Rio Grande Village (Big Bend)
4.42774 reviewsPO BOX 129, BIG BEND NAT. PARK, TX, 79834
Rio Grande Village (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 nightly fee for all campsites is $16. Reservation fees of $8 (online/app), $9 (call center), or $3 (in-person) apply. Additional cancellation and modification fees may occur.
About this campground
Nestled along the legendary Rio Grande River, Rio Grande Village Campground stands as Big Bend National Park's crown jewel of riverside camping. Wake to the majestic Sierra del Carmen Mountains painting the horizon while choosing from intimate tent hideaways to spacious pull-through sites that welcome RVs up to 40 feet. This beloved basecamp draws adventurers seeking the perfect blend of accessibility and raw desert beauty.
Rio Grande Village Campground accommodates a variety of camping styles, including tent camping, RV camping, and group camping.
Historical SignificanceStep into a living crossroads where two nations meet at the historic Boquillas Crossing, creating a vibrant tapestry of Mexican and American cultures. Venture to the nearby hot springs where early settlers once soaked away their troubles, or explore historic districts that echo with stories of frontier life, border traders, and the enduring friendship between neighboring communities.
Weather and SeasonsExperience the dramatic temperament of the Chihuahuan Desert, where summer transforms the landscape into a sun-drenched furnace climbing past 100°F from April through September. As autumn arrives, the desert exhales into perfect camping weather with delightful 70-80°F days. Year-round winds sweep across the valley, carrying the whispers of ancient civilizations and the promise of adventure.
ElevationPerched at 1,850 feet above sea level, the campground occupies a sweet spot in Big Bend's diverse elevations. This modest altitude gifts visitors with refreshingly cool mornings during fall and winter months, creating ideal conditions for dawn photography sessions and peaceful coffee rituals as the desert awakens around you.
Natural Features and SceneryImmerse yourself in a landscape where ancient cottonwoods cast dancing shadows across your campsite, their leaves whispering secrets of the Rio Grande flowing nearby. The commanding Sierra del Carmen Mountains rise like purple sentinels across the river in Mexico, creating an ever-changing canvas of light and shadow that transforms from rose-gold sunrises to star-studded desert nights.
Geological RegionDiscover a geological wonderland where the life-giving Rio Grande has carved its path through millennia of desert stone, creating an oasis of towering cottonwoods amid the rugged Chihuahuan Desert. The nearby Sierra del Carmen Mountains showcase nature's artistry in limestone and volcanic rock, while the river valley reveals layers of Earth's history in every weathered cliff and water-smoothed stone.
Campsite details
AccessibilitySite #14 is designated as ADA-accessible, and some other sites offer paved areas and close proximity to restrooms. "ADA site was spacious and easy to access," commented one reviewer.
Sites SizeCampsites range from small tent spaces to large pull-through sites accommodating motorhomes up to 40 feet in length. "Site 85 was plenty long for our motorhome with no interfering tree branches," one reviewer noted.
Sites PrivacyVaries across the campground; outer-loop sites are generally more private, while inner-loop sites are more open. "Some campsites are nestled among trees offering greater privacy," said a user.
Total Campsites100 campsites
Recommended CampsitesChoose sites in the no-generator zone for quieter stays. Sites near the nature trail are recommended for sunset views.
Best CampsitesSites 23 and 32 are noted for privacy; site 29 is ideal for tents.
Reserving a campsite
Check-in
1:00 PM
Check-out
Null
Stay Limit
14 consecutive nights
Guests Allowed Per Site
Amaximum of two motor vehicles, one vehicle with a trailer, one motorhome with tow vehicle or four motorcycles allowed per site. A maximum of four tents OR one wheeled camping unit and one tent per campsite.
Groups
Group sites are spacious and grassy, with a minimum occupancy of nine campers per site, noted one reviewer.
Tents
Tents are allowed
RV vehicles
RV vehicles are allowed
Primitive
Primitive are not allowed
Reservable
Reservations are allowed
Site layoutThe campground is organized into multiple loops, including generator-free zones and tent-only sections.
Open and Closed SeasonOpen May 1 to October 31 for non-peak season and November 1 to December 31 for peak season.
Reservation PlatformsReservations available through Recreation.gov (website, app, and call center).
Walk-in AvailabilityThe campground operates entirely on a reservation system; no first-come, first-served availability.
Cancellation PolicyCancellations made before the date of arrival incur a $10 fee plus reservation fees. Late cancellations result in forfeiture of the first night's fee and additional fees.
Accomodation available
GroupGroup campsites are offered for larger parties such as families, schools, or organizations. These sites provide space and facilities to accommodate multiple people camping together.
Amenities available
Showers
Potable water
Food storage lockers
Picnic tables
Dump station
WiFi
Flush toilets
Camp Store
Laundry Facilities
Activities you can enjoy
The campground provides access to a variety of recreational activities, scenic views, and wildlife encounters. Campers can enjoy hiking, birdwatching, canoeing, kayaking, and stargazing. "The nature trail adjacent to the campground was nice to hike a couple times," said one user.
Hiking
Nearby hiking trails include the Rio Grande Village Nature Trail, Boquillas Canyon Trail, and Hot Springs Trail. The Rio Grande Village Nature Trail is particularly praised for sunset views. "Walk the nature trail at sunset—it's spectacular," noted one reviewer.Biking
The campground's paved roads make it accessible for biking. "Riding bikes to the camp store was a breeze," said a reviewer.Boating
Canoeing and kayaking opportunities are available along the Rio Grande, with a designated river put-in area nearby. "The river offers ample opportunities to explore its shores and water," stated the authoritative source.Wildlife viewing
Wildlife sightings are frequent, including javelinas, coyotes, and birds such as roadrunners. "The campground was teeming with wildlife," said one reviewer.Cultural and Educational Programs
Ranger-led talks and programs occur at the nearby amphitheater. "Ranger programs were informative and engaging," one reviewer noted.Winter Activities
Winter activities include stargazing and hiking, with pleasant temperatures during this season.Water Sports
Canoeing and kayaking on the Rio Grande are popular activities.Campground rules
- Pets are allowed
- No wood or ground fires; charcoal or propane grills may be used.
- Quiet hours are 10 PM to 6 AM
Hazards
General hazardsFrequent wildlife such as javelinas, coyotes, and bears. High winds and occasional flooding from irrigation.
Active alertsNo current alerts listed.
Weather forecast
99
°F
Aug 25
Monday
Clear sky
Precipitation: 0%
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
Humidity: 20%
Very dry conditions, stay hydrated
Wind: 1.9 mph
Gentle breeze, perfect for outdoor activities
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
Panther Junction Visitor Center (approximately 20 miles away); hospital services located in Marathon or Fort Stockton.
Good to know
Peak season datesNovember 1 to December 31
Trash and recyclingTrash and recycling facilities are located conveniently throughout the campground, although some reviewers mentioned limited recycling options. "Utility sinks at restrooms were disgusting," one reviewer complained, but others found them adequate for basic use.
Proximity to water featuresLocated near the Rio Grande River; campsites feature direct access to the river and nature trails.
Common complaintsComplaints include strong wind, generator noise, limited privacy, and insects like gnats.
HostCampground hosts are noted as friendly and helpful.
Campground Map
PO BOX 129, BIG BEND NAT. PARK, TX, 79834
Driving directionsFrom Interstate 10, take State Highway 385 south to Fort Stockton and into Marathon. From Marathon, drive 40 miles south on State Highway 385 to the north entrance of Big Bend National Park. Drive straight for 26 miles to Park Headquarters at Panther Junction. Turn left and proceed for 20 miles to the Rio Grande Village area. Turn left at the stop sign and follow signs into the campground.
Roads to the campground are primarily paved and easily accessible from major highways. Seasonal considerations include strong winds and potential flooding in low-lying areas.Nearby places
Marathon (66 miles, approximately 1 hour)
Fort Stockton (121 miles, approximately 2 hours)
Nearby supplies
Rio Grande Village Store (approximately 5 minutes away) offers groceries, camping supplies, fuel, and other essentials.
Camper Reviews
4.4
774 reviews
Rio Grande Village (Big Bend) is recommended, placing it in the top 40% of campgrounds based on reviews
Rio Grande Village Campground receives mixed reviews but is generally appreciated for its scenic location, diverse amenities, and access to recreational activities. Positive feedback often highlights the abundant wildlife, scenic hiking trails, and clean facilities. Negative comments typically focus on noise from generators, limited shade, and occasional issues with facilities such as showers and recycling.
Review Summaries
Based on 774 reviews
What Campers Love
Many reviewers praised the campground's cleanliness, wildlife sightings, and proximity to hiking trails. "The nature trail adjacent to the campground was nice to hike a couple times," noted one user....
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Common Concerns
Noise from generators during permitted hours was a frequent complaint, along with issues such as lukewarm showers and occasional overcrowding. "Generators disrupted the serene experience," said one...
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Pro Tips & Recommendations
Campers recommend visiting the Rio Grande Village Nature Trail for stunning sunset views and using the food storage lockers to deter wildlife. "Stake down your tents well to withstand high winds,"...
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Seasonal Insights
Peak season from November to March features pleasant temperatures, while April to September can be extremely hot, exceeding 100°F. Wildlife sightings are abundant year-round, but mosquitoes are more...
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Camper Quotes
"Loved the animals, and proximity to the nature trail," said a camper. Another noted, "The Rio Grande Village was a great place for camping, the park attendants and rangers are especially friendly...
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Site-Specific Reviews
Site #85 was praised for accommodating large motorhomes, while Site #29 was noted for its seclusion and close proximity to restrooms. "Site #35 was tight for trailers," commented one reviewer.
Based on 774 reviewsAccessibility Features
Site #14 is designated as ADA-accessible and was described as spacious and easy to access. Other sites near restrooms and paved areas are also accessible.
Based on 774 reviewsPet-Friendly Features
Pets are allowed but must be restrained at all times. "We got in trouble for our dog being too loud," shared a reviewer, adding that pet policies are strictly enforced.
Based on 774 reviewsLast updated August 10, 2025