Diablo Trails in Amistad National Recreation Area

Friday September 18, 2026

Amistad National Recreation Area is the US portion of the Amistad Reservoir and some land along its shores. On the south side of the reservoir is Mexico with a border crossing at the dam. While driving across Texas to Big Bend National Park, I stopped at its Diablo area. It was about halfway through a seven hour drive, so it was good to take a break and do some short hikes.

Amistad National Recreation Area Entrance Sign with Cloudy Skies Entrance Sign

The Nature Trail takes you through the Chihuahuan Desert with signs describing local plants. The Green and Blue Loops can be done together. I hiked the Natural Trail followed by the Green & Blue Loop combo. The route I took was 3.19 km without much elevation gain and took about 50 minutes. Cacti, yucca and agave plants are common along the trails. Some of the dead looking plants in these photos are Leatherstem, which comes alive after heavy rain.

Plants Along the Amistad NRA Diablo East Trails Desert Plants Along the Trail

Cacti and Lechuguilla in Amistad National Recreation Area Cacti and Agave Lechuguilla

Torrey Yucca with Info Sign Torrey Yucca, the Largest Yucca in Amistad NRA

Sotol Plant with Info Sign Sotol, Agave Family

Hiking in the Chihuahuan Desert

While hiking on the nature trail, you get views of the Amistad Reservoir. It is on the Rio Grande with a couple of tributaries flowing into the reservoir. There is a boat ramp and marina in this area.

Boat Docks on Lake in the Texas Desert Marina on the Amistad Reservoir