Best Campgrounds near Presidio, TX
Camping near Presidio, Texas encompasses a range of desert experiences from developed RV parks within town limits to remote primitive sites along the Rio Grande. The area serves as a gateway to Big Bend Ranch State Park, which Texas Parks and Wildlife describes as "the other side of nowhere." Several RV parks provide full hookups and amenities in Presidio itself, including Loma Paloma RV Park and Desert & Sierra Panorama RV Park, which sits on a hill overlooking the town. These established campgrounds offer a convenient base for exploring the surrounding wilderness while maintaining access to basic services.
Road conditions and vehicle requirements vary dramatically throughout the region. Highway 170 between Presidio and Lajitas features a scenic drive along the Rio Grande but includes a challenging 15% grade near Madera Canyon that requires caution for RVs and trailers. Interior primitive sites in Big Bend Ranch State Park demand high-clearance vehicles, with many requiring 4x4 capability. Cell service is virtually nonexistent throughout most of the camping areas, with limited connectivity available in Presidio and at visitor centers. Summer temperatures regularly exceed 100°F, while winter nights can drop below freezing, sometimes reaching as low as 15°F according to camper reports.
The camping options reflect the stark contrast between convenience and wilderness immersion. RV parks in Presidio provide full hookups, laundry facilities, and showers, making them suitable for travelers seeking amenities or passing through to Big Bend National Park. As one camper noted, "Not much to do here in Presidio, but this makes a great stop over for heading to/from Big Bend NP." In contrast, the primitive sites along the Rio Grande offer unparalleled solitude and stargazing opportunities. Riverside campgrounds like Lower Madera provide picnic tables with sun shades and fire rings, though potable water is only available at visitor centers. Backcountry permits are required for primitive camping, with sites costing approximately $12 per night plus park entrance fees unless covered by a Texas State Parks Pass.
