Site East Rim 9, Loop Backpacking Site

Big Bend National Park | Big Bend Backcountry Camping

Type: HIKE TO

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Site Details

• Max Num of People: 6
• Min Num of People: 1
• Shade: Yes
• Site Access: Hike In
• Checkin Time: 12:00 PM
• Checkout Time: 12:00 PM
• Hike In Distance to Site: 6.5 - 8 miles

Permitted Equipment

• Tent

Driveway Details

• Is Equipment Mandatory: No
• Max Num of Horses: 0

Need to Know

• Maximum 6 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 Southeast 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 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 6.5 to 8 miles (10-13 km) from the Chisos Basin Trailhead via either the Pinnacles/Boot Canyon or Laguna Meadows Trails. The sites are situated along a 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. 

  • This area was affected by the 2021 South Rim Fire. Burned trees and cleared vegetation are visible throughout this area.

• The trails to the East Rim are well marked, maintained, and usually in great condition all year round. The Pinnacles Trail is the steepest, yet most direct route to the East Rim. 

• The East Rim Campsites are located along the southern edge of a high lava plateau overlooking the rugged Sierra Quemada (the burnt land) desert and into Mexico. These campsites are not located on the very edge of the rim, but situated 100-200 ft (30-60 m) into the trees on the opposite side of the trail. 

• ER-9: Nice site. Close to the rim.

  • This campsite was affected by the 2021 South Rim Fire. Areas near the campsite have burned and the site has some dead trees adjacent.

• Since these campsites are not perched on the rim, but sheltered within the trees, there are NO views off the rim from the actual sites. A short walk of 100-200 ft (30-60 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. 

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