Camping near Terlingua, Texas with wildlife watching
From desert backdrops to scenic mountaintops, Terlingua offers endless camping possibilities.
- Terlingua
96% (3196 reviews)
Popular camping styles for Terlingua
12 top campgrounds near Terlingua with wildlife watching
98%
(1013)
Goat Pens, Cigar Springs Ranch
50 sites · RVs, Tents640 acres · Terlingua, Brewster
This central location provides an ideal basecamp close to the Terlingua Ghost Town and both Big Bend State and National Parks. The unique geology and topography of the Goat Pens made this a popular movie set and many westerns were filmed here in the 80's and 90's. Come out and enjoy seclusion, peace and quiet, awesome scenery with sunrises and sunsets to die for. All while still being able to easily take advantage of the area's other attractions.
The Goat Pens includes an outdoor events venue that hosts concerts, stargazing parties, festivals and weddings. The Goat Pens also has the only drive-in movie theater in the Big Bend area. Send a text or check The Goat Pens Facebook page (@goatpens) for information and dates of events.
The Goat Pens of Cigar Springs Ranch is a beautiful part of the ranch. It is well known for its scenery and unique topography. The Goat Pens served as a set location for many westerns filmed during the 1980's and 90's.
Remarkable beauty, easy access, centrally located, seclusion, peace and quiet. All add up to an unforgettable vacation experience.
**New This Winter**
Rachel Wey Ranch Petting Zoo and Pony Rides
Please contact us about hours and availibilty
Rachel.wey.ranch @faceboook.com-
from
$40
/ night
99%
(514)
Coyote Crossing
26 sites · Tents21 acres · Terlingua, Brewster
Located in Southern Most Section of Terlingua Ranch, within eyesight of the Mexican Border, National, and State Parks.
Easy to find, just across from Willow Mountain, one of the most photograph natural features in Big Bend.
Traveling highway 118
you will see the Entrance at address 53420, just north 1 mile of the outfitters and gas station.
Every night the coyotes would cross the road and come for a visit..Thus the name Coyote Crossing.. With dreams of a tiny home and campground, we continue to improve on the land every day and love to share it with others.
When arriving at night it will be very
dark.. very few lights in use, dark sky's are protected in Big Bend.. so it may be hard to find. but we are directly
on the highway on the west side of 118.
Trash Dumpster up front for your use.
No collecting rocks, cactus or wood to burn... NO TRACE,
leave it as you find it..
from
$25
/ night
96%
(965)
Paisano Azul Ranch
11 sites · RVs, Tents30 acres · Study Butte, Brewster
Paisano Azul Ranch is on 30 acres located by Terlingua Creek.
The property is just minutes from the Terlingua Ghost Town and a short 3 mile drive to the Big Bend National park.
Come pitch your tent or park your camper
amid the peaceful desert hillside
with views of
plateaus that lead to the Chisos Mountains in Big Bend National Park. There is a fire pit on site
for you to toast marshmallows or cozy up near, and you can enjoy a
bite to eat at the picnic table provided at each site.
The picnic tables are placed beneath shade sails.
There are two nice and new desert tan flushing Porta-Potties on-site, as well as showers for guests to use. These
come in handy after a long day hiking.
We hope you'll enjoy the beautiful open sky sunsets, sunrises, and stargazing
as much as we do.
We are located just 3 miles from the entrance to Big Bend National Park. There are plenty of opportunities to get out and explore - you can hike, bike, canoe & kayak, off-road, swim, go horseback riding, visit hot springs,
as well as visit restaurants, galleries, and
listen to great music in Terlingua. There is something for everyone to feel free to bring the whole family.
Additional details to note:
- You can stay connected if you'd like to, as cell reception and wifi are both available on our property. Feel free to unplug during your stay though.
- Seeing other campers on your trip at the campsite is very standard, as the sites are far enough apart to feel like they are yours, but they are not private.
- Potable water is provided on-site. We have an artisan well on property that has been certified as drinkable. It is double filtered to give you the best drinking water.
Please feel free to reach out with any questions and we look forward to your stay.
from
$39
/ night
99%
(278)
Lynn y B's land
28 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents80 acres · Terlingua, Brewster
from
$15
/ night
98%
(132)
Cieloscuro
6 sites · RVs, Tents40 acres · Terlingua, Brewster
IF YOU WILL BE STAYING 3 NIGHTS OR LONGER, ASK ME FOR A DISCOUNT CODE!! We offer a uniquely secluded setting with stunning views of the Chisos Mountains. Located just 7 miles from the entrance to Big Bend National Park, and 10 miles from the visitors' center at Big Bend Ranch State Park, it is a perfect base from which to explore all the hiking, boating, and scenic beauty that West Texas is known for. The arts, history, and entertainment of Terlingua Ghost Town are less than 2 miles away.
Like most ruins in the Ghost Town, my stone house was built in the early 1900s to house a miner’s family from the nearby Rainbow Mine. I bought the property in 1986 and began restoring and rebuilding. In 2019 I retired here from NYC and began exploring possibilities for sustainable tourism.
West Texas is one of the best places in the United States to view the Milky Way (both Big Bend parks are certified as International Dark Sky parks). We use shielded LED lighting around buildings and pathways to cut down on light pollution and optimize stargazing opportunities for our astrotourists. And we are applying for dark sky certification from the Texan By Nature program.
Bear in mind that this is the desert, in all its rugged glory. There are critters, rocks, plants with thorns, slippery slopes, sink holes, rusted artifacts and broken glass from decades long past. Bring sturdy shoes and a flashlight, and stay on the paths!
We may eventually add a few more sites and expand our amenities, but our intention is always to provide remote, low-density accommodation for folks who are respectful of the land.
from
$42
/ night
100%
(134)
Rancho de los Arboles Muertos
9 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents160 acres · Brewster
With 160 acres located just off Highway 118, two miles north of Study Butte, 7 miles from Terlingua Ghost Town, 7 miles from Big Bend National Park and 16 miles from Big Bend Ranch State Park, Arboles Muertos is a perfect place for tent campers, small trailers and Class-B RV's to set up a home base for all the many activities in the area. For the digital nomads, we have a Starlink wi-fi workspace coming fall 2023!
Your privacy is our #1 priority, so our sites are spread out over the property and most are not in view of other sites, giving you a backcountry camping experience with 1000 acre views, yet only a few minutes off the highway. For large groups, or those that are into a more social camping experience, we also have cluster sites spaced about 150 feet apart. We have several spotlessly clean composting pit toilets on the property, all just a short walk from your site. New outdoor shower coming late November 2023!
Rancho de los Arboles Muertos gets its name from the 25 foot tall Eastern Red Cedar trees that are being salvaged from land clearing operations near Austin and "planted" around the property. We're located directly across the highway from Willow Mountain, with 800 foot sheer faces and rising over 1000 feet above the highway, making it one of the most prominent features in the area next to the Chisos of Big Bend. The property is covered in Ocotillo, hidden arroyos, tall bentonite dunes, volcanic ridges, dry creeks and the occasional fossil. Trail runners can easily create 5 mile loop over ridges and in arroyos without leaving the property. For the burners out there, the place will have an unmistakable deep playa vibe once all trees have made it home )'(
Socialized dogs are allowed on leash, but we do have a high coyote population in the area, as well as other dangers to pets.
Large groups are welcome and we also rent the entire 160 acre property for private events. Please contact us for more info.
We are a completely off-grid property, so remember to bring water!
In the event of heavy rain, the roads could become impassible for a few hours to a couple days. If we see a major storm in the forecast, we will contact you directly to discuss options. The rainy season is late summer, however, and we are not taking bookings during that time, so this should not be an issue.
Check out our Instagram page for more about us @arboles_muertos
from
$35
/ night
92%
(12)
Rough Run Creek Campground
27 sites · RVs, Tents10 acres · Study Butte, Brewster
The name says it all!
'Rough Run Creek Campground:
is conveniently located downtown Study-Butte 1000 feet West of Cottonwood General Store.
Just 2 miles before the western entrance to Big Bend National Park
We have 10 acres of room for tent camping and boondocks RV camping only spots in the roadside spot in downtown Study-Butte Texas.
Come and stay near the Big Bend National Park!
An intimate campsite (not too far off-the-grid )
A campground just outside Big Bend National Park where you can relax and recharge.
Short walk to Cottonwood grocery ONLY 1000 FEET TO WALK East crossing over the bridge to mile marker 538 just 1000' feet walking distance from Rough Run Creek Bridge to Cottonwood grocery store and supply.
The camping area is about one mile past the intersection of Highway TX-170 and TX-118 approximately one mile South on the left at the Rough Run Creek Campground.
Heading only 3 miles further to the gateway into Big Bend National Park, Texas at the Western entrance following on State Highway TX-118 South.
Big Bend State Park is to the West on Highway TX-170 approximately 29 miles from Rough Run Creek Bridge past the town of Terlingua, Texas 79852
Rough Run Creek Bridge Camping 53737 TX-118, Study Butte, Texas 79852 -
Ten 10 acres of creek front property
This campground is a roadside camping area, directly on Highway TX-118 at the Southeast end of Rough Run Creek Bridge
On the East side of the highway.
Enter the property between the Rough Run Creek Bridge and large black mailbox which also marks the South property line of the camping area.
The South property line runs 800' feet deep from the roadside of highway TX-118 along the creek bed of Rough Run Creek.
At the East end of the campground, you will find an old camper shell near the Southeast end of the campground and the property corner.
There are 10 acres in the "dispersed" #BYO everything camping area, #BYO Sleeping bags, #BYO Tent Shades, and #BYO Gas grills, unfortunately, for now, you have to #BYO toilet.
Rough Run Creek Bridge camping area includes the creek bed itself, with beachfront camping.
The best location to stage an early morning hiking trip from locations for campers visiting Big Bend National Park which is only 2 miles away.
Please leave nothing but your tracks when camping or leaving the area for the day.
Each night campers must make bookings by 2:00 PM for check-in and out on a ticketed day pass.
For showers and bathroom facilities, we recommend the bathroom showers provided at the Big Bend motor inn where they have coin-operated shower facilities for visiting tourists.
If you need to dump any trash the Big Bend Motor store and gas station will let you pay $5.00 to use their dumpsters.
Please honor the BURN BAN (no open fires). Propane cooking stoves are okay.
from
$30
/ night
96%
(52)
Jomommas Rv Park
6 sites · RVs, Tents2 acres · Terlingua, Brewster
The ideal authentic Terlingua experience awaits you here at Jomommas!
Located within walking distance of everything to do in the Terlingua Ghost Town. Perfectly located between both the Big Bend National Park and Big Bend Ranch State Park. Do you like stargazing? We are very pleased to announce that we are Dark Sky's supported and certified, so stargazing is ideal.
If you are wanting to slow down and relax or get out on one of the many trails the parks offer this is the place! We are a smaller family oriented and pet friendly park we offer dry Rv spaces with power and septic hook-ups, as well as rustic desert camping.
from
$65
/ night
95%
(500)
Smiling Dog Ranch
16 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents20 acres · Alpine, Brewster
Formerly known as Eco-Ranch Sustainable Living, new hosts assumed the ranch on February 1, 23 and look forward to hosting you.
The Smiling Dog is a remote homestead, located on 20 acres close to both the National and State Parks. With unobstructed views of the surrounding mountains and arroyos, the property offers guests a chance to unplug and enjoy exploring unique terrain on site.
The Big Bend region is a certified dark sky community and is recognized as the darkest park/community in the lower-48. With no light pollution on the ranch, the stargazing is spectacular. Guests are encouraged to bring headlamps or flashlights with red filters to allow you to safely see your surroundings while preserving the darkness for your eyes to adjust.
The ranch is fully off-grid, powered by solar energy. Water is collected through rain catchment and is pumped into filtered tanks which provides the majority of our water supply. At times during drought conditions we do have to bring water in from Study Butte or Alpine so we ask all of our guests to conserve whenever possible.
Wildlife is in abundance in the desert, our naturally created water reservoir often brings in a variety of animals in the evenings. Guests could expect to see coyotes, rabbits, foxes, mule deer, aoudad sheep, and even elk. There is also a large drove (herd) of wild donkeys that roam freely and are beloved by the community. There are also predators but they are rare in the area. Mountain lions and bears do live in the area, but stick closer to the mountains instead of open areas like the ranch. Insects and snakes can be found throughout the desert as well as migratory butterflies and birds.
Guests have several options for their stay- there are 20 dispersed campsites that can accommodate a single camper to large groups with multiple vehicles. Each site has fire rings for campfires dependent on weather conditions. During periods when there is a high fire danger, ground fires are not allowed. Guests can bring above ground fire rings, or small propane grills and provide their own wood. Travel trailers and smaller RV's are also welcome, though we do not offer hookups or waste disposal. There are also 2 small, basic rooms with full size futons that can house 2 adults or 4 if you are really good friends. A communal area houses a small kitchen area with a propane powered camp stove, mini-fridge, sink with basic cookware and utensils. In addition there are two restrooms, one with a shower, and both with sinks and flush toilets. There is a third bathroom located near our largest camping area. You are free to use the restroom outside, our plants love the extra water, but you are asked to pack out any toilet paper and use the restrooms for solid waste.
We do offer all guests free Wi-Fi internet access but we cannot guarantee the strength and availability, though we do find most guests can connect. We have upgraded to Starlink which we hope will offer more stability and stronger signal. There is absolutely no cell signal once you turn off of the highway and at the ranch- we use Wi-Fi calling and texting to reach the outside world.
We are located just under 5 miles from 118, though it takes 15-20 minutes to reach the ranch on dirt roads. Most vehicles can safely make the drive but high clearance vehicles are strongly encouraged. For the most part the road is smooth but you should pay close attention as their are ruts- take your time and watch the road. We strongly recommended that you download directions before arriving.
Any rain, even small amounts make the roads impassable due to bentonite clay which becomes thick mud which guarantees the need to be towed out. If the forecast calls for rain you should be prepared to make plans for other accommodations or you will be risking getting stuck. Rain is not common outside of the late summer months but should you need to cancel due to weather, you will be fully refunded. This should not discourage anyone, 99% of the time there is no rain to be concerned about, but as your hosts, we care about your comfort and safety and feel obligated to make all guests aware.
A few other things about the ranch- we live on site in the main house (as of March 1, 23) and are in the process of renovation. We are also upgrading guest rooms and communal areas, as well as working on projects throughout the ranch. We have a small flock of chickens and sell their eggs when available. There is a large greenhouse with an aquaponic system that is a work in progress, the heat over the summer made it hard for any plants to survive. Check in is located at the main house, at times we will not be immediately available but you will find your information and a map outside the main door. We will come greet you as soon as we are free. Because we live on site and this is our home, we ask that guests do not explore the main house, livestock pens, greenhouse or covered work areas without permission. We welcome your friendly and well-behaved pets, we have pets of our own who love guests. We ask that you leash them when near the house and watch them when at your campsite or exploring. Please pick up after your dogs if they use the bathroom in common areas, or near campsites. Any waste in the arroyos can stay where it is.
You will be expected to pack your trash out, there is no trash service for the ranch.
Safety information: This is the desert and you are responsible for your own safety at all times. There is absolutely no swimming in the catchment reservoir and you should not drive anywhere outside of the defined roads. The nearest hospital is located in Alpine, a 70 mile drive north, so drink lots of water, wear a hat and sunscreen, sturdy shoes, and don't touch anything pokey or that has a face. We do have first aid supplies available and you'll find commonly used supplies in the communal area. All food and drinks should be securely stored and under no circumstances should you feed the wildlife, with the exception of birdseed for our resident birds. If you have food scraps that are safe for the chickens, they will be more than happy to handle that for you.
We look forward to the opportunity to host you, and welcome you to enjoy the desert we love so much. One sunrise or sunset and we are certain that you will also love it here. If you have any questions please don't hesitate to reach out.
-Ashley and Raymond
from
$25
/ night
99%
(113)
Perdido Overland Overnight Camp
2 sites · RVs, Tents40 acres · Study Butte, Brewster
We bought our property in 2003. Built our completely off-grid cabin in 2009, and moved out here full time in 2015. Since 2015 we've been continually improving our property and in 2019 had the idea to start a small campsite on the backside of our property in a private valley. A valley that while private and secluded has excellent 360 degree views.
from
$20.50
/ night
67%
(12)
Peter's Place, Study Butte
3 sites · RVs2 acres · Study Butte Terlingua, Brewster
Just a relatively flat plot of land in Study Butte, near Terlingua. Close to everything, especially the National Park. Super easy to get to, a quarter mile of two wheel drive easy gravel road from the highway. Just minutes to food, grocery, showers, toilets, gas, etc... Not the most beautiful spot, neighbors in sorta run down houses, but there are $150 rental cabins a block away,.
A great place to book up for a group of friends. I take 15 to 20 buddies each March. Please note there are no toilets or showers on site, but 24 hour free toilets and $3 pay showers are only a 2 minute drive away at Big Bend Resort and Adventures.
from
$20
/ night
100%
(15)
The Hippie Crippler Ranch
16 sites · RVs, Tents5 acres · Study Butte, Brewster
Welcome to The Hippie Crippler Ranch! We offer off-grid hot showers, porta-potties, WiFi, games, and more! These amenities are offered to you for your convenience but don’t forget the simple pleasures of sitting outdoors and listening to Mother Nature around you. We want you to connect with nature! A simpler lifestyle that cuts out the everyday comforts of city life for a more primitive experience.
We are only a 30-minute drive to the west entrance of Big Bend National Park. Our campground is 5.5 acres and is located in the North Corazones area of Terlingua Ranch! Our property is loaded with native desert flora, including creosote, a few scattered mesquite trees, and a lone ocotillo. We are nestled in an area with picture-perfect views of Nine Point Mesa, Jack Eden Mesa, the Corazones, and Turtle Mountain, and have one of the best spots for stargazing at night. We’re just 20 minutes from Terlingua Ranch Lodge and Pool and Bad Rabbit Cafe.
Enjoy the picturesque Big Bend of Texas at The Hippie Crippler Ranch by pitching your tent or parking your recreational vehicle. With a gated entrance, our campground is completely fenced. Each site comes with a picnic table, trash bin, fire ring, and a 5-gallon potable water dispenser.
Living in the desert has brought a lot of peace into our lives. Upon arriving we weren’t sure what to think other than it was absolutely beautiful. As time went by, we found a strong connection to the land, the quietness, and the sound of nature all around. We are overcome with tranquility and a repeated sigh of relief every time we take a drive in any direction. It didn’t take long for us to want to share these experiences with whomever we could connect with.
We may be half an hour away from the local towns and parks, but you get to camp in pure nature. No loud cars zooming by, and The Ranch is not an overpopulated campground. Imagine hiking all day, especially if you’re visiting during a busy season, and all you want to do is get back to the peace and quiet of your camp. Well, we provide just that!
Whether this is your first, second, or third visit to the Big Bend area we hope you consider staying at The Hippie Crippler Ranch. The basic creature comforts we provide coupled with the tranquility of a primitive lifestyle lead to a perfect getaway for any outdoor enthusiast or lover of nature.
We know that the Big Bend area brings in thousands of people seeking adventure and exploration. Our passion is to explore every inch and corner of this world and connect with others, both alike and completely opposite of us. We welcome everyone to our campground and hope that you can take something back with you after your stay with us. Collecting memories not things is something we live by.
If this is your first visit to Big Bend, then we want to say thank you for choosing us for your accommodations. If this isn’t your first rodeo, we would also like to express our gratitude to you for giving us the opportunity to host you on your return.
We hope that you have the best time camping, hiking and just enjoying the great outdoors. The desert is a beautiful part of the world and should be explored!
from
$50
/ night
Nearby parks
Explore the area’s public lands.
Camping near Terlingua with wildlife watching guide
If you're into wildlife watching and looking to camp near Terlingua, Texas, Hipcamp has over 560 options for you to choose from. With top campsites like Goat Pens, Cigar Springs Ranch (657 reviews), Paisano Azul Ranch (428 reviews), and Coyote Crossing (383 reviews), you can trust that you're getting the best experience. And with popular amenities like toilets, potable water, and pet-friendly sites, you'll have everything you need. Plus, you can enjoy wind sports, explore historic sites, and go hiking in the beautiful terrain. So why wait? Start planning your camping adventure today!
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