There are four campgrounds in Big Bend National Park. The National Park Service NPS operates three developed frontcountry campgrounds that provide drinking water and restroom facilities. In addition, a full hookup RV camping area is operated by the park concessioner, Aramark. Wood fires and ground fires are NOT allowed anywhere in the park.
A charcoal fire in an above-ground grill is allowed; ashes must be packed out. Liquid-fuel stoves are allowed. There are now many options for camping outside the park when Big Bend is full. For visitors with rugged vehicles, or the willingness to leave the road behind and backpack into the wild, Big Bend provides options for backcountry camping. No dispersed camping or "boondocking" is allowed in Big Bend National Park. All campers must be in designated campsites with a permit.
A backcountry permit is required for all backcountry camping and river trips. If you have a rugged vehicle, primitive camping in designated roadside campsites might be for you. For those who come prepared, there are hundreds of miles of trails, the Chisos Mountains, and desert expanses to explore with a pack.
Enjoy a day trip, or plan an extended float through spectacular limestone canyons. Work on two large construction projects in the Chisos Basin will begin in May Access to the Chisos area will be limited.
An organized group or individual party may not exceed a 15 person limit. Organized Groups over 15 will require a Special Use Permit. Skip to global NPS navigation Skip to this park navigation Skip to the main content Skip to this park information section Skip to the footer section.
