Glamping in Terlingua, TX, US: 12 Best Luxury Glamping Sites 2024

United States
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Texas
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Terlingua

97% (830 reviews)

Popular camping styles for Terlingua

Dog-friendly getaways

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(367)

12 top glamping sites near Terlingua

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(367)

Lynn y B's land

28 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents80 acres · Terlingua, TX

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Mel's Place

3 sites · Lodging20 acres · Study Butte, TX

Mel's Place has been a favorite camp spot for many since we opened 5 years ago. Feels secluded and remote, yet only a mile or so from everything you might need and only 5 miles to the national park west (Maverick) entrance. 5 miles to the lively ghost town ofTerlingua with some great bars and restraunts. The views from camp are stunning with breathtaking sunrises over the Chisos mountains. Sunsets aren't too shabby either. We are an adults only retreat and hope to provide you the peaceful solitude with breathtaking stargazing you need to renew your spirit!! We are within a few miles of nearly all the local outfitters for your river trips, Jeep or ATV tours, etc. Come make memories!

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Cieloscuro

6 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents40 acres · Terlingua, TX

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.

Rancho de los Arboles Muertos

9 sites · Lodging, Tents160 acres · TX

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 and digital nomads to set up a home base for all the many activities in the area. Your privacy is our #1 priority, so our sites are spread out over the property and most are not in view of other sites, providing you with a backcountry camping experience, yet only a few minutes off the highway. For large groups, or those that are into a more social camping experience, we also have a cluster of three 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. All guests have access to our centrally located outdoor shower. 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

Smiling Dog Ranch

21 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents20 acres · Alpine, TX

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 property 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 16 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. 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

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.

Caja Caliente

2 sites · Lodging, Tents5 acres · Study Butte, TX

Caja Caliente is a remote and off-grid 5 acre parcel that is used for recreational camping. It has been an amazing place to view the Milky-way and Stars throughout the year. Caja Caliente is located on West Road in the Big Bend Valley region of the Terlingua Ranch, with stunning views of 9-Point Mesa, Red Bluff, Black Hill, and some amazing sunsets. Summer months can be extremely hot and dry, so bring enough water. The camping is primitive so all trash should be carried out by campers. Please take care of the Porta-Potty so that it remains in good condition for other campers. (Please report any unsatisfactory conditions to Zach). Noe's Nest camping shelter is by reservation only. The property corners are staked with G227 and all campers must remain within those property boundaries while camping. All campers must obey observed burn-bans due to drought conditions. Be advised..... The host is NOT at the property. You will receive a welcome packet 48 hours before your arrival with detailed instructions for arrival and campsites. Please, enjoy the beauty of West Texas!

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Domeland

1 site · Lodging20 acres · Study Butte, TX

A remote, off-grid adobe dome, powered by solar power, and near Big Bend National Park, as seen on HGTV, and numerous other publications. Brand new to Hipcamp, but we've been fortunate to host over a thousand guests on other platforms. The Off Grid Dome shelter is accepting rental guests to share the off-grid experience, and to also help fund this project and future projects . The dome is a very remote and unique space in the desert near Big Bend National Park. The dome rests in an isolated but easily accessible off-grid setting in one of the few remaining territories under a dark sky ordinance, which offers unmatched views of the night sky, and a completely unobstructed view of a horizon that delivers truly majestic sunrises and sunsets. Though the dome is isolated, the entrance to Big Bend National Park is just a 25 minute drive and the historic Terlingua Ghost town about the same. The dome is an earthen structure, with a cob (adobe) barrier to provide shelter from the desert elements such as heat, cold, winds, and rain. The small but functional dome kitchen provides a two burner propane stove and oven, as well as a refrigerator that is powered by solar power. In fact, all power to the dome comes directly from a modest solar energy system and will power phones, laptops, and lights, but not much more (no hair dryers for instance). The kitchen sink pumps water from a small rain collection cistern and thus I ask guests to be very strategic with water use. Guests are recommended to bring one's own drinking water, although backup bottled water is provided onsite as a backup at cost. The Dome bed sleeps two comfortably. Linens, pillows, and a blanket (and a duvet in colder months are provided for the main bed. The pallet couch does sleep a third person quite comfortably, but guests must bring their own linens or sleeping bag (and pillow) for a third guest. In hotter months, a fan is provided, and the nature of the thick adobe provides a buffer against the Summer temps (with limitations). The wrap around windows provides a good cross breeze and fresh air when needed. In cooler months, a small propane heater is provided for a little extra boost, as well as clean linens and a duvet cover. The dome and linens will not be cleaned during your stay. There is no flush toilet, and so you must be comfortable using a composting toilet that is in a separate, and private outhouse next to the dome. There is no shower on site, but I can give you recommendations for $2 coin showers in town. Or you can try an outdoor solar bag shower on the property. There is wifi on site. The property is very accessible by road, with only the last mile being on a gravel road in good condition. Read house rules to learn about amenities. SUMMERTIME DISCLAIMER (June through September): The Summer can get hot here in the desert and while the adobe dome gives a good buffer against the outside elements, there is no AC in the dome, just a fan. There are also perimeter windows to entice a night breeze. Also, bugs and other desert creatures tend to culminate in the Summer months. Don’t be surprised if you encounter a scorpion or black widow spider and don’t be frightened either as they are relatively harmless and non-threatening. I do have the dome on a somewhat forgiving 5 night out cancelation policy during off-peak periods and so if the 10 day forecast looks too scary for you, you can cancel without penalty. Many say that Summer is their favorite time of the year out here. But it all depends on one's heat tolerance. Looking forward to hearing from you and even more so, to hosting you out here in the magnificence of the Big Bend. Guest Access A private earth-built dome, parking, wifi, a kitchen, kitchen supplies, and a composting toilet. Looking forward to hearing from you and even more so, to hosting you out here in the magnificence of the Big Bend

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Milky Way Run

1 site · Lodging5 acres · Terlingua, TX

Welcome to Milky Way Run, a tiny studio cabin located in the heart of the Chihuahuan desert. We are located 25 minutes from Big Bend National Park west entrance, and 25 minutes to Terlingua Ghost town. The cabin will sleep up to 2 people in a bed (bring your own linens). Parties over 2 will need to bring their own tents for accommodations. We allow up to 6 people on the site. The space We have a scenic 5 acre lot nestled in the foothills of the Christmas Mountains, and we are a 25 minute stress free (and gorgeous) drive to the west entrance of Big Bend National Park (it is a BIG park and you will have to drive more once you have entered - do your homework and plan accordingly). You are the only one on the 5 acres. Drive Times: * Study Butte (gas): 18 minutes (on the way to BBNP) * Terlingua Ghosttown: 25 minutes * Cottonwood Grocer: 20 minutes (on the way to BBNP) * Big Bend National Park: 25 minutes to the west entrance * Easily accessible with a standard 2wd vehicle About Us: We are situated in a cool, eclectic neighborhood with easy access to paved roads. You will have the 5 acres all to yourself with a private drive to the center of the property. Lots of amenities for outdoor lovers. We are located .7 miles on a dirt road off of the main Terlingua Ranch road. We do not allow pets at this time. We DO have: ✔ WiFi ✔ Limited electricity ✔ Fans ✔ Shaded porch ✔ Outdoor propane cooktop ✔ Compost toilet ✔ Outdoor Shower with Solar Bag We DO NOT have: ✘ Bed linens, personal linens, pillows ✘ Running water / hot water ✘ Flush toilet ✘ AC Cleaning: This is a self clean rental! Please do your part to keep this space super nice/clean and super affordable. We only charge a $10 fee to cover a property inspector (not cleaner). In return, you will need to clean up after yourself. We provide instructions in the cabin. This is about 20 minutes worth of work and saves you a lot of money. Help us make this world a better place, and leave *everywhere* better than you found it. ★ NOTE: Guests who do not self clean will be billed a $75 cleaning fee ★ Bathroom: We provide a composting outhouse for your use. You will be responsible for disposing of your waste, but we provide a very sanitary, simple, and odor free eco-friendly bathroom. If this is not for you, we understand - there are plenty of other options available in the area. Please find something that suits your needs. ★ NOTE: Guests who do not dispose of their waste properly will be billed a $75 waste removal fee ★ Water: You will need to bring your water with you. We do not provide water. More Details: ✧ You will need to bring your own towels/bedding/pillows/sleeping bags/blankets/toilet paper/paper towels/dishsoap/dishes/water/charcoal/etc... Think of this as glamping with a hard sided tent. We provide a wonderful and comfortable space for your camping experience. You provide the rest. ✧ Bring a twin sheet set if using the bed as a twin, and bring a king set if using the bed as a king (it pulls out to a king size). Also, don't forget your sleeping bag! While we have enough heat to keep the chill out of the air, you will still need warm bedding for cold nights. ✧ We provide a large covered Pilot Rock charcoal grill for cooking. ✧ Outside the cabin is a small cooking area. We provide a 2 burner cooktop, fully hooked up to our propane tank (propane is provided for you). ✧ The covered porch offers either white lights, or red lights for better viewing of the Milky Way. ✧ This cabin is TINY (9x11)! Comfortable for max of 2 people. ✧ A propane wall heater is provided to keep the cabin comfortable on cold nights. **SUMMER INFO** - Summer in the desert is HOT. - Our hottest months are generally May through August. - The cabin does not have AC, and it will be hot in the summer. Tips for summer bookings: ✱ Check the weather close to your stay. If it looks too hot, you may cancel your reservation for a full refund. ✱ Summertime is monsoon season in Big Bend. The cabin has all weather roads so access will not be a problem. Rain is an amazing thing to witness in the desert; if you’re lucky, you may get to watch a storm roll in with a beverage in hand, sitting under the covered porch. The rain will cool the temps drastically in the afternoons. Guest access You will have access to the entire 5 acre property. Please do not take any rocks or fossils from the property (or anywhere else). Leave them there for others to find. Take a picture and enjoy the memory! Other things to note NO SMOKING ALLOWED INSIDE CABIN . Please dispose of cigarettes responsibly, don't litter. Please be aware of burn bans in the area and adhere to local rules and regulations. Please do not have large fires - keep them small and safe for the people and wildlife around you. No gathering of firewood allowed. Please enjoy your stay close to the cabin but leave the desert undisturbed. No digging of cactus or plants is allowed. Leave rocks and fossils where you found them. Please be considerate of others in the area. No bright lights, and no loud noises. Everyone is there to experience the tranquility and darkness together. Last but not least, sit back, relax and enjoy all the wonders that Big Bend has to offer. Take it all in and it will remain with you forever. Then, come back and see us again.

Crows Peak Tents

1 site · Lodging50 acres · Alpine, TX

Welcome to the heart of West Texas, where adventure meets comfort in our unique tent rentals in Terlingua! Nestled in the rugged beauty of the Chihuahuan Desert, our tents combine 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 dual 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, the exterior is designed to seamlessly blend with the natural surroundings. This allows you to immerse yourself in the tranquility of the desert while enjoying an elevated camping experience. Step outside onto the deck, where you can savor a cup of coffee as the sun rises and paints the sky in hues of orange 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.

Booked 1 time

Mills Ranch

1 site · Lodging5 acres · Study Butte, TX

Come and enjoy beautiful big bend in this lovely camper. Only 1 mile off of Hwy 118. 30 minutes from Big Bend National Park. Very unique camper on 5 acres of land. Has Starlink Internet, gas generator and fresh water, AC and heat yet still off of the grid. You will have full access to all the land.

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The Permaculture Oasis

7 sites · Lodging5 acres · TX

Glamp out in the Big Bend! Enjoy the utter peace and quiet, stunning 360 degree mountain views, and wild bird migration route - plus: grill fire pit meal prep and picnic tables shade wifi composting toilet shower stable solar-powered charging station Swimming pool, laundry, ice, and the Bad Rabbit Cafe are 15 minutes southeast, and guided jeep, ATV, and river tours, groceries, gas, ice, groceries, bars, cafes, restaurants, art galleries, and live music are about 30 minutes south. The site is also being transformed into a permaculture oasis to demonstrate water capture and infiltration, desertification reversal, dryland food production, habitat creation, soil building, reforestation, and indigenous rainfall regime restoration. And you might find large-scale sculptural installations or other artwork around the property.

Available this weekend

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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.

Caja Caliente

2 sites · Lodging, Tents5 acres · Study Butte, TX

Caja Caliente is a remote and off-grid 5 acre parcel that is used for recreational camping. It has been an amazing place to view the Milky-way and Stars throughout the year. Caja Caliente is located on West Road in the Big Bend Valley region of the Terlingua Ranch, with stunning views of 9-Point Mesa, Red Bluff, Black Hill, and some amazing sunsets. Summer months can be extremely hot and dry, so bring enough water. The camping is primitive so all trash should be carried out by campers. Please take care of the Porta-Potty so that it remains in good condition for other campers. (Please report any unsatisfactory conditions to Zach). Noe's Nest camping shelter is by reservation only. The property corners are staked with G227 and all campers must remain within those property boundaries while camping. All campers must obey observed burn-bans due to drought conditions. Be advised..... The host is NOT at the property. You will receive a welcome packet 48 hours before your arrival with detailed instructions for arrival and campsites. Please, enjoy the beauty of West Texas!

Mills Ranch

1 site · Lodging5 acres · Study Butte, TX

Come and enjoy beautiful big bend in this lovely camper. Only 1 mile off of Hwy 118. 30 minutes from Big Bend National Park. Very unique camper on 5 acres of land. Has Starlink Internet, gas generator and fresh water, AC and heat yet still off of the grid. You will have full access to all the land.

Star Hosts in Terlingua

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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.

Mel's Place

3 sites · Lodging20 acres · Study Butte, TX

Mel's Place has been a favorite camp spot for many since we opened 5 years ago. Feels secluded and remote, yet only a mile or so from everything you might need and only 5 miles to the national park west (Maverick) entrance. 5 miles to the lively ghost town ofTerlingua with some great bars and restraunts. The views from camp are stunning with breathtaking sunrises over the Chisos mountains. Sunsets aren't too shabby either. We are an adults only retreat and hope to provide you the peaceful solitude with breathtaking stargazing you need to renew your spirit!! We are within a few miles of nearly all the local outfitters for your river trips, Jeep or ATV tours, etc. Come make memories!

Lynn y B's land

28 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents80 acres · Terlingua, TX

Cieloscuro

6 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents40 acres · Terlingua, TX

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.

Smiling Dog Ranch

21 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents20 acres · Alpine, TX

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 property 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 16 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. 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

Glamping near Terlingua guide

Overview

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