The best camping in Big Bend Ranch State Park, TX

Set in far west Texas next to Big Bend National Park, Big Bend Ranch State Park spans more than 300,000 acres of rugged mountains, dramatic canyons, and high desert terrain. Raft, paddle, float, or fish the Rio Grande River, which winds its way throughout the largest state park in Texas. And don't miss the scenic drive along FM 170 (River Road), which parallels the Rio Grande. The park also offers 238 miles of hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding trails, an incredible diversity of wildlife, a network of cattle ranches, and hundreds of archaeological sites. There’s plenty of space for campers, with one bunkhouse, more than two dozen drive-in primitive sites, equestrian sites, and a whole backcountry open to hike-in camping.

• Best for RVs: The Madera Canyon Campsite is one of the few areas accessible to RVs, offering picnic tables, fire rings, self-composting toilets, and easy river access.
• Best for groups: The Arenosa Campsite offers space for 12, shaded picnic tables, fire rings, primitive toilets, and access to the river and several trails, including Closed Canyon.
• Best for comfort: The only lodging in the park, the Sauceda Bunkhouse offers single beds, indoor plumbing, and electricity, but no heat or A/C.

1. Most campgrounds only offer one or two sites. To ensure the campsite of your choice, make a reservation as soon as they become available, five months in advance.
2. If you have flexibility in your schedule, time your stay during the week or non-holiday period for fewer crowds.
3. Backcountry hike-in campsites are available on a walk-up basis.

Spring and fall are the best times to visit. Temperatures in the summer can be dangerously hot, reaching over 130°F during the day and still at dangerous levels after sunset. March is a good time, when temperatures are still bearable and cactus start to bloom. Public hunts are held in the park during fall and winter. It can also get to near freezing at night during the winter months.

• Permits are required for use of park facilities and to spend the night. Special use permits required for backcountry access and to fish. Obtain permits at Barton Warnock Visitor Center (east entrance), Sauceda Ranger Station (interior), or Fort Leaton State Historic Site (west entrance).
• The Sauceda Ranger Station is 27 miles on a rugged, dirt road from FM170. RVs and trailers are not recommended. Other than FM170, roads are gravel, with some requiring a high clearance four-wheel drive.
• There is very little shade. Be sure to bring lots of water and sun protection. All water from spring sources must be filtered or treated before use.
• There is no gas in the park. Fill up in Lajitas, Terlingua, or Presidio before entering.
• Ground fires are prohibited. Fires must be in a fire pan, with ashes extinguished and disposed of in garbage cans at the entrance or at Sauceda headquarters. You need to bring your own wood, as gathering firewood is prohibited.
• Cell service is very spotty to non-existent in the park.