Camping options near Odessa, Texas range from established RV parks to unique desert sites. Located at an elevation of around 2,900 feet, the Odessa region experiences hot, dry summers with temperatures frequently exceeding 100°F and mild winters, making spring and fall the most comfortable camping seasons. The area sits within the Permian Basin oil field region, which creates a distinctive camping environment where natural desert landscapes intersect with energy production facilities.
What to do
Sand sledding at Monahans Sandhills: At Monahans Sandhills State Park Campground, you can rent sand discs to sled down the dunes. "You can rent sand discs and sled down the mountains. Definitely recommended to check out for a night or two!" reports Nicole K.
Stargazing opportunities: The desert sky provides excellent star-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," notes Zoey T. about her experience at Monahans Sandhills.
Morning hikes: The cooler morning hours offer the best hiking opportunities in this desert environment. "Hiking up the dunes and watching the sunrise was definitely a once in a lifetime time experience," says Ashley R., who visited Monahans Sandhills during Easter weekend.
What campers like
Well-maintained facilities: Many campgrounds in the area provide clean, functional amenities. At Park Place RV, campers appreciate the "Amazing playground and pool for families beautiful shower facilities, lots of washer and dryers. Full hook ups," according to Stephanie K.
Friendly staff: Customer service stands out at several Odessa TX campgrounds. At Midessa Oil Patch RV Park, one camper reported, "Maintenance helped my partner with our tail lights and refused pay. $40 for a pull through and full hookups. Cheap laundry."
Convenient locations: Many sites provide easy access to services and supplies. Erin H. noted about Midland RV Park: "HEB, Walmart, Home Depot, Lowes, lots of resupply options in the area. We would stay here again."
What you should know
Weather considerations: Summer temperatures frequently exceed 100°F, while spring brings high winds. "One day was so windy. It was rocking my fifth wheel like it's never rocked before," warns Butch K. about his January stay at Monahans Sandhills.
Noise factors: Highway and industrial noise can affect some campgrounds. Charles A. notes that KOA Kampgrounds of America is "Located next to I 20 so get used to lots of truck noise all night long. For some reason even though this is located in the desert, it is covered with mosquitos."
Oil industry presence: Many parks cater to oil field workers with long-term stays. One camper observed about a local RV park: "This is a decent RV park there a lot of full timers here because of the oil industry but it is clean."
Reservation needs: During busy periods, securing sites can be challenging. "We made a reservation online because we knew that we would be arriving late considering that we were leaving after work at 6pm and out drive would be at least 5 hours," advised Troy W.
Tips for camping with families
Pet considerations: Many campgrounds welcome pets but have specific rules. At The Rusty Boot RV Park, they allow pets while maintaining "an overall quiet environment," according to Meesh M., who found the staff "very friendly and welcoming."
Facility cleanliness: For family comfort, prioritize sites with well-maintained bathrooms and showers. Kara S. notes about Monahans Sandhills: "Bathrooms were clean. The showers were great- free and hot water!"
Recreation options: Some campgrounds offer specific family-friendly amenities. "Park itself looks a little rough, and is close to the highway and railroad. The staff is incredibly friendly and helpful," shares Shalise J. about her stay at Midessa Oil Patch RV Park.
Tips from RVers
Site spacing: Many parks have limited space between sites. Bryan W. observed at Midessa Oil Patch RV Park: "Not bad for just an overnight stay, however the lots are small. Had a back-in site. Staff escorted me to the site and helped me back in."
Navigating construction: Road work can complicate arrival. "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. about accessing Midland RV Park.
Hookup availability: Verify what utilities are offered before booking. At Mesquite Oasis RV Park, Nomad Nurse Z notes: "$50 a night with full hookup, but a little pricey in my opinion for what you get. No shaded area. Does have a pool and laundry area."
Level sites: Most campsites require minimal leveling. Christina H. reports about Monahans Sandhills: "They have a good amount of RV spots, with 50 amp, water, and a dump station on the way out. Limited pull through sites that seem to book quickly, but plenty of open back in sites that are nicely spaced."
