The best camping near Marathon with climbing

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Looking to go camping near Marathon, Texas and indulge in some climbing? Look no further than Hipcamp! With over 500 options in the area specifically tailored for climbers, you're sure to find the perfect spot. Whether you prefer a rustic camping experience or a more luxurious stay, Hipcamp has got you covered. Check out top campsites like Goat Pens, Cigar Springs Ranch, Paisano Azul Ranch, and Smiling Dog Ranch. These sites have received rave reviews, with Goat Pens boasting an impressive 657 reviews and Cigar Springs Ranch, Paisano Azul Ranch, and Smiling Dog Ranch all receiving over 300 reviews each. Plus, you'll have access to popular amenities like trash disposal, campfires, and potable water. So pack your gear and get ready for an unforgettable climbing adventure!

96% (313)

Top-rated campgrounds near Marathon

1. Big Bend Overland Adventure Camping

96%
(35)
39mi from Marathon · 3 sites · Tents
Big Bend Camp — Remote Overland Sites in the Wild West Texas Backcountry of the Big Bend Region If you’re looking for pavement, hookups, or cell service—you’re in the wrong place. Big Bend Camp is 100 acres of raw Chihuahuan Desert backcountry, deep in the West Texas wilds near Terlingua, Big Bend National Park, and Big Bend Ranch State Park. This is true overland camping—primitive, remote, and as real as it gets. We’ve got three isolated backcountry campsites. No facilities. No distractions. Just you, your rig, and some of the most rugged, wide-open terrain in the Lower 48. Designated an International Dark Sky Reserve—Big Bend camp has some of the darkest skies in the US—with epic stars and the Milky Way blazing overhead. ⸻ Only high-clearance 4x4s belong out here—leave the soft-roaders behind. Sure, a 4x2 might make it, but 13 miles of rough desert track will test your rig. If it’s not built for it, don’t risk it. And make no mistake: this is wild country. You might spot javelina, aoudad, bobcats, bats, mule deer, foxes, rabbits, roadrunners, falcon and hawks riding thermals overhead. Even the occasional mountain lion roams these parts—though rarely seen, you may hear one in the distance. And yes, rattlesnakes and bear live here too. Stay alert. Respect wildlife. This is their home. ⸻ What You Get: • 3 primitive, private campsites on 100 acres of desert • Total off-grid experience—no water, no power, no cell • Between Big Bend NP, Big Bend Ranch SP, and Black Gap WMA • Vast views, rugged terrain, unbeatable stargazing • Common wildlife sightings (no people, just nature) ⸻ Seasonal Notes: • Spring (Mar–May): Best season—mild temps, blooming cactus, epic sunsets • Summer (June–Aug): Brutally hot—temps easily hit 100°F+. Travel early, rest mid-day, and carry extra water • Fall (Sept–Nov): Cooler days, crisp nights, great for hiking and long stays • Winter (Dec–Feb): Can get cold, especially at night—pack for wind and sub-freezing temps • Storms: Monsoon season (late summer) can bring flash floods—stay alert near washes and low spots ⸻ Big Bend Camp isn’t Glamping. It's an Adventure! If you’re experienced, self-reliant, and looking to get way out there—Big Bend Camp is your kind of place.
Pets
Campfires
from 
$6
 / night

3. Crows Peak Tents

98%
(27)
49mi from Marathon · 3 sites · Lodging
Welcome to the heart of Far West Texas, where adventure meets comfort in our unique tent rentals in Terlingua! Nestled in the rugged splendor of the Chihuahuan Desert, Crows Peak combines the beauty of the great outdoors with the luxury of a comfortable retreat. Each tent is equipped with a queen-size memory foam mattress, LED lights and a solar powered battery that can charge cell phones and other small devices. A propane camp stove is also provided (with one 16 oz can of propane), as well as several small storage compartments. The tents are 11' tall and 8' wide, with a private deck, providing ample space to stretch out and relax. Thoughtfully positioned to provide panoramic views of the vast desert landscape, you will be able to immerse yourself in the tranquility of the desert while enjoying an elevated camping experience. You can step onto the deck and savor a cup of coffee as the sun rises and paints the sky in oranges and pink. Or, unwind at the end of the day with a glass of wine while you gaze at the stars under one of the darkest skies in the country. Located 35 minutes from the entrance to Big Bend National Park and the Terlingua ghost town, this is a great base to explore everything the area has to offer. The Terlingua Ranch Lodge is an easy 15 minute drive and features the Bad Rabbit restaurant, a pool and a bath house with hot showers. Showers are $2/each and a day pass for the pool is $8. Ice and other small provisions are available at the Ranch office. Access to the property requires driving 1 mile on a dirt road, but does not require 4-wheel drive or high clearance vehicles.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from 
$60
 / night

6. Ocotillo Flats Camping

96%
(13)
49mi from Marathon · 7 sites · Tents
Howdy Hipcampers! Welcome to Ocotillo Flats, a serene 20-acre haven just 30 minutes from Big Bend National Park and the historic Terlingua Ghost Town. Immerse yourself in the breathtaking beauty of the Chihuahuan Desert, perfect for stargazing and unwinding. With convenient cell service on the south side of the property, stay connected while you savor the tranquility of nature. You can bring your own bucket bathroom or utilize the facilities at Terlingua Ranch for free. Showers are also available there for just $2. We’ve recently added a horseshoe game area, located on the right-hand side of the road near campsites 4 and 5. Stakes and horseshoes are already set up and ready for friendly competition—just walk across from your campsite and enjoy! The road into the property is an all-weather dirt road. Embark on an unforgettable adventure, where the vast expanse of the desert meets the starlit Texas sky!
Pets
Campfires
Picnic table
from 
$15
 / night

9. Jackass Flats Campground

95%
(278)
46mi from Marathon · 23 sites · Tents, RVs
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 for sale on the property to meet your needs.
Pets
Toilets
Full hookups
from 
$25
 / night

12. Nesting Star Camp

94%
(16)
49mi from Marathon · 6 sites · Tents, RVs
Nestled within the rugged and mesmerizing landscape of Terlingua, our off-grid desert camp offers an unparalleled escape from the hustle and bustle of modern life. This camp is a sanctuary for those seeking solitude and a connection with the raw beauty of the desert. Nesting Star Camp is situated within the legendary Terlingua Ranch and is strategically located to provide easy access to the stunning offerings of Big Bend National Park, Big Bend Ranch State Park and the surrounding backcountry. The West entrance to Big Bend National Park is 23 miles from the camp. Big Bend Ranch State Park's East entrance is 38 miles from camp. The camp sits on 5 acres and is located 0.7 miles from Terlingua Ranch Road, which is a paved asphalt road leading to Hwy 118. The final 0.7 miles to the property consist of dirt and gravel roads maintained by the Property Owners Association of Terlingua Ranch (POATRI). These dirt and gravel roads leading to the camp are generally easily traversed, though they can become silty or muddy if it rains. In some areas, heavy rain may cause road flooding. We recommend driving an SUV or a truck, as low-profile cars may struggle depending on the road conditions that day. Please be aware that the roads within Terlingua Ranch, while publicly accessible, are located on private land. We kindly request that you not drive off of any roads, as the surrounding areas are all privately owned. While navigating the deeper parts of Terlingua Ranch can be challenging, reaching the camp is usually straightforward. We've driven in with a 3500 dually with a 20’ gooseneck horse trailer, and we’ve never encountered any issues. It’s easily accessible yet remote enough to showcase its pristine natural beauty. The surroundings are incredibly tranquil and serene. At night, under Nesting Star Camp's skies, the stars unveil a majestic tapestry that will leave you in awe. The night also awakens with the coyote calls, the gentle desert winds, and the possible flutter of a bat or owl hoot. We also have wild donkeys that roam the area, and you might hear them braying. Please avoid approaching them, though. We provide a composting toilet for your use. Please note that when we are not present to manage waste (#2), you will be responsible for removing the toilet liner bag and disposing of your waste in the provided trash cans. There is also a shower room, and we will supply solar shower bags for your use. If you’re not familiar with them, please research solar showers before booking. Essentially, they are bags you will be responsible for filling with water and placing in the sun to heat up. On a sunny day, you can achieve a temperature of around 115 degrees, although on cloudy days, it won’t heat beyond the ambient temperature. The camp features two uncovered decks for stargazing and one deck with a roof that is partially open on the sides, providing more shelter from the elements. Please be aware that this is an off-grid camp, meaning there is no running water or power on-site. You are required to bring your own water. Additionally, we request that you limit generator use to basic needs only and keep it off between 7 PM and 8 AM. Cell phone coverage on the property can be inconsistent, but on most days, you can expect to get 2-3 bars of 3G signal on Verizon and Google Fi. We personally use a cell phone booster and recommend one if you don't have one, on most days it can provide a 4-bar 3G service. Sometimes, you may need to find an elevated spot to obtain a strong signal. However, it’s important to note that reception can be unreliable, and we recommend you plan ahead. Starlink works very well here.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$20
 / night

Looking to go camping near Marathon, Texas and indulge in some climbing? Look no further than Hipcamp! With over 500 options in the area specifically tailored for climbers, you're sure to find the perfect spot. Whether you prefer a rustic camping experience or a more luxurious stay, Hipcamp has got you covered. Check out top campsites like Goat Pens, Cigar Springs Ranch, Paisano Azul Ranch, and Smiling Dog Ranch. These sites have received rave reviews, with Goat Pens boasting an impressive 657 reviews and Cigar Springs Ranch, Paisano Azul Ranch, and Smiling Dog Ranch all receiving over 300 reviews each. Plus, you'll have access to popular amenities like trash disposal, campfires, and potable water. So pack your gear and get ready for an unforgettable climbing adventure!

96% (313)

Top-rated campgrounds near Marathon

1. Big Bend Overland Adventure Camping

96%
(35)
39mi from Marathon · 3 sites · Tents
Big Bend Camp — Remote Overland Sites in the Wild West Texas Backcountry of the Big Bend Region If you’re looking for pavement, hookups, or cell service—you’re in the wrong place. Big Bend Camp is 100 acres of raw Chihuahuan Desert backcountry, deep in the West Texas wilds near Terlingua, Big Bend National Park, and Big Bend Ranch State Park. This is true overland camping—primitive, remote, and as real as it gets. We’ve got three isolated backcountry campsites. No facilities. No distractions. Just you, your rig, and some of the most rugged, wide-open terrain in the Lower 48. Designated an International Dark Sky Reserve—Big Bend camp has some of the darkest skies in the US—with epic stars and the Milky Way blazing overhead. ⸻ Only high-clearance 4x4s belong out here—leave the soft-roaders behind. Sure, a 4x2 might make it, but 13 miles of rough desert track will test your rig. If it’s not built for it, don’t risk it. And make no mistake: this is wild country. You might spot javelina, aoudad, bobcats, bats, mule deer, foxes, rabbits, roadrunners, falcon and hawks riding thermals overhead. Even the occasional mountain lion roams these parts—though rarely seen, you may hear one in the distance. And yes, rattlesnakes and bear live here too. Stay alert. Respect wildlife. This is their home. ⸻ What You Get: • 3 primitive, private campsites on 100 acres of desert • Total off-grid experience—no water, no power, no cell • Between Big Bend NP, Big Bend Ranch SP, and Black Gap WMA • Vast views, rugged terrain, unbeatable stargazing • Common wildlife sightings (no people, just nature) ⸻ Seasonal Notes: • Spring (Mar–May): Best season—mild temps, blooming cactus, epic sunsets • Summer (June–Aug): Brutally hot—temps easily hit 100°F+. Travel early, rest mid-day, and carry extra water • Fall (Sept–Nov): Cooler days, crisp nights, great for hiking and long stays • Winter (Dec–Feb): Can get cold, especially at night—pack for wind and sub-freezing temps • Storms: Monsoon season (late summer) can bring flash floods—stay alert near washes and low spots ⸻ Big Bend Camp isn’t Glamping. It's an Adventure! If you’re experienced, self-reliant, and looking to get way out there—Big Bend Camp is your kind of place.
Pets
Campfires
from 
$6
 / night

3. Crows Peak Tents

98%
(27)
49mi from Marathon · 3 sites · Lodging
Welcome to the heart of Far West Texas, where adventure meets comfort in our unique tent rentals in Terlingua! Nestled in the rugged splendor of the Chihuahuan Desert, Crows Peak combines the beauty of the great outdoors with the luxury of a comfortable retreat. Each tent is equipped with a queen-size memory foam mattress, LED lights and a solar powered battery that can charge cell phones and other small devices. A propane camp stove is also provided (with one 16 oz can of propane), as well as several small storage compartments. The tents are 11' tall and 8' wide, with a private deck, providing ample space to stretch out and relax. Thoughtfully positioned to provide panoramic views of the vast desert landscape, you will be able to immerse yourself in the tranquility of the desert while enjoying an elevated camping experience. You can step onto the deck and savor a cup of coffee as the sun rises and paints the sky in oranges and pink. Or, unwind at the end of the day with a glass of wine while you gaze at the stars under one of the darkest skies in the country. Located 35 minutes from the entrance to Big Bend National Park and the Terlingua ghost town, this is a great base to explore everything the area has to offer. The Terlingua Ranch Lodge is an easy 15 minute drive and features the Bad Rabbit restaurant, a pool and a bath house with hot showers. Showers are $2/each and a day pass for the pool is $8. Ice and other small provisions are available at the Ranch office. Access to the property requires driving 1 mile on a dirt road, but does not require 4-wheel drive or high clearance vehicles.
Pets
Toilets
Showers
from 
$60
 / night

6. Ocotillo Flats Camping

96%
(13)
49mi from Marathon · 7 sites · Tents
Howdy Hipcampers! Welcome to Ocotillo Flats, a serene 20-acre haven just 30 minutes from Big Bend National Park and the historic Terlingua Ghost Town. Immerse yourself in the breathtaking beauty of the Chihuahuan Desert, perfect for stargazing and unwinding. With convenient cell service on the south side of the property, stay connected while you savor the tranquility of nature. You can bring your own bucket bathroom or utilize the facilities at Terlingua Ranch for free. Showers are also available there for just $2. We’ve recently added a horseshoe game area, located on the right-hand side of the road near campsites 4 and 5. Stakes and horseshoes are already set up and ready for friendly competition—just walk across from your campsite and enjoy! The road into the property is an all-weather dirt road. Embark on an unforgettable adventure, where the vast expanse of the desert meets the starlit Texas sky!
Pets
Campfires
Picnic table
from 
$15
 / night

9. Jackass Flats Campground

95%
(278)
46mi from Marathon · 23 sites · Tents, RVs
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 for sale on the property to meet your needs.
Pets
Toilets
Full hookups
from 
$25
 / night

12. Nesting Star Camp

94%
(16)
49mi from Marathon · 6 sites · Tents, RVs
Nestled within the rugged and mesmerizing landscape of Terlingua, our off-grid desert camp offers an unparalleled escape from the hustle and bustle of modern life. This camp is a sanctuary for those seeking solitude and a connection with the raw beauty of the desert. Nesting Star Camp is situated within the legendary Terlingua Ranch and is strategically located to provide easy access to the stunning offerings of Big Bend National Park, Big Bend Ranch State Park and the surrounding backcountry. The West entrance to Big Bend National Park is 23 miles from the camp. Big Bend Ranch State Park's East entrance is 38 miles from camp. The camp sits on 5 acres and is located 0.7 miles from Terlingua Ranch Road, which is a paved asphalt road leading to Hwy 118. The final 0.7 miles to the property consist of dirt and gravel roads maintained by the Property Owners Association of Terlingua Ranch (POATRI). These dirt and gravel roads leading to the camp are generally easily traversed, though they can become silty or muddy if it rains. In some areas, heavy rain may cause road flooding. We recommend driving an SUV or a truck, as low-profile cars may struggle depending on the road conditions that day. Please be aware that the roads within Terlingua Ranch, while publicly accessible, are located on private land. We kindly request that you not drive off of any roads, as the surrounding areas are all privately owned. While navigating the deeper parts of Terlingua Ranch can be challenging, reaching the camp is usually straightforward. We've driven in with a 3500 dually with a 20’ gooseneck horse trailer, and we’ve never encountered any issues. It’s easily accessible yet remote enough to showcase its pristine natural beauty. The surroundings are incredibly tranquil and serene. At night, under Nesting Star Camp's skies, the stars unveil a majestic tapestry that will leave you in awe. The night also awakens with the coyote calls, the gentle desert winds, and the possible flutter of a bat or owl hoot. We also have wild donkeys that roam the area, and you might hear them braying. Please avoid approaching them, though. We provide a composting toilet for your use. Please note that when we are not present to manage waste (#2), you will be responsible for removing the toilet liner bag and disposing of your waste in the provided trash cans. There is also a shower room, and we will supply solar shower bags for your use. If you’re not familiar with them, please research solar showers before booking. Essentially, they are bags you will be responsible for filling with water and placing in the sun to heat up. On a sunny day, you can achieve a temperature of around 115 degrees, although on cloudy days, it won’t heat beyond the ambient temperature. The camp features two uncovered decks for stargazing and one deck with a roof that is partially open on the sides, providing more shelter from the elements. Please be aware that this is an off-grid camp, meaning there is no running water or power on-site. You are required to bring your own water. Additionally, we request that you limit generator use to basic needs only and keep it off between 7 PM and 8 AM. Cell phone coverage on the property can be inconsistent, but on most days, you can expect to get 2-3 bars of 3G signal on Verizon and Google Fi. We personally use a cell phone booster and recommend one if you don't have one, on most days it can provide a 4-bar 3G service. Sometimes, you may need to find an elevated spot to obtain a strong signal. However, it’s important to note that reception can be unreliable, and we recommend you plan ahead. Starlink works very well here.
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$20
 / night

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Value Prop
Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field
Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field