National Park Service LogoU.S. Department of the InteriorNational Park ServiceNational Park Service
National Park Service:  U.S. Department of the InteriorNational Park Service Arrowhead
Big Bend National ParkTurkey vulture drying its wings
view map
text size:largestlargernormal
printer friendly
Big Bend National Park
Gauging Station roadside campsite

One primitive campsite is located along the river at Gauging Station, along the River Road West.

 
Site Name GA-1
Vehicles 1
Persons 6
Horses no
 

How to Get There
Via River Road 14.2 miles from the west end near Castolon, or 39.8 miles from the east end near Rio Grande Village. The access road is 0.4 miles in length.

Usual Road Conditions
High clearance vehicles required. After any rain, 4-wheel drive is also required. Check current road conditions with a ranger.
Current road conditions...

Ground Cover/Shade
The site lies in riparian habitat along the floodplain of the Rio Grande. Shade is present under mesquite trees. This is one of the shadiest sites along the River Road.

Views
Minimal. A portion of the Punta de la Sierra is visible, but river vegetation and sheltering hills to the west block views.

River Access
One minute walk via a short trail through heavy brush. Fishing parties frequent this campsite because of the available river access. 

Cautionary Notes
To minimize the possibility of theft, secure belongings when away from the campsite and while sleeping. Do not leave site unattended for long periods of time.

Remarks
Check current road conditions with a ranger. 4-wheel drive is required after any rain.

Area is frequented by passers by and Mexican residents. The short service road to the river gauging station is open to official personnel only.

A backcountry use permit is required (available at visitor centers). Campers are responsible for regulations listed on the permit. Camping is in designated sites for minimal impact on the surrounding vegetation.

 
 
Persimmon Gap, viewed from the south  

Did You Know?
In 1935, Conrad Wirth, later the director of the National Park Service, said this of Persimmon Gap in Big Bend National Park, “There will probably always be a road from Marathon through . . . Persimmon Gap, which is a very fine and natural gateway to the Park.”
more...

Last Updated: November 30, 2006 at 16:27 EST