Big Bend National Park's backcountry holds Juniper Flats 1, a hike-in site reached after roughly 1.5 miles from the overnight hiking parking lot. No pets are permitted, and the site runs strictly pack-in, pack-out. Two small flat areas accommodate tents, each sized for about two people, with a bear canister on-site for food storage. The camp sits within the basin, with the surrounding peaks visible from the site and sightlines toward a crag where the sun rises. It suits solo hikers or pairs planning a multi-day loop, as Emory Peak lies about 4 miles further along the trail. Campers researching tent camping around Big Bend National Park will find this among the more accessible backcountry options in the park.
Description
A backcountry permit is required for ALL backcountry camping in Big Bend National Park. This includes backpacking and primitive roadside campsites. Backcountry permits are also required for river trips and stock use.
Chisos Mountains Backpacking Campsites offer nice views, solitude, and a small flat gravel space to set up camp. A bear proof food locker is provided to store your food and water. No toilets, water, or amenities are provided. Be a steward of the land; during your visit to Big Bend, do everything you can to minimize your impact on the landscape.
Map: https://www.nps.gov/bibe/planyourvisit/chisos-mountains-backpacking-trails-map.htm
Pets are NOT allowed on park trails or in the backcountry Campfires are NOT allowed in Big Bend. Use only a gas/propane backpacker stove. Smoking is prohibited along all trails and at all Chisos Backpacking Campsites. Hammocks may not be attached/tied to any trees or natural features.
There is NO water available in the Juniper Flat area. The closest water is the spigot near the Chisos Basin Visitor Center. Always carry adequate water for cooking, drinking, and washing. Suggested 1 gallon/person/day)
Reservation Info
Many of Big Bend's Chisos backpacking and primitive roadside campsites are now reservable online up to 6 months in advance. Learn how to arrange your backcountry permit using the recreation.gov online reservation system.
RV Road Trip Guides
Map & DirectionsJuniper Flats 1 is located in Texas near Big Bend National Park
Directions
The Juniper Flat Campsites are located 1 mile from the Chisos Basin Trailhead via the Pinnacles Trail. Each campsite is along its own signed spur trail. Each campsite is located approximately 150 feet off of the main Pinnacles Trail. Map: https://www.nps.gov/bibe/planyourvisit/chisos-mountains-backpacking-trails-map.htm
Coordinates
29.263491 N
103.297296 W
Connectivity
T-MobileNo CoverageVerified by 5 users- VerizonNo CoverageVerified by 6 usersLast on 8/4/26
- AT&TNo CoverageVerified by 1 userLast on 2/24/26
Connectivity
- T-MobileNo CoverageVerified by 5 users
- VerizonNo CoverageVerified by 6 usersLast on 8/4/26
- AT&TNo CoverageVerified by 1 userLast on 2/24/26
Access
- Walk-InPark in a lot, walk to your site.
- Hike-InBackcountry sites.
Site Types
- Tent Sites
- Standard (Tent/RV)
Features
For Campers
- Reservable
Drive Time
- 4 hrs 31 min from Odessa, TX
- 4 hrs 42 min from Midland, TX
- 5 hrs 34 min from San Angelo, TX
- 5 hrs 44 min from Eagle Pass, TX
