A popular area to explore within Big Bend National Park has been forced to close due to what officials are calling a “critical water shortage.”
According to MySA.com, the Chisos Mountains Lodge has been closed under further notice due to the failure of the Oak Spring pumps, which draws water from Oak Spring, the only water source for the Chisos Basin.
The Chisos Basin Camp Store and Chisos Basin Food Truck are still open but with reduced hours. Public restrooms in the Basin are closed, but portable toilets are in place behind the visitor center and in the campground.
And though the Chisos Basin Campground is open, water spigots, toilets, and sinks are turned off.
Though repairs to the pump are currently being expedited, there is currently no timetable for its restoration.
The pumps were originally slated for rightsizing and replacement under the Great American Outdoors Act project. Construction was set to begin last summer but was delayed until May 1, 2026.
A National Park service spokesperson said, “This emergency illustrates the importance of that project.”
LISTEN on the Audacy App
Sign Up and Follow 100.3 JACK-FM
Facebook | Twitter | Instagram