RV Camping in Big Bend National Park

Are you wondering what your options are for RV Camping in Big Bend? This post has got you covered. Big Bend National Park is an aboslute gem in the state of Texas. Located in southwest Texas on the border of Mexico and the Rio Grande River, Big Bend National Park boasts over 800,000 acres of gorgeous mountains, rivers, and desert landscapes.

We camped at Big Bend in our RV in March of 2018 and were absolutely blown away by this park. Our Youtube video covers some of the awesome hikes and things to do in the area (hello hot springs) but this blog post covers your options for RV camping in Big Bend.

Things to know before RVing to Big Bend

Big Bend is one of the most remote National Parks in the country. The drive to the nearest grocery store is roughly 2 and a half hours from the park entrance. For that reason, you should come well stocked with any groceries, medical supplies, or other items you might need while you are RV camping in Big Bend.

There is no cell service in the majority of the park. Download offline maps so you can navigate without worry. There are a few spots near the lodges that have wifi or cell service. If you have Starlink, internet connection shouldn’t be an issue.

Despite it’s remote location Big Bend is still a rather popular park in peak season. November through April are the best times to visit Big Bend. The summers here (May through October) can be brutal with temperatures reaching over 110 degrees. Since you’re in the high desert, it can get quite cold here. Wear layers and drink lots of water. It’s super easy to get dehydrated in the desert without realizing.

Due to its popularity, it’s a good idea to make reservations well in advance. Below are a few of the options for RV camping in Big Bend.

RV campgrounds in Big Bend

If you’re interested in having amenities as you are RV camping in Big Bend, there are three developed campgrounds to choose from.

1. Chisos Basin: This RV campground is located in the center of Big Bend National Park and the heart of the Chisos mountains. The switch-back road down to the campground means it is only available to RVs 25 feet under and trailers under 20 feet. Along with it’s gorgeous views, it’s location in the middle of the park makes it super easy to explore the park.
   • Small RVs and trailers only
   • Cost: $16 per night
   • Elevation 5,400 feet (can get cold in the evenings)
   • Cell phone receiption
   • Potable water and dump station (no electricity)
   • Reservations only (no first come first serve)
2. Rio Grande Village: Located on the far east side of the park, Rio Grande Village offers the most amenities of the three campgrounds. Additionally, it is big rig friendly. It has showers, laundry facilities, a village store, and two different parking areas. There is a spot to fill up your water and dump your tanks upon entering with each site being dry-camping. Some sections are generator free while other sections allow generators, so make sure to check this before booking. We loved that this campground was a quick drive to the nearby hot springs and located along the Rio Grande. However, we were not prepared for the wild wind storms and bugs that can come out during spring season.
   • All RV sizes can fit
   • Elevation 1,850 feet
   • Cost: $16
   • Generators allowed in some sections
   • No cell phone receiption
   • Potable water and dump station (no electricity)
   • Reservations only (no first come first serve)
3. Cottonwood: Located on the most western side of the park, Cottonwood is the smallest campground of the three. On the plus side the campground is located near the breathtaking Santa Elena Canyon and is close to the river. The campground has some trees for shade but plenty of sun for solar as well. It’s a no generator zone, so if you’re reliant on your generator this won’t be the best fit for you.
   • All RV sizes can fit
   • Elevation 2,100 feet
   • Cost: $16
   • No generators
   • No cell phone receiption
   • Potable water only (no dump site or electricity)
   • Reservations only (no first come first serve)

Backcountry camping in Big Bend

If you’re into backcountry camping you can apply for a 14-day permit to camp on River Road or Old Maverick Road. Permits are issued in person for these spots same day and are required in order to camp outside of the three designated RV parks.

The roads are primitive, washboard, and rutted often with rocks and pot holes. In other words, it’s not for every RV. Make sure your vehicle is off-grid capable and high-clearance. Permits only cost $16 for the entire 14-days making it a super affordable option for RV camping in Big Bend. To see if permits are avilable when you’re visiting go to the Visitor’s Center near the Chisos Basin.

RV camping outside of the park

If you aren’t able to secure a spot inside Big Bend National Park you’ll need to go to one of the developed campgrounds about 1 hour to 2 hours outside of the park. Clearly, this is less than ideal as it means you’ll be spending a lot of time (and fuel) driving back and forth to explore the park. Big Bend National Park has compiled a helpful list of the closest parks and their amenities.

No matter how challenging it may be to get there (or reserve an RV camping spot) in Big Bend — it’s worth it. This park remains in our top five favorite national parks in the entire country. And is one we can’t wait to return to in the future.

We are Dennis and Liz! We’re two travel loving, real estate investing, foodies exploring North America full time in a Grand Design fifth wheel toy hauler. We share our lessons learned as full time RV’ers, travel tips and tricks, and the best places to eat and see in the US with you!