Desert camping in Texas with showers
The largest state in the Lower 48 features no shortage of places to pitch a tent.
97% (3430 reviews)
- Texas
97% (3430 reviews)
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12 top desert campgrounds in Texas with showers
93%
(1216)
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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$30
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99%
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The Bus Stop Camp Ground
9 sites · RVs, Tents12 acres · Terlingua, TX
Hello Hipcampers! We welcome you to our relaxing desert getaway, our camp ground sits on 12 acres of beautiful desert scenery inside of a stunning range of mountains. There are countless activities to do around the area and no lack of adventure.
Big Bend National Park
Horseback Riding
Plane Tours
ATV Tours
River Rafting
Hiking
Mountain Biking and more!
Looking to stay inside our Bus Airbnb? Click here to find it and more:
https://linktr.ee/BusStopCampground
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$15
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99%
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Lynn y B's land
28 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents80 acres · Terlingua, TX
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$12.75
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Goat Pens, Cigar Springs Ranch
50 sites · RVs, Tents640 acres · Terlingua, 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.
**New This Winter**
Rachel Wey Ranch Petting Zoo and Pony Rides
Please contact us about hours and availibilty
Rachel.wey.ranch @faceboook.com-
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$40
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Terlingua Ranch Primitive Camp
6 sites · RVs, Tents425 acres · 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.
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$18
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96%
(1059)
Paisano Azul Ranch
11 sites · RVs, Tents30 acres · 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 & 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:
- 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 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.
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$39
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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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$39
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Rancho de los Arboles Muertos
9 sites · RVs, 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
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Lakefront Vineyard & Winery
9 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents13 acres · Millersview, TX
A true Texas inspiration! Began in 2007 as a hobby to make wine for personal consumption, this vineyard has evolved into an award-winning winery in a location uniquely suited for grape production, right on the border of the High Plains AVA & Hill Country AVA.
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Wimberley Dark Night Sky Camp
35 sites · Lodging, RVs, Tents6 acres · Wimberley, TX
Welcome agritourism guests. Located in the center of Hays Co., and north of Wimberley on a Upick Blackberry and Bee Farmstead.
Book now! Tent pads are 12x16' level decks, all other sites are a slight incline
check in must be scheduled for check in day between 2pm - 5pm.
Now an organic and pesticide free Market Farm, our home is surrounded by Texas Hill Country wilderness our guests will enjoy. Amazing night sky views, and a wake up to incredible nature.
Primitive camping or self contained campers, stay on the ledge of our hill side, north of our farmhouse. A game fence protects our guests from wildlife, and our recapped and graded hard packed limestone road base driveways lead you up to sites to choose from. Under the stars, under some oaks, on the Stoney Ridge overlooking a fossil line, or under some cedars, at the barn... all have great privacy. The barn is a public hangout lounge and fire pit.
Toilet port a john, and the barn sink accessible 24 hours. Hip campers are to follow trash and biosecurity rules on premises. Honeybee yards are located far south and away from the campsites, no trespassing around the livestock.
Also, our south porch and sunbathing patio will be available for use, there is a wonderful seating area in the mulch island at the center of the campsites with a teak table and lounger and port a john at the east, and outdoor shower on the west. If warm water is needed, additional $5 for propane water heater can be arranged. Bring firewood or purchase onsite if you would like to have a fire in a pond pit, or in a fire ring at your site. Plenty of mowed walking trails are on site, and a view overlooking Wimberley Valley at sunset is just outside our top gate.
Not interested in camping? Then day trip, book the day you want to visit, and message for early am access to the property for a full day's stay!
Extremely quiet, peaceful and wild, your view of Wimberley valley on our mountainside hike, and a visit to Jacobs Well Nature Preserve on Mount Sharp Road will make this stop worth it. We are only an 8 min slow drive to Jacobs Well Preserve. Welcome to our Bees and Berries Farm.
Sept 18th Lunar Eclipse, First Saturdays Market Day, Oct Music Fest are coming up.
Additionally you can take advantage of local wineries, distilleries, farms, historical centers, parks and activities listed below.
We have some farm cottage industry produce for sale and fresh eggs on site, as well as extras like farm breakfasts or a tour.
2.8 miles away is Jacobs Well Spring Nature Preserve and cenote,
6 miles, and a 12 min drive away is the private swimming hole at Cypress Falls, and their taco bar / tavern http://thelodgeatcypressfalls.com/swimming-hole
Jobelle Bistro and Hildees Diner are also nearby for meals. Grocery in town is a 15 min. drive. Salad bar, deli, BBQ at Brookshire Bros is recommended.
8 miles away is the famous City Park, Blue Hole swimming and recreation area, check city for hours https://www.cityofwimberley.com/289/Swimming-Reservations. Play ground, soccer field, trails, bb court...
20 miles away, situated along a one-mile stretch of the spring-fed Blanco River, the small but mighty Blanco State Park is very family-friendly, offering the spectacular Falls Dam, nature trails, fishing, tubing, kayaking, and deep water for a good, refreshing swim. The stocked river is teeming with largemouth and Guadalupe bass, catfish, sunfish, and rainbow trout, and can be an excellent place for beginning anglers (you can even borrow equipment for free).
Swimming at holes, horseback riding, hiking, mountain biking, and birding are a few of the quintessential outdoor Texan activities visitors enjoy most at Pedernales State Park, located near the area of Texas Hill Country where former President Lyndon B. Johnson grew up. Next to the famed Pedernales River, the park is an hour west of Austin, an hour east of Fredericksburg, and about 20 minutes from downtown Johnson City. Wineries and distilleries are a short drive away in nearby Dripping Springs and Stonewall.
No dogs allowed at the camp. Endangered birds are at the top of the property, and our farm cat is scared of dogs, hens, rabbit and roosters may be endangered.
On site:
Site 1, pop up tent with A/C and Heat available to rent out
portable electric (1 available), add on via 15amp extension cord to loquat tent sites
bee hive intro. tour, add on seasonally
fresh organic chicken eggs per 1/2 doz. , add on
outdoor camp shower with propane hot water can be arranged with rsvp, add on - free in the summer.
or choose indoor bath add on
archery, cornhole and board games inside barn space
propane grill and outdoor kitchen space, rsvp
firewood for sale - no sale or use during burn bans
Barn hangout in evenings, chi kung and yoga classes by rsvp
culling / homesteading events
dinner or breakfasts can be arranged. Gluten Free. Requests welcome and we are Weston A Price Foundation members!
If you have small livestock, bring your elect fence and allow your horse or stock to range in the front field, free. You must control and feed/water them.
Thank you for your support on our journey to creating a great outdoor space and supporting Texas Agritourism!
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$10
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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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$28
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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.
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$105
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Dog-friendly getaways
Under $50
Desert camping in Texas with showers guide
Overview
They say everything’s bigger in the Lone Star State, and that includes the variety of options for campers, whether you're looking for an RV park, tent camping, or a primitive camping backcountry adventure. Beat the summer heat on sandy Gulf beaches, or head inland to the arid deserts of Big Bend Country in winter for some of the nation’s darkest skies and best nighttime views. Spring and autumn offer the best weather for wine tasting in Texas Hill Country, hiking the canyons of the Panhandle, or paddling the bald cypress forests of the Texas Pine Curtain.
Big Bend Country
Remote West Texas boasts some of the most pristine landscapes in the state. Explore the hiking trails of Guadalupe Mountains and Big Bend national parks, raft through narrow canyons along the Rio Grande River, go rock climbing in Hueco Tanks State Park near El Paso, or hit the dunes in Monahans Sandhills State Park. The quirky communities of Marfa, Terlingua, and Marathon serve as convenient gateways to desert adventure.
Texas Hill Country
Known for its wineries, whiskey distilleries, swimming holes, and rich German heritage, the rolling hills of this central Texas region extend between Austin and San Antonio, with plenty of small towns to explore along the way. Springtime brings bluebonnets to the roadsides of the region. In fall, head to Lost Maples State Park for some of the state’s best leaf peeping. Soak up panoramic views from Enchanted Rock, venture deep into the Caverns of Sonora or the Cave Without a Name, or take a leisurely float along the Guadalupe River.
Gulf Coast
The Texas Gulf Coast stretches for more than 600 miles along the shores of the Gulf of Mexico and includes the Padre Island National Seashore. Sun seekers will find plenty of sandy beaches with warm Gulf waters (plus opportunities for beach camping), while the natural areas along the coast feature some of the best birdwatching in the nation. Houston, Galveston, South Padre Island, and Corpus Christi are among the most popular areas to stay.
Panhandle
The plains of the Texas Panhandle comprise one of the largest regions in the state. Here you’ll find America’s second-largest canyon within Palo Duro Canyon State Park, as well as the iconic Cadillac Ranch car sculpture along road trip-worthy Route 66.
Pine Curtain
Lakes, forests, and swamps dominate the landscape of the lesser-known Piney Woods of East Texas. Step back in time at Mission Tejas State Park, straddle the state line in Texarkana, pitch a tent among the gargantuan pines of Daingerfield, or make the 835-mile camping trip along the Texas Forest Trail. If you want to get out on the water, it's hard to beat a kayak in Caddo Lake State Park.
Prairies and Lakes
This region sweeps down through the center of the state from the Dallas-Fort Worth area to Waco, Bryan, and College Station (home of Texas A&M University). You don’t have to drive far to find a lakeside campground or on-the-water activity, thanks to the area’s 17 Texas state parks and one national wildlife refuge.
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