Site South Rim 4, Loop Backpacking Site
Big Bend National Park | Big Bend Backcountry Camping
Type: HIKE TO
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Site Details
- Hike In Distance to Site: 6.1 miles
- Max Num of People: 4
- Min Num of People: 1
- Shade: Yes
- Site Access: Hike In
- Checkin Time: 12:00 PM
- Checkout Time: 12:00 PM
Permitted Equipment
- Tent
Driveway Details
- Is Equipment Mandatory: No
- Max Num of Horses: 0
Need to Know
Maximum 4 people, 1 tent.
The South Rim Fire destroyed the composting vault toilet that serves the South 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 South 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 South Rim campsites are located on a high volcanic mesa overlooking the low desert and distant mountains of Mexico. The three campsites are spread out along a 1 mile (1.6 km) section of trail. Do NOT plan on finding these campsites in the dark.
- Via the Laguna Meadows Trail: SW-2 is 5 miles (8 km), SW-3 is 5.6 miles (9 km), SW-4 is 6.1 miles (9.8 km).
- Via the Pinnacles Trail: SW-2 is 6.5 miles (10 km), SW-3 is 7 miles (11 km), SW-2 is 7.6 miles (12 km).
The Laguna Meadow Trail is the quickest route to these campsites. The Pinnacles Trail is steeper, but completes most of the climbing in only 3.5 miles (5.6 km).
The South Rim area was affected by the 2021 South Rim Fire. Burned trees and cleared areas are visible throughout the area.
This campsite is surrounded by burned vegetation and cleared areas.
SR-4: This campsite is 200 ft (60 m) from the rim and surrounded by trees. Great privacy, but no views from campsite.
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.
