Chisos Basin (Big Bend)
4.63503 reviewsPO BOX 129
Chisos Basin (Big Bend)
$16.00 - $16.00 / night
Campsite Fees
Standard Site Fee$16.00
Hookup Site Fee$0.00
Premium Site Fee$0.00
Hike and Bike Site Fee$0.00
Group Site Fee$0.00
Food Storage Locker Fee$0.00
The facility rate for standard nonelectric campsites is $16 per night (peak season). Additional reservation fees may apply depending on the booking method.
About this campground
Perched high in the heart of the Chisos Mountains at 5,400 feet, Chisos Basin Campground offers an extraordinary escape into Big Bend's most coveted camping destination. Here, towering rocky cliffs embrace your campsite like ancient sentinels, creating a natural amphitheater where spectacular vistas unfold in every direction and mountain breezes bring welcome relief from the desert heat below.
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.
Historical SignificanceThis remarkable landscape tells a story millions of years in the making, where the mighty Rio Grande carves an international boundary through one of America's last wild frontiers. The Chisos Mountains stand as a geological marvel—the only mountain range entirely contained within a U.S. national park—protecting an incredible tapestry of ecosystems that have served as refuge for countless species and cultures throughout history.
Weather and SeasonsExperience nature's perfect climate control in this mountain sanctuary, where summer days bring refreshing temperatures that feel worlds away from the scorching desert floor. As autumn arrives, warm golden days grace the basin while cold air pools in the valleys below, creating a comfortable haven for camping. Winter transforms the landscape with crisp, sunny days perfect for hiking, while August's dramatic monsoon season paints the sky with towering clouds and brings life-giving rains to the mountains.
ElevationAt 5,400 feet above sea level, this mountain oasis transforms the typical desert camping experience into something magical. The elevation gifts visitors with naturally air-conditioned summers, breathtaking sunrise views over endless desert landscapes, and star-filled nights where the Milky Way seems close enough to touch. Here, the thin mountain air carries the scent of pine and the songs of rare birds found nowhere else in the United States.
Natural Features and SceneryStep into a botanical wonderland where desert meets sky island, creating an unexpected forest in the clouds. Majestic ponderosa pines and quaking aspens thrive alongside hardy desert survivors, while the rare Colima warbler—found nowhere else in the United States—fills the air with its distinctive song each spring. This unique ecosystem creates a living gallery where Arizona cypress mingles with maple trees, and century plants bloom against a backdrop of volcanic peaks.
Geological RegionNestled within the ancient volcanic caldera of the Chisos Basin, this campground sits at the intersection of desert and mountain ecosystems unique to Big Bend National Park. The surrounding peaks tell a dramatic geological story written in layers of volcanic ash and lava flows, while below, the Chihuahuan Desert stretches to the horizon. Here, mesquite and ocotillo give way to unexpected groves of maple and pine, creating a sky island ecosystem that feels like discovering a secret garden suspended above the desert floor.
Campsite details
AccessibilitySite #37 is ADA-accessible, and one of the restrooms is described as handicapped-friendly.
Sites SizeSites are small and rocky, making them more suitable for tents. Larger RVs and trailers may find the sites challenging.
Sites PrivacySites vary in privacy, ranging from secluded spots like Site #54 to sites with significant proximity to neighbors.
Total Campsites60 campsites
Recommended CampsitesSite 15 is recommended for RVs, 54 for privacy and quietness, and 60 for its unobstructed views.
Best CampsitesSites 15, 43, 54, and 60 are highlighted for privacy, level ground, and views.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
Check-in begins at 1:00 PM.
Check-out
Check-out is by 12:00 Noon.
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 are allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe layout includes three loops with varying site sizes and amenities.
Open and Closed SeasonSeason opens January 1 and closes December 31 annually.
Reservation PlatformsReservations can be made at Recreation.gov or through the app or contact center.
Walk-in AvailabilityThere is no walk-up availability. All sites are reserved in advance.
Cancellation PolicyCancellations can be made anytime before the scheduled arrival date. A $10 cancellation fee applies, and late cancellations will also forfeit the first night's recreation use fee.
Amenities available
Potable water
Food storage lockers
Picnic tables
Dump station
Cell phone service
Lodging and accommodations
Flush toilets
Camp Store
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
Trailheads for popular hikes like Lost Mine Trail, the Window Trail, and South Rim Trail are close to the campground. The Pinnacles Trail also provides access to Emory Peak, the highest point in Big Bend National Park.Fishing
Fishing opportunities are available approximately 30 miles away near the Rio Grande River.Boating
Canoeing and kayaking are options near the Rio Grande River, about 30 miles away from the campground.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife frequently seen includes foxes, roadrunners, rabbits, and bears. The Chisos Mountains serve as the only nesting ground in the U.S. for the Colima Warbler.Cultural and Educational Programs
Ranger talks and interpretive programs are occasionally available.Winter Activities
Winter activities include hiking lower trails during cooler months.Water Sports
Canoeing and kayaking are available near the Rio Grande River.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- No wood or ground fires are allowed. Charcoal may be used in raised grills provided at each site.
- Quiet hours are observed from 10:00 PM to 6:00 AM.
Hazards
General hazardsPotential hazards include black bears, scorpions, rocky terrain, and strong winds.
Active alertsAlerts include limited road access due to steep terrain and restrictions on RV sizes.
Weather forecast
76
°F
Aug 26
Tuesday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Strong wind, exercise caution
Humidity: 46%
Comfortable humidity levels
Wind: 11.2 mph
Strong wind, exercise caution
Clear sky
7-Day Forecast
Access to 7-day forecasts tailored to each campground—covering temperature, precipitation, wind, and sky conditions.
Daily & Hourly Insights
View hourly forecasts with expected weather patterns throughout the day.
Temperature Trends
Visualize how temperatures shift over the month to help pick the most comfortable days for your trip.
Precipitation Trends
Plan around rain or snow with monthly visualizations of expected precipitation patterns.
Weather Summaries
Assess conditions with visuals for easier decision-making on when and where to camp.
Weather data powered by Open-Meteo
Emergency Services
Emergency services are available at Park Headquarters at Panther Junction, which is approximately 29 miles from the campground.
Good to know
Peak season datesJanuary 1 to December 31 (peak season).
Trash and 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.
Proximity to water featuresThe campground is approximately 30 miles away from the Rio Grande River.
Common complaintsCommon complaints include crowded campsites, rocky and uneven tent pads, noisy neighbors, and lack of privacy.
HostCampground hosts are often praised for their helpfulness and knowledge.
Campground Map
PO BOX 129
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 before making a right into the campground road.
The road to the campground is steep, winding, and includes sharp hairpin turns. The vehicle restriction for the road and campground is 24 feet for motorhomes and 20 feet for travel trailers. Trailers over 19 feet and RVs over 24 feet are not recommended.Nearby places
Marathon is approximately 40 miles north of the Big Bend National Park entrance. Fort Stockton is approximately 90 miles north of Marathon.
Nearby supplies
Chisos Mountains Lodge, General Store, and Chisos Basin Visitor Center are located nearby. Rio Grande Village offers showers and a camp store approximately 30 miles away.
Camper Reviews
4.6
503 reviews
Chisos Basin (Big Bend) 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 503 reviews
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 503 reviewsShow more
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 503 reviewsShow more
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 503 reviewsShow more
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 503 reviewsCamper 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 503 reviewsSite-Specific Reviews
Site #54 is noted for its privacy and views. Site #15 is recommended for RVs due to its size and amenities. Site #60 is praised for quietness and birdwatching.
Based on 503 reviewsAccessibility Features
Site #37 is ADA-accessible, and ADA facilities are available.
Based on 503 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed but must be restrained and leashed at all times.
Based on 503 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025