How much does camping cost at Chisos Basin Campground (Big Bend, Tx)?

Camping fees at Chisos Basin Campground (Big Bend, Tx) range from $16/night. Prices may vary by site type (standard, hookup, premium) and season. Book online to see exact pricing for your dates.

Is Chisos Basin Campground (Big Bend, Tx) first-come first-served or reservation?

Chisos Basin Campground (Big Bend, Tx) accepts online reservations. We recommend booking in advance, especially during peak season (typically summer weekends). Use campsite alerts to get notified when spots become available.

Can I see photos of campsites at Chisos Basin Campground (Big Bend, Tx) before I book?

Yes! Chisos Basin Campground (Big Bend, Tx) has 11 campsite photos on Outdoorithm, contributed by campers who've stayed there. Browse real photos of individual sites to see what to expect before you reserve. You can also add your own photos after your trip to help the next family plan theirs.

What is the best time to visit Chisos Basin Campground (Big Bend, Tx)?

Chisos Basin Campground (Big Bend, Tx) is open January 01 to December 31. The best time to visit depends on your preferences—summer offers the warmest weather and most activities, while spring and fall provide fewer crowds and milder temperatures. Check current conditions before your trip.

Are there showers at Chisos Basin Campground (Big Bend, Tx)?

Chisos Basin Campground (Big Bend, Tx) does not have shower facilities. Plan accordingly—nearby alternatives may include day-use areas or towns.

Is there cell service at Chisos Basin Campground (Big Bend, Tx)?

Cell phone service at Chisos Basin Campground (Big Bend, Tx) is generally available. Cell service is available. Coverage may vary by carrier and exact location within the campground.

How many campsites does Chisos Basin Campground (Big Bend, Tx) have?

Chisos Basin Campground (Big Bend, Tx) has 60 campsites. Sites vary in size, privacy, and amenities. Check availability online to find the best site for your needs.

Are dogs allowed at Chisos Basin Campground (Big Bend, Tx)?

Yes, pets are allowed at Chisos Basin Campground (Big Bend, Tx). Dogs must typically be kept on a leash (usually 6 feet or shorter) and under control at all times. Be sure to clean up after your pet and check for any breed or size restrictions.

What amenities are available at Chisos Basin Campground (Big Bend, Tx)?

Chisos Basin Campground (Big Bend, Tx) offers: Restrooms, Potable Water, Dump Station, Pets Allowed, Camp Store. See our detailed campground page for the full list of facilities and features.

Chisos Basin Campground (Big Bend, Tx)

Q: Can I have a campfire at Chisos Basin Campground (Big Bend, Tx)?

Fire policies at Chisos Basin Campground (Big Bend, Tx): Campfires. NO wood or ground fires allowed at any time. Charcoal may be used in the raised grills provided at each site.. Always check current fire restrictions before your trip, as conditions change seasonally.

4.52

1.2K reviews

PO BOX 129

Top 4% in TXFall

Scenic ViewsStargazingGreat Hiking

Featured in:Hiking Camping Texas#1 Tent Camping Texas#1 Desert Camping Texas#1 +3 more

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

Quick Facts

5,400 ft

Price

$16/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

60 campsites

Season

Season opens January...

Cell

Has Service

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV Friendly

Book on National Park Service Official Website

Get Directions

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

Quick Facts

5,400 ft

Price

$16/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

60 campsites

Season

Season opens January...

Cell

Has Service

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV Friendly

Book on National Park Service Official Website

Get Directions

Chisos Basin Campground (Big Bend, Tx)

$16.00 - $16.00 / night

Campsite Fees

STANDARD NONELECTRIC: $16.00. Plus Recreation.gov reservation transaction fee ($8 online / $9 phone / $3 in person).

Standard Site Fee$16.00

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Recreation Dot Gov

Provider

432-477-1121

I manage this campground

Plan a trip to Chisos Basin Campground (Big Bend, Tx)

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Campground Map

PO BOX 129

Chisos Basin Campground (Big Bend, Tx)

PO BOX 129

Nearby places

Marathon is approximately 40 miles north of the Big Bend National Park entrance. Fort Stockton is approximately 90 miles north of Marathon.

Weather at Chisos Basin Campground (Big Bend, Tx)

Current alerts(14)

A maximum of two motor vehicles, one vehicle with a trailer, one motorhome with tow vehicle or four motorcycles allowed per campsite. A maximum of four tents OR one wheeled camping unit and one tent allowed per campsite.
Are you still camping? If you leave your site during the day, please leave something at the site so we know you are not checking out early. A tent, camp chair, stove, book, etc., something of little value but that indicates you plan to return.
Campsites are not level . Due to the terrain, most campsites are not level.
Check In: You may occupy your campsite anytime after 1:00 PM. Your site will be marked. There is no official check-in procedure.

Best Time to Camp at Chisos Basin Campground (Big Bend, Tx)

Best season: fall. Fall offers the best combination of comfortable daytime temperatures, dramatic aspen and oak color at higher elevations, and excellent hiking conditions — expect daytime highs around 60–75°F and nighttime lows around 30–45°F in October–November. Trails like the Window and Emory Peak are at their most pleasant, views are crisp, and bugs are reduced, making hiking, wildlife viewing, and photography peak activities. Weekends and holiday periods can be busier, but overall crowds are moderate because Peak months: October, November, March, April

Best

Fall(Sep-Nov)

5.0 / 5

Top 4% in TX

Fall cited as best conditions with 60–75°F days, crisp nights, and seasonal color at higher elevations.

Planning Tips

Peak Season: January 01 to December 31. Book 2-3 months ahead.
Operating Season: Season opens January 1 and closes December 31 annually.

About Chisos Basin Campground (Big Bend, Tx)

Chisos Basin Campground sits at 5,400 feet in the heart of Big Bend National Park, surrounded by the Chisos Mountains and managed by the National Park Service. The location offers direct access to premier trails like the Window and Emory Peak, with clean facilities and dark skies ideal for stargazing. Reviewers praise the mountain views and helpful hosts but note rocky tent pads and limited site privacy.

Chisos Basin Campground is well-suited for tent camping and smaller RVs/trailers due to its rocky and uneven terrain. Group camping and primitive camping options are also available.

Weather and SeasonsBest season: fall. Fall offers the best combination of comfortable daytime temperatures, dramatic aspen and oak color at higher elevations, and excellent hiking conditions — expect daytime highs around 60–75°F and nighttime lows around 30–45°F in October–November. Trails like the Window and Emory Peak are at their most pleasant, views are crisp, and bugs are reduced, making hiking, wildlife viewing, and photography peak activities. Weekends and holiday periods can be busier, but overall crowds are moderate because Peak months: October, November, March, April

Elevation5400 ft above sea level

Natural Features and SceneryThe campground occupies a sky island ecosystem where mesquite and ocotillo give way to groves of maple, pine, and Arizona cypress. Rocky cliffs ring the basin, creating a natural amphitheater with views stretching across the Chihuahuan Desert below. The rare Colima warbler, found nowhere else in the United States, nests here each spring. Volcanic ash and lava flows tell the geological story in visible layers. It's a living gallery of contrasts: century plants blooming against volcanic peaks, ponderosa pines rising above desert scrub.

Lodging & AccommodationsNearby accommodations include the Chisos Mountains Lodge, which houses the only restaurant within Big Bend National Park.

Programs & ActivitiesRanger talks and interpretive programs are occasionally available.

Best Campsites

Curated by campers, for campers

Reveal picks

Reserving a campsite

Stay Limit

Maximum stay: 14 nights during a visit at this campground.

Guests Allowed Per Site

The maximum capacity of each campsite is two vehicles, eight people, and four tents.

Tents

Tents are allowed

RV vehicles

RV vehicles are allowed

Primitive

Primitive camping is allowed

Reservable

Reservations are allowed

Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made at Recreation.gov or through the app or contact center.

AccessibilitySite #37 is ADA-accessible, and one of the restrooms is described as handicapped-friendly.

Site SizeSites are small and rocky, making them more suitable for tents. Larger RVs and trailers may find the sites challenging.

PrivacySites vary in privacy, ranging from secluded spots like Site #54 to sites with significant proximity to neighbors.

Total Campsites60 campsites

Recommended SitesSite 15 is recommended for RVs, 54 for privacy and quietness, and 60 for its unobstructed views.

Best CampsitesSites 54, 47, and 60 get consistent praise for privacy and views. Site 54 offers particular seclusion. Site 15 and 43 also deliver level ground and distance from neighbors. Many sites sit close together, so early reservations help if you want space.

Need help booking Chisos Basin Campground (Big Bend, Tx)?

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Recreation.gov Guide

Booking tips & windows

When to Book

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Cancellation Alerts

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Amenities available

Chisos Basin Campground offers a mix of facilities suitable for tent camping and small RVs/trailers under certain conditions. Amenities include drinking water, flush toilets, picnic tables, bear-proof food storage lockers, and charcoal grills at each site, with some sites also featuring picnic shelters for shade. The dump station requires extra-long hoses and has non-standard potable water hose connections. No showers are available at this campground, with the nearest shower facilities located at Rio Grande Village Camp Store, approximately one hour's drive away. Sites generally are rocky and uneven, making leveling challenging for RVs and trailers.

Potable water

Flush toilets

Dump station

Food storage lockers

Picnic tables

Lodging and accommodations

I manage this campground

RV details

Activities you can enjoy

The Chisos Basin Campground is centrally located near popular hiking trails, making it a hub for outdoor recreation. Activities include hiking, wildlife viewing, birding, and stargazing. The proximity to the Chisos Mountains provides excellent opportunities for exploring trails such as the Window Trail and Lost Mine Trail.

Hiking

Wildlife viewing

Cultural and Educational Programs

Winter Activities

Water Sports

Planning your trip?Check out our camping packing checklist

Policies & Safety

Food Storage RequiredBear-proof food storage lockers are available at each campsite.

No Electric HookupsElectric hookups are not available at this campground. RV campers should arrive with a full battery and plan for off-grid power (generator hours/quiet rules permitting).

No Water HookupsSite-level water hookups are not available. RV campers should fill freshwater tanks before arrival; check the No Potable Water note above if applicable for drinking water.

Fire PolicyCampfires. NO wood or ground fires allowed at any time. Charcoal may be used in the raised grills provided at each site.

Trash & RecyclingAnimal-proof dumpsters are available for trash disposal. Campers are warned not to leave food unattended or outside of the bear-proof lockers provided at each site.

Cell CoverageCell phone service is available, but with slow data speeds. Verizon is specifically mentioned as having coverage.

Trip Planning Tools

Set an AlertGet notified when sites open up Check WeatherHistorical weather data Gear for This TripMatched gear recommendations Packing ListCustomizable checklist

Questions & answers

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Tips from campers

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Reviews

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From Booking Sources

4.5

1.2K reviews

Top-Rated

Chisos Basin Campground (Big Bend, Tx) is top-rated, placing it in the top 15% of campgrounds based on reviews

Most users praise the stunning views, central location near hiking trails, and opportunities for wildlife viewing, but some express concerns about campsite proximity, lack of showers, and uneven terrain. The campground is described as picturesque, clean, and well-maintained.

Review Summaries

Based on 1243 reviews

Best sites at a glance

Pulled from per-site mentions in 1243 reviews.

Site #54Loved
Site #54 is noted for its privacy and views.
Site #60Loved
Site #60 is praised for quietness and birdwatching.
Site #15Mentioned
Site #15 is recommended for RVs due to its size and amenities.

What Campers Love

Users frequently highlight the breathtaking mountain views, clean facilities, proximity to hiking trails, and helpful campground hosts. Many appreciate the quiet atmosphere and dark skies for...

Based on 1243 reviews

Common Concerns

Common issues raised include lack of privacy between campsites, uneven and rocky terrain making setup difficult, and noisy neighbors during late hours. Some users find the potable water spigots...

Based on 1243 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Campers recommend bringing strong tent stakes for rocky terrain, leveling blocks for RVs, and planning ahead for site selection based on individual needs. Early morning hiking is advised to avoid...

Based on 1243 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Summer reviews often praise cooler temperatures in the basin compared to lower elevations. Winter reviews focus on quiet ambiance and clear skies. Monsoons in August are noted as a seasonal challenge.

Based on 1243 reviews

Camper Quotes

"The Chisos Basin Campground has easily the most beautiful surroundings I've ever stayed at." - Kimberly Robinson. "Watching the sunset behind those mountains was a magical experience." - Mark A.

Based on 1243 reviews

Accessibility Features

Site #37 is ADA-accessible, and ADA facilities are available.

Based on 1243 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

Pets are allowed but must be restrained and leashed at all times.

Based on 1243 reviews

Outdoorithm Community

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Go if

You want high-elevation hiking access and world-class stargazing in Big Bend's iconic mountain basin.

Skip if

You need spacious, level tent sites with privacy or prefer campgrounds without overnight gate restrictions.

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Campgrounds

Big Bend National Park

Chisos Basin Campground (Big Bend, Tx)

About Big Bend National Park

Context for the broader area surrounding Chisos Basin Campground (Big Bend, Tx), sourced from the federal Recreation.gov rec-area record.

There is a place in Far West Texas where night skies are dark as coal and rivers carve temple-like canyons in ancient limestone. Here, at the end of the road, hundreds of bird species take refuge in a solitary mountain range surrounded by weather-beaten desert. Tenacious cactus bloom in sublime southwestern sun, and species diversity is the best in the country. This magical place is Big Bend...

Directions

Several highways lead to Big Bend National Park: TX 118 from Alpine to Study Butte or FM 170 from Presidio to Study Butte (then 26 miles east to park headquarters) or US 90 or US 385 to Marathon (then 70 miles south to park headquarters). Distances between towns and services are considerable. Be sure you have plenty of gas, food, water, and supplies for your trip. There are no electric vehicle charging stations in Big Bend National Park. The closest EV charging station is 130 miles away in Fort Stockton.