Within Big Bend National Park, Ernst Basin 1 provides backcountry camping accessible via the challenging Old Ore Road. The National Park Service manages this remote site, which requires high-clearance vehicles and benefits from four-wheel drive capability. Campers should plan for at least an hour of slow driving from paved roads, with the rough 10-mile access route limiting daily park exploration.
The campground sits near a hill that serves as a natural lookout point, offering elevated views of the surrounding desert landscape. Both pets and alcohol are permitted at this walk-in site. Ernst Basin 1 works best for campers prioritizing solitude and willing to commit extra time for the demanding road access, making it less suitable for those planning to visit multiple park areas during their stay.
RV Road Trip Guides
Location
Public CampgroundErnst Basin 1 — Big Bend National Park is located in Texas
Coordinates
29.29892803 N
103.03487518 W
Connectivity
T-MobileNo Coverage- VerizonNo Coverage
- AT&TNo Coverage
Connectivity
- T-MobileNo Coverage
- VerizonNo Coverage
- AT&TNo Coverage
Access
- Drive-InPark next to your site
- Walk-InPark in a lot, walk to your site.
- Hike-InBackcountry sites.
Site Types
- Tent Sites
- RV Sites
Features
For Campers
- Alcohol
- Pets
For Vehicles
- Pull-Through Sites
Drive Time
- 4 hrs 33 min from Odessa, TX
- 4 hrs 44 min from Midland, TX
- 5 hrs 36 min from San Angelo, TX
- 5 hrs 46 min from Eagle Pass, TX
