What To Know About Camping In Big Bend?

Big Bend National Park RV Camping All 25 sites at Rio Grande Village have full hook-ups — water, electrical, and sewer — and are built for RVs. (Keep in mind a few sites cannot accommodate rigs 40 feet or longer.) The campground sits adjacent to the Rio Grande Village Store and allows pets.

What do I need to know about camping in Big Bend National Park?

Camping Stay Limits
Campers can occupy a specific site up to 14 total nights in a year. EXCEPTION: During the busy season from January 1–April 15, visitors are limited to a total of 14 nights in the park.

How safe is camping in Big Bend National Park?

Big Bend National Park is a safe destination for outdoor enthusiasts such as hikers. A recent study from a law firm found that Big Bend had only 16 deaths among 4.4 million visitors from 2007 to 2018.

Can I camp anywhere in Big Bend?

You may only camp in campgrounds or designated campsites (with a permit). Visit Big Bend’s backcountry use page for more information.

What to bring camping in Big Bend?

10 Must-Pack Types of Gear for Big Bend Hiking

  • Hiking Backpack. A hike without a backpack is just a long walk.
  • Sleeping Bag.
  • Hiking Shoes.
  • Socks.
  • Base Layers.
  • Camp Chair.
  • Water Bottle or Hydration Reservoir.
  • Flashlight or Headlamp.

Which Big Bend Campground is best?

The best area to camp in a tent in Big Bend is in Chisos Basin campground. This campground is surrounded by towering hills and is close to all the best hiking trails. The best place to camp in an RV is in Rio Grande Village. The campground is centrally located to many of the park’s attractions.

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Are there bears in Big Bend National Park?

A healthy adult bear in Big Bend can weigh 200-400 pounds and stand five to six feet tall. There are approximately 30-40 black bears living in Big Bend.

Do illegals cross in Big Bend?

Drug smuggling and illegal border crossings occasionally occur within Big Bend National Park. If you see anything that looks illegal, suspicious, or out of place, please do not stop or intervene, but note the location, time, direction of travel, and call 911 when possible.

What are the dangers in Big Bend National Park?

Black bears, javelinas, coyotes and skunks frequent campgrounds and may be encountered on trails. Although they sometimes appear tame, all of the animals in the park are wild, and could pose a threat to your health and safety if you attempt to approach or feed them.

Are there rattlesnakes in Big Bend National Park?

There are 31 species of snakes found in Big Bend National Park, including 4 species of rattlesnakes. There are also three additional snakes listed as hypothetical (no confirmed sightings). After summer rains snakes may be more active. Keep in mind that all wildlife, including snakes, are protected in the park.

Are there tarantulas in Big Bend National Park?

Arthropods include a diversity of creatures including cockroaches, millipedes, tarantulas, and lobsters. Some of the most easily sighted arthropods in the park include Millipedes (Diplopoda), Butterflies (Lepidoptera), Dragonflies (Odonata), and Grasshoppers (Orthoptera).

Can I sleep in my car at Big Bend National Park?

Backcountry camping in Big Bend National Park does require a permit, which can be obtained no more than 24 hours before your first night. You will need to visit the Panther Junction Visitor Center, in person, to secure your permit.

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Do you have to pay to camp at Big Bend?

The National Park Service operates three developed frontcountry campgrounds; Rio Grande Village Campground, Chisos Basin Campground, and Cottonwood Campground. The cost is $16 per night per site ($8 per night with Senior or Access pass). Reservations required.

Do I need hiking shoes for Big Bend?

The most important things to pack are food, water, and hiking shoes. Food, water, and hiking shoes might be obvious, but each item is essential for a trip to Big Bend.

Does Big Bend have mosquitoes?

The risk for mosquito activity is extremely high. Wear long-sleeved shirts and pants when spending time outdoors to prevent bites.

What do you wear to Big Bend National Park?

Clothing for Big Bend National Park
No need to get fancy! You’ll want to bring your typical hiking clothes, but be particularly mindful of the desert sun – even in cooler times of the year. We visited in mid-March and all got a little pink despite our best efforts to reapply sunscreen throughout the day.

Do you need reservations for Big Bend National Park?

Reservations are not needed to enter Big Bend National Park, but normal entrance fees will be collected at all park entrance stations.

Are dogs allowed in Big Bend?

Pet Policy at Big Bend National Park
Unfortunately, pets are not allowed on any trails, on the river, or in the backcountry at Big Bend National Park. Leashed pets can walk only on roads, in developed campgrounds, and at primitive roadside campsites. So, your pet can go only where your car can go.

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Is Santa Elena Canyon open?

Window Trailhead closed at campgrounds
Due to increased bear activity, the trailheads for the Window Trail in the Basin Campground and Basin Group Campground are CLOSED until further notice. The Window Trail remains OPEN, and accessible from the main trailhead in the Chisos Basin.

Should I take bear spray Big Bend?

Unlike Glacier or Yellowstone National Park where bear spray is a requirement, you’ll likely be just fine going without while you’re hiking in Big Bend.

What do I need to know before going to Big Bend?

Top Ten Tips for Visiting Big Bend

  • Seasons. Big Bend is best enjoyed from late fall through early spring.
  • Camping and Lodging. Big Bend is busy!
  • Road Conditions. Know what your vehicle can handle.
  • Bring Water! Bring more water than you think you will need.
  • River Trips.
  • Beat the Heat!
  • Phone Service.
  • Pets.