Camping near Kermit, Texas offers distinct desert experiences in the high plains of the Permian Basin, where elevations average around 2,900 feet. Summer temperatures regularly exceed 100°F with winter nights dropping below freezing, creating a challenging but rewarding camping environment. The region's unique terrain combines oil field development with natural desert landscapes.
What to do
Sand sledding at the dunes: Monahans Sandhills State Park Campground provides rental sleds for visitors to experience high-speed descents down sand dunes. "You can rent snow sleds and go sand boarding. Theres gorgeous wildflowers all over in the spring and summer and the sunsets are always 10/10 here," notes Christina H.
Explore without marked trails: Unlike most parks, the sandhills allow unrestricted exploration without designated paths. "There are not any marked or designated trails at this park. The main attraction is the sand, the sandhills and the sunrises," writes Troy W. who visited Monahans Sandhills.
Sunset viewing at Jal Lake: Drive 25 minutes to Jal Lake Park across the New Mexico border for dramatic evening colors. "Lovely lake with FREE three day parking, mini water play area, vault potties, playground and bike paths galore," reports Chris S. who found the location ideal for evening recreation.
What campers like
Affordable overnight options: Andrews County Chamber of Commerce offers complimentary RV parking with utilities. "Great spot to overnight. Free electrical and water. Free dump station. Donations excepted. City park one block away. Restaurants within walking distance," shares Raimo J.
Stargazing opportunities: The remote location creates optimal night sky viewing conditions away from city lights. "Stars and meteors epic. Close to the highway but secluded. Of their 20 or so sites only 3 were taken," reports Zoey T. about her experience at Monahans Sandhills State Park.
Clean facilities: Wickett City Campground maintains well-kept utility connections despite its modest size. "Nice city park right off I-20. Easy to get to and full hook ups for $16.75 a day. It only has 30amp but that's ok. Really nice folks that were very pleasant," explains Dave L.
What you should know
Extreme weather conditions: Summer heat makes sand dangerously hot during daytime hours. "In January, it gets pretty cold at night around freezing, but warmed up nicely every day. One day was so windy. It was rocking my fifth wheel like it's never rocked before," reports Butch K. about Monahans Sandhills.
Limited veterinary services: The remote location means pet owners should bring necessary medications and supplies as emergency animal care facilities are scarce within 50 miles.
Sand management challenges: Dog friendly campgrounds near Kermit require special attention to sand control in vehicles and equipment. Sand infiltrates everything from camping gear to pet fur, requiring regular cleaning.
Security varies by location: Tra-Park RV Park experiences fluctuating occupancy patterns affecting noise levels. "Traffic as expected on a Friday was busy. The managers line everybody up from sites 1 through 11 in a row. Close to 200 sites in this park and ALL the short term stays are in this row," observes Butch K.
Tips for camping with families
Pool access for hot days: Mesquite Oasis RV Park offers swimming facilities during summer months. "Does have a pool and laundry area. Roses BBQ within 6 minutes away was good. Site was pull through," reports Nomad Nurse Z.
Morning activities recommended: Schedule dune exploration before 10am when temperatures remain cooler and sand hasn't reached peak heat levels.
City parks provide alternatives: When sand activities become overwhelming, nearby town parks offer standard playground equipment. "City park one block away. Restaurants within walking distance," notes Raimo J. about the amenities near Andrews County Chamber of Commerce camping.
Prepare for sand cleanup: Pack extra towels specifically for wiping down children and pets after dune activities. Extra water containers help with rinsing sand from feet and paws before entering tents or RVs.
Tips from RVers
Level sites available: Most dog friendly campgrounds near Kermit TX provide flat parking areas despite the surrounding dune topography. "Level gravel spots. FHUs were in good order," reports John T. about Tra-Park RV Park.
Gate security at select parks: Some facilities offer enhanced security features. "Nice fully gated park with full hook ups. No facilities yet. Big grassy area with gazebos," notes Ryan M. about Out West RV Resort.
Noise considerations: Highway proximity affects sound levels at most area campgrounds. "Road noise from I-20 - not a bother for us. Rec center across the street is noisy for 10-15 minutes at night when it closes," explains John T.
Sand damage prevention: Cover exposed RV mechanical components and regularly clean air filters when camping in sandhill areas to prevent system damage from fine sand particles.
