Luna Jacal

Luna Jacal is a frontier dwelling in Big Bend National Park with walls made of limestone and sandstone, featuring a boulder as its back wall and ocotillo branches covering the roof. The structure is partially built into the ground and uses thick stone walls to create a naturally cooler interior.

Gilberto Luna built this dwelling around 1900 and lived there until 1947, farming along Alamo Creek and raising goats in the region. The building's long occupation demonstrates its effectiveness as a home in this remote area throughout much of the 20th century.

The structure demonstrates traditional Mexican building techniques that were common in early border settlements. People used local stone and natural materials because they were available and suited the harsh desert environment.

The dwelling is accessible by hiking trail through the desert, but the walk is strenuous and requires plenty of water and sun protection. Visitors should hike early in the morning or late in the afternoon to avoid the intense midday heat.

Luna and his family raised at least 58 children and step-children at this remote location, making it an unlikely hub for a large household. This unusually large family managed to thrive through subsistence farming in one of the park's most isolated areas.

Location: Brewster County

Location: Big Bend National Park

Address: At base of Pena Mountain in Big Bend National Park

GPS coordinates: 29.21528,-103.53444

Latest update: December 12, 2025 09:00