Terlingua campgrounds sit in the Chihuahuan Desert at approximately 2,700 feet elevation, where temperatures regularly exceed 100°F between May and September. Cell service varies significantly by carrier throughout the area, with strongest coverage concentrated in Study Butte and weakening as you travel further into remote camping areas. RV sites near Terlingua, Texas typically require advance booking during peak season from October through April.
What to do
Hot springs access: From RoadRunner Travelers RV Park, visitors can make the 40-minute drive to the Langford Hot Springs in Big Bend National Park. "We stayed 2 nights while exploring Big Bend Nat'l Park. This was the nicest RV campground we saw in the area," notes Etana.
Hiking to Closed Canyon: Located 25 miles from Lajitas along FM 170, this popular slot canyon trail offers a 1.4-mile round-trip hike with steep rock walls. "Closed Canyon trail is a must see as well as the hoodoos trail," recommends Alex from Big Bend Resort & Adventures.
Stargazing opportunities: Jomommas RV Park features dark-sky compliant lighting for optimal celestial viewing. "Jomommas RV Park has received recognition from the McDonald's Observatory and eartsky.com for their dark sky and star viewing friendly lighting," according to Elena H.
What campers like
Extra space between sites: At Paisano Village RV Park & Inn, sites are arranged for privacy. "Sites are level with cement sitting area, picnic table, and firepit," reports Rich J., who appreciates the thoughtful layout.
Desert wildlife viewing: Rio Grande Village RV Campground offers excellent opportunities to spot native species. "Great bird watching opportunities. Beautiful night skies! Old facilities are maintained but full of bugs especially spiders," notes Stephanie J., highlighting the natural desert ecosystem.
Community atmosphere: Many RV parks host regular social events. "We spent 1 night dry camping as they were full and 1 night with hook-ups. Both were excellent. Very neat, clean, sites reasonably spaced apart. Great view of mountain, open and spacious feeling," shares Etana about RoadRunner Travelers RV Park.
What you should know
Water conservation measures: Most campgrounds in the area enforce strict water usage policies. "We stayed in Lajitas at their Maverick Ranch RV park, which is right across the road from the resort. This park is about a 30 minute drive to the entrance to the national park, but just a few minutes from the state park," explains Gari-Ann L.
Limited services: BJs RV Park offers more basic amenities than some competitors. "The Recreation building has 3 complete washrooms with showers; a community kitchen with a fridge and microwave; a variety of cookware and dinnerware; and 2 sets of washers and dryers," notes Allison N.
Noise considerations: Some RV parks experience noise from nearby establishments or highway traffic. "A thing to note is there is a nightclub next door and they were blasting their music until 3am on the Friday that we were there," warns Nina P. about her stay at BJs RV Park.
Tips for camping with families
Dog-friendly options: Maverick Ranch RV Park provides dedicated space for pets. "There's also a dog park with grass, which our dogs were happy about!" shares Gari-Ann L., noting this uncommon desert amenity.
Bathroom access: When camping with children, consider bathroom proximity and quality. "Bathroom and shower area are new and nice. Will definitely stay here again," notes Rich J. about Paisano Village RV Park & Inn.
Swimming opportunities: Some facilities offer swimming options during hot months. "The dog park has water and two picnic tables with sun shades. Multiple poo bag stations around the park and very clean. There's a trail/dirt road to walk from the campground to the Lajitas General Store," explains Jen from Maverick Ranch RV Park.
Tips from RVers
Hookup positioning: Many RV sites near Terlingua, Texas have specific utility layout challenges. "Small sites in a large parking lot. The sewer hookup is built up with a high curb around it so unless your rig is very, very high or your waste flows uphill you won't get your tanks empty," warns Scott from Rio Grande Village RV Campground.
Road considerations: Access roads require careful navigation for larger rigs. "This park is brand new and has a lot of space to roam around on. 40 acres. Easy online booking. All sites are large pull through sites," shares Allison about RoadRunner Travelers RV Park.
Weather preparation: Summer temperatures require adequate cooling capacity. "The RV sites are all gravel and they have a nice dog park. They also have WiFi but we didn't use it so I can't say how strong it was. Both parks are just a short drive away," notes Maggie C.
