Big Bend Camping Info

One of the best star gaxing area in the country. Don't get much darker than that place.

Never been but I have read up on this place

camp up in the mountains, it's much cooler at night and there is a chance you'll find water up there. The hike to the south rim is fantastic, as is the hike up to the top of Emory Peak.
As for the flat land part of the park, go to the hot springs, and drive down to Santa Elena and Boquillas canyons.
I can't help you with the kayaking, except to say don't be surprised if there is very little water flowing when you go.

While there, go over to Terlingua, it's a cool little town.

Also, wake late one night or early in the morning and sit outside and check out the stars.

It's a giant park, so there is a lot to see. There's also a 5,000' or 6,000' elevation change from the Rio Grande up into the Chisos Mountains, so you might experience some wide temperature swings (50 or 60 degrees when I was there)

I went in early-mid April about ten years ago. The desert was in full bloom and it was pretty impressive, especially if you've never seen anything like that before. I camped 2 or 3 nights along the Rio Grande (Cottonwood, I think), one night in the Chisos Mt campground and then 4 nights backcountry on a loop through the Chisos and into the adjacent desert.

It was very windy along the river. Many tents were blown down. Pay attention to the weather. When I was there, there were always 10 or 12 Mexicans trying to sell stuff from their side of the river. The park rangers were adamant about not crossing, so I didn't.

It was cold in the Chisos - down to freezing. Parts of the mountain trails are closed during Peregrine Falcon breeding season. I liked this area of the park best (of tge areas I saw).

If you camp in desert backcountry, you'll probably have to cache some water. I did, and it was a good thing, because I couldn't find a drop in two days. Dehydration is a real threat because the air is so dry, even when it's not very hot.

I think the McDonald Observatory is near Ft Davis. I didn't go, but have heard it's badass.

Made a week long camping trip in college. Had a blast. Bring mountain bikes for the desert floor and then hike in the Chisos. If you do, you have to reserve camping spots even though they are remote so plan this in advance. Hike to the summit. You wont be disappointed. I believe its slightly above 7,000 ft and it's very doable. Bring plenty of warm clothes. When the sun goes down, it gets quite cool.

Also hit the natural hot spring on the border.

Tip: When gathering your supplies gather the amount of water you think you'll need then double it.

If you go, come back and post pics.

Here is a pic of me and my buddy in college. I will neither confirm nor deny which side of the Rio Grande we were on but that is the river.

Haydo, did you plan your trip yet?

Speaking of bears and lions, this is on the road to Chisos Basin: