Rio Grande Village Campground, Big Bend National Park, Texas



We always love staying within our National Park boundaries during our travels around our country. Big Bend National Park is one that not many people get to, due to its remote (and I mean REMOTE) location. We were surprised just how remote this place is. Our drive off of the Interstate 10 in Texas led us an additional 4 or so hours south. We rarely saw another vehicle, passed through a couple of dilapidated towns and eventually lost radio signals and cell signals, leaving us to explore and enjoy the true peacefulness found within the park. We chose to stay at the southernmost park, Rio Grande Village, which is set along the Rio Grande and overlooks
fabulous views of the surrounding canyon cliffs and mountains of Mexico and our own wonderful country. We were slightly concerned about border issues when arriving here (at least I was, but didn't dare mention to my hubby for fear he would want to cancel!) and was relieved when settling into camp. Immediately upon arrival, we were greeted by the friendliest camp hosts we have ever encountered, and spent the next couple of days enjoying a few conversations with them (they are fellow Tiffin owners as well!). The campground does not overlook the Rio Grande as I had envisioned in my mind prior to arrival, but rather is accessible through some thick brush along the perimeter of the campground. A bridge leads campers across an inlet of the river to hiking trails offering a great 360 degree overlook of the area. Turtles and fish were visible when we crossed. Campground interior roads are paved, however site pads are a bit more rough, some poorly paved and others gravel and dirt. Sites are spacious and scenic, offering a picnic table and some shade. Campfires are not allowed in the park due to the dry, desert setting, and only gas and charcoal BBQs are allowed. A small, but adequate village store, gas station, laundry facility, amphitheater, group campground and a meager Visitor's Center are also located here. Several other campgrounds are available in the park, including the Rio Grande RV Village (adjacent to this campground), Chisos Basin Campground and many other backcountry camping choices. Rio Grande Campground is the best choice for larger RVs; Chisos Basin has strict length limits on roadways and at the campground itself. Reservations are recommended here during winter and spring months, the parks high travel time and mild winter weather, and several sites are first come, first served. Rio Grande Campground and Visitor's Center are closed in summer due to the high summer temperatures.

Location
Best Sites: 5-9
Poor Sites: 20-27
Hookups: None
Potable Water: Yes
Dump Within Facility: Yes

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