About Chisos Basin Campground — Big Bend NP
Tucked into the Chisos Mountains at 5,400 feet, this campground is an oasis of cool air in the Chihuahuan
Desert. One of America's most remote and least-visited national parks rewards adventurous campers with some of
the darkest skies on the continent and extraordinary desert-mountain scenery.
Highlights
- Darkest skies in the lower 48 states
- Lost Mine Trail — one of Texas's best day hikes
- Window View Trail for sunset photography
- Colima warbler — found only here in the US
- Rio Grande access at Santa Elena Canyon
Directions & How to Get There
From Midland, TX: Take US-385 S directly to the park entrance — approximately 3 hours (110 miles to Marathon,
then another 40 miles into park). From El Paso: Take I-10 E to Van Horn, then US-90 E to Alpine, then US-385 S,
approximately 4 hours. The park is extremely remote — fill up on gas before entering.
Nearby Attractions
- Lost Mine Trail (0.5 mi)
- Window View Trail (on-site)
- Santa Elena Canyon (30 mi)
- Boquillas Canyon (25 mi)
- Hot Springs Historic District (20 mi)
Insider Tips
- Fill your gas tank in Study Butte/Terlingua — no gas inside the park
- Water is precious and limited in the park — carry extra
- Spring (March–April) brings desert wildflowers and is the best season
- International crossing to Boquillas, Mexico by rowboat is a unique experience
Best Time to Visit
Best months: October–April
Season: Year-round
Access difficulty: Remote (4+ hours from major cities)
What to Pack for Texas Camping
- Navigation: downloaded offline maps, compass, and GPS device
- Water: at least 3 liters per person per day (more in desert parks)
- Food: bear canister or use provided bear boxes where required
- Shelter: 3-season tent, rain fly, and ground tarp
- Clothing: moisture-wicking base layers, insulating mid-layer, waterproof shell
- First aid kit: including blister treatment, pain reliever, and any personal medications
- Sun protection: SPF 50 sunscreen, wide-brim hat, UV-blocking sunglasses
- Lighting: headlamp with extra batteries, lantern for camp
- Safety: whistle, emergency bivy, and knowledge of your emergency exit route