The best luxury campgrounds near Marathon, Texas

Looking for a camping experience near Marathon, Texas? Look no further than El Cosmico (537 reviews), Paisano Azul Ranch (428 reviews), or Smiling Dog Ranch (332 reviews). With over 180 available options in the area, you're sure to find the perfect accommodation to suit your creature comforts. Plus, enjoy popular amenities like campfires, showers, and potable water. And if you're into whitewater paddling, paddling, or wildlife watching, you'll find plenty of activities to keep you entertained. With an average price per night of $25 and options as low as $18, camping near Marathon, Texas has never been more affordable. So pack your bags and get ready for an unforgettable outdoor adventure!

96% (769)

Top-rated campgrounds

Looking for a camping experience near Marathon, Texas? Look no further than El Cosmico (537 reviews), Paisano Azul Ranch (428 reviews), or Smiling Dog Ranch (332 reviews). With over 180 available options in the area, you're sure to find the perfect accommodation to suit your creature comforts. Plus, enjoy popular amenities like campfires, showers, and potable water. And if you're into whitewater paddling, paddling, or wildlife watching, you'll find plenty of activities to keep you entertained. With an average price per night of $25 and options as low as $18, camping near Marathon, Texas has never been more affordable. So pack your bags and get ready for an unforgettable outdoor adventure!

96% (769)

Top-rated campgrounds

1. El Cosmico

93%

(1321)

47mi from Marathon · 40 sites · Tents, RVs · 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.

2. Casa de Keaveny Cabin and Campsite

100%

(11)

48mi from Marathon · 2 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · 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, discuss with Jim for pricing, if interested. Mr. Keaveny built the house himself over a 10 year period. Very private, although Mr. Keaveny lives on the property in his Jayco most of the time, and sometimes a camping site is rented ----however always giving the house lots of space. Great place for long term rental, see discounts.

3. Cholla Ranch Camp, Glamping Tents

99%

(38)

26mi from Marathon · 3 sites · Lodging · 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.

4. Tarantula Ranch Vacation Rentals

48mi from Marathon · 2 sites · Lodging · Terlingua, TX

Tarantula Ranch is inside a fenced compound two miles off the nearest paved road. We are in the Chihuhuan desert wilderness. Experience life at the end of the road!! Neighbors are far away so we have some of the darkest skies in the world not to mention peace and quiet with no traffic. We have spectacular mountain views with great sunrise and sunsets. Our terrain is the Chihuhuan desert which has cactus covered rocky mountains with all the desert plants. Although we have privacy we are only about 35 to 40 minutes from the Big Bend National Park and The Big Bend Ranch State Park. Although we are remote we have a very nice swimming pool and restaurant only about ten to fifteen minutes away. We have two cabins we rent out. The big cabin has four rooms and sleeps six. The other cabin is called the small cabin it is one room and sleeps two.

5. StarStruck Glamping

44mi from Marathon · 4 sites · Lodging · Alpine, TX

StarStruck is a boutique Glamping experience, located in the largest dark sky reserve in the WORLD-- yes, you read that correctly. Away from it all, yet just 30 minutes to town where you'll find restaurants, shops, and the entrance to Big Bend National Park! Fall asleep under the Milky Way & wake up to epic mountain views.

Stories from the community

Cameron

3 weeks ago

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Casa de Keaveny Cabin and Campsite

We had a fantastic time at the Casa! Everything was clean, check in was super easy. Make sure you plan some extra time to chat with Jim, great guy with some great stories! Will definitely be back

M

Molly

November 2025

Weekend Trip to Cholla Ranch Camp, Glamping Tents

This was hands down one of the best experiences of my life. Emma’s ranch was stunning. The tent was cute, cozy, and so tastefully decorated. There wasn’t any detail missed. Emma was so kind and so responsive to any question I had. She is a great host and truly thinks of everything! (Hot coco with marshmallow, the yummiest snacks, space heaters for cooler nights, bath robes and slippers, bandaids, floss, shampoo, face wash, soaps, sleeping masks, a record player, a heated foot massager, essential oils for aromatherapy and so much more!) As I write this sitting in DFW traffic on our drive back home.. it already has me itching to come back. It was such a breath of fresh air that my husband and I so desperately needed. Now on to the best part.. the stargazing! We got to see the Milky Way, Jupiter, Saturn, and so many more stars than we would ever see in the city. It was incredible. Just jaw dropping. I can’t wait to come back and I’ll be sure to tell everyone I know about this place. Thank you for everything, Emma!

Gregory

October 2025

2 nights at Cholla Ranch Camp, Glamping Tents

Her products were incredible. Her thoughtfulness on it. Everything that was in the cabin was extremely thought out and I don't think she missed a thing.

J

Jurriaan

June 2025

Tent

With kids

2 nights at El Cosmico

Nice, spacious and open minded. We’ve only found out out they’re closing next month when we got there. I hope the new Cosmico will be equally good.

S

Stanley

May 2025

15 ft campervan

1 night at El Cosmico

Very welcoming environment and eclectic atmosphere! The open top showers are a must for any visitors!!! Will return!

G

George

May 2025

With kids

Weekend Trip to Cholla Ranch Camp, Glamping Tents

So peaceful!! Exactly what we were looking for being in between Marfa, Fort Davis, and the National Park. We absolutely loved the cabin and the homey feel it had. The hospitality was super welcoming and made the experience comfortable!! Seeing the horses and other wildlife really added to the back country stay.

M

Michael

May 2025

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Casa de Keaveny Cabin and Campsite

The best experience I ever had! Jim is very welcoming and friendly. The cabin he built is stuffed with love and intention. Everything is so thoughtful and well made. If you go there, you have to watch the night sky! It is beyond comprehension. Suited for 2, perfect for 4, maybe a little narrow for 6. Bring enough water and supplies. Thoughtful use of resources like water and electricity is mandatory.

RRR Deluxe Cabin Offers its own private porch, large gas grill, outdoor sink and prep space.

N

Natalie

April 2025

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Cholla Ranch Camp, Glamping Tents

Cute and cozy lil cabin. Had everything we needed and more. Our host was super attentive and responsive. I’d come back in a heart beat ♥️

B

Beth

April 2025

22 ft campervan

1 night at El Cosmico

We loved staying at El Cosmico. We adored the funky vibe. The outdoor bathrooms and showers were fun. I wish we would have had time to use the hot tub.

M

Martha

April 2025

21 ft campervan

2 nights at El Cosmico

This was our second great stay at El Cosmico. We love coming here and exploring Marfa. Even though we just sleep in the parking lot in our van, we use the common spaces and the showers - which are lovely outdoor showers.

A

Addison

April 2025

16 ft car

2 nights at El Cosmico

Very nice! It was the perfect location. We brought our bikes and bikes into town.

Ashley

April 2025

Tent

Group trip

1 night at El Cosmico

We did self camping. Good amount of flat land available for tents. Indoor and outdoor bathrooms were nice. Only problem was the outdoor toilets and showers have gaping holes which left me feeling exposed to any passerby. Would still stay here again. Was a bit close to a busy road, but i slept fine.

R

Raychel

April 2025

Tent

1 night at El Cosmico

Just a gorgeous property! Quiet, conferrable, and incredibly helpful staff!

Tyler

March 2025

Tent

1 night at El Cosmico

Great place to stay. Nice people and great facilities. Has a lot of charm and character. Great value too especially for tent camping.

A

Abby

March 2025

16 ft car

1 night at El Cosmico

Stayed at El Cosmico campsite and absolutely loved it, staff was nice, showers and bathrooms were so clean. 100% would reccomend for car or tent camping

a

arthur

March 2025

10 ft campervan

With kids

1 night at El Cosmico

Great place and wonderful inclusive people. A cute little oasis in the desert.

Vince

March 2025

12 ft campervan

With kids

3 nights at El Cosmico

We stayed here three nights, went down to Terlingua/Big Bend for three nights then didn’t hesitate to stay at El Cosmico again on our way back. We slept in our van in the lot one night and tent camped the other nights. The lounge with wifi was wonderful for getting some work done or just enjoying the complimentary coffee in the morning. The outdoor kitchen came in handy to do some dishes and make tea in the evening. Both the indoor and outdoor bathrooms were clean and much appreciated. Yes, there’s some road noise, but it didn’t hurt our enjoyment of El Cosmico.

Katie

March 2025

4 nights at Cholla Ranch Camp, Glamping Tents

Emma’s tents are so amazing. Every detail is considered and if by the small chance you find something missed, Emma is so easy to reach and proactive to make your stay wonderful.

Katie

March 2025

3 nights at Cholla Ranch Camp, Glamping Tents

Emma’s tents have it all. She has gone all out to account for every detail. And if you think she missed something she actively seeks feedback. We had everything we needed. In fact, we loved it so much that our last day we opted to skip our excursions and enjoyed hanging out in the tent free of electronics and city stress. We listened to records, took baths, and played board games. We also enjoyed the outdoor horseshoes game and hide and seek! Thank you so much.

C

Camilla

March 2025

Tent

1 night at El Cosmico

El Cosmico is a great option for anyone wanting to stay in Marfa. Self-camping is easy with access to good restrooms and a lovely space to hang out in. They also have great coffee served in the morning! Our only complaint was the noise. It’s near a busy road, very close to a train, lots of barking from dogs, and the people around us were a bit loud. These noises could be minimized if you camp in a spot away from the path and further from the bathrooms though!