Camping Under the Stars: A Family Adventure at Chisos Basin Campground in Big Bend National Park
Big Bend National Park. The name itself conjures images of vast desert landscapes, towering canyons, and a sense of remote adventure. This past summer, my family and I decided to experience it firsthand with a family camping Texas trip to the Chisos Basin Campground. I'm Daniel, a 45-year-old software engineer and experienced camper, and I thought I was prepared. My wife, Maria, 42, a high school English teacher new to camping, had some… reservations. Rounding out the crew were my daughter, Chloe, 10, an aspiring nature photographer, and Maria's son, Leo, 16, who, let’s just say, was more interested in Wi-Fi than wildlife. This is our story.
Finding Our Oasis: The Drive to Chisos Basin
The journey to Big Bend National Park camping is part of the adventure. After leaving Marathon, TX, behind, the cell service vanished quicker than Maria's patience. The landscape transformed into a seemingly endless expanse of desert. It's a stark reminder of just how isolated this corner of Texas truly is. For those relying on GPS, the Chisos Basin Campground is located at approximately 29.2550° N, 103.2274° W.
The final ascent to Chisos Basin is a winding, twisting road that climbs thousands of feet. As you ascend, the vegetation changes, and the air noticeably cools. It felt like entering another world, a mountain island rising from the surrounding desert. This is what we came for – a true escape.
Setting Up Camp: A Test of Patience (and Skill)
Finding a relatively level spot at the Chisos Basin Campground felt like winning the lottery. The ground is rocky, unforgiving, and definitely not designed for comfort. This is Texas desert camping at its most authentic!
While I confidently staked our tent, Maria struggled valiantly, battling stubborn tent poles and the unyielding ground. Let's just say her enthusiasm for camping waned slightly with each rock she encountered. Thankfully, each campsite comes equipped with a picnic table and a fire ring, which were much appreciated.
Campground Rules: Respecting the Desert
Big Bend National Park takes its campground rules seriously, and for good reason. The primary concern is wildlife. Javelinas, scorpions, and other creatures are constantly on the lookout for an easy meal. All food must be stored in bear-resistant containers or your vehicle. We made sure to double-check everything before turning in for the night.
Another crucial rule: carry plenty of water! The desert is unforgiving, and dehydration can sneak up on you quickly. And, of course, the park emphasizes a strict "Leave No Trace" policy. Pack out everything you pack in, stay on marked trails, and respect the delicate desert ecosystem. Never approach wild animals – admire them from a distance.
Bathrooms and Showers: Rustic Comforts
The bathrooms at Chisos Basin Campground are clean but basic. They offer flush toilets, which were a welcome surprise, but that's about it. Showers are available, but they are coin-operated and cost $5 for 5 minutes. Given the limited water resources in the desert, water conservation is key. I managed a quick rinse, while Maria opted for baby wipes – a smart move, in hindsight.
Activities: Stargazing, Hiking, and a Trip to Mexico
Texas stargazing in Big Bend is simply incredible. With minimal light pollution, the night sky explodes with countless stars. Even Leo put his phone down for a few minutes to marvel at the Milky Way. Chloe, of course, was in heaven, snapping photos with her camera.
We also tackled the Lost Mine Trail hike, a 4.8-mile round trip. The trail offers panoramic views of the Chisos Mountains and the surrounding desert. It's a moderately challenging hike, but the reward is well worth the effort.
One of the highlights of our trip was a day trip to Boquillas del Carmen, Mexico. The experience is surreal. You park your car, walk down to the Rio Grande, and cross in a rowboat for about $5 per person. Be sure to bring your updated passport! The border crossing fee is approximately $5 per person as well.
Boquillas is a small, charming village with friendly locals and a laid-back atmosphere. We enjoyed lunch at a local restaurant, purchased a few souvenirs, and soaked up the unique culture. It was a welcome change of pace and a memorable experience for the whole family.
Food: Keeping it Simple
Given the heat and limited water, we opted for meals that required minimal preparation and cleanup. Shelf-stable tortillas with canned beans and cheese were a staple. We also packed freeze-dried chili and plenty of energy bars. Hydration is key, so we made sure to drink plenty of water and electrolyte drinks throughout the day.
Overall Impression: An Unforgettable Experience
Despite the challenges – the heat, the lack of Wi-Fi (much to Leo's dismay), and the occasional desert creature – our Big Bend National Park camping trip was an unforgettable experience. We saw breathtaking landscapes, experienced incredible stargazing, and created memories that will last a lifetime.
Camping with teenagers isn't always easy, and Maria certainly missed her air conditioning, but even they found something to appreciate in the stark beauty of the desert. Chisos Basin Campground offers a unique opportunity to disconnect from the modern world and reconnect with nature – and with each other. If you're looking for a truly unforgettable family camping Texas adventure, Big Bend is calling.