Listing of Special Rules in Effect ForBig Bend National Park
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| Site L | 20 persons / 10 tents |
| Site M | 10 persons / 5 tents |
| Site O | 14 persons / 7 tents (This is the only group site to allow for 1 RV to be parked) |
| Site P | 20 persons / 10 tents |
| Site Q | 20 persons / 10 tents |
| Site R | 20 persons / 10 tents |
Cottonwood Campground: Group Site-tents only unless listed below
25 people maximum capacity/13 tents (1 RV to be parked)Rio Grande Village Campground: Group Site – tents only unless listed below
| Site A | 20 persons / 10 tents |
| Site B | 20 persons / 10 tents |
| Site C | 40 persons / 20 tents (This is the only group site to allow for 1 RV to be parked) |
| Site D | 40 persons / 20 tents |
A minimum of 9 persons is required to occupy a group campsite.
Generators use and the use of idling vehicles to generate power are allowed in designated areas between the hours of 8 a.m. -11a.m. and 5p.m. -8 p.m. in the Chisos Basin Campground and in the RGV Campground. Operating generators must always be attended by a campsite occupant.
Use of generators in all other public use areas is prohibited including backcountry sites.
- The following areas are closed to generators and idling vehicles used to generate power:
- Rio Grande Village Campground sites 10, 12-13, 15-50, and 94-100\
- Basin Campground sites 19-60.
- Cottonwood Campground.
- All group campsites.
Chisos Mountain Backpacking & Primitive Backpacking/Roadside Camping Fee permits are required prior to overnight stay and most are available online through www.recreation.gov.
Use of generators is prohibited in these locations.
No mechanized device to include but not limited to wagons, wheeled carts, wheelbarrows, dollies, etc. shall not be used in the Chisos Mountain Backpacking or Primitive Backpacking areas to transport gear and supplies.
All overnight camping and river trips require a permit. River permits are available up to 7 days in advance of the first night.
No single permit will be issued for more than 14 consecutive nights in the backcountry except for
River Use Permits which will not exceed 28 consecutive nights.
Permits are available year-round at Panther Junction and Chisos Basin Visitor Centers. During the winter season, permits are also available at Persimmon Gap, Rio Grande Village, and Castolon Visitor Centers.
Permits for primitive backpacking and primitive roadside sites along the Maverick Road, Old Ore Road,
Glenn Springs Road (Chilicotal, Rice Tank, Glenn Springs Campsites), High Chisos (6 campsites) and River Road are available in person only at Park Visitor Centers up to 24 hours before the first night.
The permit must be in the camper's possession while in the backcountry and must be exhibited upon the request of any authorized employee.
Within the designated backcountry zone camping areas, the following areas are closed to camping:
- Slickrock zone no overnight camping is allowed.
- Burro Mesa above 3400 feet elevation (Tule Mountain 7.5-minute USGS quadrangle).
- The Chisos Backcountry Use Area: (Defined in the Big Bend Zone Camping Map Appendix F).
- The High Chisos backcountry use area is restricted to designated sites and closed to zone camping.
- Within 1/2 mile of any development areas and out of view of paved or unpaved roads.
- Within 100 yards of a historic structure, archeological site, trail, or non-river water source, unless camping in a designated site.
- From the upstream end of the Santa Elena Canyon Nature Trail to 3/4 mile downstream from Castolon.
- The river floodplain from 1/2 mile upstream from the mouth of Tornillo Creek to the Boquillas Canyon Trail terminus.
- A 2-mile radius around the refinery ruins of Mariscal Mine.
- A 1/2-mile radius around the San Vicente River crossing.
Food Storage:
The caching of food and water by backcountry users is prohibited unless the food and water are stored in a bear-resistant container. Bear-resistant container(s) are defined as securable container constructed of a solid, non-pliable material capable of withstanding a minimum of 300 foot-pounds of energy.- “Bear bagging” where items such as food or other perishables are suspended out of reach of a bear is not permitted.
- In camping areas where bear resistant storage boxes are provided, the boxes, or a hard-sided vehicle, must be utilized when the items are not actually being transported, prepared, and consumed. Only the permit holder may utilize the provided bear box at the campsite where the permit is written for and for the duration of the permit.
- Only water may be cached in the Homer Wilson Ranch and Juniper Canyon Trailhead storage containers. Food stored in these boxes is subject to removal by park personnel. Upon retrieval of the cached water, all associated water bottles must be removed from the storage container and packed out.
In the interest of protecting night skies, outdoor lighting will be limited between 10pm and 6am to handheld lighting designed for wayfinding, and lighting needed for immediate camp chores or cooking.
Most primitive roadside campsites in Big Bend are inaccessible to RVs and trailers. Small RVs (less than 30 feet) and trailers (less than 25 feet) may be accommodated at the following sites depending on availability and road conditions: Croton Springs 1; Grapevine Hills 1,& 2; Hannold Draw (only site with a horse corral); K-Bar 1 & 2; Nine Point Draw; Paint Gap 2. Reservations required through www.recreation.gov
Justification: Camping is an intensive use of park resources. Limitations on the number of persons per site seek to reduce impacts to individual campsites and reduce negative impacts to adjacent campers while still providing an equitable allocation of camping opportunities. These conditions are intended to reduce the visual impact of camping on other park users as well as impacts on sensitive park resources. Additionally, animals that feed on human food can become reliant on it and be less adapted to the natural Conditions of Big Bend National Park. Frequently fed animals can become a nuisance and cause litter to be strewn about campsites and picnic areas.
A fire may be ignited and maintained only by using fuel sources designed and commonly used for warmth or the preparation of food, such as charcoal briquettes or natural firewood. Lighting or maintaining a fire with other materials including, but not limited to, flammable liquids, garbage, fireworks, plastics, aerosol canisters, batteries, or other manufactured or synthetic materials, is prohibited.
This action is necessary for the maintenance of public health and safety, protection of environmental or scenic values, protection of natural or cultural resources, and the implementation of management responsibilities. Materials other than approved combustibles – especially fire accelerants and substances prone to wind transport or explosion – creates serious risks when used to light or maintain fires. These combustibles can ignite or spread wildfires that directly threaten people and valuable resources and assets. The burning of manufactured or synthetic materials can contribute to air pollution, contaminate soil and water, and be toxic to humans and the environment. Less restrictive measures, such as an education campaign informing visitors of the risks of using certain materials to light or maintain a fire, would not be commensurate with the substantial risks associated with those activities and could lead to adverse outcomes that might be prevented by establishing an enforceable condition.
Ground fires and wood fires (including starter logs, e.g., Duraflame) are prohibited in the park. The following are exceptions:
Justification: The use of ground fires requires aggressive management due to the high probability of Windblown hot coals or ash igniting combustible materials such as tents, awnings, and vehicles. Allowing open fires only in fire pans, or existing grills provided by the park helps to control human-Caused fires. Restricting fires also serves to inhibit the illegal collection of sparse native vegetation materials and wood from signs and historic structures. The superintendent has determined that the areas around the above campgrounds are extremely susceptible to wildland fire due to heavy fuel concentrations and low fuel moisture. This restriction is intended to ensure visitor safety as well as resource protection.
This action is necessary for the maintenance of public health and safety, protection of environmental or scenic values, protection of natural or cultural resources, and the implementation of management responsibilities. Materials other than approved combustibles – especially fire accelerants and substances prone to wind transport or explosion – creates serious risks when used to light or maintain fires. These combustibles can ignite or spread wildfires that directly threaten people and valuable resources and assets. The burning of manufactured or synthetic materials can contribute to air pollution, contaminate soil and water, and be toxic to humans and the environment. Less restrictive measures, such as an education campaign informing visitors of the risks of using certain materials to light or maintain a fire, would not be commensurate with the substantial risks associated with those activities and could lead to adverse outcomes that might be prevented by establishing an enforceable condition.
Ground fires and wood fires (including starter logs, e.g., Duraflame) are prohibited in the park. The following are exceptions:
- Charcoal fires in above-ground grills or fire pans are allowed in developed campgrounds, picnic areas, and backcountry road campsites.
- Wood and charcoal fires are not allowed in the High Chisos backpacking or zone camping areas.
- Wood and charcoal fires are allowed within the river corridor (on permitted river trips), located at the river’s edge on cobble or sand beaches in areas that are open to camping, and must be contained in fire pans with sides at least 2 inches high. Only dead and down wood, that has been gathered from the river corridor, may be used. Wood purchased locally is also allowed for use on river trips.
- Fires on river trips must be in a fire pan.
- Wood fires are allowed in the residential housing areas provided they are contained within a fire pan with sides at least two inches high, or within a fireplace constructed or authorized by the NPS. Wood may not be gathered in the park, but brush deposited in the Panther Junction, Rio Grande Village and Castolon boneyard(s) can be utilized. No painted or treated wood shall be burned.
Justification: The use of ground fires requires aggressive management due to the high probability of Windblown hot coals or ash igniting combustible materials such as tents, awnings, and vehicles. Allowing open fires only in fire pans, or existing grills provided by the park helps to control human-Caused fires. Restricting fires also serves to inhibit the illegal collection of sparse native vegetation materials and wood from signs and historic structures. The superintendent has determined that the areas around the above campgrounds are extremely susceptible to wildland fire due to heavy fuel concentrations and low fuel moisture. This restriction is intended to ensure visitor safety as well as resource protection.
(a)(1)
In campgrounds with service sinks, disposing or dumping dish water and other gray water is prohibited except in the service sinks.
Food refuse at concessions and residences within the park must be secured to prevent wildlife from acquiring it.
(a)(6)
On the river, cooking liquids may be strained (including dishwater) for any solids visible to the naked eye then deposited in the river. Strained solid materials must be carried out and deposited in a solid waste refuse container.
(b)
In non-developed areas more than a quarter of a mile from restroom facilities, solid human body waste must be buried six inches deep and at least 100 feet from the river and one quarter mile from any spring or stream water source and well away from designated campsites and trails. Toilet paper and all menstruation products must be carried out as trash.
Campers on the South Rim (SR) and East Rim (ER) campsites in the Chisos Mountains are required to pack out human waste using a waste disposal kit, such as PETT, Cleanwaste, WAG bags, Restop II, or similar commercial products. The contents of the bag are safe for disposal in trash receptacles and landfills, and the bags provide a lightweight, sanitary way to pack out waste.
All overnight river trips will carry out their solid human waste with a dump station compatible waste System or NPS approved personal waste system. The approved personal waste systems are commercially produced dry chemical bag systems.
CUA holders are responsible for the removal of all trash associated with holder’s visit to the park and is prohibited from depositing commercial waste generated outside the park into park trash containers. The holder may deposit accepted recyclables in bins located throughout the park.
Justification: These regulations are for resource protection and visitor safety.
In campgrounds with service sinks, disposing or dumping dish water and other gray water is prohibited except in the service sinks.
Food refuse at concessions and residences within the park must be secured to prevent wildlife from acquiring it.
(a)(6)
On the river, cooking liquids may be strained (including dishwater) for any solids visible to the naked eye then deposited in the river. Strained solid materials must be carried out and deposited in a solid waste refuse container.
(b)
In non-developed areas more than a quarter of a mile from restroom facilities, solid human body waste must be buried six inches deep and at least 100 feet from the river and one quarter mile from any spring or stream water source and well away from designated campsites and trails. Toilet paper and all menstruation products must be carried out as trash.
Campers on the South Rim (SR) and East Rim (ER) campsites in the Chisos Mountains are required to pack out human waste using a waste disposal kit, such as PETT, Cleanwaste, WAG bags, Restop II, or similar commercial products. The contents of the bag are safe for disposal in trash receptacles and landfills, and the bags provide a lightweight, sanitary way to pack out waste.
All overnight river trips will carry out their solid human waste with a dump station compatible waste System or NPS approved personal waste system. The approved personal waste systems are commercially produced dry chemical bag systems.
CUA holders are responsible for the removal of all trash associated with holder’s visit to the park and is prohibited from depositing commercial waste generated outside the park into park trash containers. The holder may deposit accepted recyclables in bins located throughout the park.
Justification: These regulations are for resource protection and visitor safety.
(a)(1)
Pet (except documented service animals used by persons with disabilities) are prohibited on any park land, river, or trail except in those locations identified below:
Justification: The superintendent has determined that pets pose a danger to wildlife and natural Resources. Conditions may exist where the act of leaving a pet in a vehicle during hot weather may pose a significant risk to the health of a pet. Excrement must be removed to prevent health hazards to people and to lessen negative impact on wildlife from potential disease transmission.
e.: Pet(s) may be kept by park residents under the following conditions:
Pet (except documented service animals used by persons with disabilities) are prohibited on any park land, river, or trail except in those locations identified below:
- On and within 30 feet of paved and unpaved park roads open for public vehicular use.
- Parking areas.
- Established picnic areas.
- Front country campgrounds.
- Established residential areas.
- Castolon Historic Compound.
- Within designated backcountry road campsites.
Justification: The superintendent has determined that pets pose a danger to wildlife and natural Resources. Conditions may exist where the act of leaving a pet in a vehicle during hot weather may pose a significant risk to the health of a pet. Excrement must be removed to prevent health hazards to people and to lessen negative impact on wildlife from potential disease transmission.
e.: Pet(s) may be kept by park residents under the following conditions:
- In accordance with the Park Housing Management Plan.
(a) Only horses, mules, burros, and llamas are defined as riding and/or pack animals.
(b) The park is open to riding and/or pack animals, except for the following closed areas:
Picketing or hobbling stock within 100 yards of a non-river water source is prohibited.
In backcountry roadside campsites where horses are permitted, and in parking areas where stock is unloaded and loaded, all manure, bedding, and feed remnants shall be removed from the park by the user. These are not to be deposited in park waste receptacles.
Justification: The superintendent has identified these animals as pack animals per authority granted under 36 CFR §1.4. These closures are for resource protection and visitor safety. The recreational use of horses and pack animals is well established in the park. However, restrictions on animal type, watering, numbers, and locations for stock use are necessary to: 1) protect the soil, vegetation, and water quality from unacceptable damage, 2) protect public health concerns, 3) prevent the introduction of exotic species, and 4) avoid conflict among visitor use activities.
(b) The park is open to riding and/or pack animals, except for the following closed areas:
- The Chisos Backcountry Use Area as defined in the Chisos Mountain Backpacking Map, Appendix F, The Lost Mine and Window Trails are within this area.
- The High Chisos Use Area: except for the Laguna Meadow to South Rim Trail to Boot Canyon Trail junction, then return the way you came.
- Boquillas Canyon Trail, Rio Grande Village Nature Trail, Hot Springs Nature Trail, Pine Canyon Trail, Grapevine Hills Trail, Oak Springs and Cattail Falls Trails, Sam Nail Ranch Trail, Lower Burro Mesa Pour-off Trail, Tuff Canyon Trail, Santa Elena Canyon Trail, and the Lone Mountain Trail.
- All paved roadways and their shoulders, except for necessary crossings. Stock may be used on backcountry roads.
- Within 1/2 mile of any developed zone, except when using the designated access route from the Basin Amphitheater to the Laguna Meadow trail for access to the South Rim or Blue Creek trails.
- Within any developed or designated backcountry road or trail campsite, except those designated for stock use.
- Crossing the Rio Grande.
- The Boquillas port of entry crossing road and parking lot.
Picketing or hobbling stock within 100 yards of a non-river water source is prohibited.
In backcountry roadside campsites where horses are permitted, and in parking areas where stock is unloaded and loaded, all manure, bedding, and feed remnants shall be removed from the park by the user. These are not to be deposited in park waste receptacles.
Justification: The superintendent has identified these animals as pack animals per authority granted under 36 CFR §1.4. These closures are for resource protection and visitor safety. The recreational use of horses and pack animals is well established in the park. However, restrictions on animal type, watering, numbers, and locations for stock use are necessary to: 1) protect the soil, vegetation, and water quality from unacceptable damage, 2) protect public health concerns, 3) prevent the introduction of exotic species, and 4) avoid conflict among visitor use activities.
Only Park residents and their guests may use these devices, and only in the areas hereby designated for use of these devices:
- The Rio Grande Village residential road.
- All paved areas in the Panther Junction residential area. Congested parking lots/roads (HQ, Maintenance, Alsate Drive) around park buildings are excluded and thus not allowed in these areas.
- The Chisos Basin residential area.
- The Castolon residential area.
All government buildings and government vehicles are closed to smoking except those areas designated open in accordance with existing policy. That policy is hereby adopted and made a part of these orders. Violating the provisions of this policy is prohibited. E-cigarettes/Vaping are included in these prohibitions.
Smoking is prohibited in all concession dining, lobby areas, dining patio area, stores, offices, and shops. "No Smoking" signs will be posted in these areas.
Disposal of any remains of smoking materials on the ground is strictly prohibited.
No smoking on or off park trails parkwide. Exceptions will be smoking is allowed in paved parking areas and immediately adjacent sidewalks, designated backcountry campsite areas without vegetation, front country campgrounds, and park roads.
Justification: Certain areas are restricted to protect public health and to protect structures from fire danger or smoke. This prohibition is consistent with federal and state law.
Smoking is prohibited in all concession dining, lobby areas, dining patio area, stores, offices, and shops. "No Smoking" signs will be posted in these areas.
Disposal of any remains of smoking materials on the ground is strictly prohibited.
No smoking on or off park trails parkwide. Exceptions will be smoking is allowed in paved parking areas and immediately adjacent sidewalks, designated backcountry campsite areas without vegetation, front country campgrounds, and park roads.
Justification: Certain areas are restricted to protect public health and to protect structures from fire danger or smoke. This prohibition is consistent with federal and state law.
Leaving property unattended for longer than 24 hours is prohibited except for motor vehicles with displayed backcountry permit numbers parked at trailheads, along roadside for zone camping, and river access points. Properly cached water and food, see food storage requirements in the camping section 2.10 (d), are excluded from this prohibition.
Justification: The superintendent has determined that this is a reasonable condition with negligible negative impacts which also allows for visitor safety and wellbeing. Abandoned vehicles, apparently abandoned vehicles, and inoperable vehicles cause a shortage of parking spaces, create an eyesore, and may interfere with access to a building during an emergency, such as fire.
Justification: The superintendent has determined that this is a reasonable condition with negligible negative impacts which also allows for visitor safety and wellbeing. Abandoned vehicles, apparently abandoned vehicles, and inoperable vehicles cause a shortage of parking spaces, create an eyesore, and may interfere with access to a building during an emergency, such as fire.
The following areas are closed to the possession of any open alcoholic beverage container or the consumption of any alcoholic beverage:
- All park-operated visitor centers, the Boquillas Port of Entry (POE), and ranger stations to include the areas within the structures and any related developed areas adjacent to the structure which are frequented by the visiting public. This does not include the Community Room between the hours of 5 p.m. and 2 a.m. for NPS or authorized partner-sponsored events.
- The areas within all concession’s buildings open to the public (except for the Chisos Basin Lodge Dining Room and patio), the stores, and parking areas immediately adjacent to the stores at Rio Grande Village, Castolon, the Basin, and Panther Junction.
- Langford Hot Springs area to include the trail and parking lot.
The following are designated public meeting or assembly areas. Detailed maps of specific areas are attached, see Appendix A.
Justification: A permit is necessary to control public assemblies and meetings in the park that may damage park resources or conflict with the overall safety and enjoyment of the park by most park visitors, while allowing for First Amendment rights. Refer to Section 1.6 Permits for requirements.
- Rio Grande Village Visitor Center parking lot.
- Chisos Basin Amphitheater
- West Entrance Parking Lot.
- Panther Junction Headquarters Parking Lot.
- Other areas so designated by the Superintendent.
Justification: A permit is necessary to control public assemblies and meetings in the park that may damage park resources or conflict with the overall safety and enjoyment of the park by most park visitors, while allowing for First Amendment rights. Refer to Section 1.6 Permits for requirements.
The following areas are designated as acceptable for the sale or distribution of printed matter. Sale or distribution areas may not interfere with foot traffic or block any public entrance or park signage. Detailed maps of specific areas will be furnished upon request. See Appendix B.
- Beneath the Ramada at the Rio Grande Village Store, facing the parking lot, between the bulletin board and the south end of the store building.
- On the plaza in front of the Chisos Basin Ranger Station, in a six-foot-wide area between the flagpole and the southeast building roof corner, and within four feet of the rock retaining wall closest to the lodge.
- On the sidewalk at the handicapped space outside of the Panther Junction Visitor Center.
Am I required to obtain a permit to operate a vessel in the park area?
River permits, can be obtained at all Big Bend National Park visitor centers and are required for the use of any water vessel within the boundaries administered by Big Bend National Park and the Rio Grande Wild and Scenic River. One permit per group is required.
River permits are available up to 7 days in advance of the trip.
Exceptions to the permit requirement are day use boaters on the Rio Grande Wild and Scenic River downstream of the eastern park boundary, and day use floating on the river inside the boundary of the national park on inner tubes. Inner tubes, pool floats and similar inflatables, are allowed on the river for day use only, except for Santa Elena, Mariscal, and Boquillas Canyons.
Recreational Fee Permits (backcountry permits) are required for overnight stays anywhere on the Rio Grande both within the park and within the Rio Grande Wild and Scenic River; see SECTION 2.10.
The following are special conditions of all river use permits:
Justification: A permit is necessary to ensure public safety and resource protection such as the habitat of aquatic species or sensitive species.
River permits, can be obtained at all Big Bend National Park visitor centers and are required for the use of any water vessel within the boundaries administered by Big Bend National Park and the Rio Grande Wild and Scenic River. One permit per group is required.
River permits are available up to 7 days in advance of the trip.
Exceptions to the permit requirement are day use boaters on the Rio Grande Wild and Scenic River downstream of the eastern park boundary, and day use floating on the river inside the boundary of the national park on inner tubes. Inner tubes, pool floats and similar inflatables, are allowed on the river for day use only, except for Santa Elena, Mariscal, and Boquillas Canyons.
Recreational Fee Permits (backcountry permits) are required for overnight stays anywhere on the Rio Grande both within the park and within the Rio Grande Wild and Scenic River; see SECTION 2.10.
The following are special conditions of all river use permits:
- Each person shall have a type I, II, III or V, U.S. Coast Guard approved personal flotation device (PFD) which is properly fitted, in serviceable condition, and immediately accessible while on the river. If using a type V PFD, it must always be worn during the trip. All PFDs must be worn in Class II or greater difficulty whitewater.
- Children under the age of 13 must wear a PFD when a vessel is underway per Federal and State law.\
- Each group shall carry one extra type I, II, III, or V PFD.
- Each vessel shall carry an extra paddle or oar; kayaks shall have an extra paddle per group. Permittee is required to show the permit writer that these are in their possession before a permit is issued.
- River trips shall have a fire pan with them if they are using wood or charcoal.
- Each overnight boat group must carry a fire pan with a 2-inch minimum rim. Fires must be contained in firepans, and all unburned charcoal carried out. Burn only charcoal or dead and down wood.
- Each group using inflatable vessels, will carry an operable pump and a patch kit capable of making major repairs.
- No watercraft shall exceed the manufacturer’s recommended occupancy limits in weight or number of persons.
- Inner tubes, pool floats, and similar inflatables, as primary watercraft are not allowed in Boquillas, Mariscal, Santa Elena, and Lower Canyons.
- No group, organization, or commercial operator may start no more than 25 persons per day, not including guides, on the Rio Grande within the Rio Grande Wild and Scenic River downstream of the eastern boundary of Big Bend National Park.
- Western Park boundary to the Santa Elena take-out
- Santa Elena take-out to Cottonwood Campground
- Cottonwood Campground to Talley
- Solis to Boquillas Canyon entrance
- Talley to Solis
- Boquillas Canyon entrance to the eastern park boundary
- Lower Canyons
Justification: A permit is necessary to ensure public safety and resource protection such as the habitat of aquatic species or sensitive species.
Commercial or private river trips are not allowed to utilize the Boquillas Crossing Port of Entry (POE) as a Point of ingress or egress for river trips.
Justification: Allowing the POE to be a river access point is contrary to the Memorandum of
Agreement (MOA) between the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP.)
Using trailers to launch or recover vessels is prohibited, except at the following designated sites:
Justification: This condition is for public safety and resource protection.
Justification: Allowing the POE to be a river access point is contrary to the Memorandum of
Agreement (MOA) between the U.S. Department of Homeland Security (DHS) and U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP.)
Using trailers to launch or recover vessels is prohibited, except at the following designated sites:
- Santa Elena Canyon River Access takeout (not the trail access)
- Tally (October only)
- Solis (October only)
- Rio Grande Village put-in/take-out
Justification: This condition is for public safety and resource protection.
The following areas are designated as 10 miles per hour speed limits:
- Rio Grande Village, Chisos Basin, and Cottonwood Campgrounds.
- Approaches to Maverick and Persimmon Gap Entrance Stations.
- Throughout the Basin developed area beginning on Route 14 (Basin Road), near milepost 6.0, where posted (Approximately .3 miles east of the main Basin parking lot intersection).
- Throughout the Panther Junction Housing area, beginning at the intersection of Route 12 (RGV Road) and Alsate Ave.
- San Vicente School Zone.
- Route 14 (Basin Road) near milepost 4.3, where posted, and continuing south, toward the Basin, over Panther Pass to the bottom of the “S” curves below Lost Mine (West bound) to where the change is posted to 25 mph near milepost 5.5.
- Daniels Ranch Road.
- Boquillas Canyon Road.
- RGV Campground Road from the RGV store to the campground.
- Santa Elena Canyon Road from Maverick Road junction to Santa Elena Canyon parking area.
- All unpaved (gravel/dirt) roads.
- Route 12 (RGV Road) and Route 13 (Hwy 118) near the Panther Junction Headquarters.
- Route 12 (RGV Road) from the Tunnel to Rio Grande Village.
- Route 11 (Hwy 385) near Panther Junction.
- Route 15 at Sam Nail Ranch
- Route 15 from 1/2 mile north of Castolon Residential Area to Route 16 (Santa Elena Canyon Road). ● Route 16
- Route 14 (Basin Road) near milepost 3 to approximately milepost 4.3, where posted.
Designated areas and conditions for hitchhiking or soliciting transportation in park areas:
- All areas within the park are permitted for hitchhiking or soliciting transport except:
- Within 0.2 miles of park entrance stations.
- Within 200 feet schools, businesses, NPS office buildings, or visitor centers.
- In signed residential or government areas.
- In an area where vehicles may not safely pull off a park road fully onto the road’s shoulder or into a pull out.
- Persons hitchhiking or soliciting transport are prohibited from the following:
- Holding or having a sign larger than 2 feet x 2 feet.
- Standing on the paved surface of a park road, except for clearly defined pull outs.
- Wearing dark colored clothing during hours of darkness.
- Being under the influence of alcohol or an intoxicating substance.
- Being unsafe or causing a nuisance.
36 CFR § 7.41: Special Regulations, Areas of the National Park System; Big Bend National Park.
(a) Fishing; closed waters. Special ponds and springs reserved for species of rare fish are closed to fishing and bait collecting. The taking or release of any form of fish life in these ponds or springs is prohibited except by special authorization by the Superintendent. These ponds and springs will be posted as closed to fishing and bait collecting and molestation.
(b) Fishing; method.
(c) Fishing; limit of catch. The limit of catch per person per day or in possession shall be 25 fish, except that minnows caught for bait shall not be accountable for the purpose of this section.
Justification: The superintendent has determined that fishing in closed waters has a high potential for impacting park resources, safety, and visitor experience.
(a) Fishing; closed waters. Special ponds and springs reserved for species of rare fish are closed to fishing and bait collecting. The taking or release of any form of fish life in these ponds or springs is prohibited except by special authorization by the Superintendent. These ponds and springs will be posted as closed to fishing and bait collecting and molestation.
(b) Fishing; method.
(1) Fishing with pole and line, rod and reel, and trot and throw line is permitted all year from the United States side of the Rio Grande.
(2) Use of seine. The use of seines and nets is prohibited except minnow seines no greater than 20 feet in length may be used for taking of minnows for bait.
(2) Use of seine. The use of seines and nets is prohibited except minnow seines no greater than 20 feet in length may be used for taking of minnows for bait.
(c) Fishing; limit of catch. The limit of catch per person per day or in possession shall be 25 fish, except that minnows caught for bait shall not be accountable for the purpose of this section.
Justification: The superintendent has determined that fishing in closed waters has a high potential for impacting park resources, safety, and visitor experience.
Appendix A
Designated Areas for Public Assembly
Big Bend National Park
Rio Grande Wild and Scenic River
Panther Junction / Park HQ Assembly Area
Aerial photograph showing the Panther Junction visitor center, associated parking lots, and roads leading into the area. The visitor center is in the center of the map between the roads. The lower section of the main parking lot above the visitor center is highlighted. An arrow points to this area with text that reads, “Area is along the paved sidewalk in the visitor parking lot.”
Rio Grande Village Assembly Area
Aerial photograph showing the Rio Grande Visitor Center, associated parking lot, and the road leading past it. The visitor center and parking lot are in the center of the image with the road passing to their right vertically. The left side of the parking lot is highlighted. An arrow points to this area with text that reads, “The area is the western half of the Rio Grande Village Visitor Center parking lot.”
West Entrance Assembly Area
Aerial photograph showing the Maverick Entrance Station, the main park road, and the Old Maverick Road. The two roads meet forming a “V” shape with the opening facing down and to the left. There is a highlighted area at the junction of the two roads inside the “V” shape. An arrow points to this area with text that reads, “Area is the paved parking lot located at the Maverick Road Junction.”
Chisos Basin Ampitheater Assembly Area
Aerial photograph showing the Chisos Basin Campground, Amphitheater parking lot and roads. The campground is at the top of the image, and the Amphitheater parking lot is below it. There is a highlighted area below the parking lot. An arrow points to this area with text that reads, “Area is within the developed amphitheater seating area.”
Compendium Appendix B
Designated Areas for Sale or Distribution of Printed Material
Big Bend National ParkRio Grande Wild and Scenic River
Rio Grande Village Store Center Sale or Distribution of Printed Matter
Aerial photograph showing the Rio Grande Village Store and nearby parking lots and roads. The store is located at center left. Parking lots lie to its left. An intersection of roads is above the store. An arrow points to the store with text that reads, “RGV Store: Area is beneath ramada between bulletin board and south end of store building, facing parking lot.”
Chisos Basin Ranger Station Sale or Distribution of Printed Matter
Aerial photograph showing Chisos Basin Ranger Station and nearby parking lots, roads, and buildings. The ranger station plaza is located near the center of the map. A large, curved parking lot surrounded by other buildings sits below the station plaza. Route 14 feeds into the parking lot from the top right. An arrow points to the station plaza with text that reads, “Ranger station plaza: Area is six feet wide, between the flagpole and building roof, within four feet of rock retaining wall.”
Panther Junction Visitor Center Sale or Distribution of Printed
Aerial photograph showing the Panther Junction Visitor Center, associated parking lots, and roads leading into the area. The visitor center is in the center of the map between the roads. A small area below the lower right section of the parking lot above the visitor center is highlighted. Text below the title reads, “On the sidewalk in front of the eastern handicap parking space outside the Panther Junction Visitor Center.”
Compendium Appendix C
Backcountry Camping Use Limits
Big Bend National ParkRio Grande Wild and Scenic River
The attached pages indicate the official areas open or closed to camping; designated sites; use limits for numbers of people, tents, or vehicles; and camping limits for stock.
The official backcountry use area boundary map is kept at the front desk of the Panther Junction Visitor Center. The attached backcountry use area boundary map is an approximation.
Vehicles are not to be parked on vegetation nor can they block access to roads, trails, or other campsites.
Primitive Roadside Backcountry Campsites
Campsite |
Horse |
Code |
Vehicles |
Persons |
| Grapevine Hills 1 | 0 | GH1 | 3 | 20 |
| Grapevine Hills 2 | 0 | GH2 | 2 | 12 |
| Grapevine Hills 3 | 0 | GH3 | 2 | 6 |
| Grapevine Hills 4 | 0 | GH4 | 2 | 6 |
| Paint Gap 1 | 0 | PG1 | 1 | 4 |
| Paint Gap 2 | 0 | PG2 | 2 | 6 |
| Paint Gap 3 | 0 | PG3 | 1 | 6 |
| Croton Springs 3 | 0 | CS1 | 3 | 12 |
| K-Bar 1 | 0 | KB1 | 2 | 6 |
| K-Bar 2 | 0 | KB2 | 2 | 6 |
| Hannold Draw 3 | 8 | HD1 | 3 | 20 |
| Nine-Point Draw 3 | 4 | NP1 | 2 | 8 |
| Nugent Mountain 3 | 4 | NM1 | 3 | 20 |
| Pine Canyon 1 | 0 | PC1 | 2 | 6 |
| Pine Canyon 2 | 0 | PC2 | 2 | 6 |
| Pine Canyon 3 | 0 | PC3 | 1 | 4 |
| Pine Canyon 4 | 0 | PC4 | 2 | 6 |
| Pine Canyon 5 | 0 | PC5 | 2 | 6 |
| Rice Tank 3 | 0 | RT1 | 2 | 6 |
| Robbers Roost 3 | 0 | RR1 | 2 | 8 |
| Camp Chilicotal 3 | 0 | CC1 | 2 | 8 |
| Twisted Shoe | 0 | TS1 | 1 | 4 |
| Glenn Springs 1 | 0 | GS1 | 2 | 8 |
| Glenn Springs 2 | 0 | GS2 | 2 | 8 |
| Candelilla 3 | 0 | CA1 | 2 | 8 |
| Ernst Tinaja 3 | 0 | ET1 | 2 | 10 |
| Camp de Leon | 0 | CL1 | 1 | 6 |
| La Noria 1 | 0 | LA1 | 1 | 6 |
| La Noria 2 | 0 | LA2 | 1 | 6 |
| Ernst Basin 3 | 0 | EB1 | 2 | 10 |
| Willow Tank 2 | 0 | WT1 | 1 | 8 |
| Telephone Canyon 1 | 0 | TC1 | 1 | 8 |
| Telephone Canyon 2 | 0 | TC2 | 2 | 12 |
| Roy's Peak 2 | 0 | RP1 | 2 | 6 |
| McKinney Spring 2 | 0 | MS1 | 2 | 6 |
| Dominguez Trailhead 2 | 4 | DT1 | 2 | 8 |
| Loop Camp 1 | 4 (4x4 req.) | LP1 | 3 | 12 |
| Loop Camp 2 | 4 (4x4 req.) | LP2 | 2 | 8 |
| Johnson Ranch 1 | 4 (4x4 req.) | JR1 | 2 | 10 |
| Johnson Ranch 2 | 2 (4x4 req.) | JR2 | 2 | 8 |
| Gauging Station 2 | 0 | GA1 | 1 | 6 |
| Black Dike 2 | 0 | BD1 | 2 | 10 |
| Buenos Aires 2 | 4 (4x4 req.) | BA1 | 2 | 10 |
| Terlingua Abajo 2 | 0 | TA1 | 3 | 12 |
| Ocotillo Grove | 0 | OG1 | 2 | 8 |
| Gravel Pit 1 | 0 | GP1 | 2 | 10 |
| Gravel Pit 2 | 0 | GP2 | 2 | 10 |
| Gravel Pit 3 | 0 | GP3 | 2 | 12 |
| La Clocha 1 | 4 (4-horse trailer, 4x4 required) | LC1 | 2 | 10 |
| La Clocha 3 | 0 | LC2 | 2 | 8 |
| Solis 1 | 0 | SO1 | 2 | 12 |
| Solis 2 | 0 | SO2 | 3 | 15 |
| Fresno 2 | 0 | FR1 | 2 | 8 |
| Elephant Tusk 2 | 0 | EL1 | 1 | 6 |
| Talley 1 | 0 | TY1 | 2 | 8 |
| Talley 2 | 0 | TY2 | 2 | 8 |
| Talley 3 | 0 | TY3 | 3 | 12 |
| Talley 4 | 4 (4x4 req.) | TY4 | 2 | 8 |
| Maverick Camp | 0 | MC-1 | 2 | 8 |
| Grandview 1 | 0 | GV-1 | 2 | 8 |
| Grandview 2 | 0 | GV-2 | 2 | 8 |
| Grandview 3 | 0 | GV-3 | 2 | 8 |
| Desert Vista 1 | 0 | DV-1 | 2 | 8 |
| Desert Vista 2 | 0 | DV-2 | 2 | 8 |
| Rattlesnake Mt 1 | 0 | RM-1 | 2 | 8 |
| Rattlesnake Mt 2 | 0 | RM-2 | 2 | 8 |
Chisos Mountains Backcountry Campsites
Campsite |
Code |
Persons |
Tents |
| Juniper Flat 1 | JF1 | 4 | 1 |
| Juniper Flat 2 | JF2 | 6 | 3 |
| Juniper Flat 3 | JF3 | 6 | 3 |
| Boulder Meadow 1 | BM1 | 4 | 2 |
| Boulder Meadow 2 | BM2 | 4 | 2 |
| Boulder Meadow 3 | BM3 | 4 | 2 |
| Boulder Meadow 4 | BM4 | 4 | 2 |
| Boulder Meadow 5 | BM5 | 6 | 2 |
| Pinnacles 1 | P11 | 4 | 1 |
| Pinnacles 2 | P12 | 6 | 2 |
| Pinnacles 3 | P13 | 10 | 3 |
| Toll Mountain 0 | TM1 | 4 | 1 |
| Boot Canyon 1 | BC1 | 6 | 2 |
| Boot Canyon 2 | BC2 | 12 | 5 |
| Boot Canyon 3 | BC3 | 4 | 2 |
| Boot Canyon 4 | BC4 | 6 | 2 |
| Colima 1 | CO1 | 15 | 5 |
| Colima 2 | CO2 | 3 | 1 |
| Colima 3 | CO3 | 4 | 2 |
| Juniper Canyon 0 | JC1 | 6 | 2 |
| East Rim 1 | ER1 | 5 | 2 |
| East Rim 2 | ER2 | 6 | 2 |
| East Rim 3 | ER3 | 6 | 2 |
| East Rim 4 | ER4 | 10 | 5 |
| East Rim 5 | ER5 | 6 | 2 |
| East Rim 6 | ER6 | 6 | 2 |
| East Rim ? | ER? | 10 | 5 |
| East Rim 8 | ER8 | 6 | 2 |
| East Rim 9 | ER9 | 6 | 2 |
| South Rim 2 | SR2 | 3 | 1 |
| South Rim 3 | SR3 | 10 | 4 |
| South Rim 4 | SR4 | 4 | 1 |
| Blue Creek 1 | BL1 | 4 | 1 |
| Blue Creek 2 | BL2 | 4 | 1 |
| Laguna Meadow 1 | LM1 | 6 | 2 |
| Laguna Meadow 2 | LM2 | 10 | 5 |
| Laguna Meadow 3 | LM3 | 6 | 2 |
| Laguna Meadow 4 | LM4 | 6 | 2 |
| Laguna West 1 | LW1 | 4 | 2 |
| Laguna West 2 | LW2 | 4 | 1 |
| Laguna West 3 | LW3 | 4 | 1 |
Compendium Appendix D
Closure Maps
Big Bend National ParkRio Grande Wild and Scenic River
Port of Entry Closure
A topographical map of the Rio Grande Village Area, showing an area closed to the public along the US-Mexico border. The map also shows infrastructure such as roads and the location of the campground. The international border is shown along the Rio Grande River, which forms a rough “U” shape on the map. The Rio Grande Village is located at the bottom left, near the bottom of the “U” shape. Boquillas Crossing is located to the top right of the village. An area above and below Boquillas Crossing is shown with red hatches, indicating it’s closed to the public.
Peregrine Falcon Closure
A topographical map of the high Chisos Mountains. It shows trails, campsites, and peak elevations. A section of the East Rim Trail is highlighted in the lower right portion of the map. This represents the section of the trail that is closed for peregrine nesting season, running from Feb. 1 – May 31. From top to bottom, the following campsites along this trail are also closed during the same period: ER4 (NE5), ER5 (NE5), ER6 (SE4), ER7 (SE3), ER8 (SE2), and ER9 (SE1). A notation near the campsite depictions reads, “Some campsites have recently undergone a name change. These sites are labeled with the new name code first, followed by the original name. Example: ER6 (SE4): ER6 is the current name; SE4 is the original name and appears on older maps.”
Compendium Appendix E
Big Bend Route Number Map
Big Bend National ParkRio Grande Wild and Scenic River
A simple map showing the park boundaries and the paved roads that run through it, with associated route numbers. The developed areas of each section are represented by ranger station symbols. Numbered routes and locations with approximate distances:
- Route 11 travels from Persimmon Gap at the top of the map 30 miles south to Panther Junction.
- Route 12 travels from Panther Junction 20 miles southeast to RGV
- Route 13 travels from Panther Junction 20 miles west to Maverick Entrance
- Route 14 spurs off Route 13 3 miles west of Panther Junction and travels 6 miles south to Chisos Basin
- Route 15 spurs off Route 13 13 miles west of Panther Junction and travels 20 miles south to Castolon
- Route 16 travels 10 miles northwest from Castolon
Compendium Appendix F
Zone Camping Map
Big Bend National ParkRio Grande Wild and Scenic River
Desert Adventure
Wilderness camping permits are available to backpackers who wish to stay overnight in areas of the park that do not have designated campsites. Adequate preparation for cross-country travel and open desert camping is required.
Wilderness campers must choose and appropriate sight at least ½ mile, (.8 km) from roads and be out of site of any park road. Wilderness campers are also required to camp more than 100 yards (90 m) away from any historic structure, archeological site, trail, water source, or cliff edge. Within the backcountry, the group size limit is 15 people. Larger groups must split up and may not camp in adjacent zones.
Restricted Areas
Backcountry camping in the Chisos Mountains is available in designated campsites only, The Chisos Basin area and north ridge are closed to backcountry and off-trail camping of any kind. Burro Mesa is also closed to wilderness camping or any kind of overnight use.Wilderness Camping Zones
Campsite |
Code |
Persons |
Tents |
| Juniper Flat 1 | JF1 | 4 | 1 |
| Juniper Flat 2 | JF2 | 6 | 3 |
| Juniper Flat 3 | JF3 | 6 | 3 |
| Boulder Meadow 1 | BM1 | 4 | 2 |
| Boulder Meadow 2 | BM2 | 4 | 2 |
| Boulder Meadow 3 | BM3 | 4 | 2 |
| Boulder Meadow 4 | BM4 | 4 | 2 |
| Boulder Meadow 5 | BM5 | 6 | 2 |
| Pinnacles 1 | P11 | 4 | 1 |
| Pinnacles 2 | P12 | 6 | 2 |
| Pinnacles 3 | P13 | 10 | 3 |
| Toll Mountain 0 | TM1 | 4 | 1 |
| Boot Canyon 1 | BC1 | 6 | 2 |
| Boot Canyon 2 | BC2 | 12 | 5 |
| Boot Canyon 3 | BC3 | 4 | 2 |
| Boot Canyon 4 | BC4 | 6 | 2 |
| Colima 1 | CO1 | 15 | 5 |
| Colima 2 | CO2 | 3 | 1 |
| Colima 3 | CO3 | 4 | 2 |
| Juniper Canyon 0 | JC1 | 6 | 2 |
| East Rim 1 | ER1 | 5 | 2 |
| East Rim 2 | ER2 | 6 | 2 |
| East Rim 3 | ER3 | 6 | 2 |
| East Rim 4 | ER4 | 10 | 5 |
| East Rim 5 | ER5 | 6 | 2 |
| East Rim 6 | ER6 | 6 | 2 |
| East Rim ? | ER? | 10 | 5 |
| East Rim 8 | ER8 | 6 | 2 |
| East Rim 9 | ER9 | 6 | 2 |
| South Rim 2 | SR2 | 3 | 1 |
| South Rim 3 | SR3 | 10 | 4 |
| South Rim 4 | SR4 | 4 | 1 |
| Blue Creek 1 | BL1 | 4 | 1 |
| Blue Creek 2 | BL2 | 4 | 1 |
| Laguna Meadow 1 | LM1 | 6 | 2 |
| Laguna Meadow 2 | LM2 | 10 | 5 |
| Laguna Meadow 3 | LM3 | 6 | 2 |
| Laguna Meadow 4 | LM4 | 6 | 2 |
| Laguna West 1 | LW1 | 4 | 2 |
| Laguna West 2 | LW2 | 4 | 1 |
| Laguna West 3 | LW3 | 4 | 1 |
Last updated: July 16, 2026