Federal Correctional Institution · Big Spring, Texas
FCI Big Spring
- Security level
- Low + minimum camp
- Medical care level
- 2 of 4
- Mental health care level
- 2 of 4
- Population
- 450
- Phone
- 432-466-2300
Last checked: November 3, 2026 (BOP documents for this prison) Intel last checked: November 3, 2026 BOP status updated: Nov 3, 2026, 9:00 pm ET News updated: Nov 3, 2026, 7:35 pm ET
Your loved one here? Look up their exact committed name
Big Spring at a glance
FCI Big Spring is closing. On July 1, 2026 the BOP announced it will close FCI Big Spring and its satellite camp. The BOP release gives no closing date, and says a reduction-in-force will take effect there. A local newspaper (the Big Spring Herald, July 7, 2026) reported a closing date of March 31, 2027, but we did not find that date in a BOP document. Call 432-466-2300 before you travel or send mail, and ask where your loved one will be moved. FCI Big Spring is a low-security federal prison for men in West Texas, with a satellite prison camp.
- How many people
- 372 in the FCI and 78 at the camp (BOP, October 29, 2026).
- Medical care level 2
- Stable outpatients who need to see a clinician anywhere from monthly to every 6 months. Examples the BOP gives: diabetes controlled with medication, epilepsy, emphysema. Click here to read the source: BOP "Institution Care Levels for Medical Assignment," February 13, 2024 (released under FOIA 2024-03455) ↗
- Mental health care level 2
- Routine outpatient mental health care, or short crisis care such as suicide watch. The BOP does not post care levels on its website. This list is dated February 13, 2024 and came out through a public records request. Click here to read the source: BOP "Institution Care Levels for Medical Assignment," February 13, 2024 (released under FOIA 2024-03455) ↗
- Who is there
- Men. On the first day of the 2024 audit, ages ran from 19 to 86. Click here to read the source: PREA audit report, FCI Big Spring (onsite July 16 to 18, 2024) ↗
- Built for
- 883 people. The audit counted 1,056 on the first day, so the prison was over capacity then. Click here to read the source: PREA audit report, FCI Big Spring (onsite July 16 to 18, 2024) ↗
- Counts
- They must be standing at their bed for official counts at 4:00 p.m. and 10:00 p.m. on weekdays, and at 10:00 a.m., 4:00 p.m. and 10:00 p.m. on weekends and holidays. Click here to read the source: FCI Big Spring Inmate Information Handbook (2023) ↗
- Unit team
- A member of the unit staff is ordinarily at the prison from 7:30 a.m. to 7:00 p.m., and during the day on weekends and holidays. Click here to read the source: FCI Big Spring Inmate Information Handbook (2023) ↗
How far is it from you?
Driving directions (Google Maps) → Bus or train (Google Maps) →
Plan your drive around this: Visitors cannot arrive before 8:00 a.m. and must arrive before 2:00 p.m. or they will not be allowed to visit. You cannot leave and come back on the same day.
Our miles and time are an estimate from your ZIP code's center. Google Maps gives the exact route. Your ZIP code never leaves your phone unless you tap a Google Maps button.
Visiting hours and days
| Who | Days | Hours |
|---|---|---|
| FCI (main prison) and satellite camp | Saturday, Sunday and federal holidays | 8:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. |
| Detention or segregation (Special Housing Unit) | Same rules as general population, but visits are ordinarily 2 hours long and are held by video monitor | Regular visiting hours |
Visitors cannot arrive before 8:00 a.m. and must arrive before 2:00 p.m. or they will not be allowed to visit. You cannot leave and come back on the same day.
The visiting rules list no regular visiting days except Saturday, Sunday and federal holidays. Click here to read the source: BIG 5267.09D, Visiting Regulations (December 21, 2022) ↗
The rules at the door: ID, points, what you can bring
- How many visits
- The handbook says each visit costs 1 point. After 6 points (6 separate visits) in a month, no more visits are allowed that month. Federal holidays do not count as a visit. Click here to read the source: FCI Big Spring Inmate Information Handbook (2023) ↗
- How many people
- No more than 5 visitors at one time, children and infants included. The Unit Team can allow exceptions in unusual circumstances. Click here to read the source: BIG 5267.09D, Visiting Regulations (December 21, 2022) ↗
- ID
- Everyone 16 or older needs a valid, current government-issued photo ID. Children under 16 must come with a parent or legal guardian. A 16- or 17-year-old without a parent or guardian needs written approval from the custodial parent or guardian and a photo ID. Click here to read the source: BIG 5267.09D, Visiting Regulations (December 21, 2022) ↗
- Screening
- Everyone clears the walk-through metal detector and puts belongings through the x-ray machine. Visitors may also be checked with an ION drug scanner and pat searched. Pacemakers or other medical devices need medical papers, and you may then be pat searched. Staff stamp your hand with an ultraviolet stamp and check it when you enter and leave. Camp visitors do not need the hand stamp or metal detector. Click here to read the source: BIG 5267.09D, Visiting Regulations (December 21, 2022) ↗
- Money for vending machines
- Up to $20.00 per adult, in $1 and $5 bills. Only items from the visiting-room vending machines are allowed as food, except baby bottles and baby food. Everything must be eaten before you leave. You cannot put money on their account. Click here to read the source: BIG 5267.09D, Visiting Regulations (December 21, 2022) ↗
- What you can carry
- One small (about half-gallon size) clear, see-through purse or zip-lock bag. It is opened and searched. Cell phones are not allowed. Lockers in the front lobby are for things that cannot come in, but no large amounts of cash go in the lockers. Click here to read the source: BIG 5267.09D, Visiting Regulations (December 21, 2022) ↗
- For a baby
- Baby bottles with sealed, pre-mixed milk or formula in the original container, and baby food, are allowed. Click here to read the source: BIG 5267.09D, Visiting Regulations (December 21, 2022) ↗
- What not to wear
- No sleeveless, strapless, bare-back, tank or halter tops, midriff shirts, see-through, tight or form-fitting clothes, or deep V-necks. No miniskirts or wrap skirts; shorts and skirts must not be 2 inches above the knee (the handbook says above the knee). No caps, hats or scarves, hooded or knee-length coats, spandex, athletic shorts or sweat suits, jerseys, swimwear, slippers or open-toed shoes. No khaki or camouflage, no gang symbols or offensive writing. No underwire bras or body piercings that will not clear the detector. Click here to read the source: BIG 5267.09D, Visiting Regulations (December 21, 2022) ↗
- Touching
- A short kiss and hug at the beginning and end of the visit. The handbook says holding hands is the only other contact allowed. Click here to read the source: BIG 5267.09D, Visiting Regulations (December 21, 2022) ↗
- Waiting outside
- No one may wait in the parking lot or on the grounds, including anyone who gave you a ride and children and pets. Only certified service dogs are allowed. Click here to read the source: BIG 5267.09D, Visiting Regulations (December 21, 2022) ↗
- When it gets crowded
- The visiting room holds 250 people. Staff ask for volunteers to leave first. Then they look at people with an address within 50 miles and at how often they visit, and end the visits of at least five groups. Click here to read the source: BIG 5267.09D, Visiting Regulations (December 21, 2022) ↗
- Where to park
- Main-prison visitors park on the north side of the FCI lot. Camp visitors park behind the Camp Visiting Room (Building 300), not in front of it or in the main lot. Click here to read the source: BIG 5267.09D, Visiting Regulations (December 21, 2022) ↗
How to get on the visiting list
- During admission and orientation, they give their counselor the names of immediate family (spouse, children, parents, brothers, sisters, step-parents and foster parents). Only immediate family may visit until the permanent list is made.
- For each other person, the counselor gives them a questionnaire and information release form (BP-629). They mail it to you. The visiting rules say you return it to the Unit Team. (The handbook calls the form "BP-IS-139.")
- The Unit Team checks you through the pre-sentence report, probation, local police and similar sources. Friends must have known them before prison unless the Warden approves an exception.
- The Unit Team tells them who was approved or denied. They tell you and send you the visiting rules. Do not drive until you are approved.
- They can ask to add visitors at any time. People who are not approved are not allowed in, except immediate family.
- Special one-time visits (clergy, employers, sponsors) are set up by the Unit Team and approved in advance by the Warden.
Driving directions (from the BOP)
- Address
- FCI Big Spring, 1900 Simler Avenue, Big Spring, Texas 79720. It is inside the city limits on the west side of town.
- Traveling east on Interstate 20
- Take Exit 174. Turn left on Hwy 80 / Bus 20. In one mile turn right onto Airbase Road, which becomes Simler Drive. Follow the signs.
- Traveling west
- Stay straight on Hwy 80 / Bus 20. In one mile turn right onto Airbase Road, which becomes Simler Drive. Follow the signs.
- Taxi
- Big Spring Taxi Service. The visiting rules say hotels and restaurants are available in the area.
Street address for your GPS: 1900 Simler Ave, Big Spring, Tx 79720. Click here to read the source: FCI Big Spring Inmate Information Handbook (2023) ↗
The BOP beats to its own drum. The front desk has the final say. Keep a spare outfit in the car.
FCI Big Spring
Official rules (PDF) En español (PDF)
4 years old. Ask your loved one to check the copy posted in the unit before you drive.
| Skirts and dresses | Shorts/skirts not 2 inches or more above knee, standing or sitting. |
|---|---|
| Shorts | No athletic shorts; other shorts must meet the 2-inch length rule. |
| Colors to avoid | No khaki-colored clothing for visitors age 10 and up. |
| Leggings, spandex | No Lycra or spandex clothing. No tight or form-fitting clothing. |
| Bras and metal | No underwire bras, body piercings or metal that sets off detector. |
| Camouflage, military | No camouflage clothing for visitors age 10 and up. |
| Shoes | No open-toed shoes. No shower shoes or flip-flops. |
| Children | Clothing list applies to children 4 and over; colors to age 10+. |
All 25 rules, in the BOP's own words
Length and fit
- Shorts/skirts not 2 inches or more above knee, standing or sitting.
Shorts or skirts may not be worn when they are 2" inches above the knees when standing or sitting;
- No athletic shorts; other shorts must meet the 2-inch length rule.
Athletic shorts/sweat pants (cloth material)/wind suits; Athletic Jerseys
- No sleeveless shirts, blouses or dresses, and no tank tops.
Sleeveless, strapless or bareback shirts, blouses, or dresses;
- No deep V-neck blouses, shirts or dresses.
Deep v-neck blouses, shirts or dresses;
- No midriff shirts; shirts tucked in or belted for ages 4+.
Halter tops or midriff shirts. Shirts will be tucked in or belted for all visitors ages 4 and over;
- No strapless or bareback tops/dresses, no halter tops.
Sleeveless, strapless or bareback shirts, blouses, or dresses;
- No see-through clothing, even over another shirt; no fishnet.
Tight, form-fitting or see through clothing. This includes see through shirts with a shirt underneath;
- No tight or form-fitting clothing.
Tight, form-fitting or see through clothing. This includes see through shirts with a shirt underneath;
- No Lycra or spandex clothing.
Lycra or spandex clothing;
- No swimwear.
material)/wind suits , At hl etic Jerseys , swimwear , slippers , or
- No slippers.
material)/wind suits , At hl etic Jerseys , swimwear , slippers , or
- No athletic shorts, sweat pants, wind suits, or athletic jerseys.
Athletic shorts/sweat pants (cloth material)/wind suits; Athletic Jerseys
Colors and uniforms
- No khaki-colored clothing for visitors age 10 and up.
Any clothing Khaki or Camouflage in color for visitors age IO and up;
- No camouflage clothing for visitors age 10 and up.
Any clothing Khaki or Camouflage in color for visitors age IO and up;
Bras, underwear and metal
- No underwire bras, body piercings or metal that sets off detector.
body piercing , excess metal on clothing, and under wires in bras
Shoes
- No open-toed shoes.
Shower shoes, "flip-flop" type shoes, or any o pen toed shoes;
- No shower shoes or flip-flops.
Shower shoes, "flip-flop" type shoes, or any o pen toed shoes;
Hats, hoods and coats
- No caps, hats, or scarves of any kind.
Caps, hats, and scarves of any kind;
- No coats, sweaters or jackets with hoods attached.
Long coats, sweaters and jackets that have hoods attached or extend below the knee;
- No long coats/jackets below knee; jacket can't cover banned shirt.
A jacket cannot cover up an unauthorized shirt;
Children
- Clothing list applies to children 4 and over; colors to age 10+.
CLOTHING NOT AUTHORIZED (TO INCLUDE CHILDREN AGES 4 AND OVER}:
Everything else
- No gang symbols or sexual/offensive language on clothing.
Clothing of any type which would symbolize c lub or gang activity or gang affiliation;
- No miniskirts, wrap-around skirts, or skirts with long slits.
Dresses, skirts, or mini-skirts with long slits in the middle or s ide;
- No revealing, immodest or provocative clothing.
Persons who dress immodestly or provocatively may be
If they say no
- Improperly dressed visitors may be denied or have visit terminated.
Operations Li eutena n t and/or IDO to determine whether to deny or
Inmate mailing address
JOHN ANTHONY SMITH-JONES Reg. No. 12345-678 FCI Big Spring 1900 Simler Ave Big Spring, Tx 79720
The BOP lists the same street address (1900 Simler Ave) for inmate mail. Put their name and register number first. Because the prison is closing, call 432-466-2300 before you mail anything to confirm they are still there. Click here to read the source: FCI Big Spring Inmate Information Handbook (2023) ↗
Use exactly this address. Big Spring has no P.O. Box for inmate mail.
- Mail days
- Mail is ordinarily delivered Monday through Friday. Weekend and holiday mail service is usually not provided. Click here to read the source: FCI Big Spring Inmate Information Handbook (2023) ↗
- Books and magazines
- At a low-security prison like Big Spring, softcover books can come from any source. Hardcover books and newspapers must come from the publisher, a book club or a bookstore. Click here to read the source: FCI Big Spring Inmate Information Handbook (2023) ↗
- Their letters to you
- At a low-security prison, outgoing letters may be sealed and are sent unopened. The envelope needs their name, register number and the full return address. Click here to read the source: FCI Big Spring Inmate Information Handbook (2023) ↗
- Legal mail
- Opened in front of them by a staff member. The front of the envelope must say "Special Mail" (open only in the presence of the inmate) and the sender must be named. Without that, staff may open and read it as ordinary mail. Click here to read the source: FCI Big Spring Inmate Information Handbook (2023) ↗
- Opened and checked
- General mail is opened and checked for contraband and funds. Click here to read the source: FCI Big Spring Inmate Information Handbook (2023) ↗
- Money
- Never put money in a letter. The handbook sends money to the BOP lockbox in Des Moines, Iowa (see the Money tab). Click here to read the source: FCI Big Spring Inmate Information Handbook (2023) ↗
Books and magazines: at a low security prison, soft-cover books and magazines can come from anyone. Hardcovers only from a publisher or bookstore.
How to send money to an inmate here
Money never goes to Big Spring. It goes to the BOP, and the BOP puts it on their account. There are 3 ways. Each one below shows you the actual form and exactly what to write in each box, already filled in with their name and number.
First, they must sign the power-of-attorney form (BP-A0407) when they arrive. Until they do, MoneyGram and Western Union money cannot post. Click here to read the source: Program Statement 4500.13, Trust Fund/Deposit Fund Manual (May 7, 2026) ↗
1. Postal money order Our pick
"Postal" means the U.S. Post Office. A postal money order is one you buy at the counter of a U.S. Post Office, from the United States Postal Service. Money orders sold at Walmart, a grocery store, a bank, Western Union, MoneyGram or a check-cashing store are not postal money orders.
Why it matters: a postal money order has no hold. Once the BOP's lockbox in Des Moines gets it, it goes on their account. Every other money order and every personal or company check is put on a 15-day hold first, and the 15 days only start when the lockbox receives the envelope. Add the days it spends in the mail, and it can be close to three weeks before they can spend it.Click here to read the source: BOP, Sending money by U.S. mail ↗ Click here to read the source: FCI Big Spring Inmate Information Handbook (2023) ↗ Foreign money orders and checks are held 45 days. The postal money order is also the cheapest way.
The Post Office's own steps
- Decide the amount. Up to $1,000 in one money order.
- Go to any Post Office.
- Bring cash or a debit card. The Post Office does not take credit cards for money orders.
- Fill it out at the counter with the clerk. Use the boxes below.
- Pay the amount plus the fee: $2.65 for up to $500, $3.75 for $500.01 to $1,000.
- Keep your receipt. You need it to track the money order or replace it if it is lost.Click here to read the source: U.S. Postal Service, Money Orders ↗
- Pay toJOHN ANTHONY SMITH-JONEStheir committed name, exactly as the BOP Inmate Locator shows it
- Address (under Pay to)Federal Bureau of Prisons, P.O. Box 474701, Des Moines, IA 50947-0001
- FromMARIA SMITH-JONESyour name
- Address (under From)123 Main Street, Trenton, NJ 08608your address
- MemoReg. No. 12345678their 8-digit register number, no dash
Unconfirmed: the BOP does not say in writing what goes on the "Pay to" line. Their name is what families use. The name and number on the envelope are what the BOP requires.
123 Main Street
Trenton, NJ 08608
Federal Bureau of Prisons JOHN ANTHONY SMITH-JONES 12345678 Post Office Box 474701 Des Moines, Iowa 50947-0001
Lost it? Tracking and replacing a money order
- Keep the receipt. You need the serial number, post office number and amount to track it at tools.usps.com/money-orders.htm.
- Lost or stolen: take the receipt to any post office and ask for a Money Order Inquiry. It costs $23 and can take up to 60 days.
2. MoneyGram
Posts in about 2 to 4 hours if sent 7 a.m. to 9 p.m. Eastern, any day. Up to $300 per payment. In a store, you fill out the blue ExpressPayment form. This is the BOP's own filled-in sample:
- Company NameFederal Bureau of Prisons
- City & StateWashington, DC
- Receive Code7932always the same
- Account Number of the Bill to Pay12345678SMITHJONESone letter or number per box
- Amount to Payup to $300
- Message to Biller or Beneficiary NameJOHN ANTHONY SMITH-JONES
Top section: your own name, address, phone and signature. Pay cash. Keep the receipt with the reference number.
Unconfirmed: some stores now type it into a screen instead of using the paper form. The boxes are the same.
Doing it online or in the MoneyGram app instead
- Go to moneygram.com (Pay Bills) or the MoneyGram app and log in or sign up.
- Search the biller 7932 or "Federal Bureau of Prisons."
- Enter the amount (up to $300) and the account number
12345678SMITHJONES. - Pay with a debit or credit card. A credit card can charge a cash-advance fee.
3. Western Union
Posts in about 2 to 4 hours. In a store, ask for the Quick Collect form ("To Send Money Form for Bill Payments"). Do not ask for a regular money transfer. This is a real Quick Collect form filled in with the BOP's values:
- Dollar Amountyour amount
- Pay toFederal Bureau of Prisons
- Code CityFBOP, DC
- AttentionJOHN ANTHONY SMITH-JONES
- Account # with Company (in the SENDER section: this is where people get lost)12345678SMITHJONES
Leave Promo Code blank. Put your own name, phone and address in the rest of the Sender section and sign at 3. Pay cash (some stores take debit). You get a 10-digit tracking number (MTCN). Keep it.
Unconfirmed: some stores have the blue Quick Collect form, some a "Pay a Bill" section, and some a phone to an agent.
Doing it online (Send2Corrections), screen by screen
You need a photo ID to set up the account: your name must match your ID exactly.
- Go to send2corrections.com or the Send2Corrections app. Log in or register.
- "Who are you sending to?" Choose the facility Federal Bureau of Prisons (FBOP DC).
- Receiver first name, middle name (optional), last name: exactly as the BOP has it.
- Commissary number: type only the 8 digits,
12345678. No dash, no name. The site adds the last name itself and shows the full account number in a grey box you cannot type in. - Ignore the pop-up that says "BOP number will not work." That text shows for every prison. The register number is what works.
- Amount: $1 to $300. Pay by card, or choose "Pay Cash (in-store)" and pay at a Western Union counter within 12 hours, or it cancels.
Hyphenated last name? The site drops the hyphen: Smith-Jones becomes 12345678SMITHJONES.
Money sent to the wrong person is not returned by Western Union. Western Union payments cannot be changed after they are sent.
Commissary list: what they can buy and what it costs
Big Spring's handbook (2023) says the national spending limit is $360.00 a month, which may be restricted further locally. Accounts are re-validated monthly. National BOP policy (PS 4500.13, May 7, 2026) has since raised the limit to $460 a month, plus $50 more in November and December. If they refuse to pay under the court-fine payment plan ("refuse" status), their limit is $25.00 a month, not counting stamps. Click here to read the source: FCI Big Spring Inmate Information Handbook (2023) ↗ Click here to read the source: Program Statement 4500.13, Trust Fund/Deposit Fund Manual (May 7, 2026) ↗
How shopping works at Big Spring
- They must have their identification card with them to shop.
- Do not leave the commissary once the order form is turned in. No additions or substitutions after that (from the commissary list).
- Check the commissary bulletin board for new items and rules (from the commissary list).
- Prices change without notice.
(K) kosher, (H) halal. A number like "max 3" is the most they can buy at once. From the official list approved (no date is printed on the list; the BOP's PDF file was created October 19, 2022). Prices change without notice. Click here to read the source: FCI Big Spring Commissary Shopping List (no date printed; the BOP file was created October 19, 2022) ↗
Stamps, copy card and photo tickets (limit $11.00 total; stamps and copy cards do not count toward the spending limit)
- 1 CENT STAMPS$0.10
- 1 DOLLAR STAMPS max 10$1.00
- 5 CENT STAMPS$1.00
- INDIVIDUAL STAMPS max 20$0.55
- STAMPS- BOOK max 1$11.60
- COPY CARD max 2$5.85
- PHOTO TICKETS max 15$1.00
Ice cream limit 1 & 2
- PINT$2.75
Batteries (exchange 1 for 1)
- AAA BATTERIES$1.50
- AA BATTERIES$1.50
- WATCH BATTERY (ECR2016, ECR2032, ECR2025)$3.90
Beverages (limit 2 / 12 packs per visit)
- DEJA BLUE WATER 6 PK max 4$3.60
- MOUNTAIN DEW ZERO$7.15
- PEPSI$7.15
- 7UP$7.15
- ORANGE KIST$7.15
- V8 JUICE max 12$1.15
- FRENCH VANILLA CREAMER$1.30
- NON-DAIRY CREAMER max 10$1.65
- DRINK MIX CHERRY LIME max 5$1.30
- DRINK MIX PURPLE WAVE max 5$1.30
- SUNKIST STRAWBERRY max 5$1.30
- SUPER C VITAMIN MIX S/F max 5$1.30
- PEACH TEA MIX S/ F max 5$1.50
- CAPPUCCINO max 10$1.75
- HOT CHOCOLATE max 10$1.85
- GATORADE MIX max 5$2.05
- S/F HOT CHOCOLATE max 10$2.30
- FOLGERS max 5$3.70
- DECAF COFFEE max 5$3.55
- COLOMBIAN COFFEE max 5$3.80
- TEA BAGS max 2$3.75
- DRY MILK max 5$5.20
- TASTERS CHOICE max 5$11.00
- BREAKFAST ESSENTIALS max 2$6.95
Candy
- CHICK-O-STICK max 15$0.25
- TWIX max 10$1.30
- WHATCHAMACALLIT max 10$1.30
- MILKYWAY max 10$1.30
- HERSHEY W/ALMOND max 10$1.30
- BUTTERFINGER max 10$1.30
- SNICKERS max 10$1.30
- REESES PB CUPS max 10$1.30
- ATOMIC FIREBALLS max 5$1.30
Snacks
- GRANOLA BAR ALMOND max 15$0.75
- GRANOLA BAR PEANUT max 15$0.75
- HONEY MUSTARD/ONION max 10$0.65
- CORN NUTS RANCH$1.40
- PEANUT BUTR CRNCHY max 2$2.70
- PEANUT BUTR CREAMY max 2$2.70
- MIXED NUTS max 4$2.95
- ZESTY RANCH MIX G/F max 4$2.00
- GARLIC PARM MIX G/F max 4$2.00
- HOT BUFFALO MIX G/F max 4$2.00
Cookies & pastries
- ICED OATMEAL max 5$0.95
- STRAWBERRY FIG max 4$1.30
- NUTRITION BAR PB&J max 5$1.75
- NUTRITION BAR B-DAY max 5$1.75
- NUTRITION BAR CHOCO max 5$1.75
- NUTRITION BAR PB max 5$1.80
- VANILLA WAFERS max 4$2.10
- NUTTY BARS max 3$3.50
- LITTLE DEBBIE max 3$3.50
- LITTLE DEBBIE max 3$3.50
- CHOCOCREMES COOKIES max 5$2.45
Meat (limit 10)
- TURKEY AND SWISS max 5$1.95
- HOT BEEF & JALAPENO max 5$1.95
- BEEF SUMMER SAUSAGE max 5$2.25
- SPAM POUCH max 10$1.45
- TURKEY LOG max 5$2.25
- HOT BEEF SAUSAGE max 5$2.25
- PEPPERONI max 5$2.60
- HALAL SUMMER SAUSAGE max 5$2.40
- CHILI W/O BEANS max 5$2.45
- SHREDDED BEEF max 5$4.55
- CHICKEN max 5$3.95
- SHOULDER PORK max 5$4.85
- ROAST BEEF W/ GRAVY max 5$8.00
Fish (limit 24)
- MACKEREL FILLETS max 24$1.15
- TUNA POUCH max 24$3.00
Condiments
- LOUISIANA HOT SUACE max 2$0.85
- KOSHER DILL max 5$1.25
- SOY SAUCE max 2$1.00
- MUSTARD max 2$1.25
- GARLIC POWDER max 3$1.25
- BACON BITS max 3$1.35
- VEGETABLE FLAKES max 3$1.35
- LEMON PEPPER max 3$1.35
- JALAPENO TUB max 3$1.65
- SALT & PEPPER max 2$1.65
- MINCED ONION max 3$1.80
- TAPATIO max 2$1.20
- SAZON GOYA max 3$2.00
- SWEET AND HOT SAUCE max 2$2.05
- MAYONNAISE max 2$2.05
- CHILI GARLIC SAUCE max 2$2.40
- PIZZA SAUCE max 2$2.30
- BBQ SAUCE max 2$2.75
- SWEET N LOW max 2$2.80
- SRIRACHA CHILI SAUCE max 2$3.15
- HONEY SUGARFREE max 1$3.40
- SPLENDA max 2$3.50
- KRAFT RANCH DRESSING max 15$0.50
- CHEESE SQUEEZE max 2$3.90
- JALEPENO CHEESE SQUEEZE max 2$3.90
Rice & beans (limit 10)
- HOT BEANS & RICE max 5$1.05
- REFRIED BEANS max 5$1.95
- JALAPENO BEANS max 5$1.95
- WHITE RICE max 5$1.15
- CHEESY RICE max 5$1.75
Tortillas
- CORN TORTILLAS max 6$0.75
- FLOUR TORTILLAS max 6$3.05
Pasta (limit 10)
- THAI NOODLE max 10$1.00
Oatmeal, limit 2 each
- REGULAR OATMEAL$3.35
- OATMEAL MAPLE/BS$3.45
- OATMEAL VARIETY$2.50
- MARSHMALLOW MATEYS$3.60
- OAT BLENDERS$2.70
- FRUITY DYNO-BYTES$3.50
- FROSTED FLAKES$3.25
- COLLOSSAL BERRY CRUNCH$3.50
Cheese
- CREAM CHEESE max 15$0.40
- HOT PEPPER CHEESE BLOCK max 5$1.65
- MOZZERELLA BLOCK max 5$1.65
- SHARP CHEDDAR BLOCK max 5$1.40
- QUESO COTIJA CHEESE max 2$2.00
- HABANERO SPREAD max 2$2.60
- SMOKED GOUDA SPREAD max 2$2.60
- CHEESE SQUEEZE max 2$3.00
Crackers
- SALTINES max 2$2.35
- SNACK CRACKERS max 2$2.50
- PEANUTBUTTER CRACKERS$0.45
Ramen limit 10
- BEEF RAMEN$0.50
- CHILI RAMEN max 24$0.50
- CHICKEN RAMEN max 24$0.50
- CHILI LIME SHRIMP max 24$0.50
Chips
- PORK RINDS max 10$1.00
- STUFFED JALAPENO max 5$1.70
- WHITE CHEDDAR POPCORN max 5$1.65
- BBQ CHIPS max 5$1.70
- NACHO CHIPS max 5$2.10
- TORTILLA CHIPS max 5$2.45
Medications limit 2 each
- ALLERGY RELIEF$1.30
- ASPIRIN$1.30
- HYDROCORTIZONE CREAM$1.80
- CARMEX LIP ONTMENT$2.35
- SALINE NASAL SPRAY$1.80
- ANTIFUNGAL CREAM$1.85
- ACETAMINOPHEN$2.00
- ARTIFICIAL TEARS$2.15
- BLISTEX$2.35
- CHAPSTICK LIP BALM$1.40
- MEDICATED POWDER$2.25
- ROLAIDS$2.25
- LORATADINE ALLERGY$2.15
- MILK OF MAGNESIA$2.30
- CHEST RUB$2.45
- COUGH SYRUP$2.45
- EAR WAX REMOVER$2.50
- MUSCLE RUB$2.50
- TRIPLE ANTIBIOTIC$2.50
- S/F COUGH DROPS$2.65
- IBUPROFEN$2.70
- STOOL SOFTENER$2.85
- VITAMN D$2.95
- PINK BISMUTH$3.05
- VITAMIN C$3.15
- VITAMIN B$3.25
- VITAMIN E$3.50
- HEMORRHOID CREAM$3.55
- LIQUID ANTACID$3.55
- CALCIUM$3.90
- NAPROXEN$4.00
- MULTI VITAMIN$4.15
- FIBER PILLS$5.95
- HEAD&SHOULDERS$7.40
- OMEPRAZOLE$8.50
- FLUTICASONE SPRAY$14.95
Shaving needs
- AFTA AFTER SHAVE$2.60
- DISPOSABLE RAZOR max 2$1.85
- SHAVE CREAM max 2$2.25
- MAGIC SHAVE max 2$4.25
- MUSTACHE SCISSORS max 2$5.15
- CLEAR SHAVING BAG max 2$5.50
- MACH 3 RAZOR$12.15
- GILL MACH 3 CARTRIDGES max 1$22.30
Deodorants limit 2 each
- ROLL ON$1.45
- POWER UP DEODORANT$2.20
- DEGREE DEODORANT$3.45
Dental limit 2 each
- TOOTHBRUSH HOLDER$0.70
- TOOTHBRUSH$1.05
- FLOSS PICKS$1.30
- GRANDE DENTURE BRUSH$1.80
- MOUTHWASH$1.95
- AIM TOOTHPASTE$2.20
- FLOSS LOOPS$2.30
- COLGATE B&P$3.10
- DENTURE CREAM$3.45
- POLIGRIP$5.10
- SENSITIVE TOOTHPASTE$6.45
Skin care limit 2 each
- BABYPOWDER$1.90
- COCOA BUTTER STICK$2.50
- INFUZED LIME LOTION$2.75
- SUAVE COCOA LOTION$3.55
- SUNBLOCK SPF 30$3.60
- LUBRIDERM$4.70
- JERGENS LOTION$5.35
- INSECT REPELLENT max 1$8.60
- ACNE MEDICATION$2.95
- NOXEMA$2.30
Body soap limit 3 each
- 2 PIECE SOAP DISH$0.70
- DIAL ANITBACTERIAL BAR$1.65
- DOVE SOAP BAR$1.70
- AMBI SOAP$2.30
- IRISH SPRING ICY BLAST 3 PK$2.50
- NEUTROGENA$3.45
- MENS BODYWASH$2.75
Haircare limit 2 each
- AFRO PICK$0.80
- DEP STYLING GEL$0.90
- VENT BRUSH$1.05
- 3 IN 1VO5 SHAMPOO$1.45
- CLUB BRUSH$1.70
- SUAVE SHAMPOO$1.85
- AFRICAN PRIDE RELAXER$9.35
- AFRICAN PRIDE MAGIC GRO$6.35
- MURRAY’S$2.45
- HAIR FOOD$2.90
- WATERFALL CONDITIONER$2.70
- COCONUT OIL$2.75
- BLACK HAIR TIES max 2$3.25
- PANTENE SHAMPOO / COND$6.80
- THERA COAL TAR SHAMPOO$3.85
- LUSTER’S PINK OIL$5.50
Writing supplies limit 2 each
- ENVELOPE NO CLASP max 10$0.15
- PINK ERASER$0.45
- ADDRESS BOOK SMALL$0.80
- ADDRESS BOOK LARGE$2.30
- BLANK CARD$0.80
- WRITING PEN BLUE$0.90
- WRITING PEN BLACK$1.25
- BIRTHDAY CARD$1.05
- MAILING ENVELOPES$1.30
- WIRELESS NOTEBOOK$2.10
- DOCUMENT FILE (CLEAR)$1.95
- TYPE CORRECT RIBBON$2.50
- WHITE OUT$4.80
- CLEAR TYPE RIBBON$9.80
Athletic circle your size
- WRIST BAND WHITE$1.75
- HEADBAND WHITE$1.80
- MOUTHPIECE$3.45
- RACQUET BALLS$5.85
- GREY MESH BAG$9.10
- WEIGHT GLOVES (MED LG 1XL 2XL)$23.35
Footwear circle your size or write size
- WOLVERINES$80.60
- REEBOCK CLASSIC$39.00
- UA SURGE 2$50.70
- SHOELACE BLACK$1.05
- SHOELACE WHITE$1.05
- COURTLINE INSOLE$2.40
- CREW SOCKS 3PK MED$4.90
- ¼ SOCKS 3PK MED$4.90
- CREW SOCKS 3PK LG$5.85
- ¼ SOCKS 3PK LG$5.85
- CREW SOCKS 3PK XL$5.85
- ¼ SOCKS 3PK XL$5.85
- TIMBERLAND SOCKS$11.25
- WASH CLOTH 11.5”X12”$2.75
- BATH TOWEL 24”X50”$15.60
- SHOWER SHOES (MED LG XL 2XL 3XL) max 1$7.80
- GEL HEEL INSOLES$11.05
- GEL INSOLES SIZE$12.35
- GEL ARCH INSOLE$13.00
Thermals circle your size
- SHIRT MED L 1XL$10.15
- SHIRT 2XL 3XL 4XL$11.45
- SHIRT 5X$12.75
- SHIRT 6X$11.70
- PANTS MED L$10.15
- PANTS XL$10.15
- PANTS 2XL 3XL 4XL$11.45
- PANTS 5X 6X$11.70
Sweats circle your size
- SHIRTS MD LG 1XL$17.55
- SHIRTS 2XL 3XL 4XL$17.55
- SHIRTS 5XL$23.40
- PANTS MED LG XL$20.80
- PANTS 2XL 3XL 4XL$20.80
- PANTS 5XL 6XL$26.00
Shorts circle your size
- MESH /W POCKET (MD LG 1XL)$19.55
- MESH /W POCKET 2XL 3XL$22.10
- MESH /W POCKET (4XL 5XL 6XL)$26.00
T-shirts circle your size
- ATHLETIC SHIRT LG XL$11.05
- ATHLETIC SHIRT 2XL 3XL$14.95
- ATHLETIC SHIRT 4XL 5XL$15.60
- LONG SLV T LG XL$10.40
- LONG SLV T 2XL 3XL$10.40
- LONG SLV T 4XL 5XL$10.40
- LONG SLV T 6XL 7XL$19.20
- T-SHIRT (M LG 1XL 2XL 3XL)$6.50
- T-SHIRT 4XL$9.10
- T-SHIRT 5XL$11.70
- T SHIRT 6XL$10.50
Boxers (2-pack) circle your size
- GT PRO GRAY BOXERS (2 PK) (MED LG XL 2XL)$9.30
- GT PRO GRAY BOXERS (3X 4X 5X)$12.20
- GT PRO GRAY BOXERS (6X)$13.50
Miscellaneous
- SPORK max 1$0.40
- CUTLERY SET max 1$1.55
- PALMOLIVE DISH SOAP max 1$1.95
- SMALL BOWL max 2$3.25
- LARGE BOWL max 2$4.30
- CLEAR MUG max 1$3.55
- 32 OZ WATER BOTTLE max 1$3.90
- EAR PLUGS max 6$0.45
- SLANT TWEEZERS max 1$0.60
- FINGERNAIL CLIPPER max 1$0.65
- TOENAIL CLIPPER max 1$1.15
- COTTON SWABS max 1$1.80
- POLO SPORT BLACK max 2$4.25
- DOLCE & GABANA ONE max 2$4.25
- AMBER WHITE max 2$4.25
- HANDKERCHIEF WHITE max 2$0.75
- BLACK RUBBER BANDS max 2$0.80
- HAND SANITIZER$1.20
- SEWING KIT max 1$2.00
- MIRROR ACRYLIC MAG max 1$2.25
- VARIETY PUZZLE max 2$1.45
- PLAYING CARDS max 2$1.60
- PINOCHLE CARDS max 2$1.70
- UNO max 1$10.35
- DURAG$2.55
- TOBOGGAN max 1$3.90
- MESH FITTED HAT S/M max 1$11.05
- MESH FITTED HAT L/XL max 1$11.05
- GLOVES max 1$4.15
- PONCHO max 1$4.95
- PHOTO ALBUM SM max 1$2.80
- READING GLASSES$11.10
- COPPERHEADSUNGLASSES max 1$5.25
- EASTON SUNGLASSES max 1$26.00
- LOCK COMBINATION max 1$6.65
- CHARMIN max 1$8.10
- PLASTIC HOOK max 1$3.45
- LOCKER ORGANIZER max 1$11.45
- LED BOOKLIGHT$12.95
- CLIP ON SUNGLASSES$5.40
Radio / watch write in new items
- ALARM CLOCK max 1$8.45
- SCIENTIFIC CALCULATOR$16.90
- JVC GUMY EARBUDS$10.35
- JVC WRAP AROUND BUDS$12.95
- KOSS CL-20 HEADPHONES$36.35
- DIAMOND RADIO$37.45
- SANGEAN RADIO$50.80
- MP3 PLAYER$88.40
- WATCHBAND RUBBER$3.90
- TIMEX BAND$11.45
- WATCHBAND IRONMAN$11.95
- TIMEX GENERIC BAND$13.65
- G-SHOCK WATCHBAND$15.00
- G-SHOCK CASIO WATCH$92.95
- VELCO WATCH BAND$3.25
Phone calls and email
- Minutes
- 300 minutes a month. Each call is limited to 15 minutes. The handbook says they ordinarily get 100 extra minutes in November and December. Click here to read the source: FCI Big Spring Inmate Information Handbook (2023) ↗
- Hours
- Phones work 6:00 a.m. to 11:30 p.m. On weekdays, access is normally limited from 7:30 to 10:30 a.m. and from 12:30 p.m. until after the 4:00 p.m. count. They must not call during their work hours. Click here to read the source: FCI Big Spring Inmate Information Handbook (2023) ↗
- Paying
- Phone credit comes out of their commissary account in whole-dollar amounts. Calls can be monitored and recorded. Click here to read the source: FCI Big Spring Inmate Information Handbook (2023) ↗
- Text-only messages on TRULINCS, no attachments. They pay by the minute. Click here to read the source: FCI Big Spring Inmate Information Handbook (2023) ↗
They have to add your number and email to their list first. Emails come through CorrLinks: you get an invitation by email once they add you.
Health care at Big Spring
Medical care level 2 and mental health care level 2 (of 4). Stable outpatients who need to see a clinician anywhere from monthly to every 6 months. Examples the BOP gives: diabetes controlled with medication, epilepsy, emphysema. Click here to read the source: BOP "Institution Care Levels for Medical Assignment," February 13, 2024 (released under FOIA 2024-03455) ↗
- Sick call
- Sick call is held Monday, Tuesday, Thursday and Friday, not holidays. The handbook gives two different sign-up windows: 6:00 to 6:30 a.m. in one place and 6:50 to 7:00 a.m. in another. Ask the prison which one applies. All visits except emergencies are by appointment, and they must show their ID card. Click here to read the source: FCI Big Spring Inmate Information Handbook (2023) ↗
- Emergencies
- Medical care is available 24 hours a day. After sick call they tell their supervisor or another staff member, who arranges care. Click here to read the source: FCI Big Spring Inmate Information Handbook (2023) ↗
- Pill lines
- FCI, Monday to Friday: 6:15 to 6:45 a.m., 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., 4:30 to 6:00 p.m. Weekends and holidays: 7:30 to 8:00 a.m., 11:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m., 4:30 to 5:00 p.m. Camp, Monday to Friday: 10:00 to 10:30 a.m. and 7:00 to 7:30 p.m. Click here to read the source: FCI Big Spring Inmate Information Handbook (2023) ↗
- Glasses
- They ask at sick call or with an Inmate Request to Staff Member form, and they are scheduled for an exam. Standard-issue glasses are provided if needed. Click here to read the source: FCI Big Spring Inmate Information Handbook (2023) ↗
- Co-pay
- $2.00 for visits they ask for themselves. Clinical referrals, chronic-care follow-up, preventive care, emergencies, mental health care and substance abuse treatment are not charged. No one is denied care for being unable to pay. Click here to read the source: FCI Big Spring Inmate Information Handbook (2023) ↗
Programs
- RDAP (drug program; can mean up to a year off for those eligible)
- FCI Big Spring does not have RDAP, says the handbook. They can ask for an interview with an "Inmate Request to Staff Member" form to be considered for a transfer. Click here to read the source: FCI Big Spring Inmate Information Handbook (2023) ↗
- Other drug programs
- The Drug Abuse Education Course and non-residential drug abuse treatment, available in every BOP institution. Click here to read the source: FCI Big Spring Inmate Information Handbook (2023) ↗
- Education
- The Education Department handles testing, GED, English as a second language, parenting, vocational training, hobby crafts and the libraries. Anyone who gets a GED while there receives $25.00 and a photograph. A high school diploma or GED is needed for pay above grade four. Click here to read the source: FCI Big Spring Inmate Information Handbook (2023) ↗
- Parenting
- The handbook describes the BOP's National Parenting Program, a psychoeducational course on parenting basics. Click here to read the source: FCI Big Spring Inmate Information Handbook (2023) ↗
- Hobby crafts
- A variety of hobby craft programs through the Recreation Department. They must be in the program to do a craft. Click here to read the source: FCI Big Spring Inmate Information Handbook (2023) ↗
Big Spring is not on the BOP's RDAP list (updated June 4, 2026), and the closure announcement means programs may change. Click here to read the source: First Step Act Approved Programs Guide (May 2026) ↗
Safety record
Criminal cases at Big Spring
Deaths announced by the BOP
- October 9, 2020A 52-year-old man tested positive for COVID-19 on September 18, 2020, was moved to a hospital and put on a ventilator, and was pronounced dead there. Click here to read the source: BOP press release, "Inmate Death at FCI Big Spring," October 13, 2020 ↗
- October 23, 2020A 60-year-old man tested positive for COVID-19 on October 7, 2020, was taken to a hospital and put on a ventilator, and was pronounced dead there. Click here to read the source: BOP press release, "Inmate Death at FCI Big Spring," October 23, 2020 ↗
- November 1, 2020A 48-year-old man tested positive for COVID-19 on October 9, 2020, was in a hospital on a ventilator, and was pronounced dead there. Click here to read the source: BOP press release, "Inmate Death at FCI Big Spring," November 2, 2020 ↗
These are deaths the BOP announced in a press release. The BOP does not publish a full count of deaths at each prison, so this is not a total. All three were in the fall of 2020; we found no BOP death announcement for Big Spring since then.
Sexual abuse audit (PREA)
The last federal sexual-abuse (PREA) audit visited Big Spring July 16 to 18, 2024. Result: 0 standards exceeded, 41 met, 0 not met (4 more were audited only at the agency level). In the 12 months before the audit, Big Spring recorded 4 sexual-abuse allegations (1 against staff, 3 against other inmates) and 0 sexual-harassment allegations. Click here to read the source: PREA audit report, FCI Big Spring (onsite July 16 to 18, 2024) ↗
An allegation is a report, not a finding. The audit counts reports made, not what investigators concluded.
News about Big Spring
- Urgent Request for Congressional Action to Stop the Closure of FCI Big Springactionnetwork.org · Jul 18, 2026
- Howard County Braces for Impacts as FCI Big Spring Faces Closure by March 31, 2027The Big Spring Herald · Jul 7, 2026
- FCI Big Spring to Close Permanently as Part of Nationwide Federal Bureau of Prisons RestructuringThe Big Spring Herald · Jul 2, 2026
Stories from news outlets that name FCI Big Spring, checked every day. Last updated Nov 3, 2026, 7:35 pm ET. We link to the original story; we did not write these.
Intel from the Inside
Intel last checked: November 3, 2026
Reports from people inside, in their own words. It is how the place really runs, not official policy, and it can change. We never publish names.
No Intel reported for Big Spring yet.
Know something about Big Spring that families should know? Tell Scooter. Our team checks every report before it goes up, and we never publish names.