We Made a Mistake...5 Nights Camping at Big Bend National Park

We drove down from Austin Texas towards the Big Bend National Park where we spent five nights camping there. Since this was our first national park we unfortunately made a mistake when arriving but we figured it out eventually. We dealt with some harsh weather our second night there and experienced some of the most beautiful stars at night. We hope you enjoy this video of our learning experiences!
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Who are we?
We are Yvonne and John! We're both from Queens, New York and in 2018 we left our full time jobs to travel. We spent two years saving our money and have visited 17 countries and over 30+ cities so far. We are now heading on our next adventure, road tripping through the USA and enjoying the great outdoors! This channel will take you along on our journey as well as show you everything we learn along the way. :)
DISCLAIMER: Links included in this description might be affiliate links. If you purchase a product or service with the links that we provide we may receive a small commission. There is no additional charge to you.

[@yvonneandjohn3979]

FYI: In this video we are at BIG BEND NATIONAL PARK. Forgive us for saying state park. 😅

[@yvonneandjohn3979]

@MysteriousOklahoma woah!! We’d freak out if we saw a UFO. Thank you for watching our video!

[@markplimsoll]

Too hard to edit out such a MAJOR MISTAKE? Shame on you.

[@2centsworth766]

@MysteriousOklahoma Ya I saw it too. If you drink enough beer you can see it too.

[@drbrianking]

LOL that did make me laugh

[@pickledfur]

​@@markplimsollnot a major mistake bro chill

[@robertmacdonald8519]

“It’s a dangerous business, Frodo, going out of your door. You step into the Road, and if you don’t keep your feet, there is no knowing where you might be swept off too.” Keep adventuring!

[@yvonneandjohn3979]

Awesome quote! Very meaningful. Thank you so much!

[@TerlinguaTalkeetna]

It's Big Bend NATIONAL Park! The STATE park is a different park 20 miles away. That one is largest in the state park system. As for the wind, it's very normal in the deserts for the wind to blow hard AT TIMES. Non-locals ( tourist ) often say to me " WOW that was freak wind storm yesterday " and my response is always the same "Na ,not really" and "It's not a freak wind storm if they happen all the time!" No short cuts to experience, you just got some and nobody died, good job! People in hurry out here often get in to trouble. Take time to learn slowly about a place so that you can come to understand it. That way it sticks in your soul. Viva Terlingua

[@richardmourdock2719]

Absolutely, You either love Big Bend NATIONAL Park or you hate it. My wife a landscape designer hated it as it wasn't "green enough" (we were there last week of December). I first visited it in 1972 before any roads were paved south of Fort Stockton. I took us eight hours from the BBNP sign north of Persimmon Gap to Johnson's Ranch. Wish it could be that desolate again, frankly, but, the desert is what it is. I do love it. Try to make it twice yearly from the midwest.

[@adavell]

Love: "so it sticks in your soul"

[@robertstewart7228]

We went to Christmas mountains there . Awesome .glad the ranch there gives the permits out . Yes a person can get lost out there pretty easy and it is far away from hospital so everyone should be careful. It was on terlingua ranch . Might of butchered name

[@yvonneandjohn3979]

@@robertstewart7228 thank you for watching Robert!! And exactly, we’re not experienced hikers(more like never done it actually) so we knew better not to start in the middle of BB. Thank you emphasizing it’s not easy to just roam around there.

[@robertstewart7228]

@@yvonneandjohn3979 Lost Maples state park is a really nice area . We always carry a backpack for water and snacks .

[@stanw909]

Good for you guys. " We're learning " that's what's important.

[@yvonneandjohn3979]

Thank you so much Stan! We’re enjoying ourselves and we’re proud with what we’ve done so far as beginners. Thank you for watching our video.

[@DrDave-ub1uw]

Had everything gone smoothly it would have been less memorable. You will remember that trip forever!

[@yvonneandjohn3979]

Absolutely!! We also have learned so much about camping and the outdoors since then. Thank you for watching our video Dr. Dave!

[@GwenMotoGirl]

You survived! I’m glad you showed it all and that you found your real campsite. Thanks for the pinned post to clarify that you were at the National Park, not the State Park. This is a beautiful and unique area although the Big Bend demands your respect. I’ve had my own scary close calls including a flash flood. This wind is typical for the area. New subscriber here. Much respect for you both on your learning journey.

[@es2056]

I knew you guys were in trouble when you kept calling Big Bend a state park, lol!

[@yvonneandjohn3979]

LOL promise we knew we were in a National Park. Didn’t realize John was saying state park in the video. It was also our first NP, we’re getting the hang of it. 😄 Thanks for watching our video!

[@es2056]

@@yvonneandjohn3979 Keep them coming I really enjoyed this one.

[@christimartin8512]

@@yvonneandjohn3979, actually you are both right. There IS a Big Bend state park next to the National Park.

[@xcentriclithium5467]

There is BBNP, and BBSP, so the mistake could be made either way.🤦‍♂️

[@es2056]

@@xcentriclithium5467 Only a greenhorn would make that mistake, hence my comment about getting into trouble. BTW, it is hardly confusing, there's Big Bend National Park and then there is Big Bend Ranch State Park. I frequent both often and the parks are nowhere near the same in geography, location, and accessibility.

[@derekhenderson9344]

You guys are awesome! I’ve really appreciated watching your videos. Good to see people getting out of their comfort zones and experiencing new things. Looking forward to more videos and upgrades! Hats off to you both!

[@yvonneandjohn3979]

Love this and so appreciate this! Thank you so much for your support!

[@ddo7802]

Heh, you all had a very similar experience to me and a college buddy of mine when we first camped out in Big Bend National Park, in the spring of 2002 I believe. We were in an ooooold style (steel bar exo-skeleton ground tent, and we couldn't get the wimpy stakes it used to go into the ground without bending/breaking due to the rocky soil, so we put the biggest rocks we could carry in the interior corners to hold it down, and simply jammed the ends of the steel bars into the ground. Well, as you learned, the winds at night can be brutal, and our poor tent got bashed and we got no sleep. We kept having to "reach" though the tent material to grab the steel supports and pull them back into position. At one point, the tent finally collapsed on us, and we both "abandoned ship" into my '98 Jeep Wrangler TJ. Well, my buddy could somehow sleep sitting upright (the back of the jeep was full of gear so we couldn't recline seats). But I couldn't sleep like that, and besides, the winds had my jeep rocking and rolling on its suspension anyway. So at some point, when I was so tired I could have cried, I finally got out of the jeep, crawled back into the collapsed tent (which was much calmer/quieter once it collapsed, since it didn't catch nearly as much wind being so close to the ground), back into my sleeping bag, and finally fell asleep. There were a lot of other learning events that trip, which we called "Welcome to the Desert."

[@breasonable4343]

Holy moly!

[@sightslessseen7977]

Good for y'all that you're getting out there and learning and experiencing. You'll take some heat in the comments at first, but soon you'll be experienced pros. Hope you create some great memories along the way, making this all worth it and more!

[@yvonneandjohn3979]

We appreciate your kind words, you’re very kind! We definitely travel for our own good and experience and make it as a priority. We make videos and share it for others to enjoy or learn from. People will have negative thing to say no matter what but we’re happy with what we’re doing and you’re right it’ll be worth it in the end. Thank you for watching our video as well.

[@gardenparty3288]

Thumbs up to > @Sights Less Seen 's positivity

[@kellycoleman715]

We love Big Bend. I’ve learned through the years that the prettiest place to stay is at the Chisos Mountains Lodge. Although I had a close encounter with a large, male cougar (two feet) one night the last time we stayed there. We often see black bears in the mountains too. Many years ago I went with two high school buddies to Big Bend and we set up our tent the first night on the river. The next morning we emerged from the tent to see that we were surrounded by cattle which had crossed over from Mexico during the night. It was also already 100 degrees at 9 am. We decided to hike up the Chisos mountains and camp there the next night. It was much cooler but the nearby lightning from an unexpected thunderstorm was pretty frightening.

[@breasonable4343]

Sounds amazing. I love the lodge too.

[@boywonder8241]

I’ve always been a van camper. Wind, rain just makes it cozier. I carry a mountain bike to explore questionable dirt roads before committing.

[@yvonneandjohn3979]

Hey thanks for watching our video! We thought about doing the van life as well but we came to the conclusion that this setup will best suits us in the long run. Converting a van was also out of our budget.

[@hazel555]

That is an excellent idea to use dirt bike for that reason, thank you!

[@tegunn]

Really enjoyed this! The honesty of your learning curve is great! Crawl, walk, run phases of training. Ya'll did great, lot's of memories shared that you will talk about later in life...

[@daveh5625]

It is nice to see young people doing what we all did, learn and laugh... that is the joy of it. Thank you for your video.

[@yvonneandjohn3979]

We really appreciate this comment Dave. And thanks for watching our video!

[@juanitagreenspan5412]

I love that you guys are taking the leap and getting out there and learning as you go. I have been to Big Bend several times. A great place with so much to explore. Take care. safe travels.

[@laughingram7287]

You both are troopers! When you go through rough times it makes you stronger. It’s all part of the “adventure.” Your relationship with each other will be strengthened as well. Tent on the roof....good thing you don’t sleep walk! 😉 Thanks for sharing. Ram

[@yvonneandjohn3979]

Thank you for watching our video! It was definitely a unique and difficult situation for both of us. We told each other at least we were there together and comforted each other. And thank goodness neither of us sleepwalks, otherwise we’d have to get a portable fence too. LOL

[@lesliescoggin2325]

suggestion for first time tent campers in Big Bend. Stay at Boquillas. There are large cottonwood trees that block the wind, the ground is sandier plus there is some grass. Also there is a small store and gas station and showers. Quite a few interesting things to see nearby.

[@yvonneandjohn3979]

That’s an awesome tip we wish we knew prior to going. Thank you Leslie! The Rangers pointed us to this camp site because we wanted to do primitive camping as we’re prepared and equipped for it, except we didn’t know about the wind. And thank you for watching our video!

[@adavell]

Super candid and cute story to tell your grandkids someday! Thank you for saying "we made a mistake" So Honest, that is why the rangers were nice to you, they could tell you are honest people! Glad you enjoyed yourselves in spite of the winds.

[@yvonneandjohn3979]

Thank you so much for you kind words Adriana. We felt so embarrassed but glad it worked out in the end. Luckily it was also recorded to show our future grandkids. 😁Thank you for watching our video.

[@adavell]

@@yvonneandjohn3979 You got a new subscriber, I love open and honest people, thank you for sharing your adventures!

[@yvonneandjohn3979]

@@adavell wow! We truly appreciate your support! 😁

[@leemeyer748]

Love this place. Attended the funeral of a childhood friend and stay for a few weeks to hike, paddle the river and enjoyed the stars filling the night sky. Great place and people but nothing like our cabin in the northern forest of northern Wisconsin….

[@TheNotSoOrdinaryCarGuy]

I had watched this video some time last year before I made my first trip to big bend. I was worried about running into wind like that. My first trip was in Jan 2022, and I did have some wind in the middle of the night from a passing cold front but luckily it was only for one night. I was afraid my roof top tent would rip or break but it actually held up really well and somehow I fell asleep during it. I’m glad y’all were able to tough it out and come prepared like you did! It’s all about the memories!

[@stancole5833]

Thanks for sharing your experience and good on y’all for getting out there!!

[@hollis2557]

Well, you’re learning. As someone who grew up camping, I was entertained at your expense. Tents on the ground aren’t necessarily more precarious, in fact you could set them up so your vehicle, or when possible, trees, etc. can protect you from the wind. Wind loves deserts, especially at night. The Toyota you’re driving is a high clearance vehicle with legendary capabilities. Keep exploring.

[@yvonneandjohn3979]

We’re very grateful for your support Hollis. We didn’t know much about camping before starting this trip and we’re loving it so far. We didn’t know what was considered high clearance at that time but we learned afterwards. 😁 thank you for watching our video!

[@kevinkeller6898]

We loved the Big Bend experience. However, we parked our RV in a park in Terlingua and drove in each day. The remote, windy harshness of the place is part of the draw...nearest hospital is at Alpine, 100 miles away as the crow flies! I appreciate that you bared your souls and showed us what your experience was really like.

[@yvonneandjohn3979]

Thank you so much for watching our video Kevin. We do our best to be authentic to hopefully help other people.

[@youtubemarty]

I don't know you guy but I just wanna say that I'm proud of you 😅 Took the challenges of camping like OG'S. You won't ever learn until you get out there. Congrats on a bright camping future!

[@TexasR1]

You guys are doing Great! Do you know how many people sit home and never step outside, how many never leave their county, how many people wait til they're retired to ever take on an adventure. I think this was a great start. Keep going! BTW, that Toyota will do everything in BBNP, even Black Gap.

[@OverlandPNW]

That harsh weather is tough when you are living through it but somehow it is always some of the most memorable trips. Cool video !

[@yvonneandjohn3979]

Thank you for watching! It definitely was a night to remember. It also put our annex and RTT to the absolute test. 😄

[@Shane7492]

High winds that seem to never stop can drive people crazy. I like to backpack a lot, and I've had some extremely frustrating windy experiences over the years.

[@Jacksonfresh01]

You guys are doing awesome. Never worry about what people say. Camp wherever you can

[@dwaynemurr447]

Great video! You all have a really neat camping setup. Those winds can be brutal at Big Bend. No big deal on the "mistake". You all did great.

[@yvonneandjohn3979]

Thank you so much for your support Dwayne! We felt a little embarrassed but it turned great in the end and we had fun. We also posted a walkthrough of our setup if you’re interested. kzbin.info/www/bejne/aJWZhHmnrM50jZo

[@jodielindakeahey5214]

Don’t get discouraged guys.you learn more each time. And with weather you always make accommodations.

[@yvonneandjohn3979]

Aww thank you so much for your support Jodie and Linda!! We’re really doing our best and we just like to share our experiences.

[@maxdaddy6434]

It's called experience! How you learn. Looks like you were prepared though. Love BB! I try to go every year. Can be in the 80's during the day and below freezing at night. Now you have a great story to tell!

[@yvonneandjohn3979]

Absolutely! We learned so much from that night and have shaped how we continue to camp. Yes! We actually got to take a shower there using our solar shower bag, that’s how warm it was during the day. Then we were using the buddy heater at night. Thank you so much for watching our video.

[@bryanschwertner3585]

Backpacking and tent camping in the 80s, (when we were y’all’s age), we had some really strong winds a few times. Sierra Designs Meteor Lite served is well! As we got older we graduated to a popup trailer, but now a not big travel trailer. Still love it regardless. Thanks for your videos! Enjoying them.

[@yvonneandjohn3979]

That’s amazing! We honestly couldn’t imagine doing most of our travels without all these fancy stuff and apps that we’ve been using. Haha (what is this paper map? 😅) We also do see ourselves getting a camper in the future, maybe with our future kids. And thank you so much for your support on our videos!

[@davidbrytowski4477]

I was there in 1984. My car broke down. Some great people helped me out. I slept on a picnic table in the campground. People were shooting at rafters from Mexico. You had some wind. Life is sweet. You have a high clearance vehicle there. Have fun.

[@thebeatrumble]

Being able to read a map is very important. Maps have scale so you can understand how far something is. So if you use a ruler to measure the distance then the scale will tell you the ratio of a inch to a mile. That’s why when you saw the camp location on the map you assumed it should be right by the fork but in reality if you would have measured the distance with a ruler then you would have been able to tell the actual distance by using the scale.

[@jerrysparks3946]

You guys are great! Got to love the desert!!!

[@yvonneandjohn3979]

We never experienced the desert before as we’re both from NYC. We’re learning so much. Thank you for watching our video Jerry!

[@victorvasquez2788]

It's all good, stay safe and keep on camping/hiking!! Vic..

[@yvonneandjohn3979]

Woohoo!! Thank you for your support Victor!!

[@mikeoverlanding]

I loved the video! Your honesty made me laugh so many times, I had tears in my eyes. That’s life! Thank you

[@yvonneandjohn3979]

🥲 that’s soo great to hear! So awesome to share our funny moments with people with the same type of sense of humor as ours. Thank you for watching Mike!

[@geraldyndirecto2786]

Great quality video, thanks for the info!

[@yvonneandjohn3979]

Thank you for watching Geraldyn! Let us know if you have any further questions.

[@johnbarr2100]

Mistakes are how we learn. Now you know. Don’t let it discourage you.

[@yvonneandjohn3979]

Everyone has to start somewhere right? We both don’t have much experience with camping and it was our first time at a National Park. We can now pass on our mistakes and experiences to our future kids and that’s what life is about. Thank you so much for your support and for watching our video John!

[@02bigd84]

Congrats on catching the algorithm. Great video! Wish you all the best and stay safe!

[@yvonneandjohn3979]

Thank you so much!! Glad people are enjoying this video. 😄

[@llerradish]

I've camped in a tent on a windy night before. The nice thing about having your tent on the ground is that you can use your car as a Windbreak

[@chiefonelung3416]

I camped in the same spot that you spent your last three days in 2017. I had extreme high winds also. I use a Kodiak 6098 model 9 x 8 tent. It is considered an all-season and supposed to tolerate winds to 50 miles an hour. It held up beautifully. I had no problem. I used to have a rooftop like yours but I was in New Mexico one time with such high winds that it tore it off of the frame. So now I would rather be closer down on the ground I feel safer. I enjoyed your video. Thank you.

[@yvonneandjohn3979]

🙀😲 omg! Our tent falling apart like that is our worst nightmare. That must’ve been terrifying. We learned to close off our RTT if there’s high winds in the forecast. So many lessons have been learned since Big Bend. Lol thank you for watching our video!

[@breasonable4343]

Wow!

[@onesocialengineer]

Thank you so much for sharing! Me and friends are going next week. We will be sure to read the signs and stay alert! ☺️🤙🏾

[@chrislawrence3629]

I was down in Big Bend myself when you were! I was camped at Grapevine Hills 4 and really windy conditions developed January 19. I had to downsize from my large tent to my Kelty Mesa 2 and use all guy lines. Wind can be a real issue in Big Bend desert country. January 20 was overcast but less windy. That night it rained but only enough to wet the top inch or so of soil. The next day started out wet, but by about noon it started clearing and the weather turned beautiful and stayed beautiful.

[@yvonneandjohn3979]

Oh so what a coincidence! It was a rough night. Good thing you had your back up Kelty Mesa with you. We definitely did not see all that wind to come out of nowhere. We’re glad we chose to stay for 5 nights because we got to enjoy plenty of beautiful days in the heart of Big Bend. Thank you for watching a video!

[@sanction7627]

Great video with genuine content. I see a lot of camping vids where nothing ever goes wrong....Thanks.

[@yvonneandjohn3979]

Thank you so much for watching our video! We’re glad our video helps people see what can really happen when camping. We didn’t know about the desert wind and now we’ve learned how to deal with it.

[@sanction7627]

@@yvonneandjohn3979 Camping vids that portray sunshine and rainbows all the time do a disservice to potential new campers...We should all be prepared for the times that things do not go according to plan....Yours show everything, warts and all. Kudos.

[@davidpatton2894]

Live and learn! 👍🏻👍🏻

[@yvonneandjohn3979]

Yesss!!! Thank you for this positivity David. That’s what life’s about. Thank you for watching !

[@kateknowsbetter]

There are some hidden gems down those roads and their splits. Would love to camp out there one day!

[@yvonneandjohn3979]

We didn’t realize how massive Big Bend was. We enjoyed every minute of our time there. We’d definitely go back!

[@jeepdude67]

Keeping it real. Love videos like this.

[@yvonneandjohn3979]

We appreciate that!! Thank you for watching 😃

[@Itsshannonlouise]

Woohoo we are making our first backcountry camping trip the end of next month! Thank you for sharing! New to your channel

[@yvonneandjohn3979]

Thank you for watching and happy camping!!!

[@wendalwarren6131]

Ha! Yes, the wind. The tent vibration! The sound all night gets to you. A lesson from an old time camper - SIMPLICITY.

[@yvonneandjohn3979]

Thank you for watching our video. We’re very new to this so everything is a learning lesson for us. We will eventually find our own “simplicity”.

[@thepatriot8081]

Thank you guys !!!!! Good info !!!!! The desert .....😎

[@yvonneandjohn3979]

Thank you for watching Tony!

[@Cantor214]

I camped at the Chisos Mountains in Big Bend. It was amazing at night watching the moon appear over the mountains.

[@giffypophd]

Learn as you go, nature will let ya know what ya need. We were at PC5 during July, nice hot ass sun and I noticed some clouds moving. I figured it'll go past us but hit the peaks and turned to us. Nice desert thunderstorm rolled over us, the missus was definitely scared. The tent felt like a waterbed, but we were okay. Next morning we had the best views and wildlife around us. You kinda just have to go and see what happens and adapt.

[@charlesoneill466]

I camped at big bend a few years ago. Put up tent and went to register. By the time i got back from registering I was told to move. Ticked me off. I didn't have any weather problems. Early fall. Can't wait to go back.

[@yvonneandjohn3979]

Aww that sucks. Yea the instructions we were given by the ranger when we registered was not clear very clear. The weather is probably perfect during fall. Thank you for watching a our video.

[@ralphwallace2223]

You corrected my first comment: Big Bend is a National Park. Good self correction. In 1978, we drove from Albuquerque to Big Bend. A very long drive. We stayed at the campground at the foot of the Chisos Mountains. An excellent campground. We also hiked the Chisos on the circular loop. This is a fantastic hike and offers a fine prospect of the valley below with the Rio Grande River. While there, we drove to river bank where we were told if you signaled to the Mexicans on the other side of the river, they would come get you to visit their town. We decided not to do that. This trip we went on was over 40 years ago. 25 years ago I read an article in Outside Magazine on dangerous National Parks and Big Bend was listed as among the most “peligroso”. Illegal immigrants and drug runners made it an unsafe place to stay. I don’t know if that situation has changed. I’m almost 70 years old and today I would probably not make the trip to Big Bend except for a day trip. But a beautiful place.

[@hazel555]

Interesting story. I was considering traveling there alone in the next month or two; I called the park and asked them about any border issues and the woman assured me that it was completely safe; she said that due to their inaccessibility people don't cross in that area, however I've been reading just the opposite.

[@houseofsolomon2440]

Awesome 👌. Very underrated national park. Can't wait to get there & check out the lower canyons! 🌿

[@michaelh.4535]

Keep on camping!! It will always get easier and better!!

[@yvonneandjohn3979]

Yes!! Great to hear this. Thank you so much for your encouragement and for watching our video Michael!

[@michaelh.4535]

@@yvonneandjohn3979 👍👍👍

[@ninac8632]

I gave it a thumbs up but that was pretty scary, just glad you are both ok

[@thomashodgson2278]

I don't know if things have changed since I was last there a couple decades ago, but the primary camping area is down in The Basin. It has concrete pads with overhead cover and good tent sites. Also has running water and flush toilets. There is an amphitheater where they give Ranger talks . Very pleasant and scenic place to camp, just a little crowded.

[@cuz129]

Your 4runner has 9.6 inches of ground clearance, that exceeds the clearance required to be a high clearance vehicle. We are taking ours to Big Bend later this month and should be able to go anywhere without clearance concerns.

[@larrywelch9738]

I spent a couple of nights there in 1971. I was sleeping in the top bunk of a pop top Volkswagen Camper Bus. The only thing I remember about it is that I was afraid the wind would tear the top off of the camper and blow me away.

[@breasonable4343]

Hah!

[@SquidwardTentacles-]

I’ve watched the first minute into the video and knew I was gonna enjoy the rest of it. Subscribed!

[@yvonneandjohn3979]

Yay!!! So awesome to hear! Thank you for your support squiddy!

[@hikingwithjackieboy]

The winds in West Texas can be something else

[@karipape5909]

I keep ear plugs in my camping stuff after my first visit to big bend. I remember the wind keeping me up all night. Lol

[@yvonneandjohn3979]

Haha we were wearing our earplugs while sleeping too but we were still feeling our tent/car moving, freaked us out a bit but we got some sleep. Thank you for watching our video Kari!

[@ks2567]

Earplugs are so helpful in windy environments to calm the nerves. i also enjoy playing music over a bluetooth speaker (when car camping) or headphones (when backpacking) if it's especially windy. :)

[@yvonneandjohn3979]

@@ks2567 awesome tips Katherine! We did use our favorite earplugs which helped a lot! Thank you for watching our video

[@andyking4701]

Thx for a great video

[@damonmabry1607]

You guys had such a tough time lol. I hope that you enjoyed yourself though. Those will definitely be the good memories.

[@yvonneandjohn3979]

Lol 😅 we felt safe and maybe little terrified but we enjoyed every minute of it. We also learned so much since then. 😀 thank you so much for watching Damon!

[@green_ghost_organics]

awesome video, if you ever venture to missouri i can point your way to awesome stuff

[@yvonneandjohn3979]

That’s be awesome! We’d so appreciate that and thanks for watching our video.

[@thomasdarby6084]

I was at Big Bend National Park in 2004... and I swore that the wind was going to blow my converted school bus over like a tumbleweed! What you experienced was a light breeze.

[@yvonneandjohn3979]

Woah!! That must’ve been terrifying. We had no clue about the desert wind. Glad you were ok though. And thank you for watching our video Thomas!

[@tomwertjr]

When cold weather camping, moisture is your enemy. It's counterintuitive but all that insulation, and especially the Buddy Heater will wind up leaving you cold. That insulation will trap moisture in the tent, and a by product of burning propane is water vapor. Get that stuff out of the tent and instead, get low temp rated sleeping bags and some good fleece to wear and make sure the tent is ventilated well. You'll be much warmer even in temperatures well below what you experienced.

[@hazel555]

Great advice!

[@chrisreeves8037]

Get used to it! It blows 12 months/yr in SW Texas. Anchoring my tent against the wind, I used the 1/2 thick pegs yet my tent would bend over two feet giving to the south wind. For your viewers going there, in January, yes the temp will fall to 30's then by 10:30 am the temp inside the tent can reach into the 90;s. Finally don't tell anyone that in the city I drove through an intersection four times from four directions before I realized it.

[@daveyusa1884]

we were there feb 7-9th, and it was wonderful. we are in a 25 ft class A. cold at night, beautiful in day, went for a swim in rio grande. in San Diego for a week now, come over for a visit! best wishes.

[@poodleprofessor]

I was there in October and it’s so beautiful. Did y’all go to Santa Elena Canyon? Wow. Really cool. I have a couple videos on my trip. I want to go back!

[@robertomaldonado7397]

Tents on the ground is better than that setup, tents don’t flap like that when well setup.

[@yvonneandjohn3979]

Maybe you’re right. But we really like being off the ground to sleep. The annex was flappy and loud but we’re glad we had it for our own comfort during that time. Also, thanks for watching our video Roberto!

[@Dusther210]

Ground tents are equally as bad in the wind. It’s the same materials. I think the issue was just the annex walls are taller than the roof of your truck so you have a lot of extra fabric to flap around

[@jessicamathews5758]

Rooftop tent are safer than the ground tent because what if you have a bear coming to your ground tent and you are asleep.

[@Sabbathissaturday]

I live out here in this area and people have no idea how crazy the wind can be out here. It literally shakes my house some nights. Nothing wrong with y’all s set up. ❤

[@robertomaldonado7397]

@@Dusther210 never had an issue with my tent flapping in the wind, it stays still. It’s all about facing your tent in best direction against the wind and setting up your guy lines correctly

[@whiskeyactual.]

What time of year did you guys go when it dropped to 20 degrees? I'm planning to head over there in November. Nice tent also, I have the OVS Nomadic 4 and need to get an awning and the annex!

[@yvonneandjohn3979]

We were there during January. The awning was great! Made us feel pretty safe, considering.

[@kenlodge3399]

WOW! That was something, love your spirit. BTW, y'all gotta learn to camp, serious. See I was laughing all the way through the first part cuz I believed you were doing some kind of, tongue in cheek satire. You know, like what not to do... But is good to see you kept your sense of humor and got through it. And like you said you learned some things and that makes it all good.

[@yvonneandjohn3979]

We jumped into this trip without any experience with camping nor any outdoor experiences. We wanted to see the rest of the country safely and this is our journey and we’re happy to share it. Haha We’re just glad you enjoy our dorky personalities as well. Thank you for watching our video Ken!

[@nathanlockhart3876]

@@yvonneandjohn3979 I thought it was funny how at one point y’all said “imagine if someone came out here and put their tent on the ground.” I do that all the time in big bend 😂 you just have to know what to expect. The wind is a lot more manageable with a smaller tent as well

[@yvonneandjohn3979]

@@nathanlockhart3876 hehe😅 we’ve learned by now that we definitely feel more of the wind cos we’re up there. Thank you for watching our video Nathan!

[@TerlinguaTalkeetna]

It's Big Bend NATIONAL Park! The STATE park is a different park 20 miles away. That one is largest in the state park system. As for the wind, it's very normal in the deserts for the wind to blow hard AT TIMES. Non-locals ( tourist ) often say to me " WOW that was freak wind storm yesterday " and my response is always the same "Na ,not really" and "It's not a freak wind storm if they happen all the time!" I personally began exploring the national park in 1982 with only old 69 chev 2 wheel drive pickup and no gear, sleeping in the bed of the truck under some of the darkest skies in North America. No short cuts to experience, you just got some and nobody died, good job! People in hurry out here often get in to trouble. Take time to learn slowly about a place so that you can come to understand it. That way it sticks in your soul. Viva Terlingua

[@yvonneandjohn3979]

We’re both from NY so desert wind was very new and abnormal to us. We were clueless but it was a unique experience that we’ll never forget. You’re a true adventurer! Our hats off to you Sir, that’s incredible! We made a good decision to spend 5 nights there, as we were able to savor every moment. Thank you for watching our video.

[@jesserevilla992]

Like that you have a paper map with you.. Regardless how dated that seems; Its more advance and useful then dated at the moment! Thank you for complementing the rangers

[@yvonneandjohn3979]

The rangers were so nice and helpful. We were so grateful that they were pretty understanding. Thank you for watching our video Jess!

[@dennisclark8766]

loved the video adventure.

[@yvonneandjohn3979]

Yay!! Thank you for watching!!

[@ScottBalkum]

Big Bend is unlike any other National Park. Dispersed camping is REALLY dispersed... If you stay on old ore road, it may take you 1.5 hours to get to your campsite. We had to do that at night during a storm. Do come back and try other areas and drive around. Beautiful place.

[@yvonneandjohn3979]

It was an amazing experience for us. We’re glad we got to do it. We’d love to be back again some day. Thank you for watching our video Scott!

[@roadtrippingdrone5139]

I was there solo camping in november in my 4runner too. What did you do to the rear suspension to combat sag from the weight of equipment?

[@yvonneandjohn3979]

Was it this windy for you too back in Nov? And we eventually upgraded our suspension to OldMan Emu with medium coil and 1 inch spacers in the back. Worked out perfectly. We did the Mojave trail with no issues.

[@markstambaugh3273]

I used to backpack in BBNP every chance I had way before the days of GPS. I have seen it get way down in the teens during the winter and well over 100 in the summer. Anyone going should be a good Boy Scout and be prepared for exteams in temperature, wind and pack a lot of water and go with a buddy.

[@goththicus]

About 20 years ago or so, we camped (tent camping) at Big Bend close to the Rio Grande. The wind was rough. We had thought staying for two nights but left a day earlier. Very primitive and wild horses roaming the area. We ended up at the Big Bend State park, which is a beautiful area. We had planned a 7 day camping from Monahan’s, Ft Davis, and Big Bend. We ended up our 5th day at a hotel before heading back to Dallas. It was an experience we will never forget. We continue to camp but in our RV. 😂

[@goththicus]

I forgot to add, you should go to Texas Little Grand Canyon. You’ll enjoy it.

[@glenschumannGlensWorkshop]

Thanks

[@ericc461]

Just subscribed because you're enjoying the adventure, earplugs or not, and I've already learned things. Have you been anywhere cold? Keeping warm gets technical. I'm insulating a camper and will be traveling after retiring, rather soon now. If you're not having tremendous fun everyday, you can remember it that way later. Not traveling is something a lot of people regret... I say, Make the chance and take it. You're going well.

[@yvonneandjohn3979]

wow we really appreciate this awesome encouragement Eric! The coldest we’ve ever experienced was at Gila NF about 3 weeks ago. Below freezing temp. we layered up and bundled in our sleeping bags so we were fine but we woke up with frost all of over our tent and our stuff. 😆 thank you so much for watching our video and subscribing.

[@cpgeorge2518]

Great video. 👍🏻

[@yvonneandjohn3979]

Thank you for watching!!

[@nabilbudhwani7997]

Want to take a trip out here, what was the rule for bathrooms ? Did yall have a tiny composting unit ?

[@XX-fq8kp]

HOLIDAY INN EXPRESS, FREE BREAKFAST, RUNNING WATER, HOT AND COLD, TV, INTERNET, TOILET, ETC… 😂😂😂

[@joek9962]

Ground tents are more stable and less noisy in wind when anchored correctly with guylines. RTT are more susceptible to wind. Also, ground tents can be left when you need to drive away for awhile. Although, RTT seem to excel in other circumstances. Thanks for sharing your experience. I still haven't visited Big Bend, but hopefully I will in the near future.

[@yvonneandjohn3979]

That makes so much sense. I guess I was thinking more of a poorly assembled ground tents by an amateur like we would’ve been. I took comfort that ours was attached to our car. Haha the longer we live in our tent the more we’re realizing that we are more susceptible to wind. And thank you for watching our video. Big Bend is definitely an underrated NP.

[@whittington713]

First time to watch one of your videos. Dude, I love y'alls setup, especially the lights in your quarters. But yeah, Big Bend's stuff is totally confusing. Kudos for keeping it real in the video.

[@joeyb1853]

If the wind is rough, you could sleep in the suv. A buddy heater will easily warm it on the lowest setting.

[@yvonneandjohn3979]

Yes! We have learned how to do that ever since this experience at Big Bend. We now always check for the weather forecast and wind direction so we try to face where the wind is going.

[@M1k3y0501]

Damn y’all. Hope you e learned a lot more about camping and reading maps since this video. Stayed in that same campground before. We were at BBNP the same time in the basin campground and having a blast in the wind. At least y’all didn’t need a rescue.

[@joecerda630]

Gotta tell you...it makes me appreciate my spots in AZ...dispursed camping...only rules...leave it better than you found it and put out your camp fire.

[@yvonneandjohn3979]

Hey Joe! Thanks for watching our video. Any recommendations for dispersed camping spots in AZ? Promise we’re very clean and mindful. 😇

[@Jay-dn5os]

Yeah as long as you were safe when you pulled over and made a campsite it's all good.

[@ChefDuane]

When you come to a fork in the road. Take the one less travelled as it will make all the difference.

[@XPLRNW]

I'm a KZbinr from Northwest Washington and I checked out your roof rack video... pretty cool! Now I'm watching this one!:) Love your videos so far! I just purchased a new 4Runner TRD PRO and I'll converting it into an overlanding rig... Anyways... Stay safe out there and keep up the great work guys! Your friend from Washington State... Daniel pnwfullstop

[@yvonneandjohn3979]

Hi Daniel! Welcome to our channel and thanks for watching our videos. We would love to upgrade to the TRD Pro eventually when the budget allows. 😄 Good luck on the conversation, let us know if you have any further questions that we can help you with. We’re also now a new subscriber of yours.

[@XPLRNW]

@@yvonneandjohn3979 ✌🏼🌲🔥 Thanks so much for your support! I was just going to say if you guys ever need any advice about the outdoors or anything like that don’t even hesitate to reach out to me! I’m not a pro but I do know my way around the woods. And I’m excited to start this new journey on my channel with my 4Runner! I hope nothing but the best for you guys on your adventures! And I hope everything this new year goes in your favor. Stay in touch and stay safe!

[@XPLRNW]

@@yvonneandjohn3979 I also followed you guys on Instagram!

[@bkbland1626]

Big Bend is fricking AMAZING. I hiked there last Winter for a week and it was magical. We even saw some bears. BTW, It's a National Park.

[@yvonneandjohn3979]

Wow! That must’ve been an awesome experience. Thank you for watching our video!

[@PapaRocks]

A couple of good problem solvers who stuck it out.👌

[@stanw909]

Since you've chosen tent camping, you might invest in earplugs. Wind noise is not the only noise you will encounter while camping. Partying and crying babies in many campsites can be a regular occurrence. Happy Trails.

[@yvonneandjohn3979]

We actually did use earplugs. It definitely helped. And we’ve been at some “party dispersed area” but nothing we couldn’t sleep through. We’re both from NYC, so we’re used to it. Haha thank you for watching!

[@shooter31m]

Digging the intro music!

[@yvonneandjohn3979]

Thank you so much!

[@AmericanWanderers]

OK I hate to break the news but Big Bend National Park is rather unusual in having those primitive campsites. I don't know of any other NP that has anything like that and we have been to all the major and many minor parks in the lower 48. Including several visits to Big Bend. State Park camps don't not look like that either. As Steven points out Big Bend Ranch is the State Park and is west of the NP. You will see lots of wind in the western states, it was so strong once in Rocky Mountains NP once that my wife could not close the truck door against the wind. I'd rate the wind you had as medium strength. Wait until you get to Wyoming. One pro hint, try to park your vehicle upwind so it blocks some of the worst wind. Also in a better campsite setting up camp next to trees or a cliff can block wind too. But camping is a learning process, we've been thru it all and just stick with it. You could greatly improve your channel by showing things that you did in the park, hiking trails or whatever.

[@yvonneandjohn3979]

Omg yes!! Thank you so much for your suggestions and tips, they’re all so helpful to us. We’ve never been this adventurous especially when it comes to outdoors as we’re both from NYC. We have so much to learn still but we are enjoying our time(cold and heavy winds included). And because this is really our first time camping, we’ve been honestly just enjoying sitting and reading a book at our campsite, not so much hiking. I guess the more comfortable we get the more we will feel incline to explore beyond our site. And thanks for watching our video!!