NPS/Eric Leonard

Many groups come and enjoy hiking, camping, backpacking, and other activities in Big Bend National Park.

Bringing large groups into the backcountry can pose many challenges, as the chance for negative impacts on the resources of Big Bend increases with the number of people using them. No overnight backcountry camping group or party can be larger than 15 person. In open-zone areas groups larger than 15 must camp in non-adjacent zones (separated by paved or unpaved roads).

In the High Chisos area, a number of designated campsites can accommodate groups, though it may be necessary to split into a number of nearby sites. As advance reservations for permits are not possible, it is best to plan ahead and have a number of alternative sites if your first choice is not available.