Primitive tent camping near Presidio, Texas offers exceptional solitude in the Chihuahuan Desert landscape. Campsites range from accessible drive-in options to remote backcountry locations requiring high-clearance 4x4 vehicles. Most primitive sites sit at elevations between 2,500-4,500 feet, creating significant temperature variations that campers must prepare for during overnight stays.
What to do
Hike the Rancherias Loop Trail: Access the 19-mile trail through Big Bend Ranch State Park to reach the Rancherias Spring campsite. According to visitor Troy W., "The main attraction of this site is the unique opportunity to walk through a cottonwood forest grove in the high mountain desert. There is not much water in this region, but there is apparently sufficient water to sustain a grove of trees."
Explore FM 170 scenic drive: This route between Presidio and Lajitas offers multiple activity options near River District Arenosa. As camper Rick G. notes, "FM 170 between Presidio and LaJitas has plenty of scenery, hiking trails and fishing opportunities."
Experience challenging 4x4 trails: The unmaintained roads to remote sites like Chorro Vista provide adventure before you even camp. "The 4x4 trail to get to the camp site was exhilarating, both the scenery and driving what they call maintained 4X4 road. Want some real fun try the unmaintained 4X4 roads," shares Russell.
What campers like
Private, well-spaced sites: At Rancho Topanga, the layout allows for privacy despite being outside the national park. Camper Melissa W. explains, "Some of the campsites are a little close together but have more space than the established campgrounds within the park would have."
Clean facilities at developed campgrounds: Croesus Canyon Camps offers basic amenities that enhance the camping experience. According to Andrew W., "Lovely outdoor space, great 360 views, and very private. There is only one bathroom stall but it's cute and nice."
Dishwashing stations: This uncommon amenity makes multi-day stays more practical. Kristin K. mentions about Rancho Topanga, "The individual showers have hot water and the dishwashing stations at the bathhouse were something I wish more campgrounds had!"
What you should know
Vehicle requirements are serious: Rangers aren't exaggerating about road conditions. A camper at Fresno Vista reports, "The drive to the site off the main road is truly 4x4 - we barely got away with being in a 2SW SUV."
Water planning is critical: Filtering options are limited at backcountry sites. Troy W. notes at Rancherias Spring, "The spring itself was just a trickle when we visited. We were able to collect and filter water."
Wind conditions: Wind protection should factor into site selection. Dash G. explains about Fresno Vista, "It gets a little windy at night and you have to park your tent pretty far away from the fire ring for flat ground."
Tips for camping with families
Consider alternative sleeping surfaces: Rocky ground makes traditional tent setup challenging. At Rancherias Spring, Troy W. adapted: "The surface on the hill was almost all rock, so instead of tent spikes I used large rocks to secure down my tent."
Plan charging opportunities: Rancho Topanga provides options for keeping devices charged without generators. Charlie H. explains, "They let you charge up from the outlets in the bathhouse, nice patio to chill on while you do so."
Budget-friendly options: Tent camping in this region can be affordable. Russ H. notes about Rancho Topanga, "I am a single camper and Rancho Topango is only $15 a night and you get hot showers and flush toilets and some of the sites have a roof built over the picnic tables to help keep the searing Texas Sun at bay."
Tips for RVers
Location advantages for activities: Staying outside the parks provides flexibility. According to Rick P. at Croesus Canyon Camps, "Great place for tent or car/truck camping. Clean well laid out sites with tremendous views all around. There are 2 RV sites with electric and water but this primarily for tent/car/truck camping."
Proximity to supplies: Since most tent camping Presidio, Texas locations are remote, RVers should know where to restock. About Rancho Topanga, Russ H. advises, "Terilinga Texas is a fun town nearby and there's a place to buy groceries called the Cottonwood general store in Study Butte."
Limited generator use: Some campgrounds restrict generator operation. Charlie H. notes about Rancho Topanga, "I would have given a 5 but for that we can't run our quiet genny during the day to charge batteries and cook, and campsites are pretty snug to each other."
