Big Bend National Park | Big Bend Backcountry Camping
Type: MANAGEMENT
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You will NEED A rugged High-Clearance 4-wheel drive vehicle to access this campsite. A passenger car or mini-van wll NOT be able to access this remote campsite.
Capacity
Ernst Basin (EB-1) can accommodate 2 vehicles, 10 people, no horses. Maximum vehicle length is 25'. No trailers.
Site details and photos are available at: https://www.nps.gov/bibe/planyourvisit/campsite_ernst-basin.htm
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.
Directions
Ernst Basin (EB-1) is located along the Old Ore Road, 10 miles f rom the southern end and 16.4 miles from the northern end. Willow Tank campsite (WT-1) is 0.1 mile north of EB-1. It will take approximately 45 minutes of rough rocky road to reach the campsite.
Road Conditions
Old Ore Road is extremely rough and rocky. 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
There is no shade at EB-1. Common plants are yucca, creosote, candelilla, and lechuguilla. The campsite is protected on the north side by a low hill.
Views
Good views of the Chisos Mountains and the Deadhorse Mountains.
Cautions
Javelina frequent this area. Keep coolers and all food in your vehicle, including trash.
You will NEED A rugged High-Clearance 4-wheel drive vehicle with sturdy tires to access this campsite. A passenger car, van, RVs, or trailer will NOT be able to access this campsite.
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 4-wheel drive vehicle to access this campsite. Be prepared for driving Big Bend's backcountry
Ernst Basin (EB-1) can accommodate 2 vehicles, 8 people, no horses. Maximum vehicle length is 25'. No trailers.
You are responsible for protecting YOUR park. All Backcountry Regulations are strictly enforced.
Javelina frequent this area due to the water. Keep coolers and all food in your vehicle, including trash.