Concerned

[Undertaker]

Thanks could not remember if it was FDR or the Prime Minister

[dkerr24]

My wife and I made our first trip to Big Bend 2 weeks ago.  It is a place to enjoy wide open spaces and solitude.  I heard a few coyotes howling at night our first night, but other than seeing a few deer and javelinas, nothing seemed dangerous there at all.

Big Bend was a much more relaxed environment than visiting a busy National Park like Grand Canyon.  300,000 visitors a year come to Big Bend, compared to 5.5 million at Grand Canyon.

Big Bend is large enough that on their busiest day you can still find peace and quiet.

Like others have said on this thread, the drive TO the park is more dangerous than the park itself.

The staff and people we met on our trip were all very friendly and helpful. 

[jamesb]

the border is only dangerous because the news media and the government said so.

Go see for your self how safe it is.

You have a MUCH greater risk of getting stuck by a cactus than anything else

James

[LandCruisers4Life]

Just take an AK-47, that will make you feel better 

Seriously though, get a couple of thermarest matresses from Whole Earth Provision, throw your sleeping bags on top and you should be good. Bring blankets too for extra comfort.

Have fun.

[brindowski]

I would agree with Fred. I wouldnt leave valuables near the river campsites.  However, We just got back from the bend and we camped right on the boarder.  Grassy Banks and Madera Canyon have great campsites right on the river.  I have to admit, the 1st night definatley concerned us.  We heard strange noises in the brush, and what sounded like something randomly breaking up the river current. (Probably cattle or something)  So, it was a little spooky, but we had an awesome full moon that lit up the whole campground, so we actually could see pretty well.  We also had a nice fire going in the new fire rings, so we didnt think we were going to be messed with.

Also, and I have no idea if this is normal, but the boarder patrol was quite active.  They were definatley out and about.  Ran into one on an ATV, and there were convoysof white SUVs flying by several times throughout the night.  So, I dont know if that was a reassuring thing or not, but they were definatley out there.

To be honest, I didnt fell threatened camping along the river.  Certainly be vigilant and weary of your surroundings, but dont be scared. Besides, I have to deploy to Afghanistan in the near future and I figured if I expect to survive in the Middle Eastern Desert, I better be able to make it a few nights on the river.  ha ha. 

[STARLITDARKNESS3]

I would not leave my camp or leave my car for any period of time near the river.  Three things that happened to me over the years....

1) BIBE 30 years ago....Somebody (rangers assumed illegals) stole clothing, equipment and supplies from our tent while we were out for the day.  We moved from near the river to elsewhere and did fine after that.

2) Black Gap 10 years ago....According to Boarder Patrol, somebody (assuming an illegal) walked through our camp at night while we slept.  They walked within 15 feet of where I was sleeping out in the open (no tent).  We were several miles from the river on a commonly used route for them.  Obviously, they meant us no harm as they were just passing through.

3) BIBE 25 years ago.....10 to 12 illegals on horse back surrounded my vehicle while out driving close to the river.  They kept asking one another in Spanish if we were friends.  I put the car in reverse and slowly backed out.  They parted leaving an opening for my exit.  I suspect they were rounding up strays and we just happened upon them and perhaps they thought that maybe we were one of their trading partners????

Keep things in perspective.....Nev er had any problems away from the river.  None of these incidents were recent.  Only one involved a crime (petty theft).  The other two were simply close encounters with Mexican Nationals that happened to be on the wrong side of the river.  That happens 50 times a day in my home town.  Perhaps a little unsettling when outside one's comfort zone of back home, but no ill intent and no harm done.  Dish washers and lawn men, walking to job interviews, are not cause for my concern.  It was only slightly unsettling to some in our group because TPWD put the designated campsite 10 feet from a road they commonly use.


So, my advice, go and enjoy, but do not leave valuables near the river.

How do you know any of them were illegals or Mexican Nationals? 

[Peach]

My first time camping in 15 years was backcountry camping off the Old Ore Road.  It was just me and my daughter who was 5 at the time.  Jumped in feet first...it was awesome!    Well except for the flat tire at dusk.  I'd never changed a tire before but had it changed before it got dark.  Made me realize I could do just about anything....

Nothing to be afraid of...

[chisos_muse]

I just can't believe we're still responding to this thread when we haven't heard back from Jenn!

[presidio]

I just can't believe we're still responding to this thread when we haven't heard back from Jenn!

Didn't you know? They went and have never been seen since. If they wanted/expected rescue they didn't get it. 

[RichardM]

I sent her an email.  We'll see if she comes back...