Big Bend National Park | Big Bend Backcountry Camping
Type: MANAGEMENT
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You will NEED a rugged, high-clearance vehicle with good tires to access this campsite. A passenger car or mini-van will not be able to access this campsite.
This 26 mile-long primitive Old Ore Road follows the early 1900s historic route used to transport ore from Mexican mines to the railroad station in Marathon. This road has excellent vistas of the Chisos Mountains and Tornillo Creek, and passes through the foothills of the Deadhorse Mountains, including the cliffs of Alto Relex.
Primitive roadside sites offer nice views, solitude, and a small flat gravel space to set up camp next to your vehicle. No shade, toilets, or other amenities are provided. The use of generators is prohibited in the backcountry.
Capacity
This campsite can accommodate one vehicle, 6 people, no horses. Maximum vehicle length is 25'. No trailers.
Details and photos of this campsite are available at: https://www.nps.gov/bibe/planyourvisit/campsite_camp-de-leon.htm
Directions
Camp de Leon (CL-1) is located along the Old Ore Road , 3.6 miles from the main paved road to Rio Grande Village.
Road Conditions
Old Ore Road is very rocky and rough. It is maintained for high clearance vehicles only. Following rains and heavy use, the road becomes very rutted and requires 4-wheel drive. Always ask a park ranger for current road conditions.
Vegetation
Camp de Leon is wide open and surrounded by lechuguilla and creosote.
Views
Camp de Leon has fantastic panoramic views of the Chisos, Chilicotal, and Sierra San Vicente.
The Old Ore Road is rocky and rough. It is a primitive dirt road and NOT maintained for passenger cars or RVs. You will NEED a rugged, high-clearance vehicle with good tires to access this campsite. A passenger car or mini-van will not be able to access this campsite. Be prepared for driving Big Bend's backcountry
Camp de Leon (CL-1) can accommodate one vehicle, 6 people, no horses. Maximum vehicle length is 25'. No trailers.
You are responsible for protecting YOUR park. All Backcountry Regulations are strictly enforced.