Haupt/ Unsplash

One of Texas’ most popular travel destinations is in danger of closing. Big Bend National Park issued a dire warning in early January, saying the property might be forced to shut down if minimum water levels needed for firefighting continue to drop.

According to a press release, the “critical water shortage” started on December 23, 2025. Pumps supplying water to the developed area of the Chisos Basin failed, cutting the area off from its only water source.

The park quickly sprang into action to enact Stage Two restrictions to help conserve water in the tanks, but is still facing another difficulty. The back-up pump is undergoing repairs and is expected, at best, to be out of commission for several weeks.

During the emergency period, the park is asking campers and guests at the Chisos Mountain Lodge, the park’s sole hotel, to join in conservation efforts so that the Basin “can stay open for as long as possible.”

Despite the current crisis, help for the parched area will hopefully be on its way soon. The bipartisan Great American Outdoors Act of 2020 has the pumps slated for rightsizing and replacement, part of a five-year plan to address a maintenance backlog at America’s national parks.

The possible closure could have a detrimental effect on local economies. A National Park Service report released in September 2025 found that 561 thousand park visitors spent an estimated $56.8 million in the area while visiting in 2024.

“People come to Big Bend National Park to enjoy the Chihuahuan desert, Chisos Mountains, and Rio Grande and end up supporting the U.S. and local economies along the way,” said then-acting Superintendent Rick Gupman in a statement. “We’re proud that Big Bend National Park generates many millions of dollars in revenue to communities near the park.”

OOHS AND AAHS

Hill Country resort eases San Antonio onto list of best U.S. spas

Photo courtesy of Signia by Hilton La Cantera Resort

The Loma de Vida Spa was recently named one of the top wellness destinations in the U.S.

From a renovation to a name change, San Antonio’s Signia by Hilton La Cantera Resort had a huge 2025. Now lifestyle brand The Zoe Report (TZR) is launching it into 2026 by naming the property’s Loma de Vida Spa and Wellness as one of the year’s 10 Best U.S. Hotel Spas.

TZR was founded as a newsletter by celebrity stylist and Real Housewives of Beverly Hills star Rachel Zoe. Now owned by Bustle Media, it remains an authority in the luxury market, covering fashion, beauty, living, wellness, and travel.

Loma de Vida's honor, however, was chosen by fans as part of the annual Readers’ Choice Awards program. Although the TZR editors didn’t give a reason why its posh fans chose each spa, it did give an idea of what kind of spas are on their radar.

Loma de Vida Spa San Antonio Loma de Vida is known for innovative packages that combine treatments, sound baths, and even horse riding.Photo courtesy of Signia by Hilton La Cantera Resort.

“From coast to coast, TZR’s Readers’ Choice Awards nominees for Best U.S. Hotel Spa prove that the country’s most iconic properties are redefining luxury wellness,” wrote the team. “Whether you’re craving cutting-edge treatments, cultural immersion, or pure oceanside tranquility, these hotspots represent the very best in restorative escapes.”

Loma de Vida has made a name for itself with a breathtaking Hill Country setting and innovative services. Its newest is the innovative Saddle Up and Spa package, which includes a one-hour guided horseback ride followed by a 90-minute custom massage and an immersive sound bath. The spa was the only Texas wellness center to make the list.

“We are thrilled to have Loma de Vida Spa & Wellness recognized as one of the country’s elite destinations for rejuvenation,” said Signia by Hilton La Cantera Resort general manager Ben Turner, via a release. “We look forward to welcoming new and returning guests in 2026 as we celebrate this accolade.”

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