The best ranch camping near Marathon

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Looking to experience the great outdoors near Marathon, Texas? Hipcamp has over 180 camping options specifically tailored to your ranch-loving heart. Whether you're a seasoned cowboy or just looking to channel your inner John Wayne, we've got you covered. Check out top campsites like Paisano Azul Ranch (428 reviews), Smiling Dog Ranch (332 reviews), and Rio Bravo Ranch (107 reviews) to see what fellow adventurers think. With amenities like campfires, cooking equipment, and toilets, and activities such as hiking, off-roading (OHV), and wildlife watching, there's no shortage of exciting things to do. So saddle up and book your ranch camping adventure today!

100% (62)

Top-rated campgrounds

The Rhinestone Ranch

3. The Rhinestone Ranch

100%
(14)
47mi from Marathon · 3 sites · Tents, RVs · 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.
Pets
Campfires
from 
$10
 / night
Cholla Ranch Camp, Glamping Tents

5. 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.
Potable water
Toilets
Showers
from 
$130
 / night
Red Bluff Vista Big Bend

6. Red Bluff Vista Big Bend

48mi from Marathon · 5 sites · Tents, RVs · Study Butte, TX
This is a primitive campground perfect for self-contained Overlander, van-life, or pop-up style campers, with dumpster access. Located in a most convenient place with easy access to Big Bend and Terlingua. Located right on Hwy 118 on Terlingua Ranch, the property offers awesome views, bright stars, and quiet evenings with outstanding sunsets and moonrises. A convenience store and a spot to grab food and a beer are located very close to the site. A dumpster is available onsite. What makes this a great spot is the location—Big Bend is an enormous area, and travel times can be significant, but from our site you won’t have to drive far to settle in for the night and get going the next day on your Big Bend exploration. The park entrance is about 25 minutes away. The sites are simple desert terrain with natural desert scrub—no paved pads. Native burros frequently browse the property, so expect to see wild donkeys. All sites are located behind an access gate and are individually marked.
Pets
Campfires
Trash
from 
$16
 / night
Stay Awhile Ranch

7. Stay Awhile Ranch

100%
(4)
43mi from Marathon · 1 site · Tent, RV · Study Butte, TX
Unplug at this camping destination, perfectly situated near Terlingua and Big Bend. This site has plenty of space for tent camping, whether camping solo or with a group. Land includes not only amazing 360 views, but also a shade structure with solar lighting, picnic table, composting outhouse, hammock posts to hang your own hammocks, fire pit and grill. BYO-tent & beer! Views of Nine Point Mesa, Black Mountain and more and just minutes away from Little Country Burro Store. Check us out on IG @stayawhileranch While the property does have a shade structure and outhouse, this is still considered primitive and off-grid camping. There is no electricity or water and little to none cell signal. It's the perfect place to unplug and relax while being surrounded by mountainous views with Nine Points Mesa, Black Mountain and more. You will need to bring your own tent, food and water, hammock and other camping essentials. The shade structure will provide relief from the sun and shelter from rain. It has solar powered lights that will turn on automatically at night and provides the perfect amount of light for sitting at the picnic table for a game of dominoes or cards while enjoying a cold drink at night. The hook and string game is also set up on one of the posts to enjoy. You can put up two hammocks at the hammock station - a perfect place to relax and take in the mountainous views and enjoy the dark night sky. On clear nights you can see the Milky Way! Hammocks are not provided. There is a composting outhouse that is covered. There is intentionally no door so you can take in the views of Black Mountain. Do bring toilet paper. Two chairs are provided for use around the fire pit. You are welcome to source any kindling from the property. Please burn responsibly as winds can pick up and do not leave the property without completely extinguishing any fire. Do not burn if Brewster County is under a burn ban. There is also a grate for grilling over the campfire as well as a charcoal grill you may use. Bring your own charcoal. There is also a bin that has misc supplies such as games (dominoes and cards), cooking utensils, extra batteries, first aid kit, and more that are available to use. Please wash any cooking supplies if using and pack everything back in before you leave. If you need to connect to the outside world, the Little Country Burro Store is about a 10 minute drive and has wifi. It's a great place to grab more ice and other goods too. There is also the Cottonwood General Store about 30 mins away that has a larger food selection and other items. I also recommend stopping at the Porters grocery store in Alping on your way in - they have a great beer selection. There is access to a full service bathroom with showers ($2 per person), a pool to cool down in ($8.50 per person), washer/dryer (coin operated) and a restaurant at the Terlingua Ranch Lodge. The American Legion Post across the highway is a great place to have a cold drink and chat with locals. You will have access to all 10 acres of the property. There is room for multiple tents if traveling with a group. The roads leading up to the property are dirt roads. To get to the property, an AWD or high clearance vehicle is not required although it is recommended if you plan on doing further exploring on the surrounding dirt roads. Monsoon season is during the summer - please be aware of the weather around your trip. In my experience, I've still been able to get to and from the property after a rain but it can make for harsh driving conditions. It is always a good idea to come with a tire plug kit and small portable air compressor. The property is secluded. It is part of Terlingua Ranch but there's a good chance you won't come across anyone on the roads while getting to and from, but always please be respectful to our neighbors. It can get windy - make sure you stake your tent and be aware of what you're leaving out overnight or when you leave the property. Dogs are allowed, but be aware of the harsh environment and do not leave your dog unattended. You can often hear coyotes at night and it is mountain lion country. We often bring our black lab Mack and he has a great time, just make sure you're bringing plenty of water for your pups and check paws for cactus needles. Do keep in mind that if you plan on visiting Big Bend National Park that dogs are not allowed on the trails. Please pick up after your dog, waste can be placed with the outhouse waste. We practice pack it in and pack it out and expect you to do the same. Take any and all trash back out with you and leave the property ready for its next guest. If the American Legion Post is open, you may be able to tip them extra and dump your trash there. You are also expected to dispose of your outhouse waste. More info about that will be provided as it gets closer to your stay and trust me, it's not as gross as it seems!
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$40
 / night
Your Big Bend Basecamp @ LH Safari

8. Your Big Bend Basecamp @ LH Safari

48mi from Marathon · 1 site · Tent · Study Butte, TX
Your adventure starts here. Welcome to Longhorn Safari Big Bend, a peaceful desert retreat on 80 private acres in Terlingua Ranch and the perfect basecamp for exploring Big Bend National Park or Big Bend Ranch State Park by day, then experiencing world-class stargazing by night. With no crowds, no noise, and no nearby neighbors, you’ll have room to breathe, reset, and connect to the landscape that makes West Texas unforgettable. Whether you’re here to hike, immerse yourself with wildlife, paddle the Rio Grande, wander ghost towns, or chase sunrise trailheads, this is the ideal jumping-off point. Come prepared, embrace the desert, and enjoy the simple magic of being off-grid with lodge amenities (showers, bathrooms, pool, camp store, and café) just down the road when you want them (some lodge fees may apply). Camp wild, sleep deeply, and wake up refreshed and inspired. This is why we built Longhorn Safari Big Bend, to help you turn down the noise and tune into nature.
Pets
Campfires
from 
$49
 / night

Looking to experience the great outdoors near Marathon, Texas? Hipcamp has over 180 camping options specifically tailored to your ranch-loving heart. Whether you're a seasoned cowboy or just looking to channel your inner John Wayne, we've got you covered. Check out top campsites like Paisano Azul Ranch (428 reviews), Smiling Dog Ranch (332 reviews), and Rio Bravo Ranch (107 reviews) to see what fellow adventurers think. With amenities like campfires, cooking equipment, and toilets, and activities such as hiking, off-roading (OHV), and wildlife watching, there's no shortage of exciting things to do. So saddle up and book your ranch camping adventure today!

100% (62)

Top-rated campgrounds

The Rhinestone Ranch

3. The Rhinestone Ranch

100%
(14)
47mi from Marathon · 3 sites · Tents, RVs · 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.
Pets
Campfires
from 
$10
 / night
Cholla Ranch Camp, Glamping Tents

5. 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.
Potable water
Toilets
Showers
from 
$130
 / night
Red Bluff Vista Big Bend

6. Red Bluff Vista Big Bend

48mi from Marathon · 5 sites · Tents, RVs · Study Butte, TX
This is a primitive campground perfect for self-contained Overlander, van-life, or pop-up style campers, with dumpster access. Located in a most convenient place with easy access to Big Bend and Terlingua. Located right on Hwy 118 on Terlingua Ranch, the property offers awesome views, bright stars, and quiet evenings with outstanding sunsets and moonrises. A convenience store and a spot to grab food and a beer are located very close to the site. A dumpster is available onsite. What makes this a great spot is the location—Big Bend is an enormous area, and travel times can be significant, but from our site you won’t have to drive far to settle in for the night and get going the next day on your Big Bend exploration. The park entrance is about 25 minutes away. The sites are simple desert terrain with natural desert scrub—no paved pads. Native burros frequently browse the property, so expect to see wild donkeys. All sites are located behind an access gate and are individually marked.
Pets
Campfires
Trash
from 
$16
 / night
Stay Awhile Ranch

7. Stay Awhile Ranch

100%
(4)
43mi from Marathon · 1 site · Tent, RV · Study Butte, TX
Unplug at this camping destination, perfectly situated near Terlingua and Big Bend. This site has plenty of space for tent camping, whether camping solo or with a group. Land includes not only amazing 360 views, but also a shade structure with solar lighting, picnic table, composting outhouse, hammock posts to hang your own hammocks, fire pit and grill. BYO-tent & beer! Views of Nine Point Mesa, Black Mountain and more and just minutes away from Little Country Burro Store. Check us out on IG @stayawhileranch While the property does have a shade structure and outhouse, this is still considered primitive and off-grid camping. There is no electricity or water and little to none cell signal. It's the perfect place to unplug and relax while being surrounded by mountainous views with Nine Points Mesa, Black Mountain and more. You will need to bring your own tent, food and water, hammock and other camping essentials. The shade structure will provide relief from the sun and shelter from rain. It has solar powered lights that will turn on automatically at night and provides the perfect amount of light for sitting at the picnic table for a game of dominoes or cards while enjoying a cold drink at night. The hook and string game is also set up on one of the posts to enjoy. You can put up two hammocks at the hammock station - a perfect place to relax and take in the mountainous views and enjoy the dark night sky. On clear nights you can see the Milky Way! Hammocks are not provided. There is a composting outhouse that is covered. There is intentionally no door so you can take in the views of Black Mountain. Do bring toilet paper. Two chairs are provided for use around the fire pit. You are welcome to source any kindling from the property. Please burn responsibly as winds can pick up and do not leave the property without completely extinguishing any fire. Do not burn if Brewster County is under a burn ban. There is also a grate for grilling over the campfire as well as a charcoal grill you may use. Bring your own charcoal. There is also a bin that has misc supplies such as games (dominoes and cards), cooking utensils, extra batteries, first aid kit, and more that are available to use. Please wash any cooking supplies if using and pack everything back in before you leave. If you need to connect to the outside world, the Little Country Burro Store is about a 10 minute drive and has wifi. It's a great place to grab more ice and other goods too. There is also the Cottonwood General Store about 30 mins away that has a larger food selection and other items. I also recommend stopping at the Porters grocery store in Alping on your way in - they have a great beer selection. There is access to a full service bathroom with showers ($2 per person), a pool to cool down in ($8.50 per person), washer/dryer (coin operated) and a restaurant at the Terlingua Ranch Lodge. The American Legion Post across the highway is a great place to have a cold drink and chat with locals. You will have access to all 10 acres of the property. There is room for multiple tents if traveling with a group. The roads leading up to the property are dirt roads. To get to the property, an AWD or high clearance vehicle is not required although it is recommended if you plan on doing further exploring on the surrounding dirt roads. Monsoon season is during the summer - please be aware of the weather around your trip. In my experience, I've still been able to get to and from the property after a rain but it can make for harsh driving conditions. It is always a good idea to come with a tire plug kit and small portable air compressor. The property is secluded. It is part of Terlingua Ranch but there's a good chance you won't come across anyone on the roads while getting to and from, but always please be respectful to our neighbors. It can get windy - make sure you stake your tent and be aware of what you're leaving out overnight or when you leave the property. Dogs are allowed, but be aware of the harsh environment and do not leave your dog unattended. You can often hear coyotes at night and it is mountain lion country. We often bring our black lab Mack and he has a great time, just make sure you're bringing plenty of water for your pups and check paws for cactus needles. Do keep in mind that if you plan on visiting Big Bend National Park that dogs are not allowed on the trails. Please pick up after your dog, waste can be placed with the outhouse waste. We practice pack it in and pack it out and expect you to do the same. Take any and all trash back out with you and leave the property ready for its next guest. If the American Legion Post is open, you may be able to tip them extra and dump your trash there. You are also expected to dispose of your outhouse waste. More info about that will be provided as it gets closer to your stay and trust me, it's not as gross as it seems!
Pets
Toilets
Campfires
from 
$40
 / night
Your Big Bend Basecamp @ LH Safari

8. Your Big Bend Basecamp @ LH Safari

48mi from Marathon · 1 site · Tent · Study Butte, TX
Your adventure starts here. Welcome to Longhorn Safari Big Bend, a peaceful desert retreat on 80 private acres in Terlingua Ranch and the perfect basecamp for exploring Big Bend National Park or Big Bend Ranch State Park by day, then experiencing world-class stargazing by night. With no crowds, no noise, and no nearby neighbors, you’ll have room to breathe, reset, and connect to the landscape that makes West Texas unforgettable. Whether you’re here to hike, immerse yourself with wildlife, paddle the Rio Grande, wander ghost towns, or chase sunrise trailheads, this is the ideal jumping-off point. Come prepared, embrace the desert, and enjoy the simple magic of being off-grid with lodge amenities (showers, bathrooms, pool, camp store, and café) just down the road when you want them (some lodge fees may apply). Camp wild, sleep deeply, and wake up refreshed and inspired. This is why we built Longhorn Safari Big Bend, to help you turn down the noise and tune into nature.
Pets
Campfires
from 
$49
 / night

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Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

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