Details
Chisos Basin Campground, Big Bend National Park, TX, 79834
National Park ServiceLast Updated: November 26, 2025
Table Of Contents
Campground Overview
Introduction
The Chisos Basin Campground is nestled in an open woodland within a scenic mountain basin. Campers enjoy the iconic views of Casa Grande and Emory Peak. The sunset through the nearby "Window" is a Big Bend highlight. Some of the park's most popular trails begin nearby. Elevation is 5,400 feet. RESERVATIONS REQUIRED. Trailers over 20 feet and RV's over 24 feet are not recommended due to the narrow, winding road to the Basin and small campsites.
Campsite Details
Operating Hours
Open year round.
Amenities
Trash & Recycling Collection
Toilets
Cell Phone Reception
Amphitheater
Dump Station
Camp Store
Staff or Host On-Site
Potable Water
Ice For Sale
Food Storage Lockers
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). The Chisos Basin Campground is located in the Chisos Basin near the end of the Chisos Basin Road, 10 miles from Panther Junction.
Rates & Fees
Campsite Fee
Per night. Campsite capacity is maximum of 8 people and two vehicles. Reservations required through www.recreation.gov. Park entrance fees are separate from campground fees. An entrance pass is required in the park and while staying in the campground.
Rules & Regulations
Fire/Stove Policy
No fires. Charcoal grills only.Regulations Overview
Visitors may stay in the park up to 14 consecutive nights, with a limit of 28 nights in a calendar year. During the busiest time of the year, January 1 through April 15, visitors are limited to 14 total nights in the park. Pets are permitted in the campground, but must be leashed at all times. Leashes must be six feet (1.8 m) or less in length. Pets may not be left unattended for their safety and for the safety of other visitors and wildlife. Pets are NOT allowed on trails. Wood and ground fires are prohibited. All food items must be stored inside a vehicle or animal-proof food storage locker. Generators allowed in specified sites only 8:00 AM-11:00 AM and 5:00 PM-8:00 PMAccessibility
Wheelchair Access
The campground is somewhat hilly, but paved roads connect campsite parking areas and restrooms.
Cell Phone Information
There is cell service in the campground area.
RV Allowed
Yes
RV Information
RVs and Trailers over 24' are NOT recommended.
RV Maximum Length
24
Additional Information
Trailers over 20' and RVs over 24' are not recommended due to the narrow, winding road into the Basin and the very small campsites in the campground. There are very few places where a larger recreational vehicle can turn around within the entire Chisos Basin area.
Trailer Maximum Length
20
ADA Information
One ADA campsite (site #37) with paved walkway, accessible picnic table and grill. Adjacent to water spigot and public restroom facility. The nearby public restroom is accessible.
Trailer Allowed
Yes
Access Roads
Paved Roads - All vehicles OK
Classifications
Developed Campground
Travel Like an Expert with AAA and Trip Canvas
Get Ideas from the Pros
As one of the largest travel agencies in North America, we have a wealth of recommendations to share! Browse our articles and videos for inspiration, or dive right in with preplanned AAA Road Trips, cruises and vacation tours.
Build and Research Your Options
Save and organize every aspect of your trip including cruises, hotels, activities, transportation and more. Book hotels confidently using our AAA Diamond Designations and verified reviews.
Book Everything in One Place
From cruises to day tours, buy all parts of your vacation in one transaction, or work with our nationwide network of AAA Travel Agents to secure the trip of your dreams!