Big Bend National Park officials are warning visitors of a critical water shortage in the Chisos Basin, after the complete failure of the Oak Spring water pumps—the sole water source for the developed Basin area.
According to the National Park Service, the pumps failed on December 23, 2025, prompting the park to immediately enact Stage 2 water restrictions in an effort to conserve the remaining water stored in the Chisos Basin tanks. The Basin includes popular campgrounds, trails, and the Chisos Mountains Lodge, making it one of the most heavily visited areas of the park.
Compounding the problem, the backup water pump is currently unavailable, having been removed from the park for repairs prior to the failure. Park officials say they are working urgently to expedite repairs to the primary pump system, but no timeline has been established, and the process is expected to take several weeks at best.
Possible Closure if Water Levels Drop Further
The National Park Service is asking campers, lodge guests, and all visitors to the Chisos Basin to significantly reduce water use in order to keep the area open as long as possible.
Park officials cautioned that if water levels in the storage tanks fall to the minimum required for firefighting, the park may have no choice but to close the Chisos Basin entirely until the system is restored.
Water conservation measures under Stage 2 restrictions typically include limits on shower use, laundry, dishwashing, and other non-essential water consumption, though visitors are encouraged to follow any additional guidance provided onsite.
Infrastructure Vulnerability Highlighted
The failed Oak Spring pumps are scheduled to be replaced and right-sized as part of an upcoming Great American Outdoors Act (GAOA) project aimed at rehabilitating the Chisos Basin’s aging water distribution system.
Park officials noted that the current emergency underscores the urgency of that long-planned infrastructure investment, particularly in a remote desert environment where redundancy is limited and system failures can have immediate operational consequences.
Visitor Advisory
Visitors planning trips to Big Bend National Park—especially those intending to stay or hike in the Chisos Basin—are advised to:
Bring extra water Expect restricted services Monitor park alerts for potential closures Practice strict water conservation
Updates will be provided by the National Park Service as repair efforts continue.
For more information, visitors can contact the park directly or follow official Big Bend National Park communications.
Contact:
Don Corrick, National Park Service
📞 432-477-1107
Photo by NPS
