Explore This Park

Primitive Roadside Campsites

Terlingua Abajo Campsite Sign

NPS Photo/Big Bend National Park

 

For those who wish to camp in the backcountry without having to backpack, Big Bend offers a number of primitive campsites along backcountry roads. These sites are located in the desert and along the Rio Grande. While some sites are accessible to most vehicles, a high clearance and/or 4-wheel drive vehicle is necessary to reach others. A backcountry use permit is required to camp at any of these sites.

Primitive sites offer excellent views, solitude, and a flat gravel space to set up camp next to your vehicle. No shade, toilets, or other amenities are provided.

 

Primitive Roadside Campsites— Improved Dirt Roads

Primitive roadside campsites along improved dirt roads are usually accessible to all vehicles except after rain when road conditions may deteriorate and require the use of high clearance or even 4-wheel drive vehicles to access campsites.

• Primitive Roadside Campsites— Croton Springs
• Primitive Roadside Campsites— Grapevine Hills
• Primitive Roadside Campsite— Hannold Draw
• Primitive Roadside Campsites— K-Bar
• Primitive Roadside Campsite— Nine Point Draw
• Primitive Roadside Campsites— Old Maverick Road
• Primitive Roadside Campsites— Paint Gap

 

Primitive Roadside Campsites— Primitive Dirt Roads

Primitive dirt roads are maintained for high clearance vehicles only, and may require 4-wheel drive. They may be rocky with areas of soft sand that are unsafe for sedans or RVs. Rain can make roads difficult to drive or impassable.

• Primitive Roadside Campsites— Glenn Springs Road
  (including Pine Canyon, Juniper Canyon, and Black Gap roads)
• Primitive Roadside Campsites— Old Ore Road
• Primitive Roadside Campsites— River Road (east and west)