The best campgrounds in West Texas with hiking

Looking to hike in West Texas? Look no further than Hipcamp. With over 970 camping options in West Texas, you're sure to find the perfect spot. Check out top campsites like Goat Pens, Cigar Springs Ranch (657 reviews), Paisano Azul Ranch (428 reviews), and Smiling Dog Ranch (332 reviews). Prices start as low as $5 per night, with an average price of $30 per night. Amenities like toilets, potable water, and trash are popular among campers. And if you're into surfing, fishing, or wildlife watching, you'll find plenty of opportunities for those activities too. So grab your hiking boots and get ready to explore the stunning landscapes of West Texas.

Top-rated campgrounds near West Texas

Looking to hike in West Texas? Look no further than Hipcamp. With over 970 camping options in West Texas, you're sure to find the perfect spot. Check out top campsites like Goat Pens, Cigar Springs Ranch (657 reviews), Paisano Azul Ranch (428 reviews), and Smiling Dog Ranch (332 reviews). Prices start as low as $5 per night, with an average price of $30 per night. Amenities like toilets, potable water, and trash are popular among campers. And if you're into surfing, fishing, or wildlife watching, you'll find plenty of opportunities for those activities too. So grab your hiking boots and get ready to explore the stunning landscapes of West Texas.

Top-rated campgrounds near West Texas

1. Goat Pens, Cigar Springs Ranch

98%

(1242)

50 sites · Tents, RVs · Study Butte, TX

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.

2. Terlingua Ranch Primitive Camp

94%

(109)

20 sites · Tents, RVs · Alpine, TX

Terlingua Ranch is 192,000 acres of desert and mountains between Big Bend National Park and Big Bend Ranch State Park in far SW Texas. Our campsites are in the area of the Terlingua Ranch Lodge, which features a swimming pool, cafe, laundry, bathhouse, disc golf course, access to hiking trails, and other amenities. Terlingua Ranch is the perfect venue for your basecamp to Big Bend adventures, family reunions, and myriad other activities in the area.

3. Good Guad Land Co.

98%

(298)

7 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Dell City, TX

Find extreme solitude and unforgettable views of Guadalupe Peak at this desert escape next to Guadalupe Mountains National Park! This is choose-your-own-adventure camping. The terrain is rugged, and the dust and wind blow some nights. Once you're here, there are zero amenities (other than picnic tables). If this sounds fine — you don't mind roughing it — you'll be sleeping under the stars at the foot of West Texas' tallest mountain range. And who else can say they've done that? BURN BAN IN EFFECT: Unfortunately, we are under a countywide burn ban. Distance to nearby attractions: Guadalupe Mountains National Park Visitor Center, 11 miles; Black River Recreation Area, 42 miles; Carlsbad Caverns National Park Visitor Center, 52 miles Distance from nearby towns: Dell City, 34 miles; Van Horn, 56 miles; Carlsbad, 65 miles; El Paso, 104 miles

4. Big Bend Ranch State Park

96%

(79)

48 sites · Redford, Texas

Remote and rugged terrain, grand vistas, and dark skies draw adventurers and solitude seekers.

Pets

Toilets

Campfires

5. Caprock Canyons State Park

99%

(34)

127 sites · Quitaque, Texas

Challenging terrain and majestic animals mark this rocky state park in the Texas panhandle.

Pets

Toilets

Campfires

6. Tarantula Ranch Vacation Rentals

2 sites · Lodging · Terlingua, TX

Tarantula Ranch is inside a fenced compound two miles off the nearest paved road. We are in the Chihuhuan desert wilderness. Experience life at the end of the road!! Neighbors are far away so we have some of the darkest skies in the world not to mention peace and quiet with no traffic. We have spectacular mountain views with great sunrise and sunsets. Our terrain is the Chihuhuan desert which has cactus covered rocky mountains with all the desert plants. Although we have privacy we are only about 35 to 40 minutes from the Big Bend National Park and The Big Bend Ranch State Park. Although we are remote we have a very nice swimming pool and restaurant only about ten to fifteen minutes away. We have two cabins we rent out. The big cabin has four rooms and sleeps six. The other cabin is called the small cabin it is one room and sleeps two.

7. Paisano Azul Ranch

95%

(1209)

16 sites · Tents, RVs · Study Butte, TX

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 camp; 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. DIRECTIONS: Once you are on Road Runner Circle, go past the house on the left with the Christmas lights on. Please continue down the road and follow the road around the curve to the left. The campsites will be on the left and side behind the rock walls. The campsite number that is booked is the campsite you will stay in. Additional details to note: - We now have an above ground pool to keep cool in during the summer! Covered with a shade sail the water stays nice and chilly. ($10 fee/person) - You can stay connected if you'd like to, as cell reception and wifi are both available by the showers. 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. - Non potable water is provided on-site. The showers and non potable water is located approximately 1/4 mile from campsites 1-7. -We have friendly, quirky miniature goats named Clyde and Stella to visit while up at the showers. Please feel free to reach out with any questions and we look forward to your stay.

8. Perdido Overland Overnight Camp

98%

(159)

3 sites · Tents, RVs · Study Butte, TX

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.

9. Big Bend Overland Adventure Camping

96%

(37)

3 sites · Tents · Study Butte, TX

Big Bend Camp — Remote Overland Sites in the Wild West Texas Backcountry of the Big Bend Region 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.

10. Guadalupe Mountains National Park

97%

(39)

54 sites · Dell City, Texas

Camp within view of Texas’s tallest peaks in the Guadalupe Mountains.

Pets

Toilets

Potable water

11. Davis Mountains State Park

94%

(17)

101 sites · Fort Davis, Texas

The mountains meet the desert in this high-altitude Texas wilderness.

Pets

Electrical hookup

Toilets

12. Hueco Tanks State Park & Historic Site

100%

(5)

20 sites · Butterfield, Texas

Grab your climbing shoes—these rocky formations are a mountaineer's playground

Pets

Electrical hookup

Toilets

13. Monahans Sandhills State Park

100%

(5)

26 sites · Thorntonville, Texas

You've seen surfing and snowboarding. Get ready for sand surfing in this Texas state park.

Pets

Toilets

Campfires

14. Camping Under the Stars

97%

(18)

5 sites · Tents, RVs · Terlingua, TX

Im 3rd generation Terlingua. My grandmother who started this buisness before she passed in 2008 was nicknamed JoMomma so that what im calling my campground and RV park. Jomommas!Learn more about this land:Desert camping under the milky-way in the Terlingua Ghost Town. Jomommas Rv Park and Camping Under The Stars is recognized as a Dark sky's friendly location by McDonald's observatory, as well as being an ideal star viewing location in 2021 receiving recommendations from Earthsky Organization and the International Darksky Association. We are popular with star gazers and photographers alike. Camping Under The Stars is : An authentic Terlingua experiance just like the locals used to do for years. Enjoy the amaizing views and rest under the dark texas skys, all within walking distance of food and live music in the heart of the Terlingua Ghost Town. We make a great place to have as your home base for your dailey adventures into either Big Bent National Park or Big Bend Ranch State Park.

15. Ocotillo Flats Camping

96%

(13)

7 sites · Tents · Study Butte, TX

Howdy Hipcampers! Welcome to Ocotillo Flats, a serene 20-acre haven just 30 minutes from Big Bend National Park and the historic Terlingua Ghost Town. Immerse yourself in the breathtaking beauty of the Chihuahuan Desert, perfect for stargazing and unwinding. With convenient cell service on the south side of the property, stay connected while you savor the tranquility of nature. You can bring your own bucket bathroom or utilize the facilities at Terlingua Ranch for free. Showers are also available there for just $2. We’ve recently added a horseshoe game area, located on the right-hand side of the road near campsites 4 and 5. Stakes and horseshoes are already set up and ready for friendly competition—just walk across from your campsite and enjoy! The road into the property is an all-weather dirt road. Embark on an unforgettable adventure, where the vast expanse of the desert meets the starlit Texas sky!

16. Rio Bravo Ranch

100%

(171)

8 sites · Tents, RVs · Presidio, TX

Rio Bravo Ranch is a family owned ranch that borders the Rio Grande and Casa Piedra Road.  We have cultured a love for camping and the outdoors on this ranch as children and young adults.  One day we were sitting on "the backside," enjoying the amazing vistas, solitude and a campfire when the idea came to us that we should share this amazing place with others seeking this type of experience.  We tried to think about what makes camping enjoyable to us - no immediately adjacent campers, a nice fire ring/shade structure, a nice, large tent site and vistas with unobstructed views.  We have incorporated this into our campground design which, when completely finished, will encompass several hundred acres of Chihuahuan desert vistas.  We are also fortunate enough to have a large riparian area on the property.  It is in this area, amongst the 40ft tall cottonwood and willows, we often find Gambel's Quail, Scaled Quail, Javelina and numerous bird species including the occasional turkey.  We would love nothing more than to share this wonderful place, where we grew up, with souls seeking solitude, adventure and inspiration.  Our eastern entrance is just a few miles outside the Big Bend Ranch State Park boundary, conveniently located on Casa Piedra road about 1.6 miles north of FM 170.

17. Rancho Estrella Marfa

100%

(22)

1 site · Tent · Marfa, TX

Two country lots on the edge of Marfa. Hammocks, tent camping and vintage trailer rentals all surrounding an old adobe church which is over 100 years old. All located a half of a mile to the center of Marfa, Texas. The pictures and reviews tell the story. We offer plenty of places to camp and hammocks to sleep on. This is a mellow spot and peaceful for those who want to relax and take a deep breath. We don't host big parties and all nighters. Not our style.

18. Cieloscuro

98%

(185)

6 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · Terlingua, TX

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! Our intention is to provide remote, low-density accommodation for folks who are respectful of the land.

19. Sky Ranch Terlingua

98%

(187)

6 sites · Tents, RVs · Study Butte, TX

Sky Ranch is the result of a love for the desert and for 1980s post-apocalyptic movies. A place to step out of our busy lives and be still, gain a new perspective, and imagine a different way to live. Once the floor of a large inland sea, Sky Ranch Terlingua is covered with fossilized mollusk shells. After the water receded, the area was visited by various animal and human migrations. Today, Sky Ranch is a refuge for two native Texans with deep roots that predate Texas itself.  "Be friendly, but firm. But most of all, be yourselves."  - Lester, Cherry 2000

20. Tierra del Sol Basecamp

98%

(305)

6 sites · Tents, RVs · Alpine, TX

The Tierra del Sol Basecamp is an open desert camping area located within Terlingua Ranch, 3 miles off of Hwy 118, 19 miles north of Study Butte and 22 miles to the entrance to Big Bend National Park. This region of far west Texas is well known for its remote ruggedness and beauty rapidly becoming the go-to place for those wanting to get away from it all, without having to spend a fortune to do it. It’s one of the last frontiers of North America and One of the only two National Parks in Texas. The Basecamp will reside on the 40 acre property. In the center is an area of approximately 6 acres flat, with rising limestone ridge lines to the east and west, open skyline to south with a view of Bofecillos Mountains, an area characterized by volcanic deposits of lava and ash-flow tuff and sedimentary deposits of conglomerates and sandstones. The four mountain tops; Packsaddle, Hen Egg, Panther and Agua Fria Mountains provide an amazing view during the day and at night, breathtaking night time views of the Milky Way and the multitudes of stars to gaze upon unlike any other place in North America. The morning sunrise over the eastern mesa brings its own spectacular views. Surrounding the 40 acres are many things of archaeological wonder. A Rock Hounds dream of minerals, stones and fossilized prehistoric microorganisms, as well as, the potential of finding the fossils of large prehistoric aquatic mammals. Yes, you are free to take a small sample of the thousands of quartz and calcite stones found in huge abundance. As you come to then end of Mailbox Rd., you'll see a residence to your left. This is "The Field Lab", owned by the well know sustainable engineer John Wells. If you'd like to pay him a visit, please contact him in advance.

Camper favorites in and near West Texas

Top-rated campgrounds reviewed by the Hipcamp community.

Sky Ranch Terlingua

98%

(187)

6 sites · Tents, RVs · Study Butte, TX

Sky Ranch is the result of a love for the desert and for 1980s post-apocalyptic movies. A place to step out of our busy lives and be still, gain a new perspective, and imagine a different way to live. Once the floor of a large inland sea, Sky Ranch Terlingua is covered with fossilized mollusk shells. After the water receded, the area was visited by various animal and human migrations. Today, Sky Ranch is a refuge for two native Texans with deep roots that predate Texas itself.  "Be friendly, but firm. But most of all, be yourselves."  - Lester, Cherry 2000

Tierra del Sol Basecamp

98%

(305)

6 sites · Tents, RVs · Alpine, TX

The Tierra del Sol Basecamp is an open desert camping area located within Terlingua Ranch, 3 miles off of Hwy 118, 19 miles north of Study Butte and 22 miles to the entrance to Big Bend National Park. This region of far west Texas is well known for its remote ruggedness and beauty rapidly becoming the go-to place for those wanting to get away from it all, without having to spend a fortune to do it. It’s one of the last frontiers of North America and One of the only two National Parks in Texas. The Basecamp will reside on the 40 acre property. In the center is an area of approximately 6 acres flat, with rising limestone ridge lines to the east and west, open skyline to south with a view of Bofecillos Mountains, an area characterized by volcanic deposits of lava and ash-flow tuff and sedimentary deposits of conglomerates and sandstones. The four mountain tops; Packsaddle, Hen Egg, Panther and Agua Fria Mountains provide an amazing view during the day and at night, breathtaking night time views of the Milky Way and the multitudes of stars to gaze upon unlike any other place in North America. The morning sunrise over the eastern mesa brings its own spectacular views. Surrounding the 40 acres are many things of archaeological wonder. A Rock Hounds dream of minerals, stones and fossilized prehistoric microorganisms, as well as, the potential of finding the fossils of large prehistoric aquatic mammals. Yes, you are free to take a small sample of the thousands of quartz and calcite stones found in huge abundance. As you come to then end of Mailbox Rd., you'll see a residence to your left. This is "The Field Lab", owned by the well know sustainable engineer John Wells. If you'd like to pay him a visit, please contact him in advance.

Jomommas Rv Park

92%

(66)

4 sites · Tents, RVs · Terlingua, TX

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.

Casa de Keaveny Cabin and Campsite

100%

(12)

2 sites · Tents, RVs, Lodging · 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, discuss with Jim for pricing, if interested. Mr. Keaveny built the house himself over a 15 year period. Very private, although Mr. Keaveny lives on the property in his Jayco most of the time, and sometimes a camping site is rented ----however always giving the house lots of space. Great place for long term rental, see discounts.

Crows Peak Tents

98%

(27)

3 sites · Lodging · Alpine, TX

Welcome to the heart of Far West Texas, where adventure meets comfort in our unique tent rentals in Terlingua! Nestled in the rugged splendor of the Chihuahuan Desert, Crows Peak combines the beauty of the great outdoors with the luxury of a comfortable retreat. Each tent is equipped with a queen-size memory foam mattress, LED lights and a solar powered battery that can charge cell phones and other small devices. A propane camp stove is also provided (with one 16 oz can of propane), as well as several small storage compartments. The tents are 11' tall and 8' wide, with a private deck, providing ample space to stretch out and relax. Thoughtfully positioned to provide panoramic views of the vast desert landscape, you will be able to immerse yourself in the tranquility of the desert while enjoying an elevated camping experience. You can step onto the deck and savor a cup of coffee as the sun rises and paints the sky in oranges and pink. Or, unwind at the end of the day with a glass of wine while you gaze at the stars under one of the darkest skies in the country. Located 35 minutes from the entrance to Big Bend National Park and the Terlingua ghost town, this is a great base to explore everything the area has to offer. The Terlingua Ranch Lodge is an easy 15 minute drive and features the Bad Rabbit restaurant, a pool and a bath house with hot showers. Showers are $2/each and a day pass for the pool is $8. Ice and other small provisions are available at the Ranch office. Access to the property requires driving 1 mile on a dirt road, but does not require 4-wheel drive or high clearance vehicles.

Jackass Flats Campground

95%

(278)

23 sites · Tents, RVs · 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.

Starry Night Retreat

100%

(26)

1 site · Tent, RV · Study Butte, TX

Come out to enjoy solitude at the Starry Night Retreat! Pitch your tent in your very own desert escape with 360 degree Mountain View’s and soak up some of the best views of the stars in all of the United States! You will have this entire 5 acre lot all to yourself which allows for extremely peaceful solitude! You will be only 25min~ from both Big Bend national Park and Terlingua Ghost town!

Nesting Star Camp

94%

(16)

6 sites · Tents, RVs · 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.

Recent reviews from the Hipcamp community

H

Heather

21 hours ago

Tent

5 nights at Sky Ranch Terlingua

Great location! Place was as described. Host was very responsive!

We are a night sky's recognized location, this photo can also be found on the McDonald's observatory website www.mcdonaldsobservatory.org

D

Denise

2 days ago

18 ft campervan

With pets

1 night at Jomommas Rv Park

Quick stop overnight and we felt right at home! Thank you Elena for your quick replies and allowing us to stop in. Great location and just behind Venga!

A

Andy

2 days ago

16 ft car

1 night at Camping Under the Stars

Excellent for stargazing! Very Friendly hosts too!

d

deanna

4 days ago

20 ft Class B

With pets

3 nights at Jomommas Rv Park

I loved that it is a smaller rv/campground. I travel in a Class B RV and the site was a good size with nice desert landscaping in between sites. Electric worked flawlessly and the pea gravel really keeps the dust down, it’s also a great location to Terlingua Ghost town and awesome views of the Chisos Mountains. Elena was great at communicating with me. I will back again some day and stay at Jo mommas!

K

Keely

1 week ago

4 nights at Casa de Keaveny Cabin and Campsite

There is something very charming and spiritual about Jim’s cabin and land. As a solo female traveler, I felt very safe and at peace. Jim is a true Texas gem — I could listen to his stories for hours. The cabin is clean and eclectically decorated. I enjoyed walking around and looking at his collected treasures. It’s in a wonderfully quiet area with no road noise or loud neighbors. It’s very easy to stare off into the mountains and lose yourself in the views, especially at sunrise or sunset. The nighttime sky alone was worth the 10-hour drive. The Wi-Fi was stronger at this remote cabin than in my own suburban house. It would be very easy to work remotely from here if needed. It felt like a real privilege to stay here. Jim isn’t going to become a millionaire renting out this cabin at such a low price. It feels like a true labor of love that he’s chosen to share with the world. You’ll enjoy every minute here and find it hard to leave. I’m already planning next year’s trip. Items I would bring: lots of drinking water, trash bags, a propane tank (like those used for a gas BBQ grill), and paper towels. Although Jim has all of this stocked, I found myself using more than I normally would and felt bad depleting his supplies. Thank you, Jim for an unforgettable stay! See you next year.

Can't beat that view of the tallest mountain in Texas!

H

Haley

1 week ago

16 ft car

With pets

1 night at Good Guad Land Co.

Wes’s campsite is awesome! It’s in an incredible location, I got there after dark and woke up to the most insane view. Its well marked and easy to find, and I felt safe with the locked gate.

M

Marc

2 weeks ago

Tent

4 nights at Goat Pens, Cigar Springs Ranch

Jeff, the host, was awesome. He met us at the gate when we checked in and provided information on the facility and helped us orientate ourselves. There are a wide range of sites that would fit any camper’s needs!!! The Goat Pens does have showers and a couple of restroom facilities. There is even an event area, but there were no events during our stay. We were all alone during our trip, which did surprise us considering how centrally located to the National Park, the State Park, and the Terlingua Ghost Town we were. We chose the last site over at the end left behind this gray hill. This put us in a nice secluded space shielded from the wind. We loved our visit. We would definitely come back!!

Private and secluded with great views of the Chisos

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Sara Hart

2 weeks ago

20 ft pop-up camper

With pets

4 nights at Paisano Azul Ranch

Fantastic stay! So convenient! Jason was a wonderful host!

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Timothy

2 weeks ago

Tent

Weekend Trip to Sky Ranch Terlingua

What a great campsite!!!! The scenery was absolutely gorgeous. Campsites are fairly spread out. It was cold and windy during our stay and the shelter came through clutch. We just put air mattress in shelter with no tent paired with good sleeping bags and warm sleep attire wool socks, sweater, sweatpants it was very bearable. We will definitely stay again

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scott

2 weeks ago

Tent

6 nights at Big Bend Overland Adventure Camping

The camp site was great. Barely saw a soul for a week, and no cell signal either! Total win as far as I’m concerned.

The entrance to The Goat Pens from the South County Rd.

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Ty

2 weeks ago

8 ft travel trailer

7 nights at Goat Pens, Cigar Springs Ranch

Beautiful camp spot. Close to Big Bend and Terlingua.

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David

3 weeks ago

Tent

With pets

1 night at Good Guad Land Co.

Just south of Guadeloupe National Park and its peaks. Beautiful. Others have mentioned Hwy 62 noise, which is "always there," but not a real detriment to the desert experience. Basically we loved the site/experience. Wes was very helpful in advance of our stay. I would say that I may not understand the fire ban. I do "fire ecology," and at that site, if folks bring their own firewood, I see little chance for problem even with high wind. There were even some decent fire pits already built. But people with more local knowledge would know way better. For future campers, the entrance gate may be a challenge. I work at a federal site where fence gates may have 3-4 different locks that reflect different users. At Good Guad I think I counted 16-17 locks at the gate. Maybe all necessary?? Don't know. I do know it would be confusing for many folks. So Wes, maybe provide a little more info to campers on what to expect at the gate? Overall a GREAT night! Wes helped us in advance about arrival time, reservation, etc. Very clean sites. Totally recommend it. If you find trash from previous campers, pick it up.

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John

3 weeks ago

Tent

With pets

1 night at Good Guad Land Co.

The camp is right off the highway in a beautiful location. It has an amazing view of the surrounding location and Guadalupe Peak and provided an incredible sunset/sunrise experience. It was the perfect combination of feeling private and remote while still being right outside the National Park. I highly recommend this spot and will be saving for future trips.

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Kristin

3 weeks ago

Tent

Group trip

3 nights at Paisano Azul Ranch

We absolutely loved camping out on Jason's land! Conveniently located about 5 mins from Big Bend National Park with a nice little general store close by as well it really was the perfect location. We certainly enjoyed the use of a nice large firepit and the picnic tables. The outhouse was clean and convenient at the camp site and the showers a short distance away were a huge plus! We also highly appreciated Jason's helping us get one of our cars jumped the last morning. All in all would definitely stay again, and highly recommend this spot for anyone wanting to visit Big Bend!

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Dayna

December 2025

17 ft campervan

1 night at Perdido Overland Overnight Camp

Bradley’s land was perfect. We stayed in our 2004 RWD Ford E-250 van and while the road to the site was a bit bumpy we made it without any issues. The views were amazing, the vibes were spectacular, the host was communicative and provided detailed instructions for getting to the site and around the property. Couldn’t ask for a better first Hipcamp experience. 10/10, would absolutely stay again.

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Hanni

December 2025

16 ft car

2 nights at Good Guad Land Co.

Beautiful location- nothing like sunrise & sunset with El Capitan in view. Glad we arrived pre-sunset which is definitely recommended. Better views than BLM land nearby. We hiked Guadalupe peak and drive was <20 min in total.

Cameron

December 2025

Group trip

Weekend Trip to Casa de Keaveny Cabin and Campsite

We had a fantastic time at the Casa! Everything was clean, check in was super easy. Make sure you plan some extra time to chat with Jim, great guy with some great stories! Will definitely be back

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Cody

December 2025

Tent

1 night at Goat Pens, Cigar Springs Ranch

Jeff's place is always a welcome retreat. Situated on a perfect piece of land just outside Big Bend and Terlingua, it is a magnificent getaway for those looking to do Big Bend or Terlingua Ghost Town. This is my third time here, and I always enjoy it. Coyotes howling in the distance, beautiful star views at night, a well kept pit toilet and honor system firewood if you're in a pinch (please, PLEASE do not take advantage of this - the honor system is so rare these days) make it just a magnificent spot to spend a few days. Thanks for another great stay, Jeff!

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Marcos

November 2025

Tent

With pets

Weekend Trip to Goat Pens, Cigar Springs Ranch

The perfect place to camp in the Big Bend area. Easy access in and out. It’s isolated enough to enjoy the stars and quiet of BB, but close enough to things to explore. Will definitely be back again.

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Roxanna

November 2025

Tent

With kids

Weekend Trip to Goat Pens, Cigar Springs Ranch

We love Goat Pens! This was our third time camping here. There's a ton of space to explore, it's quiet, and the nightime sky is always beautiful regardless of how bright the moon is. Thank you Jeff!!