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Dispersed Camping

Elephant mountain WMA

CAMPER SUMMARY PRESENTED BYFord

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.

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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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Connectivity

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Connectivity

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Access

  • Drive-In
    Park next to your site

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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6 Reviews

Reviewed Jun. 12, 2025

Great place to stay for free near Big Bend NP

We stayed for 2 weeks, with a night out of it. We really enjoyed our time here. The views are great .. although we didn't see any wildlife, you could tell there was a lot. The sites are very well maintained.

You do need a permit, but we found it worth it.

Month of VisitApril
  • Review photo of Elephant mountain WMA by Ethan B., June 12, 2025
  • Review photo of Elephant mountain WMA by Ethan B., June 12, 2025
  • Review photo of Elephant mountain WMA by Ethan B., June 12, 2025
  • (4) View All
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
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  • (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

Where is Elephant Mountain Wildlife Management Area located and how do I access it?

Elephant Mountain WMA is located in West Texas, characterized by its distinctive mountain that rises dramatically from the surrounding desert landscape. To access the area, follow signage for primitive camping, which is about a quarter mile earlier than some GPS directions might indicate. There's a registry office at the entrance where visitors check in. Some visitors note that the entrance resembles a ranch property. The area requires a permit for access, so be sure to obtain one before your visit to avoid any issues.

What hunting opportunities are available at Elephant Mountain WMA?

Hunting is one of the primary activities at Elephant Mountain WMA, and a hunting license is required to access the property. The wildlife management area maintains a registry system where hunters must document their visit and license information. While specific game species aren't detailed, the area is managed for wildlife conservation and sustainable hunting practices. The terrain offers diverse hunting environments with the mountain backdrop and surrounding desert habitat.

Is there a map available for Elephant Mountain Wildlife Management Area?

There are basic maps and a self-guided driving tour available at Elephant Mountain WMA. The area has designated routes for visitors to follow, though signage might be minimal in some areas. For navigation, it's advisable to check in at the registry office upon arrival where informational materials may be available. Consider downloading offline maps before your visit as cell service in remote West Texas areas can be limited. For the most current maps, contact the Texas Parks and Wildlife Department directly.

What wildlife and natural features can be photographed at Elephant Mountain WMA?

Elephant Mountain itself provides a stunning photographic subject—a massive bluff rising dramatically from the otherwise flat landscape. The West Texas desert skies offer spectacular backdrops, particularly at sunrise and sunset. Wildlife viewing opportunities abound, though animals may be elusive. The area shows abundant signs of wildlife activity even when creatures aren't directly visible. The diverse desert ecosystem, mountain terrain, and expansive views create numerous opportunities for nature photography throughout the wildlife management area.