Davis Mountains State Park and the surrounding Fort Davis area offer camping options at elevations between 5,000 and 6,000 feet. The region experiences dramatic temperature variations with cool evenings even during summer months when daytime highs can reach the 90s. West Texas camping sites typically feature desert scrub vegetation with scattered juniper and pine trees providing limited natural shade.
What to Do
Star gazing at McDonald Observatory: Located near Davis Mountains State Park Campground, the observatory offers exceptional night sky viewing. "We biked and hiked and enjoyed a sunset picnic from the overlook. It's convenient to visit Fort Davis and the McDonald Observatory. If your plans take you near this State Park - definitely check it out!!" notes Bounding Around.
Explore hiking trails: The Davis Mountains provide diverse trail options for all skill levels. "Lots of diverse trails so you don't get bored being there for a few days. Lots to explore both in and around the park. Dog-friendly, spacious campsites, incredible stargazing," shares Sarah D. about Davis Mountains State Park.
Visit Fort Davis National Historic Site: Walk through this restored frontier military post. "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 Emily M. The historic site is within walking distance of several campgrounds.
What Campers Like
Wildlife encounters: The area attracts diverse wildlife species. "We loved our stay here. So different then any other places in Texas. Had a roadrunner encounter with a bag of fretoes. I will always remember the cool of the evening, the darker dirt of the mountains...hills there in contrast to the heat of the day and that roadrunner!" reports Faith S. at Davis Mountains State Park Campground.
Sunset views: The mountains provide exceptional viewing locations. "We went to the top of the mountain to watch the fire works. Very nice park, we will definitely be back," says Perla P. about her family's experience at Davis Mountains State Park.
Affordable camping options: Budget-friendly sites are available throughout the region. "Pick your site and the host drops off a nice welcome packet that includes local pecans. Aside from newly planted trees and a dumpster, there's nothing at the park. It's a dirt lot, but it serves its purpose," reports David N. about Davis Mountain RV Park.
What You Should Know
Weather considerations: Mountain elevations create distinct conditions. "Even in July I didn't need to use my trailer's air conditioning. It stayed around the upper 80's," shares Emily M. about summer camping in the Davis Mountains.
Wildlife precautions: Be prepared for various wildlife encounters. "There are scorpions, so keep your eye out!" warns Molly G. about Madera Canyon Roadside Park Dispersed.
Limited cell service: Many areas have restricted connectivity. "Super peaceful. No cell service," reports Jordan P. about free camping at Madera Canyon Roadside Park.
Winter camping conditions: The mountains can experience winter weather. "Spent the entire Christmas Week in the Mountains. Had a great time. The Sites on the side of the hill were not ideal. Very hard to level and the sewer was up hill," notes Tyler K. about his winter stay at Davis Mountains State Park.
Tips for Camping with Families
Select level sites: Some campgrounds offer more family-friendly spots. "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," shares Perla P. about Historic Prude Ranch.
Plan for temperature swings: Pack clothing for significant day-to-night temperature differences. "It was very hot here! Also-- there are scorpions, so keep your eye out!" advises Molly G. about hiking with family members.
Horse experiences: Children can enjoy equestrian activities. "If you come, you must ride the trails, its an amazing experience," recommends Christopher W. about Historic Prude Ranch, which operates as a working horse ranch with guided trail rides.
Tips from RVers
Campsite selection: Choose sites based on seasonal considerations. "The sites on the side of the hill were not hard to level and the sewer was up hill. Other than that the park was great! There are some sites that are flat and would be better for RV camping," advises Tyler K.
Pet-friendly options: Multiple campgrounds welcome campers with pets. "We have a nice pull through site which took a little bit of leveling (6" in the front and 2" passenger). The deer come in at night and you can sit and watch them wander," explains Christopher W. about his RV stay at Historic Prude Ranch, which provides pet-friendly accommodations.
Hookup availability: Full-service sites are available at several parks. "There are about two dozen spots with full hookup 30/50 in two separate camps (upper and lower). The lower camp sites in a pecan field at the entrance to the ranch while the upper camp sites sit smack dab in the middle of the cabins and stables," notes Christopher W. about Historic Prude Ranch.
