Chisos Basin Group Campground (Big Bend, Tx)

Star4.46
491 reviews
PO BOX 129, BIG BEND NAT. PARK, TX 79834, USA
Scenic ViewsStargazingGreat Hiking

Quick Facts

5,400 ft

Price

$40 - $60/night

Booking

Reservable

Sites

7 campsites

Season

Year-round

Cell

Has Service

Pets

Very Pet Friendly

RV Friendly

Opens National Park Service site

Official Website
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Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

January 2026

Real-Time Availability

Select a month, then check for open campsites

January 2026
Chisos Basin Group Campground (Big Bend, Tx)
$40.00 - $60.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Group Tent Only Area Nonelectric sites cost between $40 and $60 per night. Prices do not include taxes or incremental charges.
Standard Site Fee$0.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$60.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00

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Provider
432-477-1121
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What Campers Say

4.46

Recommended

Based on 491 reviews

512 Google reviews

Most mentioned

viewscleanrestroomswell-maintained

Some mention

noisesmall

"Reviews praise the campground's breathtaking views, proximity to renowned hiking trails, and opportunities for stargazing. However, concerns include the close proximity of campsites, lack of privacy, and absence of showers. Wildlife sightings are frequently highlighted, enhancing the overall camping experience."

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Campground Map

PO BOX 129, BIG BEND NAT. PARK, TX 79834, USA

Chisos Basin Group Campground (Big Bend, Tx)

PO BOX 129, BIG BEND NAT. PARK, TX 79834, USA

Driving directionsFrom Interstate 10, take highway 385 south to Fort Stockton and then on to Marathon. From Marathon, go 40 miles south on Highway 385 to the north entrance of Big Bend National Park. Drive straight 26 miles to Park Headquarters at Panther Junction. Turn right and drive for three miles. Turn left at the Basin sign and go seven miles to the campground.
The road to the campground is steep and winding with sharp hairpin turns. The vehicle restriction for the road and campground is 24 feet for motor homes and 20 feet for travel trailers. Most sites are exclusively tent camping, except for Group Site 'O'.
Nearby places
Marathon (40 miles south), Fort Stockton (approximately 70 miles north), Panther Junction (26 miles east)
Nearby supplies
The General Store and Chisos Mountains Lodge are nearby within the park, offering groceries and camping essentials. Fuel is available approximately 10 miles away.

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

Experience nature's air conditioning in this high-altitude haven where summer temperatures rarely climb above the low 90s—a refreshing contrast to the scorching desert floor below. August brings dramatic afternoon thunderstorms that transform the basin into a natural amphitheater of sound and light, while autumn and winter deliver surprisingly warm days as cold air flows down into the valleys, leaving the basin bathed in gentle sunshine.

Summer(Jun-Aug)
4.0 / 5
Top 23% in TX

High-elevation cooler summers than the desert floor; windy nights but very pleasant daytime temps.

Best
Fall(Sep-Nov)
5.0 / 5
Top 1% in TX

Maple and aspen display autumn colors at elevation—seasonal highlight in the basin.

Spring(Mar-May)
4.0 / 5

Mild temperatures and abundant hiking make spring attractive; migratory birds noted in season.

Winter(Dec-Feb)
3.0 / 5

Open year-round; winter camping possible but nights can be very cold and windy; limited facilities.

Planning Tips
  • Peak Season: January 1 - December 31. Book 2-3 months ahead.
  • Operating Season: Open from January 1 to December 31, reservations are available year-round. Booking windows operate on a 6-month rolling basis.
  • Current Alerts: Occasional road closures due to construction may limit access during specific hours.

About Chisos Basin Group Campground (Big Bend, Tx)

Perched dramatically at 5,400 feet in the heart of Big Bend National Park, Chisos Basin Group Campground offers an extraordinary escape into a sky island oasis. Here, towering cliffs embrace your campsite while legendary trails like Lost Mine and the Window beckon just beyond your tent flap, promising adventures that range from sunrise photography sessions to challenging summit attempts.
Chisos Basin Group Campground is primarily designed for group tent camping, offering sites that accommodate between nine and 20 individuals. Limited RV camping is available at Site 'O,' but the campground is predominantly tent-only and walk-in.
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Reserving a campsite

Check-in
Check-in is allowed after 2:00 PM.
Check-out
Check-out is required by 12:00 PM.
Stay Limit
You may stay up to 14 nights during a visit at this campground.

Amenities available

Potable water
Flush toilets
Food storage lockers
Picnic tables
Lodging and accommodations
Camp Store

Activities you can enjoy

Chisos Basin Group Campground is a hub for outdoor enthusiasts, offering access to some of the most spectacular hiking trails in Big Bend National Park. Wildlife viewing is common, with sightings of roadrunners, rabbits, foxes, and black bears reported by campers. Stargazing is highly praised due to minimal light pollution. While boating, fishing, and swimming are available at the Rio Grande approximately 30 miles away, activities within the campground are primarily hiking and wildlife observation.
HikingSeveral prominent trails are accessible nearby, including the Lost Mine Trail, Window Trail, South Rim Trail, and Pinnacles Trail leading to Emory Peak (elevation 7,825 ft.). Trailheads are a short drive or walk from the campground.
Wildlife viewingMigratory birds, including the Colima Warbler, are frequently observed in the Chisos Mountains. Black bears, foxes, rabbits, and scorpions are also commonly seen.
Cultural and Educational ProgramsEvening programs and guided interpretive walks are offered, enriching the visitor experience with insights into the park's natural and cultural history.
Winter Activities
Water Sports
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Policies & Safety

Hazards & AlertsBears frequently visit the area, making proper food storage essential. Other wildlife includes skunks and scorpions. The rocky terrain can be challenging for tents.
Active AlertsOccasional road closures due to construction may limit access during specific hours.
Food Storage RequiredBear-proof food storage lockers are available at each campsite and must be used to store food and scented items to prevent bear activity.

Weather at Chisos Basin Group Campground (Big Bend, Tx)

Reviews

4.5
491 reviews
Recommended
Recommended
Chisos Basin Group Campground (Big Bend, Tx) is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews
Reviews praise the campground's breathtaking views, proximity to renowned hiking trails, and opportunities for stargazing. However, concerns include the close proximity of campsites, lack of privacy, and absence of showers. Wildlife sightings are frequently highlighted, enhancing the overall camping experience.
Review Summaries
Based on 491 reviews

What Campers Love

Exceptional views of the surrounding Chisos Mountains; proximity to popular trailheads; clean and well-maintained restrooms; opportunities for stargazing and wildlife observation; cooler temperatures...
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Based on 491 reviews

Common Concerns

Sites are close together, limiting privacy; absence of shower facilities; rocky and uneven terrain at certain sites; enforcement of quiet hours is inconsistent.
Based on 491 reviews

Pro Tips & Recommendations

Book sites well in advance, as availability is limited. Bring a sleeping pad or hammock to mitigate rocky terrain. Avoid larger tents due to uneven ground. Use bear boxes for food storage to prevent...
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Based on 491 reviews

Seasonal Insights

Summer temperatures are cooler in the basin compared to lower elevations, though nights can be windy. Winter camping is possible with proper gear, as temperatures can drop significantly. Stargazing...
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Based on 491 reviews

Camper Quotes

"The campground might have the most beautiful surroundings I've ever stayed at." - Kimberly Robinson; "Lots of evening sun paints the rock faces to the north that you have a full view of." - Charles...
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Based on 491 reviews

Site-Specific Reviews

Site 15 is recommended for smaller RVs due to privacy and accessibility. Site 47 is praised for its sunset views. Site 'P' is noted for rocky terrain and limited space.
Based on 491 reviews

Accessibility Features

Restrooms include handicap-friendly stalls, and designated accessible sites are available. The proximity of campsites and uneven terrain are noted as potential challenges for visitors with...
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Based on 491 reviews

Pet-Friendly Features

Pets are welcomed but must remain leashed at all times. Trails and buildings do not permit pets, limiting options for pet-friendly activities.
Based on 491 reviews

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Last updated January 13, 2026
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