Alumni Profile: Nate Gold

Preserving and creating spaces for wildlife to thrive has always been in Nate Gold’s wheelhouse. 

While studying at Texas State, Nate helped pass the “Master Plan” to tear down outdated campus buildings to create green space. This helped beautify campus and turn Texas State into the landscape it is today.

As a sophomore in college, Nate wanted to grow as a person and experience something difficult. He joined the Marines and spent his summers training. He rose up to the rank of sergeant until he eventually left to work for Texas Parks and Wildlife.

Nate now lives off-grid as the superintendent of the Big Bend Ranch State Park Complex. He oversees 340,000 acres of public land that tourists come from across the world to visit.

“I want to ignite the spark so folks fall in love with the outdoors,” Nate said.

From jump starting cars to leading tours to having search and rescue missions, Nate likes being able to have variety in his schedule. He grew up in Dallas, which is a big change to where he is now living in a solar-powered house on the border.

“It’s a challenge living remotely,” he said. “Amazon becomes your best friend.”

Nate lives alone, but he doesn’t have a lack of family and friends visiting throughout the year. He’s made friends in the former ghost-town of nearby Terlingua. Since people didn’t start moving to Terlingua until the 1970’s, the place doesn't have generations of family history.

“People care about the wildness of the area,” Nate said.

The Big Bend is a popular tourist location, and Nate wants visitors to realize that the park has limited infrastructure. It’s 100 miles to the nearest hospital, so visitors should make sure to do their research and adventure safely. But, the park is a unique place that Nate encourages people to visit if they’re able.

“We’re in the business of making memories,” Nate said.

You can learn more about Big Bend Ranch State Park and plan your visit at https://tpwd.texas.gov/state-parks/big-bend-ranch.