The best camping near Fort Davis National Historic Site

Discover the most magical spots to pitch your tent or park your rig on your next Fort Davis National Historic Site adventure.

Explore restored buildings and ruins at this well-preserved frontier military post in west Texas.

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Community favorites near Fort Davis National Historic Site

Top-rated campgrounds near Fort Davis National Historic Site

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El Cosmico

40 sites · RVs, Tents21 acres · Marfa, TX

El Cosmico takes its inspiration from a long American history of hippies, nomads, bohemians and those living a life of self-determination. We believe in tuning in, dropping out and being here now. Vehicles are not allowed onto the grounds, so if you are staying in your car or RV you will post up in our large parking lot with easy access to the grounds. Tent camping is dispersed, so you pick your space within the designated camping areas that are indicated on the property map provided at the front desk. Front desk hours are from 7:30am-11:00pm daily. If you are arriving after 11pm please call ahead for late check-in instructions.

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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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Roy L.’s Land

3 sites · RVs, Tents3000 acres · Fort Davis, TX

Lizzard Mountain is located on Point of Rocks Ranch which was established in 1959 by my father Roy Rust Largent Jr., his brother David Largent, my grandfather Roy Rust Largent Sr. It is still a working ranch operated by my son Roy Rust Largent IV and is home of the original Miniature Hereford cattle.

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Rancho Estrella Marfa

1 site · Tent1 acre · 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.

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Red Feather

2 sites · Tents7 acres · Fort Davis, TX

Learn more about this land:*Remote. No water connections, no electricity and 4x4 or AWD required. All proceeds are considered by us to be donations, which go to preserving the natural beauty of West Texas (such as the Chihuahuan Desert Research Institute, Balmorhea State Park, and the Davis Mountains Preserve). Come escape the fast-paced city life and let time time stand still as you take in the spectacular views of the West Texas mountains. Bring your own tent, set up camp and enjoy the solitude and beauty of the western storms and whiskey gold sunsets. The stars at night are big and bright...Red Feather is nearly 8 acres of undisturbed land located deep in the Davis Mountains in far west Texas. Situated in southwestern Jeff Davis County and 5 miles from the highway on primitive roads, it is accessible only by four-wheel drive vehicles. We have a nice view of the McDonald Observatory (only 7.5 miles as the crow flies) and we are 35 minutes from Alpine and Marfa. *Please know this is a primitive campsite, there are no restrooms or trash receptacles. You must be prepared to take out what you bring in. Unfortunately, past guests have left it unkempt which makes us have to vet out who we will host. Red Feather is not a spot for everyone, only experienced campers who have a true appreciation and respect for nature. And if you do find the area untidy, please let us know. Lastly, this is not a place for large group gatherings or a place to party. ~Leave No Trace~

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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.

The best camping near Fort Davis National Historic Site guide

Overview

About

Located at the base of the Davis Mountains, Fort Davis is considered one of the best remaining examples of a Southwest frontier military post. In use from 1854 to 1891, it was also home to the famed Buffalo Soldiers. Visitors can explore more than 100 ruins and 24 buildings, including five that have been restored and furnished to their 1880s condition, on self-guided tours. Multimedia exhibits and displays offer a wealth of information, while costumed interpretive programs bring history to life. You’ll also find four miles of frontcountry and backcountry hiking trails, and although there is no camping inside the park, options are available in nearby Davis Mountains State Park and the town of Fort Davis.

When to go

Summers are a popular time to visit, though temperatures can soar. Freezing temperatures are normal for winter. Over spring break, summer, and major holidays, the park offers programs with volunteers and staff members in period dress. The park is closed for Thanksgiving Day, Christmas Day, New Year’s Day, and Martin Luther King Jr. Day. Free admission is offered several times a year, including for the National Park Service’s birthday (August 25), National Public Lands Day (September 25), and Veterans Day.

Know before you go

Several historic buildings, the visitor center, restrooms, and designated parking spaces are wheelchair-accessible.

The buildings and ruins are quite spread out and a fair amount of walking is required to see them all.
Drinking fountains are available inside the visitor center outside the auditorium, and in front of the commanding officer’s quarters, with the latter two turned off from November to March due to freezing weather.
Pets are allowed inside the park but not inside any buildings, and must be kept on a 6-foot or shorter leash.
Free wifi is available at the visitor center.