Best Campgrounds near Balmorhea, TX

Camping near Balmorhea, Texas sits at the crossroads of West Texas desert landscapes and mountain terrain, with options ranging from established RV parks to state park campgrounds. Balmorhea State Park Campground offers year-round camping with full hookups for RVs and tent sites, while Saddleback Mountain RV Park provides convenient access for travelers along Interstate 10. The area serves as a strategic base for exploring the Trans-Pecos region, with Davis Mountains State Park located approximately 30 miles southwest offering higher elevation camping. Balmorhea Lake Public Campground provides a more rustic experience for those seeking proximity to water, though with fewer amenities than the state park.

The climate in this region features hot summers and mild winters, making spring and fall ideal for camping. Summer temperatures regularly exceed 95°F, while winter nights can drop below freezing. Fire bans are common during dry periods, particularly in summer months. Cell service varies significantly throughout the area, with better coverage in established campgrounds and near highways. Most developed campgrounds in the region remain open year-round, though reservations are recommended during peak travel seasons. The rocky desert terrain can make tent staking difficult, with campers often needing specialized stakes or alternative anchoring methods.

RV campers will find several full-hookup options with varying levels of amenities. According to reviews, Saddleback Mountain RV Park offers "large, long spots" with reliable utilities at reasonable rates, making it popular for overnight stays. The higher elevation Davis Mountains State Park provides a cooler alternative during summer months, with wildlife viewing opportunities including mule deer and javelinas. The region is known for exceptional stargazing due to minimal light pollution, with the McDonald Observatory located nearby offering star parties. Visitors note the area serves as an excellent hub for day trips to attractions in Fort Davis, Marfa, and Alpine, with Balmorhea's spring-fed swimming pool being a popular destination during warmer months.

Best Camping Sites Near Balmorhea, Texas (27)

    1. Saddleback Mountain RV Park

    13 Reviews
    Balmorhea, TX
    5 miles
    Website
    +1 (432) 448-1550

    $20 / night

    "We stayed here two nights while we swam in balmorhea. We pulled in late at night and we just placed $20 in the office , picked a spot and slept."

    "We actually stayed here for a week, part of relocating from Texas over to the desert for the winter. 

    The Pros:

    • Easy in and out. "

    2. Balmorhea State Park Campground

    8 Reviews
    Balmorhea, TX
    4 miles
    Website
    +1 (432) 375-2370

    $175 / night

    "I have lived in Texas 50 yrs and had never been to West Texas...Mind BLOWN!!! We went in January and, while cold the first part of the week...17 degrees...being Texas, it was 80 by Friday...lol!"

    "Great stop passing through Texas."

    3. Davis Mountains State Park Campground

    54 Reviews
    Fort Davis, TX
    29 miles
    Website
    +1 (432) 426-3337

    $10 - $25 / night

    "First off, drive in one route, then leave another way. Lots to see. (Keep an eye out for wild bores! Almost hit two on drive in) I entered from the north in Kent on TR-118 S."

    "With close proximity to McDonald Observatory, Balmorhea, Alpine, Marathon, Marfa, and even close enough for a day trip to Big Bend & Terlingua, this campground is tough to beat."

    4. Balmorhea Lake Public Campground

    2 Reviews
    Balmorhea, TX
    2 miles
    Website
    +1 (432) 375-2238

    $15 / night

    5. Roper’s RV Park

    1 Review
    Balmorhea, TX
    0 miles
    Website
    +1 (432) 249-1374

    $30 / night

    6. Davis Mountain RV Park

    18 Reviews
    Fort Davis, TX
    27 miles
    Website
    +1 (432) 249-0327

    $20 / night

    "Very well maintained, FULL hook ups, nice views and so close to tons of trails and scenery. We even saw deer a few nights wandering through."

    "New plantings around. A bit of traffic noise but almost no traffic."

    7. Historic Prude Ranch

    5 Reviews
    Fort Davis, TX
    29 miles
    Website
    +1 (432) 426-3201

    "Close to Fort Davis, McDonald Observatory. Not far from Balmorhea, Marfa."

    "If you are from Texas, then you already know the legend that is Prude Ranch. I'm not sure when they added RV spots to the Ranch but you can't imagine how excited I was to find out they had."

    8. Madera Canyon Roadside Park Dispersed

    3 Reviews
    Fort Davis, TX
    29 miles

    "This is a spectacular location for star gazing. It's also close to the McDonald Observatory. This is an important historical site and I would strongly recommend getting a tour."

    "super quiet. right off the highway, but very little traffic. pretty level spots. i take my converted cargo trailer often. "

    9. Hilltop RV Park

    24 Reviews
    Fort Stockton, TX
    48 miles
    +1 (432) 336-6090

    $46 / night

    "All of the property is very dusty, like all of west Texas. Close to town, but not too close. Bathrooms clean. Pool was nice, too. Easy on/off I-10. Nice manager showed us to our site."

    "Cool metal art all around the campground. Great sunset. Pretty windy, but that’s west Texas."

    10. Fort Davis Inn & RV Park

    2 Reviews
    Fort Davis, TX
    27 miles
    Website
    +1 (432) 426-2112
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Showing results 1-10 of 27 campgrounds

Recent Reviews near Balmorhea, TX

194 Reviews of 27 Balmorhea Campgrounds



Guide to Balmorhea

Camping near Balmorhea, Texas, offers a unique blend of natural beauty and outdoor activities. Whether you're looking to pitch a tent or park your RV, there are several campgrounds that cater to different needs and preferences.

What to do:

  • Swimming at Balmorhea State Park: This park features a natural spring pool that’s perfect for cooling off. One visitor mentioned, “Love the natural spring pool. It was our first time coming after renovation and it’s still beautiful.”
  • Hiking in the Davis Mountains: Explore the many trails available in the nearby Davis Mountains. A camper shared, “Davis Mountains is truly amazing. A great blend of high desert mountains, endless night skies, and incredibly friendly people.”
  • Stargazing: The clear skies in this area make it a great spot for stargazing. One reviewer noted, “Great view of the sky so if you are a star lover you will love this place.”

What campers like:

  • Friendly Atmosphere: Campers often mention the welcoming vibe. One camper said, “The staff was very friendly” at the Historic Prude Ranch.
  • Clean Facilities: Many appreciate the cleanliness of the campgrounds. A visitor at Davis Mountains State Park Campground remarked, “Clean showers except my wife got locked in the bathroom.”
  • Variety of Sites: Campers enjoy the range of options available, from tent sites to RV hookups. One camper noted, “In west Texas lots of site variety- tents, trailers, rvs.”

What you should know:

  • Limited Amenities at Some Campgrounds: Not all campgrounds offer extensive facilities. A camper at Saddleback Mountain RV Park mentioned, “This is a basic CG with no internet.”
  • Road Noise: Some campgrounds are near highways, which can lead to noise. A visitor at Davis Mountain RV Park said, “Lots of road noise, goatheads and sand. I won't be back.”
  • Reservations Recommended: Due to the popularity of the area, especially during peak seasons, it’s wise to book in advance. One camper advised, “Remember to reserve way in advance because there are limited sites and they fill so so fast!”

Tips for camping with families:

  • Bring Water Shoes: If you plan to swim, water shoes are a must. A reviewer at Balmorhea State Park suggested, “Also bring water shoes if algae freaks you out, it is everywhere and along the bottom of the pool.”
  • Pack Sunscreen and Bug Spray: Protect your family from the sun and bugs. One camper noted, “Sunscreen and bug spray are a must or you will get eaten by mosquitoes.”
  • Check for Shallow Areas: If swimming with kids, look for shallow spots. A visitor mentioned, “There is a shallow area which is nice (bring floats).”

Tips from RVers:

  • Choose Your Spot Wisely: Some sites may have overgrown weeds or limited access to water. A camper at Saddleback Mountain RV Park advised, “Some are overgrown with weeds and the water isn’t accessible so choose wisely.”
  • Expect Road Noise: If you're sensitive to noise, be prepared. One RV traveler said, “There’s a lot of road noise from I-10.”
  • Enjoy Local Dining: Check out nearby restaurants for meals. A camper shared, “The onsite bar and restaurant isn't bad” at Saddleback Mountain RV Park.

Camping near Balmorhea, Texas, offers a variety of experiences, from swimming in natural springs to hiking in the mountains. With a little planning, you can enjoy a memorable outdoor adventure!

Frequently Asked Questions

What camping is available near Balmorhea, TX?

According to TheDyrt.com, Balmorhea, TX offers a wide range of camping options, with 27 campgrounds and RV parks near Balmorhea, TX and 1 free dispersed camping spot.

Which is the most popular campground near Balmorhea, TX?

According to TheDyrt.com, the most popular campground near Balmorhea, TX is Saddleback Mountain RV Park with a 3.8-star rating from 13 reviews.

Where can I find free dispersed camping near Balmorhea, TX?

According to TheDyrt.com, there is 1 free dispersed camping spot near Balmorhea, TX.

What parks are near Balmorhea, TX?

According to TheDyrt.com, there are 2 parks near Balmorhea, TX that allow camping, notably Bankhead National Forest and Chugach National Forest.