Camping at Chisos Basin Big Bend Campground

Overview

Chisos Basin Campground is located within Big Bend National Park in Texas, a remote and rugged area known for its scenic vistas, diverse ecosystems, and array of wildlife. The campground is set in a picturesque basin surrounded by tall, rocky cliffs and is one of the most popular camping destinations within the park.

Campsite Details

Number of Sites: The campground has 60 campsites. RV Information: There are limited RV sites, and there are no hook-ups available. Smaller RVs and trailers (up to 20 feet) can be accommodated. Group Sites: There are also group camping sites for groups of 9 to 20 people. Accessibility: Some campsites are wheelchair accessible.

Amenities

• Restrooms: There are flush toilets and running water.
• Water Access: Potable water is available.
• Picnic Tables: Each campsite typically has a picnic table.
• Bear Boxes: Bear-resistant food storage boxes are provided at each site because the area is home to black bears.

Activities

• Hiking: There are several trails accessible from the Chisos Basin, including the Lost Mine Trail and the Window Trail.
• Wildlife Viewing: Bird watching and looking for local fauna like the black bear or the mountain lion are popular.
• Sightseeing: There are stunning views of the Chisos Mountains and the Window View, which is especially beautiful at sunset.

Reservations

Advance Reservations: Reservations can be made up to 6 months in advance during the reservation window. First-Come, First-Served: A limited number of sites are available on a first-come, first-served basis outside of the peak seasons. Online Booking: You can book your campsite through the National Recreation Reservation Service website.

Fees

Camping Fees: Fees for camping apply and vary depending on the type of campsite. As of the knowledge cutoff in 2023, standard sites were $14 per night. Park Entrance Fee: There is also an entrance fee for Big Bend National Park.

Climate and Best Time to Visit

• Spring: This is the best time to visit, when temperatures are mild and the desert is in bloom.
• Summer: It can be very hot during the day with cooler nights; not always recommended for camping due to high temperatures.
• Fall: Milder temperatures return, and crowds begin to decrease.
• Winter: Nights can be very cold, but daytime temperatures are often pleasant for hiking.

Warnings and Safety Tips

• Wildlife: Store food properly and maintain a safe distance from wildlife.
• Weather: Be prepared for rapid weather changes and bring appropriate clothing.
• Hiking Safety: Bring plenty of water, a map, and inform someone of your hiking plans.
• Altitude: The Chisos Mountains are at high elevation, so visitors may need time to acclimatize.

Getting There

The Chisos Basin Campground is accessed by the Chisos Basin Road, which is a winding mountain road. It's recommended that you check for current road conditions and closures, especially after heavy rains or snow.

Contact Information

For more information about Chisos Basin Campground or Big Bend National Park:

• Park Website: Visit the National Park Service website for Big Bend.
• Phone: Call the park at 432-477-2251 for current conditions and additional information.