National Park Service
Learn about camping and boondocking on lands managed by the National Park Service
Map of Roadside Campsites at Big Bend National Park
This map of backcountry roadside campsites at Big Bend National Park is based on information published by the National Park Service. It displays the sixty-four (64) designated backcountry campsites for car camping, van camping, and RV camping.
Yarborough Pass, Padre Island, TX
Yarborough Pass is a primitive camping area located along the Laguna Madre. It is accessed by driving down South Beach for approximately 15 miles then traversing on a high clearance four-wheel drive sand and caliche road for 1.6 miles. There are four campsites with shade structures, but dispersed beach camping is also allowed.
South Beach, Mile 5-60, Padre Island, TX
South Beach, Mile 5-60, differs from Mile 0-5 in that 4WD is required, whereas at Mile 0-5, 2WD is allowed. The entire 60 mile stretch of Padre Island National Seashore is accessible from only one entrance, and that entrance starts at the north with Mile 0, thus if you went the full 60 miles, you have to retrace your route back north to get out.
South Beach, Mile 0-5, Padre Island, TX
Miles 0-5 along South Beach, Padre Island is open for free, dispersed camping. This section of South Beach is open to 2WD vehicles, whereas South Beach Miles 5-60 requires 4WD. The only amenities at Miles 0-5 are vault toilets and trash dumpsters. A permit is required to camp here, which can be obtained for free on site at the information kiosk.
North Beach, Padre Island, TX
North Beach is one of four dispersed camping areas in Padre Island National Seashore. A permit is required to camp here, but the permit is free and can be obtained at the information kiosk on site. In addition, there is a park entrance fee that must be paid at the gate. You can buy a 1-day, 7-day, or year pass. An Interagency Pass works here too.
Chiriaco Summit Campground
Chiriaco Summit Campground How Crowded: Rarely crowded, almost always plenty of campsites available. How Noisy or Peaceful: Usually very peaceful. Cellular Phone Signal: Verizon, T-Mobile, AT&T, all come in strong here. Road Conditions: hard packed gravel road into the campground and throughout. There is a turnaround at the end. Amenities Within Campground: No amenities. Cost of Camping: Completely free.
Stewarts Point, Lake Mead, NV
Stewart’s Point, Lake Mead, Nevada, Camping Stewart’s Point juts out from the western shore of Overton Arm about six miles north of Echo Bay, and presents a perfect place for boondockers to set up for some breathtaking camping overlooking the waters of Lake Mead. It’s hard to get a bad campsite here, just about anywhere you set up offers a view of the lake. However, there are idyllic places close to the shore where you can watch the reflection of clouds and sky over the glassy waters. When you enter on to Stewart’s Point Rd from Highway 167 the first thing ... Read more
Kingman Wash, Lake Mead, NV
Kingman Wash, Lake Mead, NV Crowding: It can be a great stopover for a night, and it can be peaceful during the week, but on weekends it gets crowded here. while others caution about potential congestion, especially during peak times. Day visitors are a common sight. Noise Levels: Noise levels fluctuate based on the time of day. While daytime activities, such as fishing and paddling, can bring some clamor, the nights are generally quiet, offering a peaceful environment for campers. However, occasional disturbances from passing vehicles or gatherings might be expected. Cellular Phone Signal: Cellular phone service is reliable in the area. Verizon, ... Read more
Crawdad Cove, Lake Mead, NV
Crawdad Cove, Lake Mead, NV Crowdedness: Crawdad Cove offers a mix of seclusion and occasional congestion. While weekdays generally provide tranquility, weekends can see an influx of campers, with some reporting rowdy behavior. For those seeking privacy, opting for midweek visits is advisable. Noise Levels: Noise versus quiet can vary depending on the days of the week and holidays. Some campers enjoy serene surroundings, while others encounter noisy parties, generators, and late-night disturbances. Weekday visits seem to offer a quieter experience. Cellular Phone Signal: Cellular connectivity varies, with mixed reports on signal strength. While some campers experience excellent service for remote work, others ... Read more
8 Mile Road, Lake Mead, NV
8 Mile Road, Lake Mead, NV How Crowded: The level of crowding at 8 Mile Road varies based on the season. During the off-season, particularly in October and December, the area remains relatively sparse. However, the closer you get to the water, the more crowded it gets. How Noisy or Peaceful: The level of noise at 8 Mile Road depends on factors like proximity to other campers and the season. Off-peak times can be relatively quiet. However, occasional noise, especially party sounds from nearby Government Wash, may be audible from a distance. The presence of coyotes adds a natural element to the soundscape. ... Read more
