Tres Papalotes Campground

About this site

Tres Papalotes (meaning “three windmills”) campsite is located in the eastern portion of the Solitario among many artifacts of the ranching industry. The campsite is positioned on the location of an old mining camp; it can accommodate up to 12 people. Amenities include two picnic tables with shade shelters, one fire ring, primitive toilets and permanent water. You must have a permit to camp in the park. If you plan to use the 4X4 unmaintained road, pick up and sign an Acknowledgement of Use of Four-Wheel Drive Vehicles and Motorcycles. Place tents in designated areas only. Desert resources are fragile. You must haul out both your human waste and trash. You can buy a portable privy at all permit-issuing stations. Downed wood is critical to desert ecology. Gathering firewood is prohibited; you must bring your own. Charcoal cooking fires and containerized fuel stoves are allowed. Pack out your ashes or deposit them in the fire ring. The maximum stay per permit is 14 nights. Campsites have an eight-person and two-vehicle limit. No other facilities, water/electrical hookups, or dump stations are available. Due to road conditions, motor homes and large recreational vehicles may not be able to enter backcountry park areas. The Visitor’s Center at Sauceda Headquarters has shower and restrooms. Additional Info: Tres Papalotes is a remote backcountry site in Big Bend Ranch State Park surrounded by rugged desert terrain, rocky landscapes, and sparse vegetation. Access requires high-clearance 4x4 vehicle due to rough, unmaintained roads.

Amenities & access

Location

29.456303, -103.772056