About Rio Grande Village (Big Bend, TX)
Overview The Rio Grande Village Campground sits near the banks of the Rio Grande, the International Boundary between the United States and Mexico. It is one of the most popular campgrounds in Big Bend National Park, especially for those traveling in large recreational vehicles. It is located close to Boquillas Canyon and Hot Springs, and serves as a launch point for visitors accessing the river or the endless miles of backcountry roads. Rio Grande Village has an outstanding view of the Sierra del Carmen Mountains, located in Mexico to the east, which light up with hues of red and orange during sunset. Recreation The river offers ample opportunities to explore its shores and water. The river put-in allows easy access to canoeing and kayaking on the river. Birders flock to the river banks to spot such rare and unique species often found only in Big Bend. Day Hike trails are also found nearby and many backcountry roads are located near the campground. Facilities Equipment Types. This fairly large campground has 100 campsites that range in size from small tent sites to large pull-through sites that can fit a 40-ft. (12 m) motor home. Please look carefully at each campsite description, as low hanging branches persist in the campground and not all sites are suitable for tall or long RVs and trailers. All campsites are reservable, some six months in advance, some two weeks in advance (campsites #14 (accessible), 20-25, 34, 61-65, 67-70, 72, 74-75, 87-100). There is no first-come, first served camping. A few sites are set aside for administrative use. No Hookups. There are no hookups available in the facility but each site offers a picnic table, charcoal grill and bear-proof food storage locker. Some are also furnished with picnic shelters for shade. Generators are permitted in some sites during designated generator hours (8:00 a.m. until 8:00 p.m.).Other amenities. All campsites are within easy walking distance to water spigots, flush toilets, and utility sinks, and for th
How to Get There
From Interstate 10, take State Highway 385 south to Fort Stockton and into Marathon. From Marathon, drive 40 miles (62 km) (south on State Highway 385 to the north entrance of Big Bend National Park. Drive straight for 26 miles (42 km) to Park Headquarters at Panther Junction. Turn left and proceed for 20 miles (32 km) to the Rio Grande Village area. Turn left at the stop sign and follow signs into the campground.
Driving directions (Google Maps) →What to Pack for Your Stay
Tuned to the live forecast for this park.
👔 What to Wear
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Long-sleeve shirt
Synthetic or merino, sun-protective.
- 🧥
Light shell or windbreaker
Even on warm days, wind can chill (avg wind 0 mph).
- 👖
Hiking pants or convertible
Layer for variable conditions.
- 🥾
Trail runners or low boots
Comfortable, broken in.
🎒 What to Pack
- 💧
Water
Bring at least 1L of water; more in heat.
- 🍫
High-energy snacks
A snack for the trail.
- 🧴
Sun protection
Sunscreen, sunglasses, brimmed hat.
- 🩹
First-aid kit
Blister patches, ibuprofen, tape, antiseptic wipes.
- 🗺
Offline map
Download your route in advance via Gaia, Caltopo, or OSM-based apps.
Recommendations adapt to the current forecast + trail stats. Use them as a starting point — local conditions, your experience, and the time of day you start all matter.
Plan Your Visit to Rio Grande Village (Big Bend, TX)
Heading to Rio Grande Village (Big Bend, TX)? A few things to know before you go:
- Reservations: popular sites fill up fast — check Recreation.gov 6 months in advance
- Fees: day-use and camping fees vary; check current rates on the official park page
- Trash & pack-out: follow Leave No Trace principles
- Wildlife: store food in bear boxes where provided; never feed wildlife
- Weather: the 5-day forecast above is updated every 6 hours; verify just before you go
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need a reservation for Rio Grande Village (Big Bend, TX)?
No central reservation system listed for Rio Grande Village (Big Bend, TX). Check the official page (https://www.recreation.gov/camping/campgrounds/234035) for the latest entry policy and availability.
How do I get to Rio Grande Village (Big Bend, TX)?
From Interstate 10, take State Highway 385 south to Fort Stockton and into Marathon. From Marathon, drive 40 miles (62 km) (south on State Highway 385 to the north entrance of Big Bend National Park. Drive straight for 26 miles (42 km) to Park Headquarters at Panther Junction. Turn left and proceed for 20 miles (32 km) to the Rio Grande Village area. Turn left at the stop sign and follow signs int…
How do I contact Rio Grande Village (Big Bend, TX)?
You can reach the park at phone: 432-477-1121.
References & Official Resources