Backpacking Site

“BACKPACKING CAMPSITE The East Rim campsites are located between 6 and 7miles (10-11 km) from the Chisos Basin Trailhead via the Pinnacles Trail (8.5 miles/13.6 km via the Laguna Meadow Trail). The ER-1 campsite is located at the end of a spur trail on a high ridge. All other sites are situated along the spectacular 1.5-mile (2.4 km) section of trail, high above the desert below. Do NOT plan on finding these campsites in the dark. The East Rim was affected by the 2021 South Rim Fire. Burned trees and cleared areas are visible throughout the area. The trails to the East Rim are well marked, maintained, and usually in great condition all year round. The Pinnacles Trail is the most direct route to the East Rim. The East Rim Campsites are located along the northern edge of a high lava plateau overlooking the desert. These campsites are not located on the very edge of the rim, but 150-300 ft (45-90 m) into the trees on the opposite side of the trail. ER-3: Nice protection from surrounding trees. Since these campsites are not perched on the rim there are NO views off the rim from the campsites. A short walk of 200-300 ft (60-90 m) from any site will provide spectacular panoramic vistas. Water Sources: None. There is NO water anywhere near the Southwest Rim of the Chisos. Hikers on 1-2 day trips should plan on carrying all their necessary water. Plan on at least one gallon/24 hours/person. This is a hike-in site. Overnight parking is available at the Chisos Basin Amphitheater adjacent to the campground. To protect the peregrine falcon, from February 1 until May 31 each year, a portion of the East Rim Trail is closed between ER-3 campsite and the southern junction of the Boot Canyon Trail. Read more about this annual closure.”

recreation.gov's note for this site

People

Up to 6

Parking

Overnight parking is available at the Chisos Basin Amphitheater adjacent to the campground.

Check-in

1:00 PM

Check-out 12:00 PM

From recreation.gov's site list, Oct 10, 2026.