Camping near Midland, Texas offers a unique West Texas experience with elevations averaging around 2,800 feet above sea level in a semi-arid climate. The Permian Basin region features flat, open terrain with scattered mesquite and occasional sand dune formations. Several campsites near Midland, Texas provide varying degrees of amenities with most campgrounds experiencing extreme temperature shifts from day to night, particularly during spring and fall months.
What to do
Sand sledding in the dunes: At Monahans Sandhills State Park Campground, visitors can rent snow sleds for sand boarding down the dunes. "You can rent sand discs and sled down the mountains. Definitely recommended to check out for a night or two!" notes Nicole K. The park offers a unique landscape where "hiking up the dunes and watching the sunrise was definitely a once in a lifetime experience," according to Ashley R.
Star gazing opportunities: The dark skies around Midland camping areas provide excellent night viewing. "Stars and meteors epic. Close to the highway but secluded," reports Zoey T. about her experience at Monahans Sandhills. The minimal light pollution in this part of Texas creates ideal conditions for astronomical observation when winds are calm.
Supply runs and resupply: When camping at Midessa Oil Patch RV Park, travelers have good access to shopping. "HEB, Walmart, Home Depot, Lowes, lots of resupply options in the area," mentions Erin H. The strategic location between Midland and Odessa gives campers access to both cities for any needed supplies.
What campers like
Clean facilities: Several campgrounds maintain well-kept bathrooms and showers. At Midland RV Park, "bathrooms, showers & laundry are VERY clean and updated. Tokens & quarters are available at the office," according to Erin H. This attention to cleanliness stands out in reviews across multiple sites.
Friendly staff assistance: Many campgrounds feature helpful personnel. At The Rusty Boot RV Park, campers report "very friendly and welcoming staff, very level spots, bathroom was clean and upscale." This sentiment appears in multiple reviews with Meesh M. noting the park would be suitable "for a longer period as well."
Affordability options: Budget-conscious travelers can find reasonable rates. "The price for camping is incredibly cheap, especially for what you're getting!" writes Christina H. about Monahans Sandhills State Park. Some parks also accept discount camping memberships like Passport America for further savings.
What you should know
Oil industry presence: The Permian Basin is active with oil production. "This is Oil Country! As far as the eye can see... and this is basically a field that they've bulldozed and put in full hook ups and rented out monthly to oil field workers. You can smell it on the breeze," explains Lynn G. about Midland East RV Park.
Wind conditions: Strong winds frequently affect camping comfort. Butch K. describes his experience: "One day was so windy. It was rocking my fifth wheel like it's never rocked before." Wind can rapidly change sand dune shapes and create challenging camping conditions.
Road construction challenges: Road work often affects travel routes to campgrounds. "There is a LOT of construction in the area making entry a challenge with some scary U Turns in the city because our Garmin doesn't register it," warns Erin H. Calling ahead for current directions is advisable.
Tips for camping with families
Bring extra water supplies: The dry climate demands additional hydration planning. Have at least one gallon per person per day, plus extra for cooking and washing up. Water conservation becomes essential during extended stays at primitive sites.
Consider timing carefully: Extreme temperatures affect camping comfort substantially. "In January, it gets pretty cold at night around freezing, but warmed up nicely every day," mentions Butch K. about his winter stay. Summer temperatures regularly exceed 100°F during daytime hours.
Seek out laundry facilities: For extended stays, washing capabilities become important. At Goldenrod RV Park & Propane, one long-term resident appreciates that "they have shower houses and a laundry facility. This is a great place to stay at." These amenities make longer family trips more manageable.
Tips from RVers
Site selection for larger rigs: Some campgrounds have limited big rig accessibility. "We booked site 22, a back in site up against a large dune hill. It was not easy to back a 55ft long rig into, probably one of the worst sites for a big rig, but we still managed," shares Christina H. about Monahans Sandhills.
Internet connectivity varies: Wireless access differs significantly between locations. "Surprisingly strong internet" was reported at Midland RV Park, while others note the "WiFi was essentially useless" at Midland East RV Park according to Stuart O.
Check site spacing carefully: Many parks feature close quarters. At Midessa Oil Patch RV Park, Bryan W. notes the "lots are small and cramped" and describes his back-in site as "right by the road" in what appeared to be "like the overflows area." Request specific site information when making reservations.
