Camping near Marathon with wildlife watching

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98% (401 reviews)
98% (401 reviews)

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12 top campgrounds near Marathon with wildlife watching

97%
(29)

Mountain View Lodge

3 sites · RVs, Tents7 acres · Fort Davis, TX
Formerly Mountain Trails Lodge, our property features stunning sunrises and sunsets, wildlife watching, and amazing dark skies viewing. Our on-site Cafe serves breakfast and lunch daily from 8am to 2pm/ We offer tent campsites and one RV site with electricity and water available, along with access to a restroom with shower and amenities, our pavilion with a gas grill and grilling tools, a fridge, ice, and picnic tables. We also have cabins for rent, visible on our website mountainviewlodgetx.com. We have seven acres convenient to many attractions, including McDonald Observatory, Fort Davis National Historic Site, Davis Mountains State Park, the Chihuahuan Desert Research Center, a 75-mile scenic loop, and more. Marfa, TX, a widely recognized community of world-renowned artists, is just a 20-minute drive away. Alpine, TX is also only 20 minutes away with more amenities and medical care facilities. We are located in a Dark Skies Reserve with spectacular night viewing of stars and the Milky Way, even without a telescope!
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$39
 / night
100%
(17)

BBC Terlingua Overland Camping

3 sites · Tents100 acres · Study Butte, TX
Welcome to Big Bend Camp (https://www.bigbend.camp). The Big Bend region of Texas is a vast and rugged expanse in West Texas, USA, known for its stunning landscapes, remote wilderness, and exceptional opportunities for outdoor activities. Overland camping in Big Bend allows adventurous individuals to immerse themselves in natural beauty while exploring its diverse terrain. Big Bend Camp Overland is a 100-acre property with three campsites that provide ample space for outdoor enthusiasts to explore and enjoy nature. Overland adventurists often engage in off-road vehicle travel and outdoor camping and would likely appreciate the opportunity to experience the Big Bend Camp property. Overland camping involves traveling off-road and setting up camp in more remote and secluded areas, often using a specialized vehicle equipped with camping gear and supplies. This camping style is trendy due to the Big Bend's expansive backcountry and the ability to access remote areas inaccessible to regular vehicles. To access Big Bend Camp, you'll need a high-clearance 4x4 vehicle, preferably with off-road capabilities. This type of vehicle is necessary to navigate the 13 miles of rough and unpaved roads to access the camping sites along the way. Big Bend Camp has three designated backcountry campsites accessible only by a high-clearance vehicle. These campsites are basic, with no facilities or amenities, allowing visitors to experience an authentic wilderness camping experience. When overland camping at Big Bend Camp, you can witness breathtaking sunsets, starry night skies, and a remarkable variety of landscapes. From the iconic overlook of Chalk Draw bordering Big Bend National Park to the vastness of Nine Point Mesa and panoramic vistas, the Chihuahuan Desert offers vast stretches of rugged terrain and a diverse range of camping environments for any overland adventurist. Overland camping at Big Bend Camp offers an unparalleled opportunity to connect with nature, explore remote areas, and experience the untamed beauty of one of America's most stunning landscapes.
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$6
 / night
95%
(266)

Jackass Flats Campground

23 sites · RVs, Tents40 acres · Terlingua Ranch / Alpine, TX
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 to meet your needs.
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$25
 / night
98%
(23)

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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$105
 / night
93%
(22)

Camp Eldorado

2 sites · RVs, Tents5 acres · Study Butte, TX
Just a little slice of desert heaven outside of Terlingua, Texas. Learn more about this land: ***Glamping Coming Spring 2023*** Set your basecamp right under the Milky Way, between sprawling desert skies and rugged mountain peaks. Begin and end your days with some of the most breathtaking sunrises and sunsets. Sleep peacefully in the stillness of the desert. This is a must-stay destination for visitors of Big Bend and Terlingua. This campsite is centrally located, and just a short drive to Big Bend National Park, Big Bend State Park, Terlingua Ghost Town, Alpine and Marfa.
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$12.60
 / night
84%
(38)

Agua Fria Adventure

4 sites · RVs, Tents10 acres · Study Butte, TX
Created by legendary automotive engineer, Carroll Shelby, Terlingua Ranch is nearly 200,000 acres nestled between 1.1 millions acres of wilderness in Big Bend National Park and Big Bend Ranch State Park. Star Haven's expansive vistas afford views of the state park 9 miles southwest, the national park 20 miles southeast and Nine Point Mesa 6 miles due east.  The broad horizons mean unobstructed views for star-gazing and the remote location means the least light pollution you'll find anywhere. After 45 years of leading groups hiking, climbing, rafting, and canoeing the Big Bend, we are glad to share our basecamp with you.
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$9.60
 / night
89%
(23)

“Roble Perdido” private RV site

1 site · RV1 acre · Marfa, TX
Learn more about this land:“Roble Perdido” is a private , full hookup RV site , just outside the city limits of Marfa TX. Easy walking access to this unique little town in West TX , close to Big Bend National Park. The site is a back in site , accommodating up to 40’. The site is a leveled gravel parking pad, with full hook-ups. There is a shade shelter ,a picnic table and ,a fire ring with this site. (Please check for local fire bans!)
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$40
 / night
100%
(5)

Casa de Keaveny

1 site · Lodging30 acres · 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. Mr. Keaveny built the house himself over a 10 year period.
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$89
 / night
100%
(22)

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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$15
 / night
100%
(4)

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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$50
 / night
100%
(4)

Stay Awhile Ranch

1 site · RV, Tent10 acres · 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!
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$40
 / night
100%
(11)

Nesting Star Camp

6 sites · RVs, Tents5 acres · Study Butte, TX
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.
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$20
 / night

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Camping near Marathon with wildlife watching guide

Overview

Looking to experience the great outdoors near Marathon, Texas and indulge in some wildlife watching? Look no further than Hipcamp! With over 680 options available, you're sure to find the perfect campsite that suits your preference. Whether you're a seasoned camper or a first-timer, Hipcamp has got you covered. Check out top campsites like Goat Pens, Cigar Springs Ranch (657 reviews), Paisano Azul Ranch (428 reviews), and Coyote Crossing (383 reviews) for tried and true options. Enjoy popular amenities like toilets, potable water, and pet-friendly campsites, all at an average price of $30 per night, with options as low as $5.

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