Chisos Basin Campground

Q: Are group sites available and what are their rules?

Yes—7 group tent sites are available; they are tent-only with no hookups or generators; capacity ranges from 9 to 20 people per site.

Q: Is there water and where can I refill?

Potable water spigots are available, but may be shut off during Level 3 droughts; bring extra water and plan for limited on-site provisioning.

Q: What about food storage and bears?

Bears frequent the area; store food in bear-proof lockers or in hard-sided vehicles; tents should be collapsed during the day if not in use.

Q: Are there showers or laundry nearby?

No on-site showers or laundry. Coin-operated showers and laundry facilities are located at Rio Grande Village about an hour away.

Overview

About This Campground

Alright, Chisos Basin Campground sits in a high‑elevation basin with 56 standard sites and 7 group tent sites. There are no hookups at individual sites, and you’ll battle a steep, winding drive to reach the basin. Water spigots can disappear during droughts, so bring ample water and plan for charcoal grilling only. Bears frequent the area, so lock up food in bear lockers and keep tents clear when not in use.

Highlights

Site Types

tent sites (no hookups), group tent sites

Scenic Views

Mountain and basin vistas

Nearby Attractions

Chisos Basin Camp Store, Panther Junction, Santa Elena Canyon, nearby basin trails

Family Friendly

Good for families with kids; trails are there, bears nearby; bring headlamps for evening activity

Best Time to Visit

Spring and fall offer mild weather; summers can be hot, winters chilly

Camping Tips

Reserve far in advance on Recreation.gov
Bring ample water
No wood fires; charcoal only
Store food in bear lockers
Prepare for a winding drive; smaller rigs excel
Download offline maps for spotty cell service

RV Driver Intel

The Setup

Big rigs are discouraged; internal roads are narrow and winding with limited turning space. Aim for a standard or group site with easy access; arrive with daylight; two-vehicle per site max; use back-in sites where possible; expect no hookups and plan for water and charcoal grilling.

The Vibe

A rugged basecamp feel in a high-elevation basin—practical, not plush. You’re here for the hikes and the skies, not resort vibes; privacy varies by site and bears are a real consideration.

Bath & Laundry

Showers are not on-site; nearest coin-operated showers are at Rio Grande Village about an hour away. No on-site laundry; plan accordingly. Bring large water reserves and rinse gear at the camppot.

Details

Campsite Information

Total Sites: 567

RV Max Length: 20 ft trailers; 24 ft motorhomes (not recommended)

Hookups: No hookups at individual sites; some group sites have water and 30-amp power

Site Types

tent sites (no hookups), group tent sites

Each Site Includes

Picnic tables and charcoal grills; shade structures on some sites; bear-proof food lockers at each site

Activities

Hiking in Chisos Basin, wildlife watching, nearby trails

Amenities & Facilities

Campground Amenities

Showers: No on-site showers; coin-operated showers at Rio Grande Village camp store (about an hour away)
Restrooms: Flush toilets; portable toilets during water emergencies
Water: Potable water spigots available; may be turned off during Level 3 drought
Trash: Bear-proof dumpsters on-site

Facilities

RV Dump Station: On-site dump/fill station; may require extra-long hoses; another at Rio Grande Village
Camp Store: Chisos Basin camp store with basics, groceries, snacks, beverages, souvenirs
Firewood: Gathering firewood prohibited; no firewood for sale
Amphitheater: No dedicated amphitheater noted

Utilities

Restrooms: Flush toilets; portable toilets during water emergencies

Showers: No on-site showers; coin-operated showers at Rio Grande Village camp store (about an hour away)

Policies & Rules

Reservations

Recreation.gov (Booking: Six months in advance for some sites; two weeks for others)

Pet Policy

Pets Allowed - Leashed

FAQs

Can my RV fit in Chisos Basin Campground?

RVs over 24 ft are discouraged due to narrow, winding roads and limited turnarounds; plan for smaller rigs and consider back-in sites.

Are group sites available and what are their rules?

Is there water and where can I refill?

What about food storage and bears?

Are there showers or laundry nearby?

📖 nps.gov 📖 recreation.gov 📖 hipcamp.com 📖 travelandleisure.com 📖 youtube.com 📖 treksw.com 📖 barefootcas.com 📖 mrt.com 📖 chisosmountainslodge.com 📖 reddit.com 📖 weather.gov 📖 windy.app 📖 windalert.com 📖 kuhl.com ⭐ Google Reviews 📝 YourNPGuide Editorial

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