Texas has loads of rugged landscapes that you’ll never forget.
But where should you go?
Today we’re uncovering some of the best desert camping spots in Texas that you need to try out for yourselves.
From the largest spring fed pool in the world to sand dunes that look like the Sahara Desert, you’ll be sure to find something that you love in this list.
Use the numbers in the map above to help you skip to the places that interest you the most in this post.
With all of these places be ready for hot days and cool nights and pack plenty of water and sunscreen for your trip!
And remember that basically every place on this list is amazing for stargazing at night.
1. Franklin Mountains State Park
Franklin Mountains State Park, located in El Paso, Texas, is a prime destination for desert camping enthusiasts.
This vast park, is one of the largest parks in the U.S. that sits within city limits and it offers 27,000 acres of rugged terrain and stunning vistas.
The park boasts over 100 miles of trails for hiking, mountain biking, and horseback riding, with the North Franklin Mountain peak offering breathtaking views.
Rock climbing is popular in McKelligon Canyon and Sneed’s Cory, and birdwatchers can spot a variety of species, including golden eagles and roadrunners.
Campers can choose from primitive campsites (both walk-in and drive-in), and there are no water or electricity hookups, so come prepared.
More information:
2. Hueco Tanks State Park & Historic Site
Hueco Tanks State Park & Historic Site, also located in El Paso County, Texas, is another fantastic desert camping spot.
Known for its unique rock formations and ancient pictographs, this park offers a unique glimpse into history.
Campers can enjoy 20 campsites, 16 of which have electricity hookups.
You’ll also have water, picnic tables and restrooms nearby.
There’s also a primitive group camping area too.
Activities in the park include hiking, bird watching, and world-class rock climbing, making it a perfect place for adventurers.
The park’s striking landscape is ideal for bouldering, attracting climbers from around the globe.
Just remember that you need a permit to access the North Mountain area on a self-guided visit or you need to book onto a guided tour.
More Information:
- Hueco Tanks State Park & Historic Site – Camping (TPWD)
- Hueco Tanks State Park & Historic Site – Overview (TPWD)
3. Guadalupe Mountains National Park
Guadalupe Mountains National Park, located in West Texas near the New Mexico border, is a top spot for desert camping.
This park is home to the four highest peaks in Texas, offering stunning mountain and desert landscapes.
You might think you’re on another planet with these immense surroundings.
Expect to explore over 80 miles of hiking trails that offers something for everyone.
The McKittrick Canyon Trail is a popular trail that really comes alive in the fall when the leaves change color.
And if you can complete the challenging trek to the top of Guadalupe Peak, you’ll be able to brag that you’ve reached the highest point in Texas!
The park is also known for its diverse wildlife and the world’s most extensive Permian fossil reef.
Campers can choose from 3 developed campgrounds at the park, but one of them can only be used by groups with horses.
Most of the campsites are at Pine Springs campground with some more at the cooler and more secluded Dog Canyon campground.
None of the campsites have electric hookups or showers so keep this in mind.
If you need more amenities then this place might not be the best for your camping adventures.
More information
4. Monahans Sandhills State Park
Now this is a unique place.
Monahans Sandhills State Park, located in West Texas near the town of Monahans, offers a unique desert camping experience among towering sand dunes.
You’ll feel like you’ve been transported to the Sahara desert.
A must do activity here is sandboarding, where you can rent sand disks and slide down the dunes!
You can also enjoy hiking and horseback riding across the ever-changing landscape.
The park’s Dunagan Visitor Center provides insights into the natural and cultural history of the area.
Expect to see diverse wildlife and plants that thrive in this semi-arid environment.
This 3,840-acre park features 25 campsites with water and electricity hookups, perfect for setting up camp and enjoying stunning sunsets.
You’ll also have access to picnic tables, fire rings and restrooms with showers nearby.
There are also 3 equestrian campsites with water.
More information:
5. Balmorhea State Park
If you want to cool down from the Texas heat, then this might just be one of the best places for it.
Balmorhea State Park, located in West Texas near the town of Balmorhea, is a desert camping oasis perfect for a unique adventure.
This park is famous for its massive, crystal-clear spring-fed swimming pool, the largest of its kind in the world!
It covers 1.3 acres and holds 3.5 million gallons of water and it’s been providing gallons of fun to families for generations.
Campers can choose from 34 (1 of which is a group site) campsites with water and electricity, making it easy to relax after a day of fun.
Dive into the pool for swimming, snorkeling, or scuba diving, or explore the park’s restored desert wetlands, home to endangered fish and diverse wildlife.
Hiking and birdwatching are popular activities, with an abundance of bird species to spot.
And don’t forget to stay up to admire the stars at night!
More information:
6. Davis Mountains State Park
Davis Mountains State Park, located in the scenic Davis Mountains of West Texas near Fort Davis, is a desert camping gem.
Expect to explore miles of hiking and mountain biking trails, with the Skyline Drive Trail providing breathtaking views of the rugged landscape.
Birdwatchers will love the park’s bird blind where you can easily spot diverse bird species.
The park also offers horseback riding trails and a historic Indian Lodge for a unique stay.
The lodge was built by the Civilian Conservation Corps in the 1930s and has since been renovated.
This park offers a variety of campsites, from full hookups to primitive hike-in sites, perfect for any camping style.
You’ll also be very close to the Fort Davis National Historic Site which is a must see if you’re into history.
More information:
7. Elephant Mountain WMA
There’s a special animal that you could see here, and it’s not an elephant.
Elephant Mountain WMA, located near Alpine, Texas, is a great spot for desert camping lovers that not everybody knows about.
This wildlife management area is famous for its incredible mountain views and diverse wildlife, including desert bighorn sheep.
While you’re there, hike the beautiful trails and keep your eyes peeled for fascinating birds and other critters.
Since this area is remote, expect gorgeous starry nights and peaceful surroundings far away from city lights.
Pack out what you pack in, because this place is all about enjoying nature responsibly.
Camping here is limited to primitive camping only in the designated areas and you must register to camp here so keep that in mind when planning a visit.
More Information:
8. Big Bend Ranch State Park
Big Bend Ranch State Park, located in far West Texas along the Rio Grande, is a desert camper’s dream.
This massive park, the largest state park in Texas, offers rugged mountains, steep canyons, and breathtaking views that you’ll never forget.
There’s so much to explore, from hiking and mountain biking on over 238 miles of trails to horseback riding and paddling on the Rio Grande.
The park is also an International Dark Sky Park, perfect for stargazing under some of the darkest skies in the country.
Campers can choose from drive-up or hike-in primitive sites, each offering solitude and stunning vistas.
If you prefer having more amenities then another place on this list might be better suited to you.
For example, Terlingua (next place on this list) is just outside Big Bend Ranch State Park and has some decent lodging options.
More Information:
9. Terlingua
Terlingua, located in southwestern Brewster County, Texas, is a quirky desert town perfect for adventurous campers.
Near Big Bend National Park and Big Bend Ranch State Park, this former mining district offers a blend of rugged beauty, rich history and easy access to 2 of the best natural areas in Texas.
Campers can explore the ghost town remnants, hike scenic trails, and enjoy mountain biking through the desert landscape.
Don’t miss rafting or canoeing on the Rio Grande for a splash of excitement.
Expect stunning sunsets and some of the clearest night skies for stargazing.
The town also hosts lively events like the famous Terlingua chili cook-offs and offers unique dining spots like the Starlight Theatre.
One benefit of camping in Terlingua is that you could have access to more amenities than you would at Big Bend Ranch State Park.
As mentioned earlier, at Big Bend Ranch State Park you only have the option of primitive camping.
Some highly rated campgrounds in the Terlingua area include the following:
10. Big Bend National Park
Big Bend National Park, located in Southwest Texas along the Rio Grande, is a premier desert camping destination that you’ll remember forever.
Expect to explore over 200 miles of hiking trails, with must-see spots like the Lost Mine Trail and Santa Elena Canyon.
The park’s diverse ecosystems, ranging from the Chihuahuan Desert to the Chisos Mountains, provide excellent opportunities for wildlife observation and birdwatching.
The Ross Maxwell Scenic Drive is also an absolute must.
Other activities you can enjoy include mountain biking and paddling on the Rio Grande.
This vast park offers a variety of camping options, from developed campgrounds like Chisos Basin and Rio Grande Village to remote backcountry sites for the adventurous.
So whether you need full hook-ups or you like to get a bit closer to nature, you’ll find something suited to you.
More Information:
11. Seminole Canyon State Park & Historic Site
Seminole Canyon State Park & Historic Site, located in Val Verde County, Texas, offers a unique desert camping experience rich in history and natural beauty.
Explore nearly 10 miles of hiking and biking trails, with guided tours available to see ancient rock art in the Fate Bell Shelter.
Expect stunning canyon views and the chance to learn about the area’s early inhabitants through their pictographs.
The park also offers awesome stargazing, birdwatching, geocaching, and a visitor center with educational exhibits.
Seminole Canyon State Park features 46 campsites, ranging from primitive to those with water and electricity, perfect for any camper’s needs.
Plan a trip here so you can sit back and enjoy some beautiful desert sunsets by your tent (or RV).
More information:
12. Palo Duro Canyon State Park
Palo Duro Canyon State Park, located in the Texas Panhandle near Amarillo, is a fantastic spot for desert camping.
Known as the “Grand Canyon of Texas” for being the second largest canyon in the US, it offers stunning red rock formations and dramatic landscapes.
Expect to explore over 30 miles of hiking, biking, and equestrian trails, with the Lighthouse Trail being a must-see for its iconic rock formation.
The park also hosts the outdoor musical drama *Texas*, which is a fun evening activity.
There’s a range of campsites to choose from so everyone should be able to find something suitable for them.
Campers can choose from tent sites, RV spots, and even unique cabins.
You can have water and electricity hookups with RVs up to 60 feet on some campsites.
Most of these campsites will give you access to picnic tables, fire rings and restrooms with showers nearby.
Or if you prefer to get closer to nature there are also some primitive ‘hike-in’ campsites too.
More Information:
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