anyone been to either? or both? I'm gonna go next month and can't make up my mind on which one to visit. I'm leaning towards Balmorhea/Big Bend. Ink's Lake is A LOT closer, but Big Bend is A LOT bigger and more secluded. Info/experiences would be helpful.
I've been to both, but I haven't been to Big Bend in the summer. I was there in March once and the temp was over 100 degrees. That may have an anomaly, but I don't know. The other times I was in Big Bend were all between Christmas and New Years, and night was freezing, and the daytime temps were absolutely perfect. As far as a variety of fun stuff to do, Big Bend would be the place to go. If it were only for a day or maybe two it both would be OK. If you go to Big Bend and the long drive is worrisome you can reward yourself with an awesome meal at the Gage Hotel near the end of the drive, and also to start yourself off right at the beginning of the trip home. Their breakfasts are top notch too.