
Big Bend Backcountry Camping
112
Total Campsites
Campground
55
Reservable Sites
Mixed (reservable + first-come)
—
Accessible
ADA-compliant sites
—
Organization
Managing agency
Overview
About Big Bend Backcountry Camping
Overview Big Bend's vast undeveloped areas provide excellent opportunities for backcountry experiences if you seek solitude, wilderness, and adventure! The backcountry sites listed here are primitive backcountry road campsites and primitive backpacking sites in the Chisos Mountains. All are designated sites located in remote locations. Campers must be self-sufficient. Visit the park's Backcountry Use web page to learn about proper planning and trip preparation for this remote area. Backcountry Regulations are strictly enforced. These are primitive sites and do not offer water, electricity, toilet access, or any amenities. Primitive Chisos campsites are BACKPACK-ONLY campsites with NO vehicle access. Campsites are from 1-6 miles (1.6 to 10 km) from the trailhead. Maximum group size is 15 people . Overnight backpackers may park in the large amphitheater lot adjacent to the Chisos Basin Campground. Most primitive roadside campsites require a high clearance vehicle. The park highly recommends a four wheel drive vehicle. Road conditions can change quickly. High clearance vehicles are defined as an SUV or truck with at least 15 inch (38 cm) tire rims AND at least 8 inches (20 cm) of ground clearance from the lowest point of the frame, body, or suspension. Recreation Splendid Isolation! Big Bend National Park is beloved as one of the few large public land areas in Texas. Major activities include camping, backpacking, hiking, birdwatching, river trips, enjoying the spring bloom, and adventuring along backcountry roads. The spring months of March and April are the busiest, as well as the Thanksgiving and New Year’s holidays, although the park is open and visited year round. Facilities Splendid Isolation! Big Bend National Park is beloved as one of the few large public land areas in Texas. Major activities include camping, backpacking, hiking, birdwatching, river trips, enjoying the spring bloom, and adventuring along backcountry roads. The spring months of March and April are the busiest, as well as the Thanksgiving and New Year’s holidays, although the park is open and visited year round. Natural Features From an elevation of less than 1,800 feet (550 m) along the Rio Grande to nearly 8,000 feet (2438 m) in the Chisos Mountains, Big Bend includes massive canyons, vast desert expanses, forested mountains, and an ever-changing river. Here you can explore one of the last remaining wild corners of the United States Nearby Attractions Charges & Cancellations Changes/Modifications Changes may be made prior to the day the reservation begins. If a customer wants to switch dates that are entirely outside of the original reservation dates, there is a $10 change fee. There is no change fee if a customer extends or shortens a reservation, as long as the change includes dates from the original reservation. If a reservation is made that includes dates beyond the maximum booking window, that reservation cannot be changed until 18 days have passed from the original booking date. Cancellations Customers may cancel their reservation prior to day of arrival both on-line and through the call center. A $10 cancellation fee will be withheld from any refund due back the customer. Depending on when you cancel in relation to your arrival day, it may be considered a late cancellation (see below). Late Cancellations or Cancellations within the Cut-off Window A customer who cancels a reservation the day before or on the day of arrival will have a $10.00 cancellation fee withheld from their refund AND will forfeit the first night's use fee (not to exceed the total paid for the original reservation). Cancellations for a one-night reservation will forfeit the entire amount paid and will not be subject to an additional service fee.
- 112 total campsites listed.
- 55 reservable sites plus first-come options.
- Most common site type: management (57).
- Map coordinates are available for trip planning.


Our Take
What makes Big Bend Backcountry Camping special
Big Bend Backcountry Camping drops you into one of the most dramatically remote landscapes in the American Southwest. With 112 primitive sites scattered across the Chisos Mountains, desert flats, and river corridors, this is camping distilled to its essence — no hookups, no cell service, just raw Chihuahuan Desert wilderness. Hike-to sites reward the ambitious with solitude among towering volcanic peaks, while road-accessible sites let you explore by vehicle across vast open terrain. You must be entirely self-sufficient: pack all water, food, and supplies, and secure a backcountry permit at the visitor center before heading out. Late fall through early spring is prime season — summer temperatures regularly exceed 100 degrees in the lowlands. Night skies here rank among the darkest in North America, making stargazing extraordinary. This experience is built for seasoned backcountry travelers, desert enthusiasts, and adventurers who find their deepest peace in landscapes that feel genuinely untouched and far from civilization.
Campsite Inventory
112 sites to choose from
MANAGEMENT
0
Reservable
0
Accessible
HIKE TO
35
Reservable
0
Accessible
STANDARD NONELECTRIC
20
Reservable
0
Accessible
Amenities & Details
Everything you need to know
Campfire Allowed
No
Check-in time
01:00 PM, 12:00 PM
Check-out time
12:00 PM
Condition Rating
N/A
Double Driveway
No, Yes
Driveway entry
Back-in, N/A, Pull-through
Driveway surface
Gravel
FOOD STORAGE LOCKER
Food Storage Locker
HISTORIC SITES
Historic Sites
HORSE CORRALS
Horse Corrals
Hike In Distance to Site
Yes, 1 mile, 1.75 miles, 2.50 miles
Location Rating
Prime
Max Num of Horses
2, 4, 8
Max guests
10, 12, 15, 20
Max vehicle length (ft)
25, 30
Minimum guests
Yes
Pets allowed
Yes
Privacy
Privacy
Reservations & Contact
Plan your stay
Phone
432-477-1158
Getting There
Big Bend National Park is located in West Texas, a considerable distance from cities and transportation hubs. While the isolation of Big Bend is a draw for many visitors, it also means you must be well prepared for and carefully plan your trip. There is no public transportation to or within Big Bend National Park. Several highways lead to Big Bend National Park: TX 118 from Alpine to Study Butte or FM 170 from Presidio to Study Butte (then 26 miles (42 km) east to park headquarters) or US 90 or US 385 to Marathon (then 70 miles/113 km) south to park headquarters). Visit the park's Directions & Transportation web page for details. Distances between towns and services are considerable. Be sure you have plenty of gas, oil, food, and water for your trip. The park has four camp stores, but supply and selection can be limited. There are also small stores in the communities outside the park. The last major shopping areas (grocery and hardware stores) are Alpine, Fort Stockton, and Del Rio. Each backcountry campsite is in a remote area of the park. Check the site listing for your reservation for detailed directions on how to get to that specific site. If you are staying in a backpacking site, park in the Chisos Basin amphitheater parking area, located near the Chisos Basin campground.
FAQ
Common questions
Everything you need to know before your trip to Big Bend Backcountry Camping.
How do reservations work for Big Bend Backcountry Camping?
Reservation availability for Big Bend Backcountry Camping can vary by season and campsite type. Check the contact and access section before booking.
What campsite types are available at Big Bend Backcountry Camping?
Big Bend Backcountry Camping currently lists MANAGEMENT (57), HIKE TO (35), STANDARD NONELECTRIC (20).
Where is Big Bend Backcountry Camping located?
See this page for location details and directions.
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