Camping near Marathon with wildlife watching

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98% (441 reviews)
  1. Marathon
98% (441 reviews)

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12 top campgrounds near Marathon with wildlife watching

95%
(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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from 
$6
 / night
95%
(276)

Jackass Flats Campground

23 sites · RVs, Tents20 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 for sale on the property to meet your needs.
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from 
$25
 / night
99%
(35)

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
98%
(26)

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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from 
$50
 / night
100%
(14)

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.
Pets
Campfires
from 
$10
 / night

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

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.