Camping at Chisos Basin Group Campground
Location and Accessibility
Chisos Basin Group Campground is located within Big Bend National Park in Texas, United States. Nestled in the Chisos Mountains at 5,400 feet altitude, it offers panoramic vistas and cooler temperatures compared to the desert floor. The campground can be accessed by the Chisos Basin Road, a winding mountain road with steep grades and sharp turns, potentially challenging for larger RVs or trailers.
Campground Features
The campground features group sites that are specifically designed for organized groups. Amenities include picnic tables, a large grill, bear-proof food storage lockers, and restrooms with running water. Due to the remote location, there is no electric, water or sewer hookups at the sites. However, a utility sink for dishwashing and a water fill-up station nearby are available for campers. Campsites are primarily intended for tent camping, and because of space limitations and the winding road leading to the basin, trailers over 20 feet and RVs over 24 feet are not recommended.
Group Site Specifications
- Capacity: The group sites typically can accommodate from 9 to 20 people.
- Reservations: Advanced reservations are required for group sites and can be booked through the National Recreation Reservation Service.
- Limitations: Stays are typically limited to a maximum of 14 consecutive days.
Activities
The Chisos Mountains area offers a variety of outdoor activities, including:
- Hiking: There are several trails that begin or are accessible from the Chisos Basin, like the popular Window Trail, Lost Mine Trail, and the South Rim Trail with breathtaking vistas.
- Wildlife Watching: Black bears and mountain lions inhabit the Chisos Mountains, and although sightings are rare, you may spot other wildlife like deer, roadrunners, and a variety of bird species.
- Stargazing: The remote location with limited light pollution allows for exceptional stargazing opportunities.
Weather and Best Time to Visit
- Weather: Weather in the Chisos Basin can be unpredictable, with cooler temperatures at the higher elevation but can still be hot during the summer. Winters can be chilly, and snow is possible.
- Best Time to Visit: Spring (March to May) and Fall (October to November) offer the most comfortable temperatures for camping and hiking.
Environment Protection
Big Bend National Park is a protected environment, and all visitors have a responsibility to follow Leave No Trace principles:
- Pack It In, Pack It Out: All trash and waste must be packed out; nothing should be left behind.
- Wildlife: Feeding, disturbing, or approaching wildlife is prohibited for your safety and the protection of the animals.
- Vegetation: Picking or damaging vegetation is not allowed.
Safety Considerations
- Bear Safety: Proper food storage is critical to avoid attracting bears. Use designated bear-proof lockers.
- Water: Carry plenty of water for hiking, as sources in the mountains are scarce and not always reliable.
- Elevation: Be aware of the effects of high elevation and take measures to prevent altitude sickness.
- Stay on Trails: For your safety and to protect the fragile desert environment, always stay on designated trails.
Reservation and Fees
- Reservation: Reservations should be made well in advance due to the limited number of group sites and their popularity.
- Fees: There is a nightly fee for using the group sites, in addition to the entrance fee for Big Bend National Park. Fee amounts can change, so it's advisable to check the most recent information when planning your trip.
Conclusion
Chisos Basin Group Campground offers a unique camping experience in the heart of Big Bend National Park with access to some of the best hiking and wildlife viewing in the area. When planning a trip, it's important to consider the size of your group, the type of camping experience you're looking for, the specific park rules and regulations, and the current weather conditions. Reservations are crucial, and preserving the natural beauty of the area is a priority for all visitors.
