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Big Bend's vast undeveloped areas provide excellent opportunities for backcountry experiences if you seek solitude, wilderness, and adventure! The backcountry sites listed here are primitive backcountry road campsites and primitive backpacking sites in the Chisos Mountains. All are designated sites located in remote locations. Campers must be self-sufficient. Visit the [Big Bend National Park backcountry Use page](https://www.nps.gov/bibe/planyourvisit/backcountry-main.htm) to learn about proper planning and trip preparation for this remote area.
[Backcountry regulations](https://www.nps.gov/bibe/planyourvisit/bc_regulations.htm) are strictly enforced.
* These are primitive sites and do not offer water, electricity, toilet access, or any amenities.
* Primitive Chisos campsites are **BACKPACK-ONLY campsites** with NO vehicle access. Campsites are from 1-6 miles from the trailhead. Parking for overnight backpackers is located in the large amphitheater lot adjacent to the Chisos Basin Campground.
* **Most primitive roadside campsites require a high clearance vehicle, and 4-wheel drive is highly encouraged.** Road conditions can change quickly. High clearance vehicles are defined as a SUV or truck with at least 15 inch tire rims AND at least 8 inches of ground clearance from the lowest point of the frame, body, or suspension.
Splendid Isolation. Big Bend National Park is beloved as one of the few large public land areas in Texas. Major activities include camping, backpacking, hiking, birdwatching, river trips, enjoying the spring bloom, and adventuring along backcountry roads. The spring months of March and April are the busiest, as well as the Thanksgiving and New Year’s holidays, although the park is open and visited year round.
These are primitive campsites, and require extra trip planning. Please take the time to plan and carefully prepare your itinerary.
* **Backpacking Campsites:** Primitive designated backpacking campsites located along the extensive [Chisos Mountains Trails system](https://www.nps.gov/bibe/planyourvisit/backpacking_chisos.htm) .
* **Primitive Roadside Campsites:** Primitive camping with your vehicle in designated campsites along [rugged backcountry dirt roads](https://www.nps.gov/bibe/planyourvisit/roadsidecamps.htm) .
* Roadside campsites are intended for high clearance vehicles only. Trailers and passenger vehicles will not be able to access most of these campsites. High clearance vehicles are defined as a SUV or truck, with at least 15 inch tire rims, and at least 8 inches of ground clearance, as measured from the lowest point of the vehicle (frame, suspension, body, differential).
From an elevation of less than 1,800 feet along the Rio Grande to nearly 8,000 feet in the Chisos Mountains, Big Bend includes massive canyons, vast desert expanses, forested mountains, and an ever-changing river. Here you can explore one of the last remaining wild corners of the United States
Big Bend National Park is located in West Texas, a considerable distance from cities and transportation hubs. While the isolation of Big Bend is a draw for many visitors, it also means your trip must be well prepared and carefully planned. There is no public transportation to, or in Big Bend National Park.
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, oil, food, and water for your trip. The park has four camp stores, but supply and selection can be limited. There are also small stores in the communities outside the park. The last major shopping areas (grocery and hardware stores) are Alpine, Fort Stockton, and Del Rio.
* Each backcountry campsite is in a remote area of the park. Check the site listing for your reservation for detailed directions on how to get to that specific site.
* If you are staying in a backpacking site, park in the Chisos Basin amphitheater parking area, located near the Chisos Basin campground.
[Directions to Big Bend National Park](https://www.nps.gov/bibe/planyourvisit/directions.htm)
Really not much on this route aside from a utility shack. Two back country campsites without great views.
It is a perfect back country site and only 1.75 miles from the Panther Junction ranger station and the gas station
Great site close to the main road but out of the way. Great views. Only drawbacks are there isn't any shade and no shelter from the wind.
Our favorite campsite in Big Bend! We spent 5 nights in February 2018 at K-Bar 2 and loved it! The gravel road leading to the site was rough and had a few gullies to tow our 25' camper through, but worth the effort to get there. Beautiful solitude, privacy and a star filled ink black night sky.
