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Facilities

Free Camping Collection

Dispersed Camping

Elephant mountain WMA

Elephant Mountain WMA, near Alpine, Texas, is a unique spot for those who appreciate the beauty of the West Texas landscape. This area offers basic camping with a few essential amenities, making it a great choice for a simple overnight stay or a peaceful retreat.

The campsites are primitive but come with picnic tables and fire rings, perfect for enjoying a meal outdoors or roasting marshmallows under the stars. Visitors have noted the stunning views of the surrounding mountains, particularly the impressive bluff that gives the area its name. One camper described it as “majestic,” especially when a rainbow appeared next to the mountain.

While the facilities are basic, including vault toilets, the tranquility of the location is a major draw. Campers have mentioned the abundance of wildlife, with rabbits hopping around and the serene atmosphere making it a great escape from the hustle and bustle. Just keep in mind that a permit is required, and while some campers have taken the risk without one, it’s best to check the rules before you go.

For those looking to explore, the area is perfect for hiking and self-guided driving tours. It’s also a convenient stop if you’re heading to Big Bend National Park, though it’s about an hour away from the park entrance. Whether you’re passing through or planning a longer stay, Elephant Mountain WMA offers a peaceful slice of nature that’s worth checking out.

Description

Fish and Wildlife Service

A permit is required to camp on WMA land in Texas, either an Annual Public Hunting Permit or Limited Public Use Permit

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Location

Elephant mountain WMA is located in Texas

Detail location of campground

Coordinates

30.03440009 N
103.5636 W

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Access

  • Drive-In
    Park next to your site

Stay Connected

  • WiFi
    Unknown
  • Verizon
    Good
  • AT&T
    Unknown
  • T-Mobile
    Unknown

Site Types

  • Dispersed

Features

For Campers

  • ADA Access
  • Trash
  • Picnic Table
  • Phone Service
  • Drinking Water
  • Toilets
  • Alcohol
  • Pets
  • Fires

DISPERSED CAMPING

Enjoy dispersed camping on government land and leave no trace. Pack in and pack out. No (or limited) services at this camping area. Permit may be required.


PERMIT might be REQUIRED

We curate permit requirements across the US for our PRO members. Try PRO to see if Elephant mountain WMA needs a permit.

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General Info

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Reviews

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5 Reviews

Reviewed May. 23, 2024

Permit? or No Permit?

The area around Elephant Mountain is beautiful and the mountain itself is a huge bluff sticking up out of the otherwise flat landscape.  The campsites are basic with a vault toilet in a little shack.  It was adequate for what I needed... just an overnight. But it's very hard to tell if a permit is needed.  Dyrt says Yes, and the info at the entrance says yes, but there's no indication how to get one.  I did not have a permit and nothing happened, but I was a bit paranoid. I'd say the landscape is the best part of this campsite.

Month of VisitApril
Reviewed Jun. 5, 2023

Took a chance and was delighted.

We were at the Marfa lights viewing center and started looking for places to camp when we came across this place on Dyrt. I happened to have a hunting license and decided to take a chance. We got there and it looked like someone’s ranch, but found a registry office noting who you are and your hunting id on a card. We drove a mile or so into nowhere until we saw camp structures. No one was around so we drove around to find the perfect spot. Texas red ants are abundant so be weary of tent camping, besides that this place is peaceful! Their were rabbits hopping around and beautiful mountains including the “elephant” in the room. A rainbow appeared next to it and it felt unreal. I don’t know if we were just lucky that we were alone or this place might just be majestic. We’ll go back someday to confirm.

Month of VisitMay
  • Review photo of Elephant mountain WMA by Richard T., June 5, 2023
  • Review photo of Elephant mountain WMA by Richard T., June 5, 2023
  • Review photo of Elephant mountain WMA by Richard T., June 5, 2023
  • (10) View All
Reviewed Mar. 6, 2021

First-Rate Primitive Camping with a Caveat

Car camped at this amazing spot. GPS directions are a little off but you’ll be fine if you follow the sign for primitive camping (i.e. turn about a quarter mile earlier than the pinned location address). Great roof structure and tables.

My only caveat is there is a small sign that might have said that you’re supposed to have a permit (possibly for hunting) to use the spots or else you might face a fine. That being said, I had no problems and saw some other RV setups so it might not be enforced.

Overall, it’s a good spot on the way to Big Bend National Park but still about an hour from the park entrance, so perhaps not the best bet for visiting the park. Personally, I’d rather just pay the $10 national park fee for primitive camping.

Reviewed Jun. 8, 2020

West Desert beauty

In the shadow of elephant mountain and under the west Texas desert sky is this beautiful wildlife management area. Hunting, hiking, camping and self guided driving tour are all available. Sites are primitive but have picnic table, sunshade, and fire rings.

  • Review photo of Elephant mountain WMA by Tim W., June 8, 2020
  • Review photo of Elephant mountain WMA by Tim W., June 8, 2020
  • Review photo of Elephant mountain WMA by Tim W., June 8, 2020

Frequently Asked Questions

  • What is the elevation of Elephant mountain WMA?

    Elephant mountain WMA is located at 4265 feet.

  • Are fires allowed at Elephant mountain WMA?

    Yes, according to campers on TheDyrt.com, fires are allowed at Elephant mountain WMA, although make sure to check current fire restrictions in the area.

  • Does Elephant mountain WMA have wifi?

    No, according to campers on TheDyrt.com, Elephant mountain WMA does not have wifi.

  • Is there cell phone reception at Elephant mountain WMA?

    According to campers on TheDyrt.com, Verizon signal is good, AT&T is unknown, and T-Mobile is unknown.