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Searching for a hike-in campsite in Texas? You can enjoy its many benefits like stunning views and off the beaten path locations. You're sure to find the perfect hike-in campsite for your Texas backpacking adventure.

Texas

The Best Hike-In Camping in Texas

What's the most underrated Big Bend National Park camping? Hiking in! These remote campgrounds can be reached by hiking and offer the opportunity to enjoy the outdoors in a way you've never experienced before. You're sure to find the perfect hike-in campsite for your Texas backpacking adventure.

Big Bend National Park

The Best Hike-In Camping Near Big Bend National Park, Texas

**Summer is ending and that means that OUR tourist season is beginning! Temperatures are dropping into pleasant, Spring/Fall like temperatures and enjoying the Texas Big Bend is no longer a battle with heat. Here at the Eco-Ranch, we have just finished getting everything ready for you campers and guests! The electrical system and water supply in the bath house have been upgraded and there are new goat kids for YOUR kids to enjoy! The COVID virus is still unpredictable, the flu season is forecast to be bad. However we are vaccinated and thoroughly clean the common areas daily. No one knows how the National& State parks will allocate their tiny, noisy campsites, so just come here to our scenic, spacious campground, we are ready& waiting for YOU!!  
**

Our ranch is located around five miles from the main highway and about 25 miles from the gate into Big Bend National Park. We are very secluded & private, with virtually no nighttime "light pollution", so you can view our awesome night sky. This, plus our location, affords a 360 degree panoramic view of the legendary Big Bend night sky. The camping/RV parking area is about 100 yards from the main house, on a point of land overlooking our unique "mini badlands", a 12 acre arroyo. Spectacular views of many mountains are in every direction, with 4885' Agua Fria dominating from about five miles to the southwest. Sunrise is a spectacular event, made more quaint by the gentle crowing of our roosters, who sometimes think sunrise is arriving far earlier. You are a distance from them though! Sunset is the same. The campground has uninhibited views of both events and if you are lucky enough to be here during the 3-4 days of the full moon, moonrise is a once-in-a-lifetime event! The ranch & campgrounds are 100% off-grid and very remote. We recently completed a toilet/bath house/kitchen facility, with two rental rooms planned for completion in the Fall of 2020. The new, lighted kitchen features a two burner propane stove, full-sized double sink, counter space, cookware & place settings, along with USB, 12 volt& 110 volt ac plugs with a counter to place your devices on while charging. The two new toilet facilities are: one “half bath”, featuring a flush toilet(a rarity in the Big Bend), a sink and counter space. The second is a large, complete bathroom with a large shower with solar hot water, as well as a flush toilet, sink and expansive counter. We are an owner-operated, "Mom& Pop" campground where your stay with us is appreciated & the income needed & re-invested locally. We started the campground to give Big Bend visitors and idea of what the Chihuahuan Desert really is like, away from the manicured, tiny, noisy camping spots available in the parks. The response has been overwhelming and we will be continually improving your camping experience with us! There is a great "swimming hole" about three miles from the ranch and most campers say their visit to it was the highlight of their trip, so be sure to ask us for directions!! We built this campground for tent &“open air” campers and those with campers on vehicle or small trailers. We can accommodate & will welcome several larger RVs, though “bus length” ones will find the road in difficult. Hook-ups or sewage disposal are not available and the 110 volt electrical system produces just 8 amps. You really need to be fully contained. This is a 100% off-grid working poultry/goat/aquaponics ranch! We usually have fresh eggs, seasonal vegetables and even poultry meat available for you to purchase. Ice blocks are available as well. We can provide limited electrical power (8 amps) from a small solar electric system in new bath house/kitchen structure, 100% off grid! However, you CANNOT run an RV refrigerator, electric heat, or air conditioning. Medical devices like a CPAP machine will require that you provide 200' of extension cord, as due to their high wattage demands, must be connected to the main ranch electrical system. Hikers can explore many miles of road, but must bear in mind that in Texas, ALL land is privately owned and you must be respectful of that at all times. We are also 3 miles from a spring-fed "swimming hole" that may be enjoyed, so long as you respect the land and pack out what you pack in. Many campers book here because they could not get a site IN the National park, then cancel their stay when the desired, noisy, tiny spot opens up in the Park. This is truly their loss as our space and scenery far outweigh the short drive to the Park gate. We really are a destination spot on our own and we urge you to give our campground a try! You WILL return again!! However, if you book with us, then cancel within 24 hours (like if the site you really wanted in the National Park opens up), you will be charged for the booking. The Big Bend Parks are about 25 miles from here. The McDonald Observatory is about 100 miles from here and the mysterious "Marfa Lights" about 80 miles from us……. but still close enough that some stray into view at times, depending on your alcohol intake. We are retired, which means older hosts. We get tired in the evenings. This is also a working poultry & goat farm, which requires our attention in the early morning and early evening. We request that campers arrive BEFORE 5:00 PM, as we have to attend to our farm as our first priority. You may arrive later, but there are no lights in the camping area, so setting up your stuff can be difficult after dark& we won't be able to help or do a proper "meet & greet" until morning. Tours of the entire facility are available and free of charge. We WANT you to see a working 21st century sustainable farm! PLEASE,PLEASE, PLEASE, do NOT try to come here using a map program or GPS unit!!! These will route you down non-existent or impassable roads & our 18 year old pick-up cannot pull you out if you get stuck! Just call or write us and we will send you safe, detailed directions down easily traversed roads. Our entire property is a NO FIREARMS ZONE. We DO NOT allow firearms(or fireworks) on the property and NO ONE may carry one on their person while on our property.(If you insist on having a firearm with you, just lock it IN YOUR VEHICLE when on the property)

Eco-Ranch Sustainable Living Educational Center

**This facility will be closed April 1 - April 24, 2022.**

Chisos Basin Campground, perched high in the rugged Chisos Mountains, is one of the most sought-after campgrounds in Big Bend National Park. At an altitude of 5,400 ft., the campground is surrounded on all sides by tall, rocky cliffs and is conveniently located near some of the park's most spectacular and popular trails. This campground offers excellent views and mild temperatures. Also found in the Chisos Basin area is the Chisos Basin Visitor Center, the General Store and the Chisos Mountains Lodge, which houses the only restaurant in Big Bend National Park. Please note: The road to the campground is steep and winding with sharp hairpin turns. Trailers over 19 feet and RVs over 24 feet are not recommended. No RV parking is available at the group campground. All sites where you may have a generator are now reservable. If you need to use a generator and you do not have a reservation, you will need to camp elsewhere. Recreation This campground is a hub for hikers. Some of the park's most spectacular and popular trails are nearby, including the Lost Mine Trail, the Window Trail, the South Rim Trail and the Pinnacles Trail, with its access to the park's highest point, Emory Peak (elevation 7,825 ft.). Campers can find the trailheads for most of these trails in the main Chisos Basin area a mile or so further down the basin road from the campground. Access to the river is approximately 30 miles away, where visitors can canoe, kayak and fish. Facilities The Chisos Basin Campground has 60 individual campsites. Beginning in 2020, the campground will be available for reservations year-round. Sites 1 - 40 are reservable, sites 41 - 60 are first-come first-served. The first-come, first-served sites are not visible on this website. Because of the size of each campsite, they are more suitable to tent camping than RVs or trailers, though both are allowed. Each site comes with a picnic table, charcoal grill and bear-proof food storage container, and some sites come with picnic shelters for shade. All campsites are within easy walking distance to drinking water and toilets, and a dump station is provided for RVs and trailers. Natural Features The national park is named for a curve in the Rio Grande called the "big bend." For 1,250 miles, the river is an International Boundary between the United States and Mexico. The campground lies at the base of several sloping cliffs amidst montane shrubland; desert plants such as Arizona cyprus and mesquite trees fill the landscape. Maple, aspen, pinyon and ponderosa pines grow at higher elevations just above the campground. Though it is lower than the surrounding cliffs, the Chisos Basin is at a higher elevation than other campgrounds within the park. Summer temperatures here are cool, yet warmer than other areas in fall and winter due to the cold air sinking into lower regions. The Chisos Mountains are a popular nesting site for migratory birds. The mountains provide the only nesting ground in the United States for the Colima warbler, which arrives in mid-April and departs for its wintering grounds in southwestern Mexico by mid-September. Nearby Attractions Big Bend National Park encompasses 801,000 acres and the Chisos Basin area is centrally located. This allows visitors an excellent opportunity to explore all areas of the park in a relatively short drive. Big Bend offers excellent hiking trails, miles of rugged dirt roads, and endless possibilities for sightseeing. ADA Access: N

Chisos Basin Campground - Big Bend National Park

## Overview

Big Bend's vast undeveloped areas provide excellent opportunities for backcountry experiences if you seek solitude, wilderness, and adventure! The backcountry sites listed here are primitive backcountry road campsites and primitive backpacking sites in the Chisos Mountains. All are designated sites located in remote locations. Campers must be self-sufficient. Visit the [Big Bend National Park backcountry Use page](https://www.nps.gov/bibe/planyourvisit/backcountry-main.htm) to learn about proper planning and trip preparation for this remote area.

[Backcountry regulations](https://www.nps.gov/bibe/planyourvisit/bc_regulations.htm) are strictly enforced. 

  * These are primitive sites and do not offer water, electricity, toilet access, or any amenities. 
  * Primitive Chisos campsites are **BACKPACK-ONLY campsites** with NO vehicle access. Campsites are from 1-6 miles from the trailhead. Parking for overnight backpackers is located in the large amphitheater lot adjacent to the Chisos Basin Campground.
  * **Most primitive roadside campsites require a high clearance vehicle, and 4-wheel drive is highly encouraged.** Road conditions can change quickly. High clearance vehicles are defined as a SUV or truck with at least 15 inch tire rims AND at least 8 inches of ground clearance from the lowest point of the frame, body, or suspension. 



## Recreation

Splendid Isolation. Big Bend National Park is beloved as one of the few large public land areas in Texas. Major activities include camping, backpacking, hiking, birdwatching, river trips, enjoying the spring bloom, and adventuring along backcountry roads. The spring months of March and April are the busiest, as well as the Thanksgiving and New Year’s holidays, although the park is open and visited year round.

## Facilities

These are primitive campsites, and require extra trip planning. Please take the time to plan and carefully prepare your itinerary. 

  * **Backpacking Campsites:** Primitive designated backpacking campsites located along the extensive [Chisos Mountains Trails system](https://www.nps.gov/bibe/planyourvisit/backpacking_chisos.htm) .
  * **Primitive Roadside Campsites:** Primitive camping with your vehicle in designated campsites along [rugged backcountry dirt roads](https://www.nps.gov/bibe/planyourvisit/roadsidecamps.htm) . 
    * Roadside campsites are intended for high clearance vehicles only. Trailers and passenger vehicles will not be able to access most of these campsites. High clearance vehicles are defined as a SUV or truck, with at least 15 inch tire rims, and at least 8 inches of ground clearance, as measured from the lowest point of the vehicle (frame, suspension, body, differential). 



## Natural Features

From an elevation of less than 1,800 feet along the Rio Grande to nearly 8,000 feet in the Chisos Mountains, Big Bend includes massive canyons, vast desert expanses, forested mountains, and an ever-changing river. Here you can explore one of the last remaining wild corners of the United States 

## Nearby Attractions

Big Bend Backcountry Camping

Boulder Meadow #4 - Big Bend National Park

Pine Canyon

A Backcountry Permit is required for all overnight backpacking in Big Bend National Park.

Overnight backpackers in the Chisos Mountains can choose from forty-two designated campsites. A backcountry permit is required. Your permit will designate your specific sites for specific nights. You may obtain a permit up to 6 months in advance via www.recreation.gov. 

Campers using this campsite are required to pack out human waste using a waste disposal kit such as Restop2 or similar commercial products. These personal waste systems are widely available through online retailers, and for purchase at the park.

Hammocks are prohibited.

Bears and other animals are frequently seen in this area. Always use the bear box at campsite, and NEVER leave any food or packs unattended.



South Rim 4 Loop Backpacking Site

Croton Spring 1 (CS-1) and Croton Spring 2 (CS-2) can each accommodate 2 vehicles
(A trailer is considered a vehicle for site capacity), 6 people, no horses.
Maximum vehicle length is 30 feet.

Primitive roadside sites offer nice views, solitude, and a small flat gravel space to set up camp next to your vehicle. No shade, toilets, or other amenities are provided. The use of generators is prohibited in the backcountry.

You can obtain a permit to use this site up to 180 days in advance through www.recreation.gov

Primitive camping with your vehicle in designated campsites along rugged backcountry dirt roads .  

Roadside campsites are intended for high clearance vehicles only. Trailers and passenger vehicles will not be able to access most of these campsites. High clearance vehicles are defined as a SUV or truck, with at least 15 inch tire rims, and at least 8 inches of ground clearance, as measured from the lowest point of the vehicle (frame, suspension, body, differential). 


 Primitive Roadside Campsites— Croton Springs

## Overview

The Rio Grande Village Group Campground sits on the banks of the Rio Grande, the International Boundary between the United States and Mexico. The four group campsites are great options for groups of nine people or more and is one of the most popular campgrounds in Big Bend National Park. It is located close to Boquillas Canyon and Hot Springs, and acts as a launch point for visitors accessing the river or the endless miles of backcountry roads. Rio Grande Village has an outstanding view of the Sierra del Carmen Mountains, located in Mexico to the east, which light up with hues of red and orange during sunset. 

## Recreation

The river offers ample opportunities to explore its shores and water. The river put-in allows easy access to canoeing and kayaking on the river. Birders flock to the river banks to spot such rare and unique species often found only in Big Bend.   
  
Hiking trails are also found nearby the campground and many backcountry roads are located near the campground.  
  


## Facilities

The group campsites are tent-only; RVs and trailers are not allowed. There are no hook-ups available in the group sites and generators are prohibited. Each site is provided with a picnic table, charcoal grill and bear-proof food storage locker. All four group sites are within easy walking distance to water spigots and restrooms. Showers and laundry facilities can also be found close by at the Rio Grande Village Store.

## Natural Features

The mountain views, proximity to the river and shade from the surrounding cottonwood trees make Rio Grande Village Campground irresistible to visitors. This facility is at an elevation of 1,850 ft. Because cold air tends to sink into lower valleys during the peak seasons of fall and winter, temperatures are cooler here than in other parts of the park during these times. However, temperatures from March to September can easily exceed 100 degrees Fahrenheit.

Rio Grande Village Group Campground

Ernst Basin #1

Big Bend NP - Dominguez Trailhead

Join the fun near Houston. With tons of outdoor activities and scenic camping, this is an excellent vacation spot for all kinds of travelers. There are tons of hikes and other fun activities to partake in, as well as sights to see and explore. You're sure to find the perfect campground for your Houston camping trip.

Houston

The Best Camping Near Houston, Texas

Join the fun near San Antonio. With tons of outdoor activities and scenic camping, this is an excellent vacation spot for all kinds of travelers. There are tons of hikes and other fun activities to partake in. Experience some of the most stunning views that Texas camping has to offer. You're sure to find the perfect campground for your San Antonio camping trip.

San Antonio

The Best Camping in San Antonio | Texas Campgrounds

Dallas, TX is a great camping destination for adventurers of all types. There are tons of hikes and other fun activities to partake in. Experience some of the most stunning views that Texas camping has to offer. You're sure to find the perfect spot for your Texas camping adventure.

Dallas

The Best Camping Near Dallas, Texas

Whether you're a tent camper, an RVer, or just passing through, Austin, TX has a lot to offer. Austin is an adventure-filled destination for those who love the outdoorsy camper lifestyle. But it's also great for those who prefer to spend time near the city, exploring and sightseeing. You're sure to find the perfect campground for your Austin camping trip.

Austin

The Best Camping Near Austin, Texas

Are you in need of a campground near Fort Worth, TX? Fort Worth is filled with the activities, sights, and experiences to make everyone in your crew a happy camper. Discover great camping spots near Fort Worth, reviewed by campers like you.

Fort Worth

The Best Camping Near Fort Worth, Texas

Whether you're a tent camper, an RVer, or just passing through, El Paso, TX has a lot to offer. Enjoy the scenic camping, fun activities, and sights and sounds of El Paso. You're sure to find the perfect campground for your El Paso camping trip.

El Paso

The Best Camping Near El Paso | Texas Campgrounds

Arlington is an ideal place for camping adventures of all kinds. Arlington is a great camping destination for everyone. There are tons of nearby hikes, adventurous activities, and sights to see. Find the best campgrounds near Arlington, TX. Read helpful reviews and tips to find the perfect camping option for you and your crew.

Arlington

The Best Camping Near Arlington, Texas

The Dyrt is here to help plan your best camping near Corpus Christi. There are tons of hikes and other fun activities to partake in, as well as sights to see and explore. Find the best campgrounds near Corpus Christi, plus reviews and photos from other campers like you.

Corpus Christi

The Best Camping Near Corpus Christi, Texas

Plano, TX is a great camping destination for adventurers of all types. Camping, hiking, biking: however you want to spend your days near Plano, you'll find great campgrounds with The Dyrt. Search nearby campsites and find top-rated spots from other campers.

Plano

The Best Camping Near Plano, Texas

Whether you're an RVer or tent camper, Lubbock, TX is a great place to post up for the weekend—or longer. Camping, hiking, biking: however you want to spend your days near Lubbock, you'll find great campgrounds with The Dyrt. Search nearby campsites and find top-rated spots from other campers.

Lubbock

The Best Camping Near Lubbock, Texas

The Dyrt is here to help plan your best camping near Caddo National Grassland. Caddo National Grassland is an adventure-filled destination for those who love the outdoorsy camper lifestyle. But it's also great for those who prefer to spend time near the city, exploring and sightseeing. You're sure to find the perfect campground for your Caddo National Grassland camping trip.

Caddo National Grassland

The Best Camping Near Caddo National Grassland, Texas

Davy Crockett National Forests, TX is a great camping destination for adventurers of all types. Enjoy the scenic camping, fun activities, and sights and sounds of Davy Crockett National Forests. Find the best campgrounds near Davy Crockett National Forests, TX. Read reviews from campers like you and find your perfect campsite.

Davy Crockett National Forests

The Best Camping Near Davy Crockett National Forests, Texas

Searching for the best camping near Sam Houston National Forest, TX? Aside from great camping spots, you'll find hiking and many more outdoor experiences. Thinking of traveling with kids? You're in luck—Sam Houston National Forest is surrounded by family-friendly activities. Search nearby campsites and find top-rated spots from other campers.

Sam Houston National Forest

The Best Camping Near Sam Houston National Forest, Texas

The Dyrt is here to help plan your best camping near Padre Island National Seashore. Padre Island National Seashore is filled with the activities, sights, and experiences to make everyone in your crew a happy camper. At The Dyrt, campers like you share their favorite spots, plus tips and photos. No matter where you're headed in Padre Island National Seashore, you'll find the best spot for you and your camping crew.

Padre Island National Seashore

The Best Camping Near Padre Island National Seashore, Texas

The crown jewel of the Lone Star State is Big Bend National Park. This spot of southwest Texas is the pinnacle of all things outdoors in the state of Texas. Whether you want to explore the history of the state, spot wildlife, or just enjoy a hike, Big Bend is the place to be.

There are a number of campgrounds associated with Big Bend. Some are run by the park, and one is an RV park operated by a resort. The busy season here is actually November to April, where campsites will be harder to come by. Make sure to reserve your campground ahead of time, especially during peak season. The best camping near Big Bend is in the park itself, as Texas has little BLM land to make use of. Study Butte, TX, and the surrounding areas offer some accommodations if you can't get a spot in the park.

Big Bend National Park is the perfect place for adventurous campers and RVers. Big Bend National Park is a great camping destination for everyone. There are tons of nearby hikes, adventurous activities, and sights to see. Find the best campgrounds near Big Bend National Park, TX. Read helpful reviews and tips to find the perfect camping option for you and your crew.

The Best Camping Near Big Bend National Park, Texas

Are you in need of a campground near Lake Meredith National Recreation Area, TX? There are tons of hikes and other fun activities to partake in. Experience some of the most stunning views that Texas camping has to offer. Discover great camping spots near Lake Meredith National Recreation Area, reviewed by campers like you.

Lake Meredith National Recreation Area

The Best Camping Near Lake Meredith National Recreation Area, Texas

Looking for the best campgrounds near Sabine National Forest, TX? Discover secluded campsites where you can reconnect with nature. Or maybe you like to bring your family and friends along. Either way, there are Sabine National Forest campgrounds just for you. You're sure to find the perfect campground for your Sabine National Forest camping trip.

Sabine National Forest

The Best Camping Near Sabine National Forest, Texas

Angelina National Forest is an ideal place for camping adventures of all kinds. Enjoy the scenic camping, fun activities, and sights and sounds of Angelina National Forest. You're sure to find the perfect spot for your Texas camping adventure.

Angelina National Forest

The Best Camping Near Angelina National Forest, Texas

Near the Guadalupe Mountains is some of the best camping in Texas. Guadalupe Mountains National Park is located in the Chihuahuan Desert in western Texas. The park has more than 80 miles of hiking trails and is just a short drive from Dell City, TX. Follow the winding trails through grasslands and fossilized reef mountains up to the conifer forests from the nearby campsites and see stunning views of the El Capitan peak. Camping in the fall is the perfect time to see the colorful leaves along the McKittrick Canyon Trail. RV campers will find plenty of spots complete with all the amenities.

Guadalupe Mountains National Park

The Best Camping Near Guadalupe Mountains National Park, Texas

McClellan Creek National Grassland, TX is a great camping destination for adventurers of all types. Camping, hiking, biking: however you want to spend your days near McClellan Creek National Grassland, you'll find great campgrounds with The Dyrt. At The Dyrt, campers like you share their favorite spots, plus tips and photos. No matter where you're headed in McClellan Creek National Grassland, you'll find the best spot for you and your camping crew.

THE BEST Hike-In CAMPING NEARBig Bend National Park, Texas

About Big Bend National Park Hike-In Camping

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