Fort Davis is the perfect place for adventurous campers and RVers. Fort Davis is filled with the activities, sights, and experiences to make everyone in your crew a happy camper. At The Dyrt, campers like you share their favorite spots, plus tips and photos. No matter where you're headed in Fort Davis, you'll find the best spot for you and your camping crew.
"super quiet. right off the highway, but very little traffic. pretty level spots. i take my converted cargo trailer often. "
"Awesome free camping. No cell service."
"Car camped at this amazing spot."
"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!"
TravelerCar 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.
Scoutsuper quiet. right off the highway, but very little traffic. pretty level spots. i take my converted cargo trailer often. the hike is an easy one with small children and gives visitors a taste of the actual landscape of Jeff Davis mountains, TX
TravelerAwesome free camping. No cell service.
GuideWe 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.
RangerWal traveling from Big Bend NP to El Paso and thus wa sthe perfect place to stop for the night.
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.
The campsite was very quiet and privacy is better than anything else in West Texas. Great hiking trail. The only downsides are the wind.
GuideThe 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.
GuideIn 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.
GuideWe 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.
ScoutYou’re taking a risk if you don’t have them permit required by the sign but ran into no authorities during our brief one night stay.
Discover the beauty of dispersed camping near Fort Davis, Texas, where you can immerse yourself in nature without the constraints of traditional campgrounds. With stunning landscapes and a variety of outdoor activities, this area is perfect for those seeking adventure and tranquility.
Frequently Asked Questions
Where can I find dispersed camping in Fort Davis, TX?
Two excellent dispersed camping options near Fort Davis include Madera Canyon Roadside Park Dispersed and Elephant Mountain WMA. Madera Canyon is conveniently located right off the highway with level spots, making it perfect for overnight stays while traveling through the area. It's a quiet location despite proximity to the road due to minimal traffic, and offers easy access to hiking trails that showcase the Jeff Davis mountains landscape. Both locations provide basic primitive camping experiences in the beautiful West Texas desert setting.
Is 4WD required for dispersed camping areas around Fort Davis?
4WD is generally not required for dispersed camping areas near Fort Davis. Madera Canyon Roadside Park Dispersed is accessible right off the highway with fairly level spots that accommodate various vehicle types, including converted cargo trailers. Standard passenger cars can access many dispersed sites in the area. For camping locations, follow posted signs for primitive camping rather than relying solely on GPS coordinates, which can sometimes be slightly off. While 4WD isn't strictly necessary, having a vehicle with decent ground clearance is always beneficial when exploring less-developed camping areas in the West Texas region.
What are the rules and regulations for dispersed camping near Fort Davis?
At Elephant Mountain WMA, a hunting license or permit is required for camping, which campers note is worth obtaining for the experience. There's a registry office where you need to check in upon arrival. The area maintains primitive sites with picnic tables, sunshades, and fire rings. Stays can be extended, with some visitors reporting two-week camping periods. Always follow posted regulations, as enforcement may vary. For any dispersed camping in the region, practice Leave No Trace principles and check with Texas Parks & Wildlife for current regulations and fire restrictions before your trip.
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