More than 2,700 acres of mile-high peaks—the highest is 5,600 feet—and rugged plains look out over the surrounding Chihuahuan Desert in Davis Mountains State Park. Wild scenery is a guarantee, whether you choose to explore by horseback or mountain bike, hike all the way to the Fort Davis National Historic Site, or picnic along Limpia Creek. Birdwatchers won’t want to miss the bird blind (one of the best spots in West Texas to view birds while staying unseen), and camping is plentiful, with everything from full hookup RV sites to backcountry tent sites. You can even book a room at the historic Indian Lodge.

• Best for RVs: Davis Mountain State Park Campground has 94 sites, some with full hookups and cable TV.
• Best for nature lovers: Davis Mountains Primitive Campsite has secluded hike-in camping spots with views from the hilltops. 
• Best for horsey Hipcampers: Primitive Equestrian Campground has six back-to-basics sites where you can pitch your tent beside your equine entourage. 

1. You can reserve one of the park’s 101 campsites in advance via the Texas State Parks website. 
2. Campsite reservations open five months in advance, and all sites can be reserved, including primitive and equestrian sites.
3. Campsites can book up fast for summer and holiday weekends—book as early as possible, especially if you have a particular site in mind.

Davis Mountains State Park is open year-round but busiest from March through Labor Day. Daytime temperatures can reach over 90°F in summer, but the mountains are generally cooler and less humid than the surrounding desert, and it’s still enjoyable to hike and camp during this time. But temperatures drop after sundown, so bring warm clothes even in summer, and expect nights to dip below freezing in winter. Wildflowers start blooming in spring and are most impressive after rainfall. 

• Davis Mountains State Park is located three miles northwest of Fort Davis.
• Park entrance fees are required in addition to camping fees, and general entrance reservations can be made up to one month in advance.
• Facilities in the park include restrooms, picnic benches, and a park store selling souvenirs, snacks, and drinks. You can purchase groceries, firewood, and camping supplies in Fort Davis.
• Regular campsites have picnic benches, grills, and access to restrooms/showers; some are also accessible to wheelchairs. Primitive sites have no facilities or water, and campfires are not permitted (fuel stoves are allowed). 
• Bird-watching and stargazing are highlights. Pack your binoculars and keep campsite lighting to a minimum to preserve the dark skies.