RV camping near Alpine, Texas offers multiple accommodation options throughout the Big Bend region. Located in the Trans-Pecos area at an elevation of 4,475 feet, Alpine experiences cooler temperatures than surrounding lowlands, with summer highs averaging 88°F and winter lows around 33°F. Cell service remains variable throughout the region's campgrounds, with stronger coverage near town and diminished signals in outlying areas.
What to do
Visit McDonald Observatory: Located 40 minutes from Fort Davis, the observatory hosts star parties with telescopes for public viewing. "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 a visitor to Marathon Motel & RV Park.
Explore Sul Ross University: The campus offers hiking trails with scenic views. "Hiking up to see the desk on the grounds surrounding the Sul Ross campus is just one fun excursion. Also, the Big Bend Museum and Kokernot Field," mentions a camper from Lost Alaskan RV Park.
Visit Fort Davis National Historic Site: Learn about frontier military history at this well-preserved fort. "It's centrally located for all the attractions in the area particularly Fort Davis National Historic Site and McDonald Observatory," writes a reviewer about Davis Mountain RV Park.
What campers like
Dark sky viewing: The region offers exceptional stargazing opportunities. "What makes this campsite special is that it's also a stargazing park and they have star-specialists here every night with telescopes to answer any questions about the night sky!" reports a visitor at Marathon Motel & RV Park.
Swimming options: Several parks offer pools for cooling off. "Clean facilities. Easy to navigate. Friendly management and super fast WiFi! The swimming pool was a delight on a hot summer day," notes a reviewer at Lost Alaskan RV Park.
Unique outdoor shower experiences: Some facilities offer special amenities. "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," mentions a camper at Marathon Motel & RV Park.
What you should know
Winter temperature fluctuations: Prepare for cold nights even when days are mild. "We stayed for almost a week and enjoyed our time in Marathon. The rest of the week we stayed cozy in our warm RV at night as it got really cold!" reports a visitor at Marathon Motel.
Mineral water considerations: Water quality varies by location. "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," notes a camper at Marathon Motel & RV Park.
Tent site variations: Some parks offer dedicated tent facilities. "Great covered tent sites. Cooled off at night. Clean pool and bathroom/showers," writes a visitor at Lost Alaskan RV Park.
Tips for camping with families
Check playground conditions: Playground quality varies between parks. "Playground was ok… had seen better days and was a little lopsided. Pool was closed and we were sad to not know this ahead of time," warns a visitor at Lost Alaskan RV Park.
Consider family-friendly activities: Look for campgrounds with amenities for children. "The park itself was well maintained and they have outdoor showers, kinda nice," mentions a camper at Marathon Motel & RV Park.
Research common areas: Some parks offer gathering spaces. "It has a very relaxed and welcoming atmosphere. If you stay up late enough you might even be able to see the strange Marfa lights!" notes a visitor at Tumble In RV Park.
Tips from RVers
Check laundry facilities: Laundry quality and cost vary by location. "Laundry was adequate with 6 washers and dryers. Took two rounds in dryer for each load. I think $1 for wash and $1.50 to dry," reports a camper at Lost Alaskan RV Park.
Verify site spacing: Site dimensions and privacy differ substantially. "Small, quiet, very clean. Nice view. Very nice restrooms and shower facilities. Water, sewer and elec. Picnic table at site," notes a visitor at La Vista RV Park.
Consider satellite access: Satellite reception varies by location. "There were plenty of sites that have clear shots to the sky for satellite. We got 3 bars on Verizon," mentions a camper at Saddleback Mountain RV Park.
