Cabins near Alpine, Texas offer overnight accommodations in a high desert landscape at 4,475 feet elevation. The area experiences mild summers and cool winters, with temperatures regularly dropping below freezing between November and February. Cabin rentals around Alpine serve as convenient bases for exploring the Davis Mountains and Big Bend region.
What to do
Stargazing opportunities: Marathon Motel & RV Park provides exceptional night sky viewing with telescopes and guidance. "We stayed for almost a week and enjoyed our time in Marathon. The first night we enjoyed looking at the stars with the resident astronomer," notes one visitor.
Swimming at natural springs: Balmorhea State Park Campground features a unique spring-fed pool open year-round. "The spring stays between 73-76 year round... The pool is crystal clear and about 25 ft deep and the toe nibbling fish are cool too," shares a camper.
Horseback riding experiences: Historic Prude Ranch offers trail rides led by knowledgeable wranglers. "My son and I took two, two-hour trail rides with our Wrangler Andy who was a wealth of information... If you come, you must ride the trails, its an amazing experience," recommends a visitor.
What campers like
Outdoor shower experiences: Marathon Motel & RV Park provides distinctive bathing facilities. "Perhaps the coolest thing we enjoyed was using their new private outdoor showers where you can look up and stargaze while soaking in warm water getting all clean," one camper enthuses.
Covered RV sites: Marfa Yacht Club offers protective structures above parking spots. "There are structures at each site for the RVs—would definitely help with the heat in the summer and we loved having the extra space around the camper during a rain storm," notes a guest.
Wildlife viewing: Several cabin rentals offer wildlife observation opportunities. "The deer come in at night and you can sit and watch them wander," reports a visitor at Historic Prude Ranch. Another notes "deer came through camp every evening. We watched the horses in the pasture."
What you should know
Seasonal weather considerations: Winter temperatures can fluctuate dramatically. "We stayed cozy in our warm RV at night as it got really cold! The first night it was 17 degrees... being Texas, it was 80 by Friday," reports a Balmorhea visitor.
Water quality concerns: Some locations have mineral-heavy water. "The only thing that wasn't great is that the water is hard and has a very high mineral content. It's totally fine to drink, but if you're sensitive to that kinda thing, take that into consideration. It does leave a white crust on stuff."
Reservation systems: Lost Alaskan RV Park uses phone-based booking rather than online systems. "Nice clean sites that are spacious and not on top of your neighbor. Location is good for visiting the area if you need to be connected - wifi was good enough close to the office and cell service was also good," notes a visitor.
Tips for camping with families
Playgrounds available: Some campgrounds provide play areas. "Sites are nice and playground/group areas have nice green grass. Electric & water hookup. Staff was also great at check in."
Swimming options for kids: "The wetlands area and small creek circling the property were a hit with the kids," shares a Balmorhea visitor. "Short drive to the lake where there is great fishing, large enough to allow small boats."
Educational opportunities: El Cosmico offers cultural experiences beyond basic camping. "I recommend checking out the Marfa lights viewing area for dry camping. Also check out downtown Marfa and the iconic Hotel Paisano," suggests a visitor looking for family-friendly activities.
Tips from RVers
Leveling requirements: Several cabin camping areas require equipment adjustments. "Our spot was a back in and did require leveling, but had full hook ups," notes one RVer at Historic Prude Ranch. Another mentions "We camped at the lower site which took a little bit of leveling (6" in the front and 2" passenger)."
Campground access considerations: Road conditions can affect arrival. "The one downside was the road leading to the MYC—it was gravel and when we were there, suffered from washboarding that really jostled things around in the trailer," cautions a Marfa Yacht Club visitor.
Hookup details: "All spaces with electric and water, showers are great. Has a nice courtyard with large fire pit. Very clean and quite. It's right off the main road into Big Bend National Park, about a 40 minute drive," notes an RVer about their cabin camping experience.
