Big Bend Backcountry Camping
Open — The campground is currently open and accepting reservations. Beginning May 1, 2026, due to lodge construction, Chisos Backpacking campsites on High Chisos area trails will not be reservable online and permits must be obtained in person at Panther Junction Visitor Center up to 24 hours in advance.
Temporary Trail Closure to Protect Nesting Falcons
From February 1st through April 18, a portion of the East Rim Trail in the Chisos Mountains will be closed to protect nesting falcons. The closure includes East Rim backpacking campsites ER-4, 5, 6, 7, 8, 9. For details and a map, click "more."
Pardon Our Dust: Chisos Basin Improvement Projects to Begin May 1, 2026
Work on two large construction projects in the Chisos Basin will begin in May 2026 and continue for approximately two years. Major disruptions in visitor access to the Chisos Basin are expected during this time. Big Bend National Park will remain OPEN.
Big Bend is a NO DRONE Zone
The use of drones is prohibited in Big Bend National Park. Thank you for preserving the peace and tranquility of Big Bend.
Bringing a Pet to Big Bend?
Bringing your pet to Big Bend National Park will limit some of your park explorations and opportunities. Pets are not allowed on park trails, in the backcountry, or on the river. Pets are allowed only where vehicles can go. Pets may not be left unattended
Road Closures
The road between Cottonwood Campground and Santa Elena Canyon, Hot Springs Road, Old Ore Road, River Road West to Glenn Springs Road, and Black Gap Road remain closed due to the flood damage. Old Maverick Road is open to high-clearance, 4x4 vehicles only.
Panther Junction Gas Station Store Closed
Panther Junction Gas Station Store is closed for a remodel, but gas is still available.
From Recreation.gov
During the lodge construction the High Chisos area trails (South Rim, East Rim, Colima, Boot Canyon) and their designated campsites will be accessible from trails that originate from outside the Chisos Basin (Blue Creek Trail or Juniper Canyon Trail). Beginning May 1, 2026 and until normal trail access resumes from the Chisos Basin, Chisos Backpacking campsites will not be reservable online. A backpacking permit will be required and can be obtained in person up to 24 hours in advance at the Panther Junction Visitor Center.
About
Big Bend National Park's backcountry camping system provides access to one of the last remaining wild corners of the United States, offering excellent opportunities for solitude, wilderness, and adventure across vast undeveloped areas. The park offers two distinct types of primitive backcountry sites: roadside campsites accessible by high-clearance vehicle along remote dirt roads, and backpacking sites in the Chisos Mountains requiring hikes of 1-6 miles from trailheads. All backcountry sites are primitive and designated, with no water, electricity, toilets, or any amenities. Campers must be completely self-sufficient and carefully plan their trips for this remote environment. Roadside campsites require high-clearance vehicles (SUV or truck with at least 15-inch tire rims and 8 inches of ground clearance), with four-wheel drive highly recommended as road conditions can change quickly. Backpacking sites are hike-in only with no vehicle access; backpackers may park overnight at the Chisos Basin amphitheater parking area. The park spans elevations from less than 1,800 feet along the Rio Grande to nearly 8,000 feet in the Chisos Mountains, encompassing massive canyons, vast desert expanses, forested mountains, and the ever-changing river. Maximum group size is 15 people, and backcountry regulations are strictly enforced. Reservations are made through Recreation.gov, and permits must be printed no more than 14 days prior to arrival.
Directions
Big Bend National Park is in remote West Texas. Access via TX 118 from Alpine to Study Butte, FM 170 from Presidio to Study Butte (then 26 miles east to park headquarters), or US 385 from Marathon (then 70 miles south to headquarters). Each backcountry campsite is in a remote area; check specific site listings for detailed directions. Backpackers park at the Chisos Basin amphitheater parking area near the Chisos Basin campground. Ensure adequate gas, oil, food, and water as distances between services are considerable.
Nearby Campgrounds
Amenities
| Water | No |
| Fires Allowed | Yes |
| Toilets | No |
| Dump Station | No |
| Wifi | No |
| Pets Allowed | No |
| Showers | No |
| Electric Hookups | — |
| Water Hookups | — |
| Sewer Hookups | — |
| Camp Store | No |
| Price | $10 |
Vehicle
| Max RV Length | 30ft |
| Max Trailer Length | 30ft |
| Big Rig Friendly | No |
| Pull Through Sites | No |
Contact
| Phone | +1 (432) 477-1158 |
Cell Service
| AT&T | None |
| Verizon | None |
| T-Mobile | None |
Useful Links
| View on Recreation.gov |
Availability
Photos
Community Posts
No posts yet. Be the first to share your experience!