Camping cabins near Marfa, Texas provide visitors shelter in an area where temperatures can fluctuate dramatically, with summer highs reaching 95°F and winter nights dropping below freezing. The Davis Mountains region sits at elevations between 4,000-6,000 feet, creating a climate island with vegetation distinct from the surrounding Chihuahuan Desert. Most cabin accommodations in the area require advance bookings due to limited availability, especially during peak seasons.
What to Do
Stargazing experiences: The area around Marfa features some of the darkest night skies in the continental United States. Marathon Motel & RV Park offers unique astronomy programs. "The stars were truly spectacular, but too cold for me. During the day we explored Big Bend, which was convenient to access from the RV park," reports one visitor, while another notes, "Dark sky's! We stumbled in this place on the way to Austin from big bend. The camp is in a dark sky reserve and had an astral photographer there showing us the telescopes. Pretty unforgettable!"
Horseback riding opportunities: Cabins and traditional accommodations near Fort Davis provide equestrian experiences for visitors. At Historic Prude Ranch, you can explore the surrounding landscape on horseback. One visitor shared, "My son and I took two, two-hour trail rides with our Wrangler Andy who was a wealth of information." The ranch offers guided trail rides suitable for beginners and experienced riders alike.
Swimming in desert springs: About 75 miles from Marfa, Balmorhea State Park offers a refreshing contrast to the arid desert landscape. "Spring Fed Oasis pool is cool as well. Coming during the week it isn't busy & can enjoy it better," says one camper. Another adds, "The spring stays between 73-76 year round! My Husband even braved the cold and jumped in."
What Campers Like
Desert design aesthetics: El Cosmico provides accommodations with distinctive desert styling. One camper describes, "They have a really cool shop with clothing, books, etc, and the staff was very friendly with great recommendations with things to do and where to eat." Another notes, "By far the most exciting for me was the outdoor private shower. Also roofless but covered in vines and outdoor string lights. I could have showered for hours."
Wildlife viewing opportunities: Cabin stays offer chances to observe local wildlife. "We camped here for three nights. Great spot, deer came through camp every evening. We watched the horses in the pasture," notes a visitor to Historic Prude Ranch. The natural setting attracts various wildlife, particularly during early morning and evening hours.
Outdoor shower experiences: Several accommodations feature unique outdoor bathing facilities. A visitor to Marathon Motel & RV Park shared, "Perhaps the coolest thing we enjoyed was using their new private outdoor showers where you can look up and stargaze while soaking in warm water getting all clean. Truly a unique experience for the books."
What You Should Know
Water availability concerns: The desert environment creates challenges with water quality and availability. At Marathon Motel, one camper notes, "The only thing that wasn't great is that the water is hard and has a very high mineral content. It's totally fine to drink, but if you're sensitive to that kinda thing, take that into consideration. It does leave a white crust on stuff."
Weather preparation essential: Temperature fluctuations require proper planning. A visitor to La Vista RV Park experienced typical regional conditions: "March 1, 2021. Small RV park off Rt. 118 ten minutes south of Alpine. Self check in... Rough gravel pull through was level and had a few evergreen trees on one side. WiFi weak and unreliable from my site #13."
Reservation systems vary: Many properties utilize different booking processes. At El Cosmico, "The self check in was great- book on Hipcamp.com, show up, grab a map of the campground and find your spot on your own." Other locations may require direct contact or have specific arrival procedures.
Tips for Camping with Families
Seasonal considerations: Plan family visits strategically based on weather patterns. A review for Balmorhea State Park Campground notes, "We went in January and, while cold the first part of the week...17 degrees...being Texas, it was 80 by Friday...lol! The spring stays between 73-76 year round!" Spring and fall typically offer more moderate temperatures.
Noise management: Be aware that some properties experience varied noise levels. At El Cosmico, one camper observed, "The only problem I find with these types of campgrounds is that there are a lot of novice campers who are inconsiderate of their noise late at night and in the early morning. Some people do actually want to sleep!"
Playground availability: Some locations offer additional recreational facilities. A visitor to Balmorhea noted, "Sites are nice and playground/group areas have nice green grass. Electric & water hookup. Staff was also great at check in." Facilities with dedicated play areas can help keep younger children entertained.
Tips from RVers
Road access considerations: Some properties have challenging approach roads. About Marfa Yacht Club, a visitor observed, "The one downside was the road leading to the MYC--it was gravel and when we were there, suffered from washboarding that really jostled things around in the trailer. More than an annoyance than anything."
Hookup varieties: Electric service varies across properties. At Lost Alaskan RV Park, a camper reported, "The park had a friendly staff, clean laundry, and a nice bathroom. We will return to this park the next time we head towards Big Bend!" Sites typically offer 30 or 50 amp service with corresponding price differences.
Wi-Fi reliability factors: Internet connectivity fluctuates throughout the region. At Marfa Yacht Club, "Sites are thoughtfully laid out: even though they're close together, they're staggered so each site has unobstructed views. There are structures at each site for the RVs—would definitely help with the heat in the summer." Many properties offer Wi-Fi but signal strength varies by location and usage levels.
