## Overview

 Chisos Basin Group Campground, situated high in the rugged Chisos Mountains, is one of the most sought-after campgrounds in Big Bend National Park. It has seven group camping sites available for groups of nine to 20 people (size is site-dependent). At an altitude of 5,400 ft. (1646 m),, the campground is surrounded on all sides by tall, rocky cliffs and conveniently located near some of the park\'s most spectacular and popular trails. The Rio Grande is only a short drive away. Also found in the area is the Chisos Basin Visitor Center, the General Store and the [Chisos Mountains Lodge][1] , which houses the only restaurant in Big Bend National Park. 
## Recreation

 This campground is a hub for hikers. Some of the park\'s most spectacular and popular[ Day Hike][2] 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./2385 m). 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 (48 km) away, where visitors can canoe, kayak and fish. 
## Facilities

 The group campground is located approximately 1/4 mile (.4 km) away from the main Chisos Basin Campground. 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. No RVs, trailers, or generators are allowed. Group Site \"O\" allows for ONE smaller (up to 20 feet/6 m) recreational vehicle (camper van, pickup camper, or small RV) to camp adjacent to the tent area as part of the larger group. All other sites are exclusively walk-in, tents only. 
## Natural Features

 The national park is named for a curve in the Rio Grande called the \"big bend.\" For 1,250 miles (2012 km), 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][3] . 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 (324,153 ha) 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. 

[1]: https://www.nps.gov/bibe/planyourvisit/lodging.htm
[2]: https://www.nps.gov/bibe/planyourvisit/day_hikes.htm
[3]: https://www.nps.gov/bibe/learn/nature/birds-of-big-bend.htm

Chisos Basin Campground — Big Bend National Park

Colima 2 is a primitive campsite in the Chisos Basin in Big Bend National Park on the Colima Trail. My boyfriend and I backpacked to the campsite from the Chisos Basin trail head down Pinnacles trail to Boot Canyon. The Northeast Rim trail was closed at the time due to respecting space for the peregrine falcons and their nests. The night before, we camped in the Rio Grande campground which wasn't secluded enough for us, so we decided to reserve this campground at the Chisos Basin Visitor Center the next morning. Camp was super easy to set up here. There was a bear box included and plenty of flat ground for easily tent setup. There was PLENTY of tree coverage which was nice because it got hot out in the afternoons under the sun. We chose this campsite because we wanted to hike the South Rim on the same day. We offloaded some weight from our backpacking packs after setting up camp in the mid afternoon, got to hike the South Rim for the remaining hours of daylight, and enjoyed dinner back at Colima 2\. The next day, we hiked back to the Chisos Basin trail head on the Laguna Meadows trail. Colima 2 offered the seclusion from other campgrounds we were wanting, and it's definitely on our radar when we return to Big Bend National Park.

Colima 2 for the win!

Awesome spot!  High and cool in the Chisos, centrally located within Big Bend Park.  Great views of the Chisos.  Great sunsets.  Trailheads in the campground give you access to the Window Trail, Basin Trail, and the Chisos Mountains trails network.  Not all sites are available by reservation, so it's possible to get first-come, first-served site if you show up early, but this campground fills up quickly.  Shade is at a premium, so try to get a site with a covered area.  Supplies (not gas) available at Basin Store, and 3 hot meals/day at the Chisos Lodge.  Both are directly above the campground.  

Best campground in Big Bend!

I went to Big Bend for a long weekend at the end of July.  This included hiking up to Emory Peak, and driving down to Santa Elena Canyon and Rio Grande Village.  Despite the 100+ deg temps at lower elevations, the Chisos Basin campground was cool and comfortable.  It was an oasis in the middle of the Chihuahua desert.

A little far but worth the trip

Big Bend National Park is a beautiful place to visit and stay at if you're ever in West Texas! During the day some of the best places to visit (there's to many to list) are the Hot Spring located right on the Rio Grande, Santa Elena Canyon, The Window Trail, Tuff Canyon, Dog Canyon, Cattail Falls and of course the Chisos Mountains. At night time you must stay awake to see all the beautiful stars! The milky way is easy to see and the stars are so bright! River trips are available and are super fun! If you're lucky, you might spot all the beautiful wildlife! The temperature is definitely hot in that area, but I've loved all the adventures Big Bend has had to offer!

Big Bend National Park

One of my favorite in Texas but the down side is that it fills up very quickly. Its happened to me multiple times and had to go to other campsites in the park that is not as good. The restrooms is pretty nice and clean. There are grills. The best part is that the sky is super clear so you can see the milky way.

Chisos

This campsite is a must go despite the reservations. we stayed at site # 39 and it was amazing. This is a desert like area which doesn't have much activity to do. I recommend hiking. we took the basin trail which was short bit fun.  We stayed there the night and drove to Rio Grande village the next morning. This is an adventure that was hot but enjoyable. We also went to the ghost town which is abandoned. It was a mine. There is a clear view of the stars at night.


Cant beat the campsite

Originally planning to camp in the backcountry...this was a great change! Actual bathrooms! No port-o-potties. The park staff was very helpful in getting us an area to stay and letting us know how to reserve our area. Will definitely go back! 

Great campsite

Great campgrounds for those wanting to knock a few degrees off the sweltering desert heat. About 70 campsites, all with tables and food lockers and about half of which have shade. Several restroom facilities and locations for water. Much cooler during the fall, winter and spring months but even during the summer it cools down quite a bit at night. 

Fantastic views of the Windows and other picturesque spots in Big Bend.

If you are in the area for several days make sure you go to Ft. Davis (McDonald Observatory) and Marfa to check out some world class art!

No frills

My first time visiting Big Bend we were randomly given this site by the park ranger and since then it is still my favorite. It is tucked next to a hillside that blocks strong breezes that might blow down a tent. It was fun to climb that same hillside at night at watch as the stars seem to fall on top of your head. The only minor drawback is during the day there is a small amount of traffic down on the campsite's path because the attraction "Ernst Tinaja" is a bit farther down the road. A tinaja is a depression left in bedrock that's carved out by gravel and sand washing through from arroyos (seasonal streams). It is very beautiful and very worth the 2 mi round trip hike to check it out.

Primitive Camping "Ernst Tinaja"

My wife and I, along with 3 other couples, reserved one of the group campsites over labor day weekend. It was our first visit out to Big Bend, so we were more than pleasantly surprised when we arrived at the site. Directions to get there were a little confusing, or lacking all together, but once we got there (site P), I think we had one of the best sites in the park. It was located directly across from the bathroom (no showers) and in a perfect position to watch the sunset through the window (where the two sets of peaks come together). The site itself had a water spigot, no electricity, a raised pole grill, three metal picnic tables, a shaded awning over a huge concrete pad, and three steel bear boxes. Our site was directly beside the window trail access point. Also, I'm not sure if this is frowned upon, but at night, if you can position yourself on top of the awning, it is by far the best stargazing you'll ever see. Overall, 10 out of 10. Can't wait to go back.

Group Campsite - Can't be Beat

Nice campground with a lot of good sites with shade mixed in with some more open ones. Flush toilets, potable water and your standard table, fire rings.

Excellent sites.

I spent almost two weeks camped here in late January, early February 2017.  The campsite is surrounded by the Chisos Mountains and the views are spectacular.  There are many hiking opportunities, some from the campground and others from the nearby lodge.  I camped with a 23.5 foot Oliver Travel Trailer.  The park service recommends that you not try to navigate the road to the campground with a travel trailer longer than 20 feet, but I didn't have any issues getting in and out with my camper.  I may have benefitted from a shorter-wheelbase tow vehicle (a VW Touareg).  My campsite was #33 and it was a bit of a chore getting the Oliver backed in and properly located but I was able to park the Touareg beside the Oliver once I managed to get it situated.

Chisos Basin:  One of the most beautiful campgrounds in the national parks.

Big Bend is truly out there. And it's totally worth the trip. Chisos Basin is a busy, fully hooked-up ground with easy access to hiking, stirring scenery, etc. if you're out in West Texas, make sure to visit BBNP and stay in this ground if you're car camping or RVing.

Worth the trip

We tent camped here in late January. The campsite had lots of room to spread out, and there was a giant bolder behind this site that we could climb up on to sit and watch the sunset in the "Window". We will definitely seek out this site again. There was a charcoal grill, picnic table, bear box, and hangar for our lantern (Campfires are not allowed in the campground, but the charcoal grill is.) It would get pretty chilly at night, so I wish we could have had a campfire. I wondered if we chose poorly to camp in the mountain during the winter because the daytime temps were warmer near the river. However, it seemed like the night time temps were even lower near the river than up here in the mountain.

The restrooms have a sink area to wash dishes and electricity, and there are water spigots near the site, but you can't shower in the Campground. To shower, you have to drive down to the Rio Grande Village campground and pay $2 (in quarters) for a lukewarm shower of ~5 minutes. That was the only drawback of our stay.

The park's scenery was well worth the inconvenience, though. From the Basin campsites you can hike out to the Window or go for a short walk up to the visitor center and restaurant. This would be a great place to camp in warmer weather, because it was significantly cooler than the river during the daytime.

Great scenery, cooler than near the river during the day

Camping here was decent. We absolutely love Big Bend. We were able to find free camping in the park but this place was worth the money.

Theres picnic tables, fire rings, bathrooms, running water, maybe 40 or 50 sites. We were able to find some hot springs in the Rio Grande river, in the park which was fantastic. We also walked in to mexico and spent the day over there. Its hot during the day and cold at night. Amazing hiking, biking, swimming, and site seeing. Big Bend NP is least visited NP and most re-visited. That says a lot about the place.

Also terlingua texas and the ghost town are a hoot. All kinds of cool off grid homes, artists, and musicians. These places are a drive from the campground and outside the NP.

Cheers!

Love Big Bend!

Went for a few days in November 2017\. Temps were in the high 70s during the day and low 50s at night. We had perfect weather with clear skies and no moon. We stayed at the Chisos Basin Campground for 2 nights. It was a small campground. Each site felt open due to the lack of trees in the basin but there was enough covering of high bushes around each site and they very in height so it made you feel like you were the only ones around. We had a perfect unobstructed view of the mountains. We did hear our neighbors talking in the site right next to us, but everyone in the campground was relatively quiet and lights were not an issue once it got dark. Everyone seemed to be there for the same reason: get some good hikes in and see the nigh sky in pitch darkness. It was comfortable and the bear boxes and grill were clean. Easy walk to the bathrooms as well which were also clean. Loved that we could wake up in the morning, see a fox near by, hike to the Window a few steps from camp (about an hr hike) and watch the sunrise. The sites are small. We had a 4 person tent and it took up the majority of the space available for tents. It's not a surprise why this campground always fills up. We arrived on Wednesday evening the week before Thanksgiving and the campground was filled (although we found out the next day there were actually a few sites open after the last check of the night for the staff). We stayed at Rio Grande that night then woke up early to set up on an open site Thursday morning. Worked out great! Will be back.

Feels like you are farther away than you are

Big Bend NP is a huge park. Fill up with gas in the town of Marathon before you enter the park because it is likely that you will be covering some ground once you enter the park. The Chisos Basin Campground is in the center of the park and about 1 mile from the lodge, restaurant, store and ranger station. At the ranger station there is information, water, restrooms and wifi. There is no cell coverage throughout the park. The park is great, the campgrounds are just ok. The Chisos Basin Campground is often crowded because it is located in the central part of the park and near many of the the best hiking trails. The Window Trail, Emory Peak Trail, and South Rim Trail all start from the Chisos Basin area. I think that one of the most scenic hikes is the Lost Mine Trail that start maybe 2 miles from the Chisos Basin. The campground has pad sites with a sun shade and bear box. There are a few water faucets located throughout the campground. There are bathrooms, but no showers. The only showers in the park are located at the lodge and at the east side of the park. The pad sites are located somewhat close to each other, so do not expect much privacy.

Big Bend National Park Chisos Basin Campground + Mountain Trails

We visited BBNP for a few nights and absolutely loved Chisos Basin campground. The site (41) was perfect. We had unobstructed views of the Basin (see photo), far enough way from the restrooms and water spigot that we didn't get a lot of through traffic. There aren't many trees in the campground, so you can see your neighbors, but the sites are far enough apart that you're not completely on top of one another. There are numerous hiking spots inside the Basin, or you can venture further into the park to visit either of the canyons or numerous desert hikes. At first we didn't like the fact that there are no fires allowed in the Chisos campground, but once night fell and we were able to stare at the Milky Way for hours and hours, sipping our wine in a quiet campground, we completely forgot about the lack of campfire. LOVED BBNP.

Edit: you likely won't be able to stake your tent; recommend bringing sand bags or expect that you'll have to find rocks nearby to weigh your tent corners and tie your guy lines.

Great spot for BBNP adventure

This place is amazing and gorgeous. It can get chilly at night in Febuary but the view of the mountains and stars is so worth it. 
The camp sites can be a bit small and not easy for family camping but there is a couple of sites that are decent sized. 

Beautiful campground

Big Bend modern campgrounds are first come first serve, during popular seasons make sure that you arrive early and are prepared to not find a campsite. This can be very frustrating if you aren't prepared for it.

The campgrounds are modern and offer tables, access to facilities, running water, electricity, fire pits, and improved camping pads. Many of the sites are very small, so setting up a large tent or more than one small tent may be difficult. It gets hot and cold very quickly. The campground also has access to a store which is a short hike uphill, or an even shorter drive, however there is also a hotel up the hill so parking may prove to be difficult. Campground has trail access to one of the most popular trails in the park. The campground are dog friendly, however dogs are only permitted in areas where vehicles are permitted. There is no mountain biking permitted on hiking trails in this park, however the state park does provide MTB trails - dogs are still not permitted on state park trails.

We went during spring break, this is evidently a very popular spring break destination. We were very fortunate to secure a campsite.

Busy

The Chisos Basin in Big Bend National Park is cool whether you’re in a tent or a camper. It has a ton of pros: bathrooms close by, being the coolest place in the park (serious bonus in the summertime), close proximity to hiking trails (don’t miss the Window trail!!!) and it close enough to the Chisos Basin restaurant and store you could walk if you’re feeling ambitious (it IS uphill haha!). My only complaint for this campground is how cramped it feels! If you’re trying to get away from it all and feel open space around you Chisos may not be your best bet. Sites are small and very close together. 

Awesome views, cool air and just a little cramped 

This campground offers some of the best views in the park. There is a massive individual campsite for tents and RVs, as well as a large group site area. The campgrounds or less than 1 mile from the park store and the lodging on site. There are literally thousands of miles of trails within Big Bend National Park. The trail head to Emory peak extends directly from the campground. Another good trail coming out of the campground his window trail. The sites are clean and equipped with their boxes and plenty of space for parking as well as overflow parking. I go here twice a year and I never want to leave.

Spacious, amazing views from the tent.

We did trail camping. Each camp site had a different amount of bear boxes and different sizes. Trails were fun and challenging.

Fun wilderness 

Great campground but no shade. Several trails start around the campground.  Facilities are old but maintained.  Near the resturant and hotel.

Great campground bring shade

This campground is surrounded by beautiful big bend mountains and a ton of hiking trails. The campsites each have charcoal grills, picnic tables and bear boxes to keep your food/equipment safe.

Chisos basin campground

Beautiful views, great facilities, and awesome weather. Big Bend National Park is one of the best stops in Texas, hands down, and the Chisos Basin Campground is the best spot in the park. To the east, the campground is shadowed by Casa Grande, the largest peak in the Chisos. To the west you have the Window, an awesome cut in the basin that lets the sun peek through a little longer in the evenings.

Wonderful national park campground

This campground is located near the center of the park and at a high elevation. It is located in the only mountain range that is entirely within a national park. There are many hiking trails and chances for encounters with nature in the area. The campground is not accessible for large rv's or large tow behinds, so tent camping, pop up callers, tear drop trailers, and class b vans are prevalent. There is a gift shop and restaurant in crisis basin as well.

Beautiful, dramatic scenery, nature

Great campground. One of my favorites that I have been to! Beautiful view surrounded by the Chisos Mountains. Definitely recommend trying to get a campsite with a canopy top for shade, ours did not have one and we were very jealous of everyone else that did. It does get windy from time to time but it’s all part of the experience when camping! Bathrooms have plumbing, running water, and outlets. Drinking water is also available at a few spots around the campsite. If you are looking to hike you are very close to a few trailheads. The mountain lodge, the store, and visitor center is all about 3 minute drive or 20 or so minute walk up. 

Awesome!

We have been camping at Chisos Basin for many years.  The views from the campground are incredible.  The lodge is a good place to eat after a long hike.  Like so many other National Parks, Big Bend is getting very crowded during the peak season and holidays.  The campground is good for tent campers and vans with good restrooms and helpful camp hosts.  We try to go during the off season.  The view of the window at sunset is something to see and the hikes range from easy to moderate.  The risk of Mountain Lions is well known and something to think about when hiking alone or with young children.  This place is a must see and a hidden gem.  I gave it a four out of 5 due to the overcrowding and lack of privacy in the the campground.  Many of the sites are great for tents but very uneven for vans or small RVs.  The window and lost mine trails are great 1/2 hikes.  You have to plan around the weather and time of year.  We have camped here in 20 degrees in November and 90s in May.   

Bucket List Campsite 

Best place in Texas for the beginner to the seasoned camper/hiker/nature lover!!

Awesome BIG BEND!!

This review is specific to the Chisos Basin Group Campsites. I actually prefer the Chisos Basin Group Campsites over the regular Chisos Basin Campsites. The group sites require a minimum of 9 people and a maximum of 20 people. The group campsites are located on a separate loop with only 7 campsites. The regular campsites are located in a cluster with about 60 campsites side by side - there is little privacy. I've found the group campsites have a similar view of the Chisos Mountains and the valley. There is one restroom for the group sites which has sinks and toilets, but no showers. There are no showers in the Chisos Basin except at the Lodge. 

  

Three of the group campsites have sun shades (sites P, Q and R) and the remainder are exposed. If you can reserve a campsite with a sun shade it will be worth it. The sun and the wind can be very intense throughout the year. It is highly recommended that you secure your tent with extra guy lines and tent spikes. 

  

The Window Trail trailhead starts from one corner of the group campsites. It's a short and moderate difficulty trail with a scenic view of the valley and sunset. If you hike the Window Trail to see the sunset, be sure to bring a flashlight because it can be difficult to find your way back once the sun goes down. Other highly recommended trails include the Emory Peak Trail, Lost Mine Trail and the Santa Elena Trail.

Big Bend National Park - Chisos Basin Group Campsite 

The views here will change your life. Personally stayed at the Chiso Mountains campground think it’s the most scenic of the two campgrounds they have. The other campground has the store and I believe showers. 

Best time to go is when the season just starts in my opinion which is fall early winter. Especially if you stay in the mountains campground. It’s cool/cold at night and hit during the day. 

The hot spring is a must. The road to the trail is quite scary if you have anything bigger than a standard car. Your up against a wall on one side and a drop off of 20 feet on the other. 

If you really want to test your endurance, the lost mine trail goes up a mountain. Well worth the treck. Take your time and you will get to the top. 

If your over camping in tents and RVs, they also have a lodge in the Chiso Mountains, about a two minute drive from the campground. It has a restaurant as well as a gift shop. 

There is only one gas station there so expect high prices. 

Terlingua is the closest town and my group had dinner, and checked out the ghost town. 

Please not, skunks are not afraid of you and they will check out your campsite whether you like it or not. 

Life changing.  NP not SP. 

We stayed at Chisos in early March and loved it!  March is apparently the busiest month in Big Bend NP so we made sure to get to the campground first thing in the morning to get a site— all the reservable sites were LONG gone by the time we planned our trip! There were a couple to pick from when we got there and more opened up over the course of the morning, though all 3 campgrounds in Big Bend were full every night we were there. The site we got was PERFECT! It was on the edge of the camp ground and tucked around a corner. Some of the other sites did look a little close to each other which was why I gave 4 stars and not 5. Most (if not all??) of the sites had a little their own picnic table, bear/javelina-safe food storage and a little canopy-like shelter for some shade. 

The host was very nice and helpful when we arrived and the campground was very quiet. 

Bathroom facilities were pretty standard— not super nice/fancy but had the essentials! 

It was chilly in the mornings and at night without the sun to warm you up— long pants and a light jacket were perfect.  It warmed up to shorts and T-shirt/tank top weather in the afternoons with the sun. 

The lodge and campground are right in the basin of the mountains so you have 360° mountain views! The sunrise and sunset on the mountains was especially pretty! 

Chisos was a great spot as it was close to a lot of hikes and central so we could adventure in both the western and eastern parts of the park with Chisos as our home base— so perfect! Many of the trail heads were at the Chisos Lodge (right up the road from the campground) and one of the trails actually had an entrance at the campground —very convenient. 

Wildlife: we didn’t see too much!! A bunch of Mexican Jays, bunnies and hares, a coyote and a fox was about it! 
 
Hikes:
South Rim trail —our “long hike” —about 12 miles (trail head at the lodge)— it was AMAZING!! Definitely would recommend if you’re looking for a longer hike with rewarding views... definitely worth it. Even though it was spring break season and very busy in the park we didn’t see too many people on this trail and only saw other people every now and then. 

Window View trail — “our short mountain hike” —5 and some change miles round-trip out and back. Trail head in the Lodge parking lot but also has a trail head in the campground!! (Just cuts off some milage!) Easier hike to a SUPER cool view through a “window” -like chasm where a waterfall flows when it’s rainier. The last mile or so felt a little steeper on the way back once we were more tired. We brought lunch with us and stopped along the way. This was a perfect hike to pair with another mid distance one in the afternoon.  

Chimneys Trail — our “desert hike” this was a 4.8-mile round-trip out and back. The trail head is on Ross Maxwell Scenic Drive and is flat flat flat desert hiking— this was a new type of hiking for us and it was so neat because you can see SO far in the distance as you walk. The end of the trail is the “chimneys” which you can see in the distance when you start the hike. The trail leads right up to them so you can walk part way up one and walk around it looking at the old markings left behind! Super cool. We did this trail in the later afternoon so we were walking back as the sun started to set— very pretty!  

We also drove to both the Rio Grande Village Campground and did the short nature trail there around sunset (best time to go I’d say!) and the Cottonwood Campground just to check them out. 


Quiet with Great Views!! 

We did a road trip from CA to TX and decided to camp at Big Bend NP on the way to Austin. Since we were traveling during their less busy season (first week of October 2019) we were able to find a site on first come first serve basis. It was a little warmer than used to, but it was not that bad honestly. Especially once night fall hit, it was chilly and comfy. Something I wasn’t a big fan of was that no camp fires were allowed, which I understand with the climate and all. But it was just so dark and I’m used to having a fire for light and hanging around having beers. The camp host was so kind! He gave us a lot of information on the area and let us know that there is a bear (aged at almost teen) who likes to roam the campground. He’s just a curious little guy and leaves. I was kind of excited to see him but didn’t end up seeing the guy. We hiked the window trail since we only had one day/night to explore the area unfortunately. But that was such a worthy hike! I had never seen anything like it. Campground overall very clean and beautiful with restrooms right nearby, showers are a drive up hill to the visitors center, and a camp host ready to help on site! 

Incredible campground views 

We tent camped 3 nights here in early December and it was in the 20s one night! Windows trail and Santa Elena Canyon were the highlight of our trip. Bathrooms were clean and easily accessible. Sites were not at all private, but that was made up for by the awesome amenities - bear box, great table, waist-high grill, and shade coverage.

Truly Texas' Gem. Great campsite at Chisos Basin

Getting to Big Bend National Park is part of the adventure, it is nowhere near anything other than itself, but for those who go, it’s so worth the effort. If you are going to camp in Big Bend National Park, make sure you spend a couple of nights in Chisos Basin. It is the quintessential National Park Campground – full stop. Neither the approach, climbing 2,000ft of winding switch back nor the campsites themselves are optimal(nor recommended) for any trailer longer than 20 feet. Our site (#22) just barely accommodated our tiny 15-foot trailer. So, take the size limitations on the website at their word. 

Fortunately, the camp host was completely on the ball, and moved us to a larger site that became available for 2 nights of our stay. When we first arrived in Big Bend back in 2013, we were able to get a campsite without a reservation, but those days are gone. Most of these campsites are reserved 6 months out, so plan ahead.  We snagged what had to have been a cancellation, just a few days ahead of time.  The campsites all have burly shade structures over the picnic tables, which are perfect for hammocking, as well as bear food containers. There’s not a lot of privacy between the sites, so you just have to go with the flow and get in to the communal vibe of the place. If you do, you’ll enjoy yourself all the more. 

Curmudgeons can go and rent one of the beautiful stone cottages available at the Chisos Mountain Lodge. The campground lies in the basin of the Chisos Mountains. Everywhere you look is worthy of a picture, and it’s difficult to know where to stop taking them, but they won’t do it justice. 

The hiking, right from the campground, is among the finest in the park. We highly recommend the strenuous, all-day, South Rim loop – an epic day well spent and views worth all the trouble it takes to get there. 

There is a visitor’s center a short walk away from the campground where you can get all the park information and necessary permits. In addition, there’s a small grocery store with ice, beer and wine as well as a few other necessary essentials. Gas can be found near Panther Junction, the main Visitor’s Center in the park. Otherwise, the town of Study Butte, some 25 miles away offers more opportunities for groceries, gas and supplies.

If you haven’t made any reservations yet because everything is full up, check out the nearby Texas State Park, of Big Bend Ranch. There are many campsites which lies along the Rio Grande river, just off of a well-maintained paved road that goes between Terlingua and Presidio, TX. The visitor’s center, where you get your camping permits, is located on the Terlingua side of the park, you can’t get permits in Presidio, so plan ahead!

Gorgeous Setting!

Chisos Campground is the place to camp on Big Bend National Park. It is a high elevation location and many great hiking trails from the location. As a landscape photographer, this was a fantastic place to camp. Nice sized sites, however, no hookups &amp; only 8 sites that allow generators. There were no wood fires when I was there last October. 

Best Camping In Texas!!

This was my second visit to the Chisos Campground  in Big Bend National Park, TX. The past visit was in the fall and this year I wanted to experience spring in the park. As usual, the campground was great. The bathroom facilities were clean and close to the campsites. Water was readily available near all of the sites as well. My site this last trip was not as private as my previous trip last fall, but it was a later reservation and I was lucky to get a site for 4 days in the most popular time of the year to visit. Plan far in advance as this is a popular campground and about 10 to 15 degrees cooler than the others in the park

Beautiful Time In The Spring- Best Campground In Big Bend NP

Chisos Basin sites are always great. Restrooms and showers nearby with potable water. 

Great views at a great site

What an experience! Make sure you book in advance because it’s always busy. It up in the mountains so it got really cold in the morning. Also, final tip is to plan your camping for when there is little to no moon in the sky - the view of the stars is incredible!

Absolutely stunning!

We back country camped for 3 days waiting for this ONE NIGHT in the mountains at Big Bend. Site 32 has ZERO space for a tent. Was told by a park ranger to find the ‘camp hosts’ Dan and Mary. Yeah … she was so snotty and downright MEAN.. that we left. Just left. We were DONE. She said with AS MUCH attitude as possible ‘what do you mean??? Did you check the backside of the site?’ Stomped away to the site and looked at it and then followed up with ‘well HOW BIG IS YOUR TENT??’ Lady… 1. There IS no back side to the site and now to recover face you’re acting like WE are the problem and 2. BIGGER THAN THE 4x4 SPOT RIGHT IN FRONT OF THE GRILL!!! She RUINED our big bend trip. Note how we had to move the picnic table up on rocks in the photo. Also we couldn’t stake our tent due to the hard gravel… so we left. No refund. Awesome. 

RUDE

We spent the weekend before Thanksgiving 2021 in Big Bend National Park and had a great time. We had never been to this NP before but we went with friends who are now veterans to Big Bend. 

One thing to know is that all campsites are not created equal. Our initial site in the campground was very small - too small to put a tent on honestly. Fortunately the camp host was able to swap us with a site with more room. 

The campground is in this beautiful basin in the mountains - pictures don’t truly do it justice. We were also fortunate to be near the bathroom, which was convenient. 

One tip I’d give is to invest in heavy duty tent stakes. The ground is so rocky, it ate up the stakes that came with the tent. Which was not a big deal until our third night when the wind tried to blow us off the mountain. I ended up tying off to anything solid - the picnic table, near boxes, charcoal grill, etc. 

Awesome Trip to Big Bend

Great place for tent camping. Make sure you check Recrwation.gov for description of sites some not ok for trailers or RV. If you want shade check the site as in summer only about half have shade. Great place to start your hike in the backcountry. No electricity, sewer or water hook ups.

Ok but not great

The location at the center of the basin beats everything and make you forget the little details that could be downgrade this campground. Such a great experience to spend the night in Chisos Basin.

Amazing location

The Chisos Basin Campground is nestled in an open woodland within a scenic mountain basin. Campers enjoy the views of Casa Grande and Emory Peak. The sunset through the nearby"Window" is a Big Bend highlight. Some of the park's most popular trails begin nearby. Elevation: 5,400 feet. Open year-round. Trailers over 20 feet and RV's over 24 feet are not recommended due to the narrow, winding road to the Basin and small campsites at this campground. RESERVATIONS ARE REQUIRED 

*   Cell Phone Reception, Yes 
*   Internet Connectivity, No 
*   Trash/Recycling Collection. Yes, Year-Round 
*   Food Storage Lockers, Yes, Year-Round 
*   Laundry, No Dump Station, Yes 
*   Potable Water, Yes on site 

  

At Chisos Basin Campground 5,400 feet the temperature is lower 15 to 20 degrees than any campground near the Rio Grande, take this in consideration for summer

Best campground and location at BBNP if you RV is 24' or lower

We stayed in Chisos Basin for two nights in our Airstream Basecamp 20x and had a great time (for anyone worried about the drive, you'll need to be careful but we found it doable). We knew before we booked that the spots would be tight and we'd be close to our neighbors, but that didn't stop us from having a great time. The bathrooms were clean and the campground hosts were friendly, and we loved that the trailhead for the Window Trail was right in the campground. Probably not our favorite Texas campground (that would probably be in Caprock Canyons State Park) but definitely plan on visiting again in the future.

Tight spots but the views and hikes are worth it! 

My husband and I loved this place and would come back in a second BUT….it’s not for everyone. 16$ a night and needs to be booked on Recreation.gov The campground is tucked in a basin of the mountains. The road to get here is steep and windy but paved and beautiful! The sites are small, often unique and not level. So…if you are camping with a bigger rig. This is not for you. You will likely not fit in the sites and/or will be VERY unlevel. The sites are ideal for small vans/tents/campers. Some sites are honestly even unmanageable for any camper situation other than a tent. Most sites had a sun shade/gazebo with a table and a bear/javelina box. 
Some of the sites have a parking area on one side of the campground road and the actual site on the other side. Look closely on the website before booking to be sure the site will work for you! 
We had site 15, 17 and 41 for the days we were there and all worked for our Chevy van with the use of blocks for leveling. 43 and 47 also looked particularly nice to us. Site 16 is one where your actual site is across the street from your parking area. Also no generator use so beware of that. They don’t even like you to have your car idling for long so plan accordingly if you need power from a generator or your car. 
Otherwise this campground has all the things you’ll need other than electrical hookups and showers. Potable water, trash and flush toilets. Visitor center is close by and most trails are easily accessible from the campground. Don’t miss the sunsets from the window view trail! Amazing. 

Ideal spot for exploring the Chisos Mtns

Small sites and many of the spots would be very hard to get level (either with a tent or a van/camper). Make sure to read the descriptions and take a look at the parking to make sure you will fit. The location is beautiful and much cooler than the campgrounds down lower. 

Site 18 was pretty level and was bigger than most of the other spots. You could fit 2 cars and at least 2-3 tents. 


Nice spot

Spectacular views from the campground , excellent hiking . Decent store and restaurant up at the lodge . Water available , sites are a little uneven in places but worth it . Emory peak at daylight is amazing if you have it in you .

Views for Days 

We loved our night at Chisos Basin. Was there in late August and the weather was perfect. Beautiful location. Bathrooms were clean. A lot of availability. There isn’t any first come first serve so you must reserve it through recreation.gov but there was good Verizon Service there at the Campground. 

Loved Our Stay!

Not all spots are created equal. Some don’t have space for even a medium tent. This is high desert camping. High winds, so staking a tent is difficult. But this IS the place to stay. 