- \n
- <\/span>Distances between towns in West Texas are vast. Be sure you are road trip-ready<\/a> with gas, food, water, and all the camping supplies you need.<\/span><\/li>\n
- <\/span>There are 4 convenience stores and 2 gas stations located within the park, however, they can be limited in supplies so don’t rely on them. <\/span><\/li>\n
- <\/span>The closest towns to stock up before heading into Big Bend are Alpine (coming from El Paso) and Fort Stockton (coming from Midland). <\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n
A trip to Big Bend National Park requires a lot of preparation – but the remoteness of the park is exactly why it should be on your list of places to visit!<\/p>\n
When to Visit Big Bend National Park<\/h2>\n
Spring<\/h3>\n
Spring, in my opinion, is the best time to visit Big Bend National Park. I visited in April and the temperatures were mild and sunshine was plentiful. I also got to see the desert in bloom with beautiful spring wildflowers. <\/p>\n
But, spring is also the busiest time of year in Big Bend. March is the most popular month to visit, so keep that in mind when planning your tip. I did share the trails with a few other hikers during my visit in the spring, but Big Bend is by no means as busy as the more popular National Parks like Yosemite and Grand Tetons. <\/p>\n
\n![\"Driving](\"https:\/\/horviklazenu.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/07\/Big-Bend-National-Park-8-768x1024-1.jpg\")
Driving into Big Bend in the spring, there was some dusting of snow on the mountains | Image: Courtney Stephenson<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n Summer<\/h3>\n
Big Bend National Park is open year-round, however, as you might have guessed, summer is not the best time to visit. Summer temps can be above 100 degrees on the desert floor. <\/p>\n
That being said, the Chisos Mountains are often 10-20 degrees cooler, so if you do visit during the summer I recommend sticking to the higher elevations to avoid extreme heat. <\/p>\n
Another thing to keep in mind is that May-September is the rainy season. Big Bend can experience intense thunderstorms and flash floods, so keep your eye on the forecast before you visit. <\/p>\n
Fall<\/h3>\n
Fall is also a good time to visit Big Bend. The temperatures start to cool down around late September after the summer heat and if it’s been a rainy summer, areas of the park will be green and beautiful. <\/p>\n
Winter<\/h3>\n
Winter is one of my favorite times of the year to visit National Parks. Typically crowds are way fewer and I enjoy the quiet and peacefulness of the off-season. Big Bend is a great National Park to visit between December and February. The daytime temperatures are typically pretty mild (in the 60s) while at night the temps can drop below freezing (something to consider if you are camping).<\/p>\n
Snow is rare in Big Bend, but that being said, there were two large snowstorms in 2021 that shut down the park for several days. <\/p>\n
\n![\"This](\"https:\/\/horviklazenu.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/07\/Big-Bend-National-Park-1-1024x768-1.jpg\")
Image: Courtney Stephenson<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n The Layout of the Park<\/h2>\n
As I was doing research on Big Bend and planning out my trip, I realized how big the park is! Big Bend National Park covers over 800,000 square miles. It takes about an hour and a half to drive from Boquillas Canyon on the east side to Santa Elena Canyon on the west side. Chisos Basin sits almost directly in the middle. <\/p>\n
So, when you’re planning out your trip, I recommend choosing your activities and camping or lodging based on each region of the park. That way you can cut down on driving. If you have limited time, I liked Chisos Basin and Santa Elena Canyon the best – you could skip Boquillas Canyon if you are short on time.<\/p>\n
![\"Big](\"https:\/\/horviklazenu.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/07\/big-bend-national-park-map-1024x913-1.jpg\")
Big Bend National Park can be divided into three regions: Santa Elena Canyon, Chisos Basin, and Boquillas Canyon. It takes about 1.5 hours to drive across the Park. <\/figcaption><\/figure>\n Where to Stay<\/h2>\n
There are several options for where to stay in Big Bend including camping and hotels. I do recommend making a plan ahead of time, though – over the last few years, Big Bend has become increasingly popular and campsites do book out. <\/p>\n
Big Bend National Park Camping<\/h3>\n
There are 4 established campgrounds located within Big Bend National Park. There are also primitive backcountry dispersed camping spots and several camping options outside the park. <\/p>\n
Campgrounds within Big Bend National Park<\/h4>\n
All established campgrounds require advanced reservations that can be made up to 6 months in advance. There is no first come, first serve camping in Big Bend’s established campgrounds. <\/strong><\/p>\n
- \n
- Chisos Basin Campground<\/strong><\/a>: this is the most centrally located campground in the park, however trailers over 20\u2019 and RVs over 24\u2019 are not recommended<\/strong> because the road is narrow and campsites are small. No hookups are available at Chisos Basin Campground, but there are flush toilets, water, grills, and a dump station.<\/li>\n
- Rio Grande Village Campground<\/strong><\/a>: located on the far east side of the park, this campground is set along the Rio Grande River among a large grove of trees. There are flush toilets, water, grills, and a camp store with a gas station, showers, and a laundromat attached.<\/li>\n
- Rio Grande Village RV Park<\/strong>: This is the only campground with full hookups in Big Bend. Sites are available by phone reservation only (432-477-2293). Sites are located in a paved lot next to the camp store (and adjacent to the campground). Pets are allowed but must be leashed at all times.<\/li>\n
- Cottonwood Campground<\/strong><\/a>: located on the far west side of the park, this campground is a quiet, desert oasis near the popular Santa Elena Canyon. This is the most remote campground in the park with no hookups, no dump station, and no generators allowed. Pit toilets, grills, and water are available at this campground.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n
Dispersed Camping in Big Bend National Park<\/h4>\n
Big Bend offers the unique option to car camp at primitive roadside spots or you can leave your car behind and backpack into the desert wilderness to camp.<\/p>\n
Primitive roadside spots are located on backcountry roads – most require a vehicle with good clearance and\/or 4×4. I drive a 2WD Ford van and had no issues getting to my roadside spot. The ranger at the Visitor Center was able to help me pick a site that would accommodate my van. <\/p>\n
Roadside sites are small, flat gravel patches with no toilets, water, shade, or other amenities, but they offer amazing views and total solitude in the park. If you plan to disperse camp in Big Bend National Park, please note you will need to pack out all trash, know how to properly go to the bathroom outside<\/a>, and Leave No Trace<\/a>.<\/p>\n
A $10\/night permit is required for all primitive roadside and backcountry camping sites. Most sites can be reserved online<\/a> up to 6 months in advance here. There are a handful of roadside sites that are only available to book in-person at either Panther Junction or Chisos Basin Visitor Center. I chose this option during my trip and was able to secure a spot by arriving at opening time (8:30am). This isn’t always the case, though, especially on weekends or anytime during the busy season.<\/p>\n
\n![\"Big](\"https:\/\/horviklazenu.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/07\/Big-Bend-National-Park-Primitive-Camping-819x1024-1.jpg\")
I camped in my van at a dispersed roadside site with incredible views! | Image: Courtney Stephenson<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n Camping Outside of Big Bend National Park<\/h4>\n
If you are unable to secure a campsite within Big Bend National Park, Big Bend Ranch State Park<\/a> is close by and has a handful of campgrounds. I stayed here on my way out of the National Park and the campground I chose was nearly empty on a Saturday night. <\/p>\n
Terlingua, Study Butte, and Lajitas also offer private campgrounds within an hour outside the park. A roundup of all lodging\/camping options outside of Big Bend National Park can be found here<\/a>. <\/p>\n
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Go to the Deal<\/span><\/a><\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\nBig Bend National Park Lodging<\/h3>\n
Chisos Mountain Lodge<\/h4>\n
There is only one hotel in Big Bend National Park – the Chisos Mountain Lodge<\/a>. It’s a pretty basic hotel (nothing fancy), but it does have great views and good access to hiking trails in the Chisos Mountains. <\/p>\n
Located in the heart of the park at 5,400ft elevation, Chisos Mountain Lodge offers a variety of rooms and cottages with 360-degree mountain views. As the only non-camping option in the park, reservations are extremely limited and you need to book well in advance.<\/p>\n
Hotels in Terlingua<\/h4>\n
Terlingua is a small town located about an hour from the park that has the largest accommodation selection<\/a> outside of the park. Terlingua is a well-known ghost town with a true old Western feel – I recommend checking it out whether or not you plan to stay there. <\/p>\n
The Starlight Theatre<\/strong> is a famous local watering hole known for its annual chili cookoff and frequent live music, and Espresso y Poco Mas<\/strong> is a great breakfast spot.<\/p>\n
Best things to do in Big Bend National Park<\/h2>\n
I had a great time exploring all that Big Bend National Park has to offer. There are hundreds of miles of hiking trails, paddling opportunities on the Rio Grande River, scenic drives, and historical landmarks to visit – it truly has something for everyone!<\/p>\n
Go hiking<\/h3>\n
Big Bend National Park has three distinct hiking regions: desert, mountains, and river. Elevation changes between these areas mean that you can choose your own adventure based on what terrain you prefer or what season you\u2019re visiting. <\/p>\n
Trails in the park range from short, paved paths that are under a mile to full-day –\u00a0 or even multi-day hikes.<\/p>\n
My favorite hikes were:<\/p>\n
\n- \n
- <\/span>Window View Trail<\/strong> (0.3 miles roundtrip, paved)<\/span><\/li>\n
- <\/span>Santa Elena Canyon <\/strong>(1.7 miles roundtrip)<\/span><\/li>\n
- <\/span>Balanced Rock Trail<\/strong> (1.9 miles roundtrip)<\/span><\/li>\n
- <\/span>South Rim Trail<\/strong> (12-14.5 miles roundtrip)<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n
For more info on these hikes plus other trail options, head to our full roundup of the best hikes in Big Bend National Park<\/a>.<\/p>\n
\n- \n
- \n\n
\n \n![\"Tall](\"https:\/\/horviklazenu.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/07\/Boquillas-Canyon-Big-Bend-National-Park-1024x812-1.jpeg\")
<\/div>\nSanta Elena C<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<\/li>\n- \n
\n\n \n![\"A](\"https:\/\/horviklazenu.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/07\/Big-Bend-National-Park-Balanced-Rock-Trail-1024x684-1.jpeg\")
<\/div>\nBalanced Rock hike<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<\/li>\n- \n
\n\n \n![\"A](\"https:\/\/horviklazenu.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/07\/Big-Bend-National-Park-Chimneys-Trail-1024x683-1.jpeg\")
<\/div>\nThe Chimneys<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<\/li>\n- \n
\n\n \n![\"Landscape](\"https:\/\/horviklazenu.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/07\/Big-Bend-National-Park-9-1024x768-1.jpg\")
<\/div>\nViews from the Chisos Mountains<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\nDrive the Ross Maxwell Scenic Drive<\/h3>\n
This 30-mile drive was one of the highlights of my trip. It showcases great views of the Chisos mountains and the vast Chihuahuan desert and ends at the beautiful Santa Elena Canyon. There are several overlooks along the road where I was able to stop and get out for a hike. <\/p>\n
If you are up for adventure and have a vehicle with good clearance, consider taking Old Maverick Road back to the Western Park entrance. This road is only 14 miles but plan on a one-hour drive because it’s quite bumpy!<\/p>\n
\n![\"Ross](\"https:\/\/horviklazenu.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/07\/Big-Bend-National-Park-6-1024x682-1.jpg\")
The views were hazy the day I did the Ross Maxwell Drive, but still beautiful | Image: Courtney Stephenson<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n Visit Mexico via the Boquillas Crossing<\/h3>\n
Big Bend is the only National Park with a Port of Entry location. If you have a valid passport, you can visit the small town of Boquillas, Mexico<\/a> during your trip to Big Bend. The border crossing is located on the east side of the park, close to Boquillas Canyon. <\/p>\n
You can cross by rowboat ($5\/person roundtrip) or by wading through the river if the water level is low enough. There are many restaurants, food stalls, and vendors selling local handicrafts. I didn’t have time to visit Boquillas, but it’s such a unique opportunity to do while visiting a National Park, and I can\u2019t wait to return to check it out.<\/p>\n
Tip: US currency is accepted in Boquillas so no need to exchange money ahead of time. <\/p>\n
Paddle the Rio Grande River<\/h3>\n
Guided<\/a> or self-guided trips on the Rio Grande River are a great way to see Big Bend National Park from a different perspective. The river marks the border between the US and Mexico and you can choose floats from half-day to multi-day excursions. If you plan to do an independent river trip, be sure to read the regulation and permit information<\/a>.<\/p>\n
Visit the Hot Springs Historic District<\/h3>\n
Located along the Rio Grande on the east side of the park, the Hot Springs Historic District is a step back in time. Here, you can see and learn about the human history of the area dating back thousands of years. <\/p>\n
I enjoyed looking at rock art on the limestone cliffs, learning about the Langford family that inhabited the area in the early 1900s, and soaking in natural hot springs that flow right next to the river.<\/p>\n
![\"Natural](\"https:\/\/horviklazenu.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/07\/Big-Bend-National-Park-Hot-Springs-1024x765-1.jpeg\")
The Hot Springs Historic District has natural hot springs you can soak in<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n Safety Tips for Visiting Big Bend<\/h2>\n
Because Big Bend National Park is so remote and has a harsh desert climate, it’s important to be prepared for your trip. I made sure to stock up on everything I needed before I made my way into the park. <\/p>\n
Here are a few safety tips to keep in mind when planning your trip:<\/p>\n
\n- \n
- <\/span>Bring plenty of sun protection<\/a> and dress for the desert environment<\/a>. Big Bend can get incredibly hot and there is very little shade. <\/span><\/li>\n
- <\/span>If you plan on hiking, bring a day pack<\/a> that can carry at least 3L of water. <\/span><\/li>\n
- <\/span>Pack your hiking essentials<\/a>.<\/span><\/li>\n
- <\/span>Stay informed by checking the weather forecast and park alerts. <\/span><\/li>\n
- <\/span>Plan ahead – you want to make sure you bring everything you need with you (including water in case your car breaks down) because there are very few services available once you get inside the park. <\/span><\/li>\n
- <\/span>Watch for rattlesnakes. Big Bend National Park is home to several species of rattlesnakes. Watch your step and avoid climbing around on rocks.<\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n
\n![\"This](\"https:\/\/horviklazenu.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/07\/Big-Bend-National-Park-5-1024x682-1.jpg\")
Be prepared for your hikes in Big Bend with plenty of sun protection – there is very little shade | Image: Courtney Stephenson<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n Big Bend National Park FAQs<\/h2>\n
\nHow much does it cost to visit Big Bend National Park?<\/strong> <\/p>\nEntry into Big Bend National Park is $30 per vehicle. This pass is valid for 7 days. If you’ll be visiting more National Parks throughout the year, I recommend getting the Annual National Parks Pass<\/a> which, for $80, gives you access to all National Parks around the US.<\/p>\n
Camping fees vary depending on the campground. <\/p>\n<\/p><\/div>\n
Is there cell service in Big Bend National Park? <\/strong> <\/p>\nCell service is pretty spotty in Big Bend National Park. Areas where there is reliable service are the Chisos Basin area and Panther Junction. <\/p>\n<\/p><\/div>\n
How many days do I need in Big Bend National Park? <\/strong> <\/p>\nThat depends on how much you want to see and do! I recommend spending at least three days exploring Big Bend. If you want to really get to know the park or to go out on a multi-day excursion, 5-7 days is ideal. <\/p>\n<\/p><\/div>\n
Is Big Bend National Park open year-round?<\/strong> <\/p>\nYes, Big Bend is open year-round. However, summers can be extremely hot. <\/p>\n<\/p><\/div>\n<\/p><\/div>\n
\n![\"Chisos](\"https:\/\/horviklazenu.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/07\/Big-Bend-National-Park-7-1024x682-1.jpg\")
The Chisos Mountains at sunset | Image: Courtney Stephenson<\/figcaption><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n \n\nMore Southwest National Parks<\/h2>\n
\n- \n
- <\/span>Utah National Parks Road Trip Itinerary<\/a><\/span><\/li>\n
- <\/span>Bryce Canyon National Park Guide<\/a><\/span><\/li>\n
- <\/span>Zion National Park Guide<\/a><\/span><\/li>\n
- <\/span>Ultimate Saguaro National Park Guide<\/a><\/span><\/li>\n
- <\/span>Best Hikes in Canyonlands National Park<\/a><\/span><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n
Save this post to Pinterest<\/h6>\n
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<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/figure>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\nHave you been to Big Bend National Park or are you planning a trip there? Share your questions, comments, and experiences in the comments below!<\/strong><\/p>\n
<\/span><\/p>\n
The post Visiting Big Bend National Park: First-Timers Guide<\/a> appeared first on Bearfoot Theory<\/a>.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"
Big Bend National Park is one of the most remote National Parks in the United States. It lies in the heart of the Chihuahuan Desert, stretching across West Texas on the border of the USA and Mexico. I’d heard a lot of great things about Big Bend before I visited, but I wasn’t quite prepared […]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":445,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":[],"categories":[7],"tags":[],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/horviklazenu.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/439"}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/horviklazenu.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/horviklazenu.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/horviklazenu.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/horviklazenu.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=439"}],"version-history":[{"count":3,"href":"https:\/\/horviklazenu.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/439\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":496,"href":"https:\/\/horviklazenu.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/439\/revisions\/496"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/horviklazenu.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/445"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/horviklazenu.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=439"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/horviklazenu.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=439"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/horviklazenu.com\/index.php\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=439"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}
- <\/span>Bryce Canyon National Park Guide<\/a><\/span><\/li>\n
- <\/span>If you plan on hiking, bring a day pack<\/a> that can carry at least 3L of water. <\/span><\/li>\n
- \n
- <\/span>Santa Elena Canyon <\/strong>(1.7 miles roundtrip)<\/span><\/li>\n
- Rio Grande Village Campground<\/strong><\/a>: located on the far east side of the park, this campground is set along the Rio Grande River among a large grove of trees. There are flush toilets, water, grills, and a camp store with a gas station, showers, and a laundromat attached.<\/li>\n
- <\/span>There are 4 convenience stores and 2 gas stations located within the park, however, they can be limited in supplies so don’t rely on them. <\/span><\/li>\n