Camp Pena Colorado, known also as the Marathon Post played an important role in the settling of the Big Bend region and the coming of the transcontinental railroad.

In 1879, around the time that Apache leader Victorio led his band in an escape from the San Carlos, Arizona, Reservation, a military outpost was established 5 miles south of present-day Marathon, TX next to the prolific spring at Pena Colorado, or Red Bluffs.  This not only eliminated access to an important water hole for rebellious Apaches, it also protected the road from Ft. Clark to Ft. Davis, and was easy to support from Fort Stockton, 50 miles to the north. Of even more importance, it lay near the projected route of the Southern Pacific railroad.

The town of Marathon grew up around the railroad and what is now referred to as "The Post". Although the army left soon after the defeat of the last wild Apaches, the location remains one of the most delightful habitats in the Big Bend. "The Post" is maintained as a county Park and has a spring fed water hole, surrounded by shade trees.

This is a favorite place for native and migratory birds of all descriptions, a "must see" location for birders, and a great place for a picnic lunch for Big Bend visitors.

To get to the Post, go to Marathon on Highway 90, 30 miles east of Alpine. In the middle of town, one paved road heads south. It is well marked. Drive 5 miles, and there you are. Please respect the surrounding private property, and help keep the Post clean.

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