Planning ahead is crucial to a safe trip. In addition to one or more of the following guidebooks, we highly recommend consulting the park's main website frequently for important safety updates.
It's Spring in Big Bend! Temperatures are extremely variable-- ranging from below freezing to the low 90s-- so come prepared for just about anything!
Visitation is matching or exceeding previous records, making flexibility the most important skill for a Big Bend trip in the busy season. Make a plan for each section of the park, so if it's crowded, you're ready to go see something fabulous where the crowds aren't.
Remember that you must have a reservation or permit to camp or park overnight anywhere inside or outside the park. There is no free first-come, first-served camping anywhere in Brewster County. All land outside the parks is privately owned, and camping without permission can lead to criminal prosecution. See the park website for information on how to make a reservation and a list of nearby options when Big Bend National Park is full.
The restaurant at the Chisos Mountains Lodge is open normal hours most days, including breakfast service, although there may be closures on short notice due to building repair needs. Call or stop by the Chisos Mountains Lodge offices to find out plans for the days of your visit.
Bringing a trailer or RV? It's best to go to your RV park first to leave your RV, and drive into the park in your tow vehicle. You're unlikely to find a parking spot large enough for an RV. The only place in the park where you might be given permission to leave a trailer is the Rio Grande Village visitor center at the far east end.
