Mountain Camping in Texas
Discover the best mountain camping across Texas. Rise above it all in mountain campgrounds. Crisp air, towering peaks, and endless alpine adventure.
Featured Campgrounds
Handpicked destinations that define the region
Chisos Basin Campground (Big Bend, Tx)
Towering volcanic cliffs rise like ancient sentinels around campsites positioned at 5,400 feet, where a rare sky island ecosystem creates an unexpected mountain oasis above the Chihuahuan Desert.
Davis Mountains State Park
Volcanic peaks thrust skyward from the high desert, creating a dramatic mountain sanctuary where rugged terrain and sweeping vistas stretch across West Texas's most distinctive range.
Indian Lodge State Park
Perched in the Davis Mountains at 5,000 feet elevation, this lodge delivers sweeping views of rugged desert peaks that glow amber and crimson at sunset.
About Mountain Camping in Texas
Mountain camping in Texas offers surprisingly diverse alpine and high-elevation experiences across the state's most dramatic landscapes, from the soaring Chisos Mountains in Big Bend National Park to the volcanic peaks of the Davis Mountains and the rolling limestone hills of the Texas Hill Country. While Texas is often associated with flat prairies and coastal plains, the western and central regions harbor genuine mountain terrain with elevations reaching over 7,800 feet at Guadalupe Peak.
Best Time
The ideal window for mountain camping in Texas runs from October through April, when cooler temperatures make high-elevation hiking comfortable and lowland heat becomes manageable. Spring (March-May) brings wildflower blooms across the Hill Country and Big Bend, with bluebonnets, Indian paintbrush, and desert marigolds painting the mountainsides, though spring break crowds pack popular campgrounds.
Scenery Highlights
- Stunning mountain panoramas
- Cool alpine temperatures
- Alpine lakes and meadows
- World-class hiking trails
Explore Mountain Camping in Texas
Browse 20 campgrounds on our interactive map. Filter by amenities, price, ratings, and more.
Plan Your Trip
Popular Activities
Tips & Recommendations
- 1Reserve Chisos Basin Campground six months in advance as it fills quickly year-round due to limited capacity and prime location within Big Bend National Park.
- 2Bring all water you'll need for primitive sites, as many mountain campgrounds have limited or no potable water, especially during drought conditions.
- 3Pack layers for dramatic temperature swings—mountain elevations can experience 40-degree differences between day and night, with freezing temperatures possible even in spring and fall.
- 4Bear canisters or bear-proof food storage is required in the Chisos Mountains due to active black bear populations; never store food in tents or vehicles.
Mountain Camping in Texas FAQ
We've ranked 20+ mountain campgrounds in Texas based on elevation, scenery, and access to trails. Top options offer stunning alpine views and cool summer temperatures.
Mountain camping in Texas requires preparation for cooler temperatures and changing weather. Bring layers, be prepared for afternoon storms, and allow time for altitude acclimation at higher elevations.
Mountain camping season in Texas typically runs June through September, though lower elevations may be accessible earlier. Snow can linger at higher elevations into July.
Popular Texas Campgrounds Book Fast
The best mountain camping in Texas book up quickly. Set up free alerts to catch cancellations.
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Chisos Basin Campground (Big Bend, Tx)
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