Camping near Presidio occurs at elevations ranging from 2,500 to 3,000 feet in the Chihuahuan Desert. Summer temperatures regularly exceed 100°F, while winter nights drop below freezing with minimal rainfall throughout the year. Wind conditions intensify during spring months, requiring secure tent stakes and proper RV positioning to minimize sway.
What to do
Explore scenic drives: River Road (FM 170) connects Presidio to Lajitas through Big Bend Ranch State Park with dramatic elevation changes. "There is one major incline and decline, just west of Madera Canyon at a 15% grade that is not for the faint of heart or an underpowered towing vehicle," notes one camper at Upper & Lower Madera Campground.
Kayak the Rio Grande: Access points near campgrounds allow for water recreation with minimal crowds. "Two of us kayaked the river down to the next camp site and had a good time. We saw horses drinking from the river as well as ducks swimming," reports a visitor at Upper & Lower Madera Campground.
Night sky viewing: The region maintains dark sky protections with minimal light pollution. "This is a GREAT place for stargazing as this and the surrounding area is a designated dark sky," explains a camper at Interior Primitive Sites.
What campers like
Privacy between sites: Many campgrounds offer spread-out camping areas rather than crowded spaces. At Rancho Topanga, "The tent camping area is huge and spread out... Each site has a flat tent pad, picnic table, water, AND trash and recycling!"
Accessible wildlife viewing: Desert animals frequent campgrounds after dark. "Wildlife spotting: skunks and javelinas. You can hear the coyotes yipping and howling in the middle of the night or early in the morning," notes a camper at Upper & Lower Madera Campground.
Convenient dishwashing stations: Some facilities include specialized washing areas. "The bathhouse has showers, toilets, large sinks for washing dishes, and electrical outlets where you can charge your phone," reports a Rancho Topanga visitor.
What you should know
Limited water availability: Many sites require campers to bring their own water supply. At Interior Primitive Sites, "There was no water on site, we had to bring it from the ranger station."
Cell service gaps: Phone coverage is virtually nonexistent throughout the region. "There is absolutely ZERO cell service. You may be able to pick up some phone calling service or even 3G data around Lajitas, but LTE is nonexistent out there," explains a camper at Upper & Lower Madera Campground.
Road conditions vary significantly: Access to some campgrounds requires high-clearance vehicles. At BJs RV Park, "There is a designated camping area that is a sandy/dusty/washed out old parking lot." Interior roads can become challenging after rain.
Tips for camping with families
Reserve well ahead for holiday periods: Campgrounds fill quickly during peak seasons. "We came here after leaving Tascate in the Interior of the BBRSP so after leaving there we went to Fort Leaton and checked in for Lower Madera instead of going all the way over to Barton Warnock," advises one camper.
Stock up on groceries before arrival: Limited shopping options exist in the area. "There's a general store right outside if you need or forgot anything and only about a 20 min drive to Big Bend entrance," notes a visitor at Maverick Ranch RV Park.
Plan for extreme temperature swings: Day-to-night temperature differences can exceed 30°F. "We visited in April and it was very hot in the day. So, you will need to time the visit carefully has the summer temps can exceed 100 most days," warns a camper at Interior Primitive Sites.
Tips from RVers
Check site dimensions before booking: Many RV parks have limited space for larger rigs. "What a great little RV Park! All sites appear to be FHU. Rates are extremely reasonable," reports a visitor at Loma Paloma RV Park.
Prepare for water pressure fluctuations: RVers often experience inconsistent water service. "Water pressure goes low from time to time. No problems with electricity," notes a camper at BJs RV Park.
Consider generator restrictions: Many parks limit when generators can operate. At Croesus Canyon Camps, "There are 2 RV sites with electric and water but this primarily for tent/car/truck camping. There are additional walk-in sites as well."
