Park expects large crowds for Thanksgiving weekend
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Large numbers of visitors historically travel to Big Bend National Park during the last weeks of November. As travelers seek out Big Bend for a Thanksgiving escape, the park will see significant increases in visitation. Visitors who plan on a November visit should be prepared for full campgrounds and limited parking. Reservations are required for all park campgrounds. Reservations are made through the online reservation portal at recreation.gov. Most sites are already reserved. Those planning to visit Big Bend at this time of year should come prepared with alternative plans for lodging or camping outside of the park if all sites are full. Backcountry permits are required for backpacking and primitive campsites. Permits may be obtained in person up to 24 hours in advance at the Panther Junction and Chisos Basin visitor centers. Many sites have already been reserved. Visitors seeking lodging inside the park without reservations may have difficulty finding a room. Chisos Mountains Lodge, the only lodging facility in the park, reports that few reservations are available. A few may be able to take advantage of last-minute cancellations. Potential visitors should call the lodge at 432-477-2291 for more information. Additional camping facilities, RV parks, and lodging are located in communities outside the park. Thanksgiving visitors will also find limited parking at many of the park’s most popular areas and trailheads. Visitors to the Lost Mine Trail, Chisos Basin, Hot Springs, Boquillas Port of Entry, Boquillas Canyon, and Santa Elena Canyon Trail may experience delays. When all parking is full, rangers will be establish onein, one-out traffic control measures in these areas. Visitors should have alternate itineraries planned.
