Primitive Roadside Campsite— Camp de Leon

Access road to the Camp de Leon Primitive Roadside Campsite

 

YOU are responsible for protecting YOUR park.

Campsite Specifics

Camp de Leon campsite (CL-1) can accommodate up to one vehicle, 6 people, no horses.

• No trailers.
• Maximum vehicle length is 25'.

Primitive sites offer nice views, solitude, and a small flat gravel space to set up camp next to your vehicle. No shade, toilets, or other amenities are provided.
The use of generators is prohibited in the backcountry.

A Backcountry Permit is required to use this campsite. You can now obtain a backcountry permit for this campsite up to 24 hours in advance of the first night at Panther Junction Visitor Center or Chisos Basin Visitor Center.

 

Directions

Camp de Leon (CL-1) is located along the Old Ore Road, 3.6 miles from the main paved road to Rio Grande Village.

 

Road Conditions

The Old Ore Road is maintained for high-clearance vehicles only. Following rains and heavy use, the road becomes very rutted and requires 4-wheel drive. Always ask a park ranger for current road conditions.

 

Vegetation

Camp de Leon is wide open and surrounded by lechuguilla and creosote. There is no shade at this campsite.

 

Views

Camp de Leon campsite has fantastic panoramic views of the Chisos, Chilicotal, and Sierra San Vicente mountains.

 

Remarks

Nearby stands a solitary grave marker for Juan de Leon. The death of Juan de Leon is one of many mysteries of Big Bend's past. What happened on July 19, 1932, is unclear.

Campsite Photos:

 

Camp de Leon campsite

 

View of the Chisos Mountains from the Camp de Leon primitive roadside campsite.

 

Camp de Leon views