Desert camping near Marathon
Discover and reserve the best campgrounds, cabins, RV parks, and more.
94% (1127 reviews)
- Marathon
94% (1127 reviews)
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Under $50
12 top desert campgrounds near Marathon
93%
(1165)
El Cosmico
40 sites · RVs, Tents21 acres · Marfa, TX
El Cosmico takes its inspiration from a long American history of hippies, nomads, bohemians and those living a life of self-determination. We believe in tuning in, dropping out and being here now.
Vehicles are not allowed onto the grounds, so if you are staying in your car or RV you will post up in our large parking lot with easy access to the grounds. Tent camping is dispersed, so you pick your space within the designated camping areas that are indicated on the property map provided at the front desk.
Front desk hours are from 7:30am-11:00pm daily. If you are arriving after 11pm please call ahead for late check-in instructions.
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$30
/ night
95%
(262)
Jackass Flats Campground
23 sites · RVs, Tents40 acres · Terlingua Ranch / Alpine, TX
Located 25 miles north of Terlingua, TX on State Highway 118, close to the historic Comanche Trail, under the brilliant west Texas stars and below famous Nine Point Mesa. Within 25 miles of Big Bend National Park, Big Bend Ranch State Park, Terlingua Ghost Town, Rio Grande Outfitters and river access.
The area is not only famous for its rich ranching history but also for its diverse geology and awesome night skies.
Enjoy the Terrymar Pavilion for group gatherings, picnicking or taking in the panoramic views, phenomenal night skies, sunrises and sunsets. View our resident Texas Longhorn steers and horses in the restored nineteenth century stock pens. Please DO NOT GET CLOSE TO THE FENCE, THESE CATTLE ARE STOCK, not PETS.
Be sure to FILL YOUR WATER tank before arriving.
NON POTABLE water can be accessed. There is no city water services available in our area.
Stay connected with free Wi-Fi at The Little Burro Country Store which is also on premises. Password is "jackassflats" all lowercase, 1 word, no special characters.
We offer wood/snacks/groceries/ice and food items to meet your needs.
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$25
/ night
100%
(11)
BBC Terlingua Overland Camping
3 sites · Tents100 acres · Study Butte, TX
Welcome to Big Bend Camp (https://www.bigbend.camp). The Big Bend region of Texas is a vast and rugged expanse in West Texas, USA, known for its stunning landscapes, remote wilderness, and exceptional opportunities for outdoor activities. Overland camping in Big Bend allows adventurous individuals to immerse themselves in natural beauty while exploring its diverse terrain.
Big Bend Camp Overland is a 100-acre property with three campsites that provide ample space for outdoor enthusiasts to explore and enjoy nature. Overland adventurists often engage in off-road vehicle travel and outdoor camping and would likely appreciate the opportunity to experience the Big Bend Camp property.
Overland camping involves traveling off-road and setting up camp in more remote and secluded areas, often using a specialized vehicle equipped with camping gear and supplies. This camping style is trendy due to the Big Bend's expansive backcountry and the ability to access remote areas inaccessible to regular vehicles.
To access Big Bend Camp, you'll need a high-clearance 4x4 vehicle, preferably with off-road capabilities. This type of vehicle is necessary to navigate the 13 miles of rough and unpaved roads to access the camping sites along the way.
Big Bend Camp has three designated backcountry campsites accessible only by a high-clearance vehicle. These campsites are basic, with no facilities or amenities, allowing visitors to experience an authentic wilderness camping experience.
When overland camping at Big Bend Camp, you can witness breathtaking sunsets, starry night skies, and a remarkable variety of landscapes. From the iconic overlook of Chalk Draw bordering Big Bend National Park to the vastness of Nine Point Mesa and panoramic vistas, the Chihuahuan Desert offers vast stretches of rugged terrain and a diverse range of camping environments for any overland adventurist.
Overland camping at Big Bend Camp offers an unparalleled opportunity to connect with nature, explore remote areas, and experience the untamed beauty of one of America's most stunning landscapes.
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$12
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98%
(20)
Cholla Ranch Camp, Glamping Tents
3 sites · Lodging15 acres · Alpine, TX
Learn more about this land:
Cholla Ranch Camp, situated in the Chihuahuan Desert of Far West Texas is both remote and convenient as it lies just a few miles from the small town of Alpine. This desert setting has been consistently used as a working ranch for decades. The camp is a 10 acre section we have dedicated to hosting guests out of the 1100 acre ranch.
Two unique Glamping Tents and 1 Cabin are offered on the ranch to rent. Each unit offers indoor plumbing, comfy beds, refrigerator, microwave, heat and ac seasonally, a private deck, outdoor cooking space and much much more.
From your deck is a direct view of the Twin Peaks during the day and spectacular stargazing at night. Pasture Horses and Cattle Roam the Property while Chickens stay safe in their oversized run. One part ranch, one part camp- all Far West Texas Desert.
We supply a range of fantastic organic toiletries that help support our grey water system. Fresh Locally Ground Coffee and yes even snacks. Here at CRC we try to ensure your needs are well taking care of. We look forward to your stay as a place to relax while being submerged in the history of the land.
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$105
/ night
100%
(20)
Saddletramp Ranch
2 sites · RVs, Tents160 acres · Alpine, TX
Consistently drawn to the Big Bend area, after horseback riding and traveling all over Texas I decided to make it my home and have never looked back.
The property is on and surrounded by other large ranches between Alpine and Terlingua, allowing space and privacy.
Learn more about this land:
Open range is a thing of the past, yet the ranches here intertwine, and the view goes on forever. Undulating hills of desert shrubs, cactus and rock – like an ocean with its waves.
Just over 30 miles from Alpine and within an hour from the Big Bend National Park entrance.
At a higher elevation than Terlingua, temps are at least 10 degrees cooler here.
Easy access to
Alpine, Marathon, Marfa, Fort Davis and Terlingua. Great location for Viva Big Bend or a stop-over on the way down south.
We have two campsites available. Site 1 can accommodate trailers and Site 2 with primitive tent camping (or car camping) - no trailers. High clearance preferred with both sites, required for Site 2.
Campsites are far enough apart to allow privacy.
High desert camping, dark skies, views of Calamity Creek, Elephant Mountain, Santiago Mountains, Santiago Peak, Kokernot Mesa. 300 acres. No wifi currently or amenities other than pure peace, quiet and beautiful sunsets.
Immerse yourself in the beauty and peacefulness of our high desert.
360 views!
Campfire ability dependent on weather/wind.
Improvements ongoing.
Pack it in, pack it out. This is a wildlife exemption, please respect the desert. Rattlesnakes are more prevalent in the warmer months.
Please dispose of all human waste.
Leave no trace!
No hunting allowed.
Hiking roads is permitted, as well as
on host property.
Gates and sites are difficult to find after dark - please notify host if arriving after sunset.
Specific/detailed directions will be sent upon booking.
Owner lives nearby, out of sight.
Yes - you may hear a donkey!
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$15
/ night
100%
(4)
Cottonwood Creek Cabins -Alpine, TX
3 sites · Lodging30 acres · Alpine, TX
Cottonwood Creek Cabins is an idyllic private 30acre homestead with 5 custom built cabins and 1 glamping tipi, located just 10 mins south of Alpine, Texas. Situated at 5200ft in elevation, and removed from all nearby city noise and light pollution, the air is clean, the setting is quiet, and the dark night skies are perfect for star gazing. If you are looking to relax from the fast pace of the city and want a central hub for all Big Bend area has to offer, this is the ideal place to stay!
29 miles away located at the base of the Davis Mountains, Fort Davis is considered one of the best remaining examples of a Southwest frontier military post. In use from 1854 to 1891, it was also home to the famed Buffalo Soldiers. Visitors can explore more than 100 ruins and 24 buildings, including five that have been restored and furnished to their 1880s condition, on self-guided tours. Multimedia exhibits and displays offer a wealth of information, while costumed interpretive programs bring history to life. You’ll also find four miles of frontcountry and backcountry hiking trails, and although there is no camping inside the park, options are available in nearby Davis Mountains State Park and the town of Fort Davis.
Just one mile furhter more than 2,700 acres of mile-high peaks—the highest is 5,600 feet—and rugged plains look out over the surrounding Chihuahuan Desert in Davis Mountains State Park. Wild scenery is a guarantee, whether you choose to explore by horseback or mountain bike, hike all the way to the Fort Davis National Historic Site, or picnic along Limpia Creek.
Pets are allowed. Please make sure you pick up after them.
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$129
/ night
Booked 2 times
Shipping Containers Ranch View
2 sites · Lodging5 acres · Alpine, TX
Located on Highway 90 between Marathon and Alpine, the property is secluded with wonderful night time star gazing! The property is on a working cattle ranch, and the cattle and horses are often seen by guests. Wildlife is abundant and guests have reported seeing javelina, hogs, deer, bobcats, and other wildlife. We do recommend being cautious and watch out for snakes.
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$89
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(16)
Mountain View Lodge
3 sites · RVs, Tents7 acres · Fort Davis, TX
Formerly Mountain Trails Lodge, our property features stunning sunrises and sunsets, wildlife watching, and amazing dark skies viewing. And on April 8, you join us for solar eclipse viewing. We'll have eclipse glasses for our guests.
We offer tent campsites and one RV site with electricity and water available, along with access to a restroom with shower and amenities, our pavilion with a gas grill and grilling tools, a fridge, ice, and picnic tables. We also have cabins for rent, visible on our website mountainviewlodgetx.com.
We have seven acres convenient to many attractions, including McDonald Observatory, Fort Davis National Historic Site, Davis Mountains State Park, the Chihuahuan Desert Research Center, a 75-mile scenic loop, and more.
Marfa, TX, a widely recognized community of world-renowned artists, is just a 20-minute drive away. Alpine, TX is also only 20 minutes away with more amenities and medical care facilities. We are located in a Dark Skies Reserve with spectacular night viewing of stars and the Milky Way, even without a telescope!
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$39
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(16)
Starry Night Retreat
1 site · RV, Tent5 acres · Study Butte, TX
Come out to enjoy solitude at the Starry Night Retreat! Pitch your tent in your very own desert escape with 360 degree Mountain View’s and soak up some of the best views of the stars in all of the United States!
You will have this entire 5 acre lot all to yourself which allows for extremely peaceful solitude!
You will be only 25min~ from both Big Bend national Park and Terlingua Ghost town!
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$18
/ night
Camping near Big Bend
6 sites · Tents5 acres · Alpine, TX
Escape to the serene and secluded desert landscape of Terlingua, Texas with our charming campsite! Located in the heart of the desert, this private and quiet campsite is the perfect place to unwind and disconnect from the hustle and bustle of daily life. With no neighbors for miles, you'll enjoy the ultimate privacy and a true wilderness experience. Immerse yourself in the breathtaking natural surroundings, stargaze under the clear night sky, and soak up the peaceful desert vibes.
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$20
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99%
(43)
Dusty Paddle
7 sites · RVs, Tents42 acres · Study Butte, TX
Once a sea, this now desert campground offers views of the mountains into Mexico and surrounding Terlingua, Texas area. Use your imagination and have fun at our tropical themed campground. There are plenty of cool rocks and an arroyo to explore on this 42 acres. Fossil And shell hunt, hike, bike, enjoy fabulous sunsets and the best stargazing possible. Keep a look out for awesome desert plants and wildlife. Feel free to bring a painted rock with your name, date, and where you are from to leave at your campsite. This campground is private and remote but conveniently located within 10 minutes of a store that is well stocked with Wi-Fi, ice, beer, propane and other necessities. This is an off grid campground. If you are looking to unplug, this place is for you. Please remember to bring whatever you need for a Boondocking experience, such as water, fuel, shade etc. Please stay on discernible roads, to help preserve this property and pack out ALL trash, human waste, and pet waste.
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$20
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(5)
Casa de Keaveny
1 site · Lodging30 acres · Alpine, TX
Beautiful land in the Chihuahua desert north of the Christmas mountains and south of the famous 9 point Mesa. Just north of Mexico and 30 min from Big Bend National park and The Terlingua ghostown . West Texas.
Off grid small house running on solar power and rain water catchment.
Very cozy.
Plenty of land for camping also.
Mr. Keaveny built the house himself over a 10 year period.
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$89
/ night
Nearby parks
Explore the area’s public lands.
Desert camping near Marathon guide
Overview
Welcome to Hipcamp, the ultimate camping resource for outdoor enthusiasts! If you're looking for a desert adventure near Marathon, Texas, you're in luck. We have over 800 options specifically tailored to your activity and terrain preference. Whether you're a seasoned camper or a first-timer, our top campsites, such as Goat Pens, Cigar Springs Ranch (657 reviews), El Cosmico (537 reviews), and Paisano Azul Ranch (428 reviews), offer exceptional experiences. With popular amenities like pet-friendly accommodations, campfires, and potable water, and activities ranging from whitewater paddling to snow sports, you'll have everything you need for an unforgettable camping trip. Plus, with prices as low as $5 per night and an average price of $30 per night, you can enjoy nature at an affordable cost. So pack your bags and get ready to explore the stunning desert landscapes of Marathon, Texas!
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