Chisos Mountains Lodge

Overview

About This Campground

Alright, you’re stepping into a high-desert/mountain basecamp at Chisos Basin in Big Bend. The 60-site campground is the core tent-and-short-RV option, with a separate seven-site group tent area for larger parties. There are no hookups at individual sites, and water is variable due to a basin-wide emergency, so come prepared with your own plan for hydration and food storage. Remember: charcoal grills only, bear lockers, and a steep, winding approach make this a true Bushcraft immersion—go...

Highlights

Site Types

Tent and short RV sites

Scenic Views

Views of Chisos Mountains and basin; starry skies at night

Nearby Attractions

Window Trail, Lost Mine Trail, Basin Visitor Center; Alpine (108 miles) for services

Family Friendly

Family-friendly for basic camping; showers are not on-site; quiet hours not published

Best Time to Visit

Fall and spring offer milder weather and manageable crowds

Camping Tips

Reserve 90-120 days out
No wood fires, charcoal only
Bring headlamp for 2am treks
Bear storage: use lockers
Water plan: expect limited on-site water
Expect steep drive; be patient and prepared

RV Driver Intel

The Setup

Big rigs: pull-in spaces are limited; internal roads are steep and winding; plan to arrive with a compact RV or tent trailer under 24 ft. The 7-mile approach from Panther Junction is all paved but curvy; prepare for a slow, scenic drive and map your water source.

The Vibe

Functional basecamp rather than a resort; quiet mountain setting with limited services; privacy varies; you’re here for the hike, stars, and practical camping life

Bath & Laundry

Showers are not on-site; coin showers at Rio Grande Village (~1 hour away). Laundry not specified—plan with a nearby town if needed

What Campers Say

Chisos Basin Campground is a high-demand, rustic option with spectacular mountain scenery and starry nights. Water reliability is a concern during emergencies, so plan ahead. Facilities are basic, with no on-site showers and strict bear safety practices, but the location is superb for trail access and solitude when available.

Details

Campsite Information

Total Sites: 60

RV Max Length: Trailers up to 20 ft; RVs up to 24 ft recommended; longer units not accommodated

Hookups: No electrics, water, or sewer hookups at individual sites; central dump station and potable water available

Site Types

Tent and short RV sites

Each Site Includes

Picnic tables and charcoal fire rings per site; some sites with metal or stone pavilions over tables; bear lockers for food

Activities

Direct hiking from campground; access to Window View, Window, and Lost Mine Trails

Amenities & Facilities

Campground Amenities

Showers: No on-site showers; coin-operated showers at Rio Grande Village camp store ~1 hour away
Restrooms: Flush toilets with lights
Water: Potable spigots available; basin under Level 3 water emergency; reservations may be on hold
Trash: Bear-proof dumpsters provided

Facilities

RV Dump Station: On-site dump station
Camp Store: General store and camper store in Chisos Basin
Firewood: Gathering wood not allowed; charcoal allowed in above-ground grills
Amphitheater: Not available

Utilities

Restrooms: Flush toilets with lights

Showers: No on-site showers; coin-operated showers at Rio Grande Village camp store ~1 hour away

Policies & Rules

Reservations

Chisos Mountains Lodge's own reservation system (Booking: 90-120 days in advance)

Pet Policy

Pets Allowed - Leashed; not allowed on trails or in buildings

Reviews

★★★★☆

4.3 /5

Based on 1132 Google reviews

Based on 1132 guest reviews

" Chisos Basin Campground is a high-demand, rustic option with spectacular mountain scenery and starry nights. Water reliability is a concern during emergencies, so plan ahead. Facilities are basic, with no on-site showers and strict bear safety practices, but the location is superb for trail access and solitude when available."

Reviews from Google

Showing 1 of 1132 reviews

FAQs

Are there water hookups at sites?

No; potable water is provided via spigots, and the water system has a Level 3 emergency status in the basin.

Can my large RV fit the Chisos Basin Campground?

Is there a shower on-site?

What about bears and food storage?

When should I book?

📖 visitbigbend.com 📖 nps.gov 📖 chisosmountainslodge.com 📖 recreation.gov 📖 youtube.com 📖 outdoorsy.com 📖 travelandleisure.com 📖 mrt.com 📖 reddit.com ⭐ Google Reviews 📝 YourNPGuide Editorial

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