Big Bend NP — Primitive Roadside Camping

desertcanyondark-sky

Accessibility baseline: Sites on this platform are reviewed for access with a standard 2WD pickup truck towing a 21-foot travel trailer unless otherwise noted below.

Road / tire note: Most roadside pull-outs are on compacted caliche — stock 2WD tires adequate in dry conditions. Avoid after heavy rain when the caliche becomes slippery. A few sites (Paint Gap, Grapevine Hills) involve short rough sections; high-clearance truck is an advantage.

Fee

$10/nt permit + $35 entry/wk

Hookups

No hookups

Trailer

Accessible (2WD pickup + trailer)

Cell Signal

No signal

Water

Bring your own

Toilets

None

Best Season

Oct–Apr

Reservations

In-person at Panther Junction VC

Max Length

35 ft

Highlights

▶ 64 named primitive roadside campsites scattered across 800,000 acres
▶ Paint Gap Hills, Grapevine Hills — iconic backcountry areas
▶ Most remote and quiet camping option in the park

Planning Notes

Get the $10/nt roadside permit in person at Panther Junction Visitor Center. No generators. Combined vehicle + trailer must be under 35ft.

Contact: (432) 477-2251

Always call ahead to confirm conditions, closures, and road accessibility.