Desert camping near Terlingua offers distinctive challenges with temperatures that can reach over 100°F in summer months and drop below 45°F during winter nights. The volcanic terrain creates uneven camping surfaces at most sites, requiring preparation for rocky ground. Many Terlingua campgrounds maintain dark sky policies which restrict outdoor lighting after sunset to protect the exceptional stargazing conditions.
What to do
Fossil hunting excursions: Look for ancient marine fossils in the hills surrounding Coyote Crossing, where campers report finding "millions of years old shells and cool rocks" while exploring the elevated areas of this primitive campground.
Mountain biking access: Set up at Rancho Topanga to access both park systems' trail networks. "This is a great location to mountain bike in Big Bend Ranch State Park and on the Lajitas trail system, but also you're only an hour away from sitting in the Big Bend National Park Chiso basin parking lot to do great hiking," notes one regular visitor.
Dark sky photography: Camp at sites with minimal light pollution for astrophotography. Cottonwood Campground receives praise as "one of the penultimate places on the planet to photograph the Milky Way. Since you are near to Santa Elena canyon you can drive up and get the iconic picture of the Milky Way stretched across it."
South Rim hiking trail: Access this challenging route from Chisos Basin Campground for panoramic views. One hiker describes it as "our 'long hike' — about 12 miles (trail head at the lodge) — it was AMAZING!! Definitely would recommend if you're looking for a longer hike with rewarding views."
What campers like
Level RV pull-through spots: RoadRunner Travelers RV Park features "long pull thru sites that make you feel more spread out. Can't beat this location or the friendly hard working owners." Sites are strategically positioned for maximum spacing, with one camper noting they're "staggered, depending on the size of the RV next to you, you don't feel hemmed in by neighbors."
Quiet evening atmosphere: Many dog friendly campgrounds near Terlingua enforce nighttime quiet policies. At Maverick Ranch RV Park, "the night time no light rule" creates excellent stargazing conditions. A visitor explains, "The park is a dark sky park, so camera are supposed to have exterior lights off after 9 or 10pm so everyone can enjoy the stars."
Access to ghost town amenities: Staying at BJs RV Park provides close proximity to Terlingua's historic attractions. "Terlingua ghost town itself is fun to explore. Many visitors flock to the Starlight Theater (which used to have no roof other than the stars in the sky above). The line to get in is hours long."
Dishwashing facilities: Several pet-friendly accommodations provide dedicated cleaning areas. At Rancho Topanga Campgrounds, campers appreciate the "showers, toilets, large sinks for washing dishes, and electrical outlets where you can charge your phone."
What you should know
Limited water sources: Bring ample containers when staying at primitive sites. At Chisos Basin Campground, "drinking water is also available at a few spots around the campsite," but access points are limited.
Fire restrictions vary seasonally: Check current regulations before arrival as many sites prohibit wood fires during dry periods. One camper at Chisos Basin noted "there were no wood fires when I was there last October" despite fire rings being present at many sites.
Wildlife activity: Secure food properly at all campgrounds to avoid unwanted visitors. At Cottonwood Campground, "if you leave food out you will be visited by skunks, javelinas, raccoons and bears," cautions one experienced visitor.
Extreme desert weather conditions: Sites with shade structures are highly desirable. At Chisos Basin, one camper recommends to "try to get a site with a covered area. Shade is at a premium, so try to get a site with covered area."
Tips for camping with families
River access points: Take children to easily accessible water features near Cottonwood Campground, where "it was a very easy walk to the Rio Grande" according to visitors with young campers.
Communal activities: Several dog-friendly campgrounds near Terlingua host group gatherings. BJs RV Park features a "pavilion is also available and includes tables, chairs, a smoker/cooker and a community fire pit. There are pot lucks and other events to participate in."
Evening wildlife viewing opportunities: Plan supervised twilight nature walks. At Rancho Topanga, "we saw wildlife and amazing sunsets during our visit," with the property layout providing safe viewing areas for children.
Temperature planning: The basin area offers more moderate temperatures for camping with children. "Chisos was a great spot as it was close to a lot of hikes and central so we could adventure in both the western and eastern parts of the park with Chisos as our home base."
Tips from RVers
Reservation timing: Book well ahead for peak seasons at Paisano Village RV Park & Inn, where full hookup sites fill quickly. The campground offers "very nice 50amp, full hook ups" with "easy in, easy out" access, making it a "great homebase for visiting Terlingua & Big Bend."
Connectivity considerations: For remote work needs, select campgrounds with reliable service. RoadRunner Travelers RV Park provides "excellent, strong wifi throughout" according to visitors who depended on connectivity.
Size restrictions matter: When traveling with larger RVs, verify access limitations. At Chisos Basin, one camper explains, "The park service recommends that you not try to navigate the road to the campground with a travel trailer longer than 20 feet, but I didn't have any issues getting in and out with my camper."
Supply planning: Stock up before arrival as services are limited. Big Bend Resort & Adventures offers "a fuel station and small convenience store on the property," but selection is limited compared to larger towns.
