Nestled in the high desert of West Texas at an elevation of 4,685 feet, Marfa combines artistic appeal with rugged natural beauty. The area experiences dramatic temperature shifts with daytime highs often 30°F warmer than nighttime lows, creating unique camping conditions. Summers can reach 95°F while winter nights frequently drop below freezing, requiring campers to prepare for temperature extremes.
What to do
Stargazing opportunities: The Marathon Motel & RV Park offers exceptional dark sky viewing with resident astronomers. "This place is amazing! It's the perfect place to stop for a night or even a week if you're in the area... Plus a beautiful courtyard in the center of the property. There's also the Dark Sky Park right there where you can check out some awesome telescopes," notes a camper.
Horseback riding: Experience authentic West Texas on horseback at Historic Prude Ranch. "My son and I took two, two-hour trail rides with our Wrangler Andy who was a wealth of information," shares one visitor. Trail rides typically cost $50-75 per person and provide unique perspectives of the landscape.
Spring swimming: The spring-fed pool at Balmorhea State Park Campground stays between 73-76°F year-round. "What an awesome spring fed pool! So crazy that this wetland and springs are in the middle of the desert," writes one camper. The pool reaches depths of approximately 25 feet and features native fish.
Wildlife viewing: Several campgrounds offer opportunities to observe local wildlife. "We watched the horses in the pasture. Staff was very friendly. Close to Fort Davis, McDonald Observatory. Not far from Balmorhea, Marfa," notes a visitor to Historic Prude Ranch.
What campers like
Unique outdoor showers: Marathon Motel & RV Park features distinctive open-air bathing. "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," a camper shares.
Yurt camping in Marfa, Texas: El Cosmico offers distinctive yurt accommodations alongside other options. "Punchline: super hip launchpad to check out the rest of the Marfa art scene... In addition, they have some nicely restored trailers. It is super close to the middle of town and is a Marfa art destination in its own right," notes one visitor. Yurts typically rent for $85-150 per night.
Community spaces: Campers appreciate the social areas available. "The camping area has tables, trees for shade, and a hammock grove. 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," explains a visitor describing El Cosmico's amenities.
Desert courtyard fires: Marathon Motel provides communal evening gathering spaces. "The courtyard is beautiful and they let the guests start the fireplace and bonfires at will. The lights at night are so cool and makes the experience feel very special," mentions a camper.
What you should know
Temperature fluctuations: Desert nights can be extremely cold even when days are warm. "We were here in November and the place was nearly empty. I liked the idea but could not help to think this place lacked authenticity... You will need to plan your visit if you are camping. Marfa can be quite chilly in the late fall and winter and very hot in the summer," warns an El Cosmico visitor.
Water quality issues: Some locations have mineral-heavy water. "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," notes a Marathon Motel & RV Park camper.
Noise considerations: Some campgrounds experience noise issues. "It was loud all night from parties across the street and then some people partying in the parking lot at 4am. Obviously that is not the facilities fault, but so unpleasant," reports one El Cosmico visitor.
Maintenance varies: Facilities may need updating at some locations. "Balmorhea State Park... Needs landscape maintenance," notes a recent visitor, while another El Cosmico camper mentioned, "The bathroom and kitchen facilities have not been well maintained and are now in my opinion gross."
Tips for camping with families
Spacious safari tents: El Cosmico offers larger accommodations suitable for families. "Tucked away in Marfa, el cosmico is an excellent retreat from the city. With traditional bring your own tent spaces to Safari tents, yurts and old-school RVs. They have a space for what you are yearning for," shares a visitor.
Pool activities: Balmorhea State Park Campground provides family-friendly water recreation. "Very clean campground! Sites are nice and playground/group areas have nice green grass... Spring Fed Oasis pool is cool as well. Coming during the week it isn't busy & can enjoy it better," advises a camper.
Ranch activities: Historic Prude Ranch combines accommodation with educational opportunities. "If you are from Texas, then you already know the legend that is Prude Ranch... This isn't your average RV park. Prude Ranch is known statewide for its summer camp which sees hundreds of kids over 4 to 8 weeks in the summer," explains one visitor.
Nearby attractions: Access to regional sites enhances family trips. "We camped here to visit Big Bend NP, 70 miles away. We had a nice visit, Marathon was in process of a bit of a revival so I'd be interested how it ends up," shares a Marathon Motel visitor.
Tips from RVers
Leveling requirements: Some sites require equipment adjustments. "Our spot was a back in and did require leveling, but had full hook ups," notes a visitor to Historic Prude Ranch, while another mentions, "We camped at the lower site which took a little bit of leveling (6" in the front and 2" passenger)."
Site selection strategy: Location within campgrounds affects experience. "We stayed in the back corner camping area... Very clean bathrooms and showers were included. Our tentsite had a flat tent pad and picnic table," advises a visitor to Marathon Motel & RV Park.
Full hookup availability: Pecan Grove RV Park offers complete services. "Very laid back place walkable to lots of good stuff. We will definitely be back," notes a visitor. The park provides water, electric, and sewer connections.
Parking alternatives: El Cosmico offers various options for different vehicles. "I reserved via Hipcamp to 'self camp' in the gravel parking lot for $20/night. No hook ups, but generator use is allowed. Campers also have access to the on site facilities which include showers, potable water (not to fill tank), hammocks and grounds," shares one RVer.
