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Big Bend National ParkVisitors contemplate the Chihuahuan Desert from Balanced Rock
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Big Bend National Park
La Clocha roadside campsites

Two primitive campsites are located in the La Clocha area, just a short distance down the River Road East.

 
Site Name LC-1 LC-2
Vehicles 2 2
Persons 10 8
Horses 4 (4-horse trailer,
4x4 req.)
no
 

How to Get There
The La Clocha campsites are located off of the River Road East 2.6 miles from the main paved road to Rio Grande Village. The La Clocha access road is 0.7 miles in length.

Usual Road Conditions
The River Road is maintained for High Clearance Vehicles only. After rains, the River Road and La Clocha road are extremely muddy and may quickly become impassable to ALL vehicles. 4-wheel drive may be required.
Current road conditions...

Ground Cover/Shade
LC-1 is located above the river on a gravel terrace. There is NO shade and very sparse vegetation. LC-2 is near the river's edge, has partial shade under vegetation, and a sandy base..

Views
LC-1 has magnificent views of the Rio Grande, Chisos, and Sierra San Vicente. LC-2 has obscured views due to dense river vegetation.

River Access
LC-1 has foot access to the river. Boat launching is possible from LC-2. 

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.

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.

 
 
Russell E. Dickenson  

Did You Know?
Russell E. Dickenson, eleventh Director of the National Park Service (May, 1980-March, 1985) served as Chief Ranger at Big Bend National Park in 1955-56. He later recalled that "Big Bend was a compression of ten years of experience into one."
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Last Updated: March 01, 2007 at 17:59 EST