Horse campgrounds near Terlingua, Texas provide variable access for equestrians in an area where daytime temperatures frequently exceed 100°F in summer months. The region sits at elevations ranging from 2,500 to 3,500 feet with minimal annual rainfall, creating harsh desert conditions that horses must be properly conditioned for. Water sources remain minimal throughout most trails and camping areas, with sandy terrain alternating with sharp rocky patches that can challenge even experienced trail horses.
What to do
Desert trail riding: Big Bend Ranch State Park offers extensive trail riding opportunities through remote desert terrain. "We went out here for a four day primitive site stay in Javelin. If you love solitude this place is right up your alley... In four days we saw no one. We heard wildlife (coyotes) but never saw anything," notes Summer H. about Interior Primitive Sites — Big Bend Ranch State Park.
Night sky viewing: The darkness around Terlingua creates exceptional star viewing conditions for equestrians camping overnight. "Stare up into the beautiful night sky to view more stars than you've ever seen," explains John N Liz P., adding that summer visitors should be prepared for extreme temperature changes as "Very hot in the summer. visit in the late fall or early spring."
Backcountry exploration: Experienced riders can access remote areas inaccessible to most vehicles. "This is one of my favorite Texas campsites. If you love the desert and big Texas sunsets this is the place to camp. You will need a high clearance vehicle and experience camping in dispersed desert sites," writes Steve & Ashley G. about their experience at Interior Primitive Sites.
What campers like
Remote isolation: Many equestrian campers value the lack of crowds. At Fresno Vista — Big Bend Ranch State Park, Dash G. notes: "Fresno Vista has a wonderful view! It gets a little windy at night and you have to park your tent pretty far away from the fire ring for flat ground... We stayed over NYE when a cold front swung by - it was brutal but we still loved it. You're so far away from your neighbor which provides quite a bit of solitude."
Natural landscapes: The varied desert terrain provides diverse riding environments. "If you are looking to get out into the backcountry of Big Bend and truly experience its vast remoteness & beauty, then this is one of the best places to do just that," shares Matt T. about the Interior Primitive Sites, mentioning wildlife including "back bears, mountain lions, javelinas, coyotes, big horn sheep, rattle snakes" that riders might encounter.
Geological features: The region's volcanic history created unique formations for trail riders to explore. Neal L. describes a site at Interior Primitive Sites as "Great site tucked in-between foothills. Nice sized space with picnic table and fire pit. Plenty of room for multiple tents and additional vehicles... Old windmill and tank make for nice scenery."
What you should know
Access limitations: Most equestrian-suitable sites require specialized vehicles. At Rincon 1 — Big Bend Ranch State Park, Drew T. explains: "Awesome site deep in BBRSP. Most of the path is easy until you leave normal roads at the La Posta site. After the first descent on a very rocky ledge, its mostly managing to keep on the path and navigate a few obstacles."
Weather challenges: Extreme temperature swings affect horses significantly. "It was an amazing couple of days with views and hikes well worth the visit. It gets crowded during season so you need to get there early cause it's 1st come," advises Dee M. about visiting the region, recommending advanced planning.
Water requirements: Horse owners must transport all water for their animals. Brian V. notes: "There was no water on site, we had to bring it from the ranger station. There also wasn't a lot of shade, despite the shade structure that was on site."
Tips for camping with families
Safety planning: Families with horses need comprehensive emergency plans. Katherine R. shares about Black Dike — Big Bend National Park: "Along with the very literal size requirements of the Chisos Basin Campground, there are other recommendations of the park that one should take very literally. Among these are bring (and consume) enough water, and the 4-wheel drive, high clearance recommendations of certain back-country camping sites."
Alternate accommodations: Consider non-primitive options for less experienced riders. "Great place to stay if you want to get away from it all. Be prepared for slow internet an NO Cell Signal at all. We stayed on the full hookup side of the road. The other side has better views but I don't believe there are any sewer connections," reports Gus S. about Stillwell Store & RV Park.
Trail difficulty assessment: Ensure trails match rider experience levels. "The hiking is incredible & the wildlife is amazing, back bears, mountain lions, javelinas, coyotes, big horn sheep, rattle snakes, are just some of the wildlife you might encounter," warns Matt T. about Interior Primitive Sites, emphasizing the importance of wildlife awareness when bringing horses.
Tips from RVers
Horse trailer parking: Few RV sites accommodate large horse trailers. "The full hookup sites, which we had originally booked, are up by the store and are fairly cramped with limited views. However, the Electric & Water only hookups across the street offer much better views and even though the campground is set up as a gravel parking lot to pack people in," explains Adam V. about Stillwell Store & RV Park.
Water conservation: RV water tanks won't last long for horses in this climate. "Maybe 10-12 PSI at best. It is well water and even with a high-end filter, even the water tasted 'dusty.' We set up an outdoor shower tent next to our camper and were able to camp for an entire week without needing to dump since we did all showers outside," Adam V. adds.
Site selection: Choose sites with room for portable corrals. "This is a great site for big rigs. We didn't have any problems getting our 36ft fifth wheel to the site. It's close to the main road but not too close. Be aware that back country sites like this one must be reserved on Recreation.gov," advises Peggy about Hannold Draw — Big Bend National Park.
