Backpacking in the Chisos Mountains provides excellent opportunities for viewing a sunset from the South Rim, or early morning bird watching in Boot Canyon. There are 42 campsites along Chisos Mountains trails, ranging from one to eight miles from the trailhead. These sites are designated to help reduce impact and damage to this delicate environment.

Backcountry Permits are required for all overnight backpacking trips.

Water
Big bend is a desert park; water is precious, ephemeral, and unpredictable. In addition, the dry desert air quickly uses up the body's water reserves. Carry a minimum of one gallon of water per person per day.

No Fires/No Smoking
Campfires are prohibited. Use only gas/propane backpacker stoves. Smoking is prohibited along all Chisos Mountain trails.

Pack it in/Pack it out
Preserve the park's natural beauty by packing out every thing you pack in.

Composting Toilets
Four composting toilets are located in the High Chisos: at Toll Mountain, Boot Canyon, South Rim, and Laguna Meadow. Toilet paper is not provided.

Seasonal Closures
The Southeast Rim Trail and a portion of the Northeast Rim Trail from the Boot Canyon/Southeast Rim junction to a point just north of Campsite NE-4 is closed during the peregrine falcon brooding season from February 1 through May 31 each year.

Bears and Lions
Black bears and mountain lions live in the Chisos Mountains, and their presence requires special considerations. Never leave food unattended. Overnight campers must use bear proof food lockers available at each campsite. Know what to do if you encounter a bear or a lion.

Chisos Mountains Backcountry Campsites
Use this workbook to see pictures and locations of the backcountry campsites.