Fort Davis sits at an elevation over 5,000 feet in the Davis Mountains of West Texas, creating cooler temperatures than surrounding desert regions. Summer highs typically reach the upper 80s while winter lows can drop to the 30s. The high elevation combines with limited light pollution to create exceptional stargazing conditions at camping spots near Fort Davis, Texas.
What to do
McDonald Observatory visits: Located 17 miles from Fort Davis on Highway 118, the observatory offers daytime tours and evening star parties. Davis Mountains State Park Campground serves as an excellent base for observatory visits. "We biked and hiked and enjoyed a sunset picnic from the overlook. It's convenient to visit Fort Davis and the McDonald Observatory," notes a camper.
Historic Fort Davis exploration: Only 5 miles from most camping areas, the restored military post offers self-guided tours of barracks and officers' quarters. "You can walk down to the fort. I recommend that as a shuttle hike. It can be difficult coming back after going down to it," advises an experienced visitor.
Wildlife viewing: The region supports diverse desert species including mule deer, javelinas, roadrunners, and hawks. A camper at Mountain View Lodge remarked, "You will enjoy our hospitality and the cafe serves a great breakfast and the best burgers around." Many campers report dawn and dusk as prime wildlife spotting times.
Holiday fireworks viewing: The elevated terrain provides excellent vantage points for July 4th celebrations. "We went for the 4th of July celebration and fireworks. People drive up the hill at the park to watch the fireworks at a distance from town," shares a visitor who enjoyed this special event.
What campers like
Cool mountain temperatures: The elevation creates a refreshing climate even in summer months. "Even in July I didn't need to use my trailer's air conditioning. It stayed around the upper 80's," reports one camper, highlighting the natural air conditioning effect that makes this area popular.
Family-friendly hiking options: Trails range from easy walks to challenging climbs on varied terrain. A visitor to Historic Prude Ranch shared, "We camped here for three nights. Great spot, deer came through camp every evening. We watched the horses in the pasture." The variety of trail difficulties accommodates different fitness levels.
Wildlife encounters: Many campers report memorable wildlife sightings around their sites. "We loved our stay here. So different than any other places in Texas. Had a roadrunner encounter with a bag of Fritos. I will always remember the cool of the evening, the darker dirt of the mountains," recalls one visitor.
Holiday celebrations: Special events, particularly around the 4th of July, create unique camping experiences. "Went for the 4th of July celebration and fireworks. The mountains here are called sky islands," notes a camper who appreciated this regional tradition.
What you should know
Limited cell service: Coverage varies significantly throughout the area, with stronger signals near towns. Most remote camping areas have minimal to no service. A camper at Madera Canyon Roadside Park Dispersed noted, "Awesome free camping. No cell service."
Wildlife precautions: Local wildlife includes scorpions and other desert creatures. "We did some great sunset and sunrise hikes-- just make sure you pack plenty of water and get your hiking done early in the day- it was very hot here! Also-- there are scorpions, so keep your eye out!" advises a visitor.
Limited water sources: Many dispersed camping areas lack potable water. "Super quiet. Right off the highway, but very little traffic. Pretty level spots. The hike is an easy one with small children and gives visitors a taste of the actual landscape of Jeff Davis mountains," reports a camper.
Wind considerations: The exposed mountain terrain experiences regular wind activity. "The only downsides are the wind," mentions one reviewer of the dispersed camping area, noting the primary environmental challenge.
Tips for camping with families
Child-friendly hikes: Several trails accommodate younger hikers with gentler terrain. "My family and I enjoyed the park. I have 3 boys, 4 month old, 5 & 6 year old, they had a blast. The weather was perfect, high 90s and low 60s. The park and views are just breath taking," shares a parent.
Protective clothing: The significant temperature fluctuations and direct sun exposure require layered clothing and sun protection. "We went during the 4th of July, and went to the top of the mountain to watch the fire works," notes a family who experienced the dramatic temperature shifts.
Wildlife education opportunities: The diverse ecosystem provides learning experiences for children. At Davis Mountain RV Park, one visitor mentioned, "We stopped for three nights before heading to big bend national park and it was great! The host gave us plenty of pamphlets for things to do in the area along with some tasty local pecans."
Supervised exploration: Rocky terrain requires careful supervision of children. "This is a spectacular location for star gazing. It's also close to the McDonald Observatory. This is an important historical site and I would strongly recommend getting a tour," advises a camper thinking of educational opportunities.
Tips from RVers
Site leveling needs: Many camping spots require significant leveling equipment. A visitor to Lost Alaskan RV Park reported, "All and all a great place to stay. Close to town yet still quiet, you can see some amazing sunsets on the far end of the camp."
Weather preparation: The mountain elevation creates unpredictable weather patterns that affect RV camping comfort. "I stayed here for two nights during the Texas snow and deep freeze. It was comfortable to be in the company of so many as the park was packed," shares an RV camper who experienced unusual winter weather.
Water conservation: Limited water sources in the region require careful usage. "The campground is set on the outskirts of Alpine and has pine trees around it. Unfortunately most sites that I saw don't have much, if any, shade," notes a visitor.
Road access considerations: Some camping areas have challenging access roads. "Perfect spot, but my worst RV park in 2 years that I've been doing it full time," explains a frustrated RVer who encountered difficulties with site conditions.
