The best mountainous campgrounds near Marathon, Texas

United States
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Texas
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Marathon

99% (221 reviews)

Popular camping styles for Marathon

Camper favorites near Marathon

Stories from the community

1 night at Saddletramp Ranch

Good spot👍! good location, peaceful and very quiet. We enjoyed camping here.

2 nights at Big Bend Overland Adventure Camping

We booked this place as a back up site, and unfortunately had to cut our trip short and we’re not able to stay at the site. The owner was great to deal with. Great communication, great info about the site, and great directions that I was able to plug right into OnX. I will book this site again for sure, but come back when it is a little cooler.

10 nights at The Rhinestone Ranch

Loved our stay. It was quiet and REMOTE! No shade and completely dry camping but exactly what we were looking for. :)

Weekend Trip to Vista De Las Montañas Terlingua

Had an amazing time! Tiffany was an awesome host! So accommodating! She has one of the best views in the area! Love the whole set up! We are definitely coming back! Can’t wait!

7 nights at The Rhinestone Ranch

A nice spot! Very dark around the area! Very close to a small convenience store if you forget any essentials! Also close to a VFW if you need to grab some cheap drinks!

Weekend Trip to Yaqui Moon Ranch

This campsite was amazing! From the privacy to the mild off-roading to get there, it was a unique experience for the family. It's hard to put into words the view of the stars from this campsite. Thank you for having this area as an option for my family. What was also amazing was the quiet you hear at night. A very unique experience.

1 night at Big Bend Overland Adventure Camping

Cliffside had an amazing view. Chris was easy to contact and provided the camp location via html file that I uploaded in OnX. I’m not sure I would have found it otherwise. But the directions were perfect and sent us right to the location. It was a wonderful experience because you are completely on your own.

1 night at Big Bend Overland Adventure Camping

Beautiful views away from it all. Chris was very prompt to answer my questions and provided us with excellent directions to his property and camping spots/options. I would recommend and stay again!

Weekend Trip to The Rhinestone Ranch

Very easy to find and very peaceful! Host was easy to communicate with and provided great directions.

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.

2 nights at Starry Night Retreat

Super great spot that wasn’t too far from Big Bend National Park. Lived up to the name on clear nights.

2 nights at The Rhinestone Ranch

Staying on the property was quiet and peaceful. I spent 2 nights and Starlink worked great to work remotely all day. No cell service with Verizon. Jessica was great in providing exact directions to the location and quick to respond with any questions!

2 nights at El Rancho Lejano

Very Pretty, very secluded. Definitely make sure you have a 4 wheel drive vehicle. And plan on about an hour for you to get out. But other than that it was beautiful. Excellent views and good viewing of both sunrises and sunsets.

4 nights at The Rhinestone Ranch

Great location and very reasonably priced. Can be accessed with a 2wd vehicle, but please follow Jessica’s directions, because google maps will lead you there via private road that is gated. Very quiet and beautiful place only 30 mins away from Maverick entrance to BBNP - would definitely recommend and would come back.

Weekend Trip to The Rhinestone Ranch

Jessica provided excellent directions to the site. It was flat, well marked and accommodated our 20 foot airstream trailer wjth plenty of room to spare. The sunrise and sunset views were amazing. We did experience a lot of wind upon arrival and were thankful for the less windy days. The road in was a bit rough but doable for most vehicles assuming there is no rain.

3 nights at 9 Points Camp

Great location, easy to get too. Great for three vehicles as we each had our own dedicated set up. Host were great with communication and ensuring our needs were met. Would consider using again next time we’re out that way. The host also gave us great information on locals spots to clean up and eat. Worth the stay!

2 nights at Big Bend Overland Adventure Camping

Panorama site was easy to get to. The entire property in very secluded and quiet. If you want peace and solitude then this is the place for you. There is no cell or internet so this is about connecting with yourself. I stayed at the cliffside spot which takes a bit more work to get into but was not difficult. Lots of silence and wide expanse of views. Would recommend this.

2 nights at Yaqui Moon Ranch

Amazing spot, incredible views. If you want to unplug and be away from everyone and everything, this is your spot. Bring firewood, very little to find on-site. Definitely coming back. Would definitely recommend.

3 nights at Big Bend Overland Adventure Camping

Loved our adventure on Chris’ property. Spectacularly beautiful views. We stayed on the Hilltop campsite. Hilltop had 360 panoramic views of the horizon. The sun does set behind a mountain to the west but amazing views in all directions. The panorama site also has nice views. (You pass it on the way to the Hilltop. From the hilltop site you can see the cliff site. The cliff site has an amazing view to the east, but it is nestled down from the hilltop campsite so will have less of an open western sky. You can see the cliff side site from the hilltop site if that matters to you. Chris has labeled all of the sites accurately as far as difficulty. The campsites are about 1 hour from the hwy 118 terlingua ranch rd turnoff. There are almost no buildings or lights near you so it felt wonderfully isolated. Stars and sunset were absolutely stunning. Chris was great in communicating and shared the gps offline files with us. We found everything without difficulty. Will definitely be returning to this amazing spot.

12 top mountainous campgrounds near Marathon

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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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(32)

Big Bend Overland Adventure Camping

3 sites · Tents100 acres · Study Butte, TX

Big Bend Camp — Remote Overland Sites in the Wild West Texas Backcountry of the Big Bend Region https://bigbend.camp 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.

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Domeland

1 site · Lodging20 acres · Study Butte, TX

A remote, off-grid adobe dome, powered by solar power, and near Big Bend National Park, as seen on HGTV, and numerous other publications. Brand new to Hipcamp, but we've been fortunate to host over a thousand guests on other platforms. The Off Grid Dome shelter is accepting rental guests to share the off-grid experience, and to also help fund this project and future projects . The dome is a very remote and unique space in the desert near Big Bend National Park. The dome rests in an isolated but easily accessible off-grid setting in one of the few remaining territories under a dark sky ordinance, which offers unmatched views of the night sky, and a completely unobstructed view of a horizon that delivers truly majestic sunrises and sunsets. Though the dome is isolated, the entrance to Big Bend National Park is just a 25 minute drive and the historic Terlingua Ghost town about the same. The dome is an earthen structure, with a cob (adobe) barrier to provide shelter from the desert elements such as heat, cold, winds, and rain. The small but functional dome kitchen provides a two burner propane stove and oven, as well as a refrigerator that is powered by solar power. In fact, all power to the dome comes directly from a modest solar energy system and will power phones, laptops, and lights, but not much more (no hair dryers for instance). The kitchen sink pumps water from a small rain collection cistern and thus I ask guests to be very strategic with water use. Guests are recommended to bring one's own drinking water, although backup bottled water is provided onsite as a backup at cost. The Dome bed sleeps two comfortably. Linens, pillows, and a blanket (and a duvet in colder months are provided for the main bed. The pallet couch does sleep a third person quite comfortably, but guests must bring their own linens or sleeping bag (and pillow) for a third guest. In hotter months, a fan is provided, and the nature of the thick adobe provides a buffer against the Summer temps (with limitations). The wrap around windows provides a good cross breeze and fresh air when needed. In cooler months, a small propane heater is provided for a little extra boost, as well as clean linens and a duvet cover. The dome and linens will not be cleaned during your stay. There is no flush toilet, and so you must be comfortable using a composting toilet that is in a separate, and private outhouse next to the dome. There is no shower on site, but I can give you recommendations for $2 coin showers in town. Or you can try an outdoor solar bag shower on the property. There is wifi on site. The property is very accessible by road, with only the last mile being on a gravel road in good condition. Read house rules to learn about amenities. SUMMERTIME DISCLAIMER (June through September): The Summer can get hot here in the desert and while the adobe dome gives a good buffer against the outside elements, there is no AC in the dome, just a fan. There are also perimeter windows to entice a night breeze. Also, bugs and other desert creatures tend to culminate in the Summer months. Don’t be surprised if you encounter a scorpion or black widow spider and don’t be frightened either as they are relatively harmless and non-threatening. I do have the dome on a somewhat forgiving 5 night out cancelation policy during off-peak periods and so if the 10 day forecast looks too scary for you, you can cancel without penalty. Many say that Summer is their favorite time of the year out here. But it all depends on one's heat tolerance. Looking forward to hearing from you and even more so, to hosting you out here in the magnificence of the Big Bend. Guest Access A private earth-built dome, parking, wifi, a kitchen, kitchen supplies, and a composting toilet. Looking forward to hearing from you and even more so, to hosting you out here in the magnificence of the Big Bend

Cliffhanger

4 sites · RVs, Tents30 acres · Alpine, TX

A Mountain Retreat Perched atop a stunning mountain peak, the Cliffhanger RV offers breathtaking panoramic views of the city below and surrounding natural beauty. This lot has been carefully developed by the owner, John Schwerdtfeger, with an extensive amount of work dedicated to enhancing the space. John has meticulously shaped the landscape, ensuring a level, accessible, and scenic environment for guests to enjoy a truly unique outdoor experience. Features and Improvements: Custom-Designed Padsites: Multiple padsites have been strategically placed at varying elevations, giving visitors privacy and a sense of seclusion. The padsites are leveled for ease of use, designed to accommodate RVs of various sizes, including larger motorhomes and trailers. Road Access & Maintenance: The lot has been connected to well-maintained roads, making it easily accessible even for larger RVs. John has spent countless hours building and reinforcing the roads to ensure stability and smooth access. Additionally, periodic maintenance is performed to ensure they remain in excellent condition despite mountain weather. Water Infrastructure: The property has a robust water management system in place, including a water well with pressure tanks. These systems are built at three key elevations to ensure reliable access to water, even in the most remote parts of the property. Stunning Views & Natural Landscaping: Surrounded by nature, the lot offers unobstructed views of the valley below. The landscape has been enhanced by John's personal efforts to build retaining walls, stabilize slopes, and manage runoff, ensuring that the environment remains safe and pristine. Several designated walking paths give visitors a chance to explore the land and take in the views up close. Privacy and Seclusion: The Cliffhanger RV provides a rare opportunity for solitude, with ample space between the padsites. This makes it an ideal spot for individuals or families looking to escape the hustle and bustle of city life and enjoy a peaceful mountain retreat. Unique Experience: The lot offers an immersive outdoor experience that blends nature with modern RV comforts. Whether you’re here for a short-term stay or longer, the Cliffhanger RV Lot offers the perfect mix of adventure, and relaxation.

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The Yogic Flow Retreat Camp

2 sites · RVs, Tents40 acres · Alpine, TX

Our Retreat Center is only 15 minutes away from Big Bend National Park with some beautiful scenic mountain and desert views. The town Terlingua only a short drive away is mostly a tourist destination for park visitors and has several restaurants and activities for your group. Rafting, horseback riding, and canoeing on the Rio Grande, mountain biking, camping, hiking, and motorcycling are some of the outdoor activities favored by tourists while on your retreat.On the first Saturday of November, over 10,000 "chiliheads" convene in Terlingua for two annual chili cookoffs: - The Chili Appreciation Society International - The Frank X. Tolbert/Wick Fowler World Chili ChampionshipTerlingua Cemetery, located in the ghost town with the earliest grave dating to 1903, when the cinnabar mining operation began. The cemetery is visited by residents and tourists daily. The night long celebration, Dia de los Muertos is celebrated every year and is definitely something you don't want to miss!

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Yaqui Moon Ranch

1 site · RV, Tent10 acres · Study Butte, TX

Come enjoy Mountain View’s from both sides of this mini ranch located just 30 minutes off a paved road. We have just one tent site & stone fire ring set up at the moment so the entire property would be yours to enjoy. Our property includes the base of a large hill, seasonal river/ ravine and a large plateau area with ample parking, road and level Rv turn around.

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El Rancho Lejano

3 sites · Tents43 acres · Study Butte, TX

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9 Points Camp

2 sites · RVs, Tents5 acres · Study Butte, TX

Our family has owned property, on Terlingua Ranch, since the 1970's. Since that time, we've added additional property and our love for this area and our passion for sharing it with others, has grown more and more. We've continued to value and preserve the area's natural, primitive beauty.

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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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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. Leave no trace! Please dispose of all human waste. No hunting or gathering of any kind 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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Spanish Sky

5 sites · RVs, Tents5 acres · Study Butte, TX

Wellcome to Spanish Sky! The 5 acres property is located 25 minutes north of Big Bend National Park and features 3 primitive campsites and 2 tent campsites. You will be responsible for all your own needs. These are no trace campsites and we ask that you clean up after yourselves. We ask that you do not move, or take rocks as souvenirs.

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The Rhinestone Ranch

3 sites · RVs, Tents21 acres · Alpine, TX

Originally from Chicago, we moved to Terlingua after falling in love with the area on a road trip. It's magical! The 360 degree views of the mountains and scenary are stunning, and the sunrises and sunsets are unmatched. Enjoy quiet and privacy anywhere on our land, or join us for a campfire if you're feeling social. We're so exicted to share our ranch with you!Tons of trails nearby in Big Bend Ranch State Park or mountain bike the roads surronding the property.We also have fantastic hiking from the property.Many operators offer trips on the Rio Grande for paddling. Learn more about this land: Pitch your tent on one of three predesigned, private campsites with handmade firering and patio made from local stones, spread out over 21 acres. Enjoy 360 views of the surronding mountains, wildlife sightings, and easy access to Big Bend National Park. Incredible sunrises, sunsets, mountain vistas and stargazing!Pets are allowed. Please make sure you pick up after them.

Happy farmer sitting in a truck in a grassy field

Mountainous camping near Marathon guide

Overview

If you're looking for a camping experience near Marathon, Texas, Hipcamp has you covered with over 480 options to choose from. Whether you're into fishing, hiking, or climbing, there's something for everyone. Check out some of our top campsites like El Cosmico (537 reviews), Paisano Azul Ranch (428 reviews), and Lynn y B's land (155 reviews). With prices as low as $10 per night and an average price of $30 per night, you can't beat the value. Plus, amenities like toilets, pet-friendly spaces, and potable water are popular among campers. So grab your gear and get ready for the ultimate outdoor adventure!