Presidio County, Texas
Presidio County is about as remote as Texas gets, tucked away in the rugged Big Bend region along the Mexican border. Ranching remains an important part of life here, while the Border Patrol also has a strong presence in the area.
Marfa is the county’s cultural center and has become known as an artsy oasis surrounded by desert. It attracts artists, travelers, and curious visitors from all over. The mysterious Marfa Lights are another famous attraction, with their strange glowing appearances still drawing plenty of attention.
The Rio Grande forms the county’s southern boundary. The landscape is rugged and dramatic, offering incredible scenery but little forgiveness. Summers can be brutally hot, while winter nights can turn surprisingly cold. Still, the wide-open views and unique desert beauty make Presidio County unforgettable.
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| County Name | Presidio County |
| County Seat | Marfa |
| Population | Approximately 7,000 |
| Cities, Towns, and Communities | Marfa, Presidio, Alpine, Shafter |
| Interstates and Highways | U.S. Highway 67, U.S. Highway 90 |
| FIPS Code | 48-377 |
| Total Area (Land and Water) | 3,857 square miles (3,854 sq mi land, 3 sq mi water) |
| Adjacent Counties (and Direction) | Hudspeth County (Northwest), Jeff Davis County (North), Brewster County (East) |
| Time Zone | Mountain Time Zone (MST) |
| State | Texas |
| Coordinates | 30°20’N, 104°01’W |
| Etymology | Named after Presidio del Norte, an eighteenth-century fort and settlement |
| Major Landmarks | Marfa Lights, Big Bend National Park |
