Chisos Basin Group Campground
Open year-round. Reservations required through Recreation.gov. Previously planned construction closures for Spring 2026 have been cancelled; all Chisos Basin facilities remain accessible.
From Recreation.gov
The planned construction of the Big Bend National Park Chisos Mountains Lodge and other Chisos Basin facility improvements, originally scheduled to begin in May 2026, will not proceed as planned. Importantly, Big Bend National Park remains fully open to visitors. Due to the construction delay, previously planned closures of the Chisos Basin will not take place, ensuring continued access to the park’s facilities and breathtaking landscapes. We appreciate your understanding and look forward to sharing updates as we work toward bringing these important improvements to fruition.
From Recreation.gov
The planned construction of the Big Bend National Park Chisos Mountains Lodge and other Chisos Basin facility improvements, originally scheduled to begin in May 2026, will not proceed as planned. Importantly, Big Bend National Park remains fully open to visitors. Due to the construction delay, previously planned closures of the Chisos Basin will not take place, ensuring continued access to the park’s facilities and breathtaking landscapes. We appreciate your understanding and look forward to sharing updates as we work toward bringing these important improvements to fruition.
From Recreation.gov
A maximum of two motor vehicles, one vehicle with a trailer, one motorhome with tow vehicle or four motorcycles allowed per campsite. A maximum of four tents OR one wheeled camping unit and one tent allowed per campsite. Only 1 conversion van or other type of recreational vehicle allowed per site. Two (2) conversion vans or RVs require 2 campsites.
About
Chisos Basin Group Campground occupies one of the most scenic locations in Big Bend National Park, nestled in a mountain basin at 5,400 feet elevation. The campground lies at the base of towering cliffs amid montane shrubland featuring Arizona cypress and mesquite, with maple, aspen, pinyon, and ponderosa pine at higher elevations. This is tent-only camping with seven designated group sites (L, M, N, O, P, Q, R) accommodating groups ranging from 9 to 20 people depending on the site. The location makes this campground a premier hiking basecamp. Trailheads for Lost Mine Trail, the Window Trail, South Rim Trail, and Pinnacles Trail are within a mile down the Basin road. The Pinnacles Trail provides access to Emory Peak at 7,825 feet, the highest point in the park. The Rio Grande is approximately 30 miles away for river activities. Sites include picnic tables, with sites P, Q, and R featuring picnic shelters. Drinking water and restrooms are accessible within walking distance. Charcoal grills are provided but wood and ground fires are prohibited. Site O is the only group site that permits one vehicle up to 20 feet; all other sites are strictly tent-only.
Directions
From Interstate 10, take Highway 385 south through Fort Stockton to Marathon. From Marathon, drive 40 miles south on Highway 385 to the north entrance of Big Bend National Park. Continue 26 miles to Park Headquarters at Panther Junction. Turn right and drive three miles, then turn left at the Basin sign. Continue seven miles and turn right into the campground road.
Amenities
| Water | Yes |
| Fires Allowed | No |
| Toilets | Yes |
| Dump Station | Yes |
| Wifi | — |
| Pets Allowed | Yes |
| Showers | No |
| Electric Hookups | — |
| Water Hookups | — |
| Sewer Hookups | — |
| Camp Store | Yes |
| Price | $60 |
Vehicle
| Max RV Length | — |
| Max Trailer Length | 20ft |
| Big Rig Friendly | No |
| Pull Through Sites | No |
Contact
| Phone | +1 (432) 477-1121 |
Cell Service
| AT&T | None |
| Verizon | None |
| T-Mobile | None |
Availability
Photos
Community Posts
No posts yet. Be the first to share your experience!