McKinney Spring Primitive Site — Big Bend National Park

Rough road conditions define the approach to McKinney Spring Primitive Site, with campers reporting an hour-long drive along Old Ore Road from the north entrance. This National Park Service campground serves as the first stop along the remote backcountry route, accommodating RVs up to 25 feet despite the challenging access.

The site provides seclusion from crowds and expansive desert views across the Chihuahuan landscape. At $10 per night with reservations available, the primitive campground allows both pets and alcohol while offering basic amenities including a camp store. The location works well for visitors seeking solitude and those using it as a base for exploring Big Bend's less-traveled areas.

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Location

Public Campground

McKinney Spring Primitive Site — Big Bend National Park is located in Texas

Detail location of campground

Directions

McKinney Spring campsite (MS-1) is located along the Old Ore Road, 7.3 miles from the northern end or 19.0 miles from the southern end. The access road is 50 yards long. Old Ore Road is very rocky and rough. it is maintained for high clearance vehicles only. Following rains and heavy use, the road becomes very rutted and may require 4-wheel drive. Always ask a park ranger for current road conditions.

Coordinates

29.406202199560617 N
103.09073166927652 W

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Connectivity

  • signal strength bars
    T-Mobile
    No Coverage
  • signal strength bars
    VerizonLTE
    Some Coverage
  • signal strength bars
    AT&T
    No Coverage

Connectivity

  • signal strength bars
    T-Mobile
    No Coverage
  • signal strength bars
    VerizonLTE
    Some Coverage
  • signal strength bars
    AT&T
    No Coverage

Access

  • Drive-In
    Park next to your site

Site Types

  • Tent Sites
  • RV Sites
  • Standard (Tent/RV)

Features

For Campers

  • Market
  • Reservable
  • Alcohol
  • Pets

Contact

General Info

Reservations

Drive Time


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Reviews

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5.0

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1 Review

Reviewed Mar. 29, 2022

Awesome.

This is the first campground you pass on Old Ore Road if you start from the north side. It took us about an hour to reach.

Very secluded, and great views.

Month of VisitMarch
  • Review photo of McKinney Spring Primitive Site — Big Bend National Park by Aidan M., March 29, 2022
  • Review photo of McKinney Spring Primitive Site — Big Bend National Park by Aidan M., March 29, 2022
  • Review photo of McKinney Spring Primitive Site — Big Bend National Park by Aidan M., March 29, 2022
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Frequently Asked Questions

How much does it cost to camp at McKinney Spring Primitive Site — Big Bend National Park?

Camping at McKinney Spring Primitive Site — Big Bend National Park can starts at $10.00.

What is the max vehicle length at McKinney Spring Primitive Site — Big Bend National Park?

McKinney Spring Primitive Site — Big Bend National Park allows vehicles up to 25 feet.

Does McKinney Spring Primitive Site — Big Bend National Park have wifi?

No, according to campers on TheDyrt.com, McKinney Spring Primitive Site — Big Bend National Park does not have wifi.

Is there cell phone reception at McKinney Spring Primitive Site — Big Bend National Park?

According to campers on TheDyrt.com, there is no coverage for AT&T, no coverage for T-Mobile, and some coverage for Verizon.