Site East Rim 1, Loop Backpacking Site
Big Bend National Park | Big Bend Backcountry Camping
Type: HIKE TO
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Site Details
- Max Num of People: 5
- Min Num of People: 1
- Site Access: Hike In
- Checkin Time: 01:00 PM
- Checkout Time: 12:00 PM
- Hike In Distance to Site: 6 - 7 miles
Permitted Equipment
- Tent
Driveway Details
- Is Equipment Mandatory: No
- Max Num of Horses: 0
Need to Know
Maximum 5 people, 2 tents.
The South Rim Fire destroyed the composting vault toilet that serves the East Rim campsites. Campers using this campsite are required to pack out human waste using a waste disposal kit such as Restop2 or similar commercial products. These personal waste systems are widely available through online retailers, and for purchase at the park.
Hammocks are prohibited.
Bears and other animals are frequently seen in this area. Always use the bear box at campsite, and NEVER leave any food or packs unattended.
No wood or ground fires permitted.
There is NO water anywhere near the Southwest Rim of the Chisos. Hikers on 1-2 day trips should plan on carrying ALL their necessary water. Plan on at least one gallon/24 hours/person.
Pets are NOT ALLOWED on any trails in Big Bend National Park.
You are responsible for protecting YOUR park. Backcountry Regulations are strictly enforced.
BACKPACKING CAMPSITE
The East Rim campsites are located between 6 and 7miles (10-11 km) from the Chisos Basin Trailhead via the Pinnacles Trail (8.5 miles/13.6 km via the Laguna Meadow Trail). The ER-4 campsite is located at the end of a spur trail on a high ridge. All other sites are situated along the spectacular 1.5-mile (2.4 km) section of trail, high above the desert below. Do NOT plan on finding these campsites in the dark.
The trails to the East Rim are well marked, maintained, and usually in great condition all year round. The Pinnacles Trail is the most direct route to the East Rim.
The East Rim Campsites are located along the northern edge of a high lava plateau overlooking the desert. These campsites are not located on the very edge of the rim, but 150-300 ft (45-90 m) into the trees on the opposite side of the trail.
- The East Rim was affected by the 2021 South Rim Fire. Burned trees and cleared areas are visible throughout the area.
ER-1: Small level site, with only moderate shade.
Since these campsites are not perched on the rim there are NO views off the rim from the campsites. A short walk of 200-300 ft (60-90 m) from any site will provide spectacular panoramic vistas.
Water Sources: None. There is NO water anywhere near the Southwest Rim of the Chisos. Hikers on 1-2 day trips should plan on carrying all their necessary water. Plan on at least one gallon/24 hours/person.
This is a hike-in site. Overnight parking is available at the Chisos Basin Amphitheater adjacent to the campground.
To protect the peregrine falcon, from February 1 until May 31 each year, a portion of the East Rim Trail is closed between ER-3 campsite and the southern junction of the Boot Canyon Trail. Read more about this annual closure.
