Camping near Eagle Pass, Texas concentrates along the arid border region where temperatures regularly reach triple digits during summer months. The area sits at approximately 800 feet elevation within the South Texas Plains ecosystem, characterized by mesquite, live oak, and brush country vegetation. Most campgrounds in the region operate year-round despite seasonal temperature fluctuations, with winter months drawing the highest visitation from seasonal travelers.
What to do
Visit historic sites: Fort Clark Springs Camping World offers access to the historic fort grounds, including a museum detailing the military history of this former cavalry post. A recent camper noted, "The staff is so nice and very knowledgeable about the Fort's history and local area."
Swimming opportunities: Fort Clark Springs Camping World maintains a natural spring-fed swimming area that provides relief during hot weather. The spring maintains a consistent temperature year-round, making it usable even during winter months.
Golf course access: Several campgrounds provide proximity to golf facilities. At Laughlin AFB FamCamp, military personnel and their guests can access the base golf course at discounted rates. One visitor mentioned, "Nice concrete level sites. Easy access. The sites are large with short fence sections between."
What campers like
Mature shade trees: The region's intense summer heat makes tree cover highly valued. A camper at Fort Clark Springs highlighted this feature: "The tent area is well shaded, water at each site and power by the bath house. Love the live oaks and the manager John is a great guy."
Affordable rates: Turtle Ranch Camping and RV offers budget-friendly rates compared to many commercial RV parks, with 12 available sites equipped for recreational vehicles. The location provides basic amenities while maintaining accessibility to Eagle Pass.
Historical surroundings: Many campers appreciate the historical context of the region's campgrounds. Fort Clark Springs occupies a former military installation dating to 1852, allowing campers to stay within a historic district that includes preserved buildings and parade grounds.
What you should know
Border proximity considerations: Campgrounds near Eagle Pass sit close to the US-Mexico border. Campers should carry proper identification at all times, as Border Patrol checkpoints operate throughout the region on major highways.
Summer heat management: Temperatures from June through September regularly exceed 100°F, requiring careful planning. 83 RV Park in La Pryor maintains year-round operations but offers minimal shade coverage, making air conditioning essential during summer months.
Limited dispersed camping options: The Eagle Pass region contains minimal public land for primitive or dispersed camping. Most overnight stays require using established campgrounds or RV parks with defined boundaries and facilities.
Reservation challenges: Communication with campground offices can be inconsistent. As one Laughlin AFB FamCamp visitor reported, "My only complaint would be I was unable to contact the office to confirm availability or make a reservation. With that said we showed up and there were 4 or 5 sites unoccupied."
Tips for camping with families
Choose campgrounds with recreational facilities: Fort Clark Springs provides multiple recreation options on-site including swimming, golf, and historic walking tours that appeal to different age groups.
Consider shoulder seasons: The most comfortable temperatures for family camping occur during March-April and October-November. Brush Country Oasis RV Park in Carrizo Springs provides year-round accommodations with sites that remain accessible during these milder seasonal transitions.
Pack for extreme weather: Summer camping requires abundant water supplies and portable shade structures. Winter nights can drop below freezing despite warm daytime temperatures, necessitating appropriate clothing and bedding for temperature fluctuations.
Research community events: Eagle Pass hosts several annual festivals and events that can enhance family camping trips, including the Border Music Festival typically held in spring months.
Tips from RVers
Electrical capacity awareness: Most RV parks in the Eagle Pass region offer 50-amp service to accommodate air conditioning needs during hot weather. Verify electrical capacity when reserving, particularly for larger RVs with multiple air conditioning units.
Level sites available: 10 Point Turtle Ranch provides level sites with pea-stone and packed gravel surfaces that minimize setup time. RVers should still carry leveling blocks as site conditions can vary seasonally.
Limited cell service: Mobile reception varies significantly throughout the region, with stronger signals in Eagle Pass proper and diminishing coverage in outlying campgrounds. Download maps and information before arrival as internet connectivity cannot be guaranteed at all locations.
Border crossing procedures: RVers planning day trips to Mexico should research current border crossing regulations. Most campground hosts can provide current information about crossing procedures and recommended documentation.
