Big Bend is in a remote area, and most visitors drive long distances in order to reach the park. It is not unusual for visitors to arrive in the park after normal business hours. The park entrances never close, but the entrance stations and visitor centers are not open 24 hours.
Here are some things you need to know to prepare for arriving after hours.
When arriving after hours:
Entrance Fees
You may pay your entrance fee, receive a park map and information the following day at the Panther Junction Visitor Center between the hours of 8:00 a.m. and 6:00 p.m. Entrance fees can also be paid at any other open visitor center during your visit.
Camping and Lodging
Campers without reservations must self-register at the campgrounds: Rio Grande Village, Chisos Basin, and Cottonwood. Check the campground map on the bulletin board at the entrance to each campground to locate the reserved and non-reserved sites.
Backcountry camping permits can only be issued during business hours at any visitor center; you cannot camp in a backcountry site if you do not arrive in time to obtain a permit.
For RV hook-ups, check at the Rio Grande Village store. For availability use a public phone or cell phone to call 432-477-2293.
Office hours at the Chisos Mountains Lodge are 7:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. For availability of rooms use a public phone or cell phone to call 432-477-2291.
