Camping in Marathon, TX, US: 12 Best Campgrounds 2023

United States
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Texas
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Marathon

95% (3963 reviews)

Popular camping styles for Marathon

Top camping destinations

Davis Mountains State Park

118 campgrounds

Big Bend Ranch State Park

90 campgrounds

Big Bend National Park

Star Hosts in Marathon

95%

(248)

12 top campgrounds near Marathon

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(41)

Dusty Paddle

7 sites · RVs, Tents42 acres · Study Butte, Brewster

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.

Jackass Flats Campground

23 sites · RVs, TentsTerlingua Ranch / Alpine, Brewster

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. but 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. We offer wood/snacks/groc/ice and food items to meet your needs.

El Cosmico

35 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents21 acres · Marfa, Presidio

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. Mask are encouraged at this time. Please respect your fellow campers and staff members.

97%

(270)

Tierra del Sol Basecamp

6 sites · RVs, Tents40 acres · Alpine, TX

The Tierra del Sol Basecamp is an open desert camping area located within Terlingua Ranch, 3 miles off of Hwy 118, 19 miles north of Study Butte and 22 miles to the entrance to Big Bend National Park. This region of far west Texas is well known for its remote ruggedness and beauty rapidly becoming the go-to place for those wanting to get away from it all, without having to spend a fortune to do it. It’s one of the last frontiers of North America and One of the only two National Parks in Texas. The Basecamp will reside on the 40 acre property. In the center is an area of approximately 6 acres flat, with rising limestone ridge lines to the east and west, open skyline to south with a view of Bofecillos Mountains, an area characterized by volcanic deposits of lava and ash-flow tuff and sedimentary deposits of conglomerates and sandstones. The four mountain tops; Packsaddle, Hen Egg, Panther and Agua Fria Mountains provide an amazing view during the day and at night, breathtaking night time views of the Milky Way and the multitudes of stars to gaze upon unlike any other place in North America. The morning sunrise over the eastern mesa brings its own spectacular views. Surrounding the 40 acres are many things of archaeological wonder. A Rock Hounds dream of minerals, stones and fossilized prehistoric microorganisms, as well as, the potential of finding the fossils of large prehistoric aquatic mammals. Yes, you are free to take a small sample of the thousands of quartz and calcite stones found in huge abundance. As you come to then end of Mailbox Rd., you'll see a residence to your left. This is "The Field Lab", owned by the well know sustainable engineer John Wells. If you'd like to pay him a visit, please contact him in advance.

The Hippie Crippler Ranch

16 sites · RVs, Tents5 acres · Study Butte, Brewster

We offer hot showers, porta-potties, WiFi, games, and more! Enjoy the picturesque Big Bend of Texas at The Hippie Crippler Ranch by pitching your tent or parking your recreational vehicle. Our 2nd Season opens October 15, 2023 - March 31, 2024! Hope to see you then! Living in the desert has brought a lot of peace into our lives. Upon arriving we weren’t sure what to think other than it was absolutely beautiful. As time went by, we found a strong connection to the land, the quietness, and the sound of nature all around. We are overcome with tranquility and a repeated sigh of relief every time we take a drive in any direction. It didn’t take long for us to want to share these experiences with whomever we could connect with. We are only a 30-minute drive to the west entrance of Big Bend National Park. Our campground is 5.5 acres and is located in the North Corazones area of Terlingua Ranch! Our property is loaded with native desert flora, including creosote, a few scattered mesquite trees, and a lone ocotillo. We are nestled in an area with picture-perfect views of Nine Point Mesa, Jack Eden Mesa, the Corazones, and Turtle Mountain, and have one of the best spots for stargazing at night. We’re just 20 minutes from Terlingua Ranch Lodge and Pool and Bad Rabbit Cafe. We may be half an hour away from the local towns and parks, but you get to camp in pure nature. No loud cars zooming by, and The Ranch is not an overpopulated campground. Imagine hiking all day, especially if you’re visiting during a busy season, and all you want to do is get back to the peace and quiet of your camp. Well, we provide just that! Each site comes with a picnic table, fire ring, and a 5-gallon potable water dispenser. We understand the desire for a few creature comforts, so we offer off-grid communal toilets and showers, and free Wi-Fi. These amenities are offered to you for your convenience but don’t forget the simple pleasures of sitting outdoors and listening to Mother Nature around you. We want you to connect with nature! A simpler lifestyle that cuts out the everyday comforts of city life for a more primitive experience. Whether this is your first, second, or third visit to the Big Bend area we hope you consider staying at The Hippie Crippler Ranch. The basic creature comforts we provide coupled with the tranquility of a primitive lifestyle lead to a perfect getaway for any outdoor enthusiast or lover of nature. We know that the Big Bend area brings in thousands of people seeking adventure and exploration. Our passion is to explore every inch and corner of this world and connect with others, both alike and completely opposite of us. We welcome everyone to our campground and hope that you can take something back with you after your stay with us. Collecting memories not things is something we live by. If this is your first visit to Big Bend, then we want to say thank you for choosing us for your accommodations. If this isn’t your first rodeo, we would also like to express our gratitude to you for giving us the opportunity to host you on your return. We hope that you have the best time camping, hiking and just enjoying the great outdoors. The desert is a beautiful part of the world and should be explored!

The Permaculture Oasis

7 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents5 acres · Brewster

Glamp out in the Big Bend! Enjoy the utter peace and quiet, stunning 360 degree mountain views, and wild bird migration route - plus: grill fire pit meal prep and picnic tables shade wifi composting toilet shower stable solar-powered charging station Swimming pool, laundry, ice, and the Bad Rabbit Cafe are 15 minutes southeast, and guided jeep, ATV, and river tours, groceries, gas, ice, groceries, bars, cafes, restaurants, art galleries, and live music are about 30 minutes south. The site is also being transformed into a permaculture oasis to demonstrate water capture and infiltration, desertification reversal, dryland food production, habitat creation, soil building, reforestation, and indigenous rainfall regime restoration. And you might find large-scale sculptural installations or other artwork around the property.

96%

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Paisano Azul Ranch

10 sites · Tents30 acres · Study Butte, Brewster

Paisano Azul Ranch is on 30 acres located by Terlingua Creek. The property is just minutes from the Terlingua Ghost Town and a short 3 mile drive to the Big Bend National park. Come pitch your tent or park your camper amid the peaceful desert hillside with views of plateaus that lead to the Chisos Mountains in Big Bend National Park. There is a fire pit on site for you to toast marshmallows or cozy up near, and you can enjoy a bite to eat at the picnic table provided at each site. The picnic tables are placed beneath shade sails. There are two nice and new desert tan flushing Porta-Potties on-site, as well as showers for guests to use. These come in handy after a long day hiking. We hope you'll enjoy the beautiful open sky sunsets, sunrises, and stargazing as much as we do. We are located just 3 miles from the entrance to Big Bend National Park. There are plenty of opportunities to get out and explore - you can hike, bike, canoe & kayak, off-road, swim, go horseback riding, visit hot springs, as well as visit restaurants, galleries, and listen to great music in Terlingua. There is something for everyone to feel free to bring the whole family. Additional details to note: - You can stay connected if you'd like to, as cell reception and wifi are both available on our property. Feel free to unplug during your stay though. - Seeing other campers on your trip at the campsite is very standard, as the sites are far enough apart to feel like they are yours, but they are not private. - Potable water is provided on-site. Please feel free to reach out with any questions and we look forward to your stay.

98%

(263)

Lynn y B's land

27 sites · RVs, Tents80 acres · Terlingua, Brewster

97%

(15)

Rancho Del Mapache - Big Bend

8 sites · RVs, Tents41 acres · Presidio, TX

We purchased this land in April of 2020 with the intent of restoring and transforming this now feral land into a natural oasis; a restorative, sacred place for flora, fauna, mind, body, and spirit. We love traveling and camping and recognized a need for private camping without the hustle and bustle sometimes experienced on public lands. Rancho del Mapache is still in its infancy, but with your help, we will restore the land to a beautiful, natural, native landscape and preserve it for all to enjoy affordably and privately. The area of presidio is likely the longest continually settled place in North America, with the history spanning tens of thousands of years. More recently, the Spanish settled the area In the early 1600s, establishing a mission and garrison. Despite extended human habitation, the desert remains remarkably unchanged. Roads are cut, rivers are tapped, new plants appear, still the desert remains. The area also holds the records as the hottest and coldest places in the state of Texas.This 40-acre parcel was once part of the town of Adobes. The area is now called the Adobes Ghost Town. Cotton and sheep were farmed from the mid-1800s until the late 1970s. There are still plenty of artifacts to explore pointing to a tough life in a rugged land. Whatever antiquities you come across, please leave them as they were found so someone else can enjoy the same discovery.

95%

(11)

Cosmic Cowboys

17 sites · Lodging10 acres · Terlingua, TX

Cosmic Cowboys is a 10 acre property overlooking Big Bend National and State Parks. Located on top of a hill, we have 360 degrees of breathtaking views and a pitch dark sky at night. Located just off the main Highway-118 and only 10 minutes from the entrance to the National Park. Come and camp with us or stay in a Bell Tent or Mirror Stargazing Domes.

SIERRA VIEJA DESERT CAMPGROUNDS

24 sites · RVs, Tents30 acres · Presidio, TX

Learn more about this land:Sierra Vieja has been called the Big Bend region’s best kept secrets with it’s abundant free roaming wildlife, million dollar views of the Chinati Mountains, rolling hills, and abundant desert foliage.We offer a primitive camping experience for tents, RV’s, buses, and trailers.We are nestled in the tiny ghost town of Ruidosa, and are part of the Big Bend region’s Dark Skies Initiative, a night photographers haven when it comes to photographing the Milky Way, visible most clear nights.Visitors enjoy access to the Rio Grande River, drives up and down the scenic Pinto Canyon Road, proximity to the soon to be open to the public Chinati State Natural Area.Explore, play, relax, unwind, build a campfire, settle in and sleep under millions of starsBook your experience now!

100%

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American Campground RV and Mobile Home Park

160 sites · RVs, Tents10 acres · Del Rio, Val Verde

Located moments away from beautiful Lake Amistad, American Campground features tent, cabin, and RV camping as well as one of Del Rio’s few Mobile Home parks. Due to its sprawling acreage, the park boasts plenty of room to enjoy all the fun of the camping and RVing lifestyle without disturbing the peaceful community of our mobile home residents. On the camping side, we have tent grounds, 9 cabins, and 88 RV pads, some covered. We offer daily, weekly, and monthly rates. We have a separate fenced area for dry storage. Our mobile home park (with its own separate driveway entrance) has 48 lots. American Campground truly has something for everyone. Our amenities include: Well-maintained, sparkling pool with sun chairs and covered eating area Full kitchen facilities with recreation and dining area Laundry facility Large, separate restrooms with showers WiFi in the kitchen & recreation area Pets are welcome at RV sites American Campground is located in Val Verde County, minutes from Del Rio, home of Laughlin Air Force Base. Our park is on Hwy 90, across from Black Brush Boat Ramp, Amistad National Recreation Area, and Diablo East Boat Ramp, home to world-class bass fishing and tournaments. Val Verde Winery, minutes away in historic downtown Del Rio is the oldest, continuous-running winery in Texas.

Available this weekend

95%

(248)

Jackass Flats Campground

23 sites · RVs, TentsTerlingua Ranch / Alpine, Brewster

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. but 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. We offer wood/snacks/groc/ice and food items to meet your needs.

Dusty Paddle

7 sites · RVs, Tents42 acres · Study Butte, Brewster

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.

The Permaculture Oasis

7 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents5 acres · Brewster

Glamp out in the Big Bend! Enjoy the utter peace and quiet, stunning 360 degree mountain views, and wild bird migration route - plus: grill fire pit meal prep and picnic tables shade wifi composting toilet shower stable solar-powered charging station Swimming pool, laundry, ice, and the Bad Rabbit Cafe are 15 minutes southeast, and guided jeep, ATV, and river tours, groceries, gas, ice, groceries, bars, cafes, restaurants, art galleries, and live music are about 30 minutes south. The site is also being transformed into a permaculture oasis to demonstrate water capture and infiltration, desertification reversal, dryland food production, habitat creation, soil building, reforestation, and indigenous rainfall regime restoration. And you might find large-scale sculptural installations or other artwork around the property.

95%

(498)

Smiling Dog Ranch

16 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents20 acres · Alpine, Brewster

Formerly known as Eco-Ranch Sustainable Living, new hosts assumed the ranch on February 1, 23 and look forward to hosting you. The Smiling Dog is a remote homestead, located on 20 acres close to both the National and State Parks. With unobstructed views of the surrounding mountains and arroyos, the property offers guests a chance to unplug and enjoy exploring unique terrain on site. The Big Bend region is a certified dark sky community and is recognized as the darkest park/community in the lower-48. With no light pollution on the ranch, the stargazing is spectacular. Guests are encouraged to bring headlamps or flashlights with red filters to allow you to safely see your surroundings while preserving the darkness for your eyes to adjust. The ranch is fully off-grid, powered by solar energy. Water is collected through rain catchment and is pumped into filtered tanks which provides the majority of our water supply. At times during drought conditions we do have to bring water in from Study Butte or Alpine so we ask all of our guests to conserve whenever possible. Wildlife is in abundance in the desert, our naturally created water reservoir often brings in a variety of animals in the evenings. Guests could expect to see coyotes, rabbits, foxes, mule deer, aoudad sheep, and even elk. There is also a large drove (herd) of wild donkeys that roam freely and are beloved by the community. There are also predators but they are rare in the area. Mountain lions and bears do live in the area, but stick closer to the mountains instead of open areas like the ranch. Insects and snakes can be found throughout the desert as well as migratory butterflies and birds. Guests have several options for their stay- there are 20 dispersed campsites that can accommodate a single camper to large groups with multiple vehicles. Each site has fire rings for campfires dependent on weather conditions. During periods when there is a high fire danger, ground fires are not allowed. Guests can bring above ground fire rings, or small propane grills and provide their own wood. Travel trailers and smaller RV's are also welcome, though we do not offer hookups or waste disposal. There are also 2 small, basic rooms with full size futons that can house 2 adults or 4 if you are really good friends. A communal area houses a small kitchen area with a propane powered camp stove, mini-fridge, sink with basic cookware and utensils. In addition there are two restrooms, one with a shower, and both with sinks and flush toilets. There is a third bathroom located near our largest camping area. You are free to use the restroom outside, our plants love the extra water, but you are asked to pack out any toilet paper and use the restrooms for solid waste. We do offer all guests free Wi-Fi internet access but we cannot guarantee the strength and availability, though we do find most guests can connect. We have upgraded to Starlink which we hope will offer more stability and stronger signal. There is absolutely no cell signal once you turn off of the highway and at the ranch- we use Wi-Fi calling and texting to reach the outside world. We are located just under 5 miles from 118, though it takes 15-20 minutes to reach the ranch on dirt roads. Most vehicles can safely make the drive but high clearance vehicles are strongly encouraged. For the most part the road is smooth but you should pay close attention as their are ruts- take your time and watch the road. We strongly recommended that you download directions before arriving. Any rain, even small amounts make the roads impassable due to bentonite clay which becomes thick mud which guarantees the need to be towed out. If the forecast calls for rain you should be prepared to make plans for other accommodations or you will be risking getting stuck. Rain is not common outside of the late summer months but should you need to cancel due to weather, you will be fully refunded. This should not discourage anyone, 99% of the time there is no rain to be concerned about, but as your hosts, we care about your comfort and safety and feel obligated to make all guests aware. A few other things about the ranch- we live on site in the main house (as of March 1, 23) and are in the process of renovation. We are also upgrading guest rooms and communal areas, as well as working on projects throughout the ranch. We have a small flock of chickens and sell their eggs when available. There is a large greenhouse with an aquaponic system that is a work in progress, the heat over the summer made it hard for any plants to survive. Check in is located at the main house, at times we will not be immediately available but you will find your information and a map outside the main door. We will come greet you as soon as we are free. Because we live on site and this is our home, we ask that guests do not explore the main house, livestock pens, greenhouse or covered work areas without permission. We welcome your friendly and well-behaved pets, we have pets of our own who love guests. We ask that you leash them when near the house and watch them when at your campsite or exploring. Please pick up after your dogs if they use the bathroom in common areas, or near campsites. Any waste in the arroyos can stay where it is. You will be expected to pack your trash out, there is no trash service for the ranch. Safety information: This is the desert and you are responsible for your own safety at all times. There is absolutely no swimming in the catchment reservoir and you should not drive anywhere outside of the defined roads. The nearest hospital is located in Alpine, a 70 mile drive north, so drink lots of water, wear a hat and sunscreen, sturdy shoes, and don't touch anything pokey or that has a face. We do have first aid supplies available and you'll find commonly used supplies in the communal area. All food and drinks should be securely stored and under no circumstances should you feed the wildlife, with the exception of birdseed for our resident birds. If you have food scraps that are safe for the chickens, they will be more than happy to handle that for you. We look forward to the opportunity to host you, and welcome you to enjoy the desert we love so much. One sunrise or sunset and we are certain that you will also love it here. If you have any questions please don't hesitate to reach out. -Ashley and Raymond

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Cinnamon Sky Ranch

6 sites · RVs, Tents130 acres · Alpine, TX

PRIMITIVE. We DO NOT provide electric, water or shelter. PRIMITIVE camping. NO POTABLE WATER. DO NOT ARRIVE LATER THAN 2 HOURS Before DARK. NO CHILDREN (This is because those that choose to ask favor and bring them did not watch them. We are not a daycare. NO is now NO.) NO DOGS (This is because there is no respect for others property.) Now, if you want to enjoy open space, beautiful rugged terrain, please read on! This is a privately owned property, no frills other than what nature provides. If you want a primitive hide away with magnificent views of Hen Egg, Pack Saddle, Sunsets and Vast Dark Skies this is the place. The immediate property surrounding the campsites is dark sky complaint. The moon is our only chaser of the stars, but in those moments there is still so much to see. Learn more about this land: Cinnamon Sky Ranch Welcome to Cinnamon Sky Ranch! This 90 acre property features 6 primitive campsites which are individually set to view the best scenery outside of Big Bend National Park. These sites are based at the edge of rugged ledges, with rocky inclines. The morning sun paints the western ridges and the evening sun teases before the darkest skies twinkle with a million stars. Folklore whispers of a Shaman burial site, Alien Portals and whatever else the Dark Skies offer up! Your host is a granddaughter of a Texas Ranger that rode and patrolled the Rio Grande from the early 1900's to the mid century. There is an 18 hole disc golf course, complete with tee boxes and par levels. The paths are clearly marked and can be access via walk or ATV. Any ATV use is limited to the designated paths, abuse of this rule is not tolerated. Things to Note Campsites feature a fire pit and picnic table for your use. Our sites are BYO for potable water. Please make sure you bring a way to pack out any trash or waste you leave behind. The Big Bend has limited cell service from all carriers, there is wifi in the small towns but not rural. You will enjoy solitude, rugged ground, animal activity. We are a part of the dark sky community. You are responsible for your needs. There will be two central parking areas from which you can access the campsites. Town, Fuel, Grocery, Water and restaurants are 9 miles South. The National Park entrance is approx. 10.3 miles South. Quite hours at the property are from dark to daylight. All guests must be 18 or older, safety is the responsibility of the camper. While you are free to move about; do not enter others campsites uninvited. We ask that you do not move, remove or take rocks as souvenirs. Be respectful of the ranch borders. All flora and fauna in the desert will hurt you, so will most of the bugs and snakes. This is their home. We want your experience to be wild, rugged and safe! Campsite names are listed below. #2 Desert Sand #3 Pecuray Hollar #4 Rock Wall #5 A Thousand Stars

Under $50

95%

(248)

Jackass Flats Campground

23 sites · RVs, TentsTerlingua Ranch / Alpine, Brewster

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. but 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. We offer wood/snacks/groc/ice and food items to meet your needs.

Tierra del Sol Basecamp

6 sites · RVs, Tents40 acres · Alpine, TX

The Tierra del Sol Basecamp is an open desert camping area located within Terlingua Ranch, 3 miles off of Hwy 118, 19 miles north of Study Butte and 22 miles to the entrance to Big Bend National Park. This region of far west Texas is well known for its remote ruggedness and beauty rapidly becoming the go-to place for those wanting to get away from it all, without having to spend a fortune to do it. It’s one of the last frontiers of North America and One of the only two National Parks in Texas. The Basecamp will reside on the 40 acre property. In the center is an area of approximately 6 acres flat, with rising limestone ridge lines to the east and west, open skyline to south with a view of Bofecillos Mountains, an area characterized by volcanic deposits of lava and ash-flow tuff and sedimentary deposits of conglomerates and sandstones. The four mountain tops; Packsaddle, Hen Egg, Panther and Agua Fria Mountains provide an amazing view during the day and at night, breathtaking night time views of the Milky Way and the multitudes of stars to gaze upon unlike any other place in North America. The morning sunrise over the eastern mesa brings its own spectacular views. Surrounding the 40 acres are many things of archaeological wonder. A Rock Hounds dream of minerals, stones and fossilized prehistoric microorganisms, as well as, the potential of finding the fossils of large prehistoric aquatic mammals. Yes, you are free to take a small sample of the thousands of quartz and calcite stones found in huge abundance. As you come to then end of Mailbox Rd., you'll see a residence to your left. This is "The Field Lab", owned by the well know sustainable engineer John Wells. If you'd like to pay him a visit, please contact him in advance.

98%

(80)

Dagger Flats Camping

4 sites · Tents15 acres · Alpine, Brewster

Learn more about this land: Welcome to Dagger Flats campsite situated in the desert with incredible mountain views and the open sky above! This spot is the perfect quiet getaway near Big Bend National Park. Come pitch your tent in the peaceful desert with sweeping mountain views of Big Bend. The campsites are tucked away and provide campers with some privacy. There is a large open area where you can enjoy a bite to eat at the picnic tables provided. This is a common area, so feel free to say hello to other fellow campers! There is also a Porta Potty on site. We hope you'll enjoy the beautiful views, wildlife, and amazing sunsets and stars as much as we do! We are located about 25 miles from Big Bend National Park! There are plenty of opportunities to get out and explore - you can hike, bike, stargaze, and sightsee on and around our property! We are near Terlingua, which is a fun place to go as well! There is a restaurant a few miles down the ranch road, as well as access to a pool for a fee. There is something for everyone, so feel free to bring the whole family! No Travel Trailers Other Things to Note: - Feel free to unplug during your stay - as there is no wifi or cell reception at the property! - The individual campsites are quite private, though you may see other visitors in passing and in common areas (picnic tables, toilet, etc.) during your stay. - Please prepare to bring your own drinking water, as there is no potable water on site. Please feel free to reach out with any questions and we look forward to your stay!

Dusty Paddle

7 sites · RVs, Tents42 acres · Study Butte, Brewster

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.

99%

(159)

Sky Ranch Terlingua

6 sites · RVs, Tents20 acres · Study Butte, Brewster

Sky Ranch is the result of a love for the desert and for 1980s post-apocalyptic movies. A place to step out of our busy lives and be still, gain a new perspective, and imagine a different way to live. Once the floor of a large inland sea, Sky Ranch Terlingua is covered with fossilized mollusk shells. After the water receded, the area was visited by various animal and human migrations. Today, Sky Ranch is a refuge for two native Texans with deep roots that predate Texas itself. "Be friendly, but firm. But most of all, be yourselves." - Lester, Cherry 2000

Nearby parks

Explore the area’s public lands.

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Davis Mountains State Park

Fort Davis, Texas

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Big Bend National Park

Study Butte, Texas

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Big Bend Ranch State Park

Monahans Sandhills State Park

Thorntonville, Texas

Seminole Canyon State Park & Historic Site

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Seminole Canyon State Park & Historic Site

Box Canyon, Texas

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Devils River State Natural Area

Box Canyon, Texas

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Guadalupe Mountains National Park

Dell City, Texas

Amistad National Recreation Area

Lake View, Texas

Camping near Marathon guide

Looking for the best camping near Marathon? The area features dozens of top-rated campgrounds and places to park your RV for the night, many within a short distance of Texas hiking, biking, and other outdoor activities. Whether you want a pet-friendly campsite or a family cabin rental with wifi, check out campsite photos, tips, and reviews from other outdoor enthusiasts to plan your next camping trip near Marathon.