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Big Bend National ParkCivilian Conservation Corps workers building the road into the Chisos Basin, mid-1930s
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Big Bend National Park
Primitive camping along the Old Maverick Road
 
Map of the Old Maverick Road area
NPS/Big Bend National Park
Map of the Old Maverick Road area

This 13-mile improved dirt road connects the western entrance of Big Bend National Park and the Santa Elena Canyon Trailhead. Although usually bumpy, this route is generally well-maintained and accessible to all vehicles throughout the year. Beautiful desert scenery and badlands offer a backcountry experience to even the most timid of motorists.

Three campsite areas contain a total of five primitive campsites along the Old Maverick Road.

Click on a primitive roadside campsite for descriptions and images:

Chimneys West
Terlingua Abajo
Ocotillo Grove 


 
 
Santa Elena Canyon as seen from the Old Maverick Road
NPS/Big Bend National Park
Santa Elena Canyon as seen from the Old Maverick Road
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Primitive roads can have rough conditions
Backcountry Road Conditions
Find out the current status of Big Bend's primitive roads before you set out
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Road guide cover
Backcountry Road Guide
Purchase a detailed road guide from the Big Bend Natural History Association
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Men of Hill's 1899 expedition  

Did You Know?
Robert Hill, working for the U.S. Geological Survey, was the first person to successfully float the canyons of the Rio Grande in the area of Big Bend. His trip, from Presidio to Lantry took over a month.

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Last Updated: March 09, 2007 at 16:38 EST