When planning a trip to Big Bend National Park, one of the most crucial decisions you’ll make is where to stay. The park’s remote location in southwest Texas means that accommodations can be limited, and choosing the right place to rest your head can make all the difference in your overall experience. In this guide, we’ll explore the best places to stay near Big Bend National Park, from cozy bed and breakfasts to rustic campgrounds and everything in between.
Why Choosing the Right Accommodation Matters
Big Bend National Park is a vast and beautiful destination, with over 800,000 acres of stunning landscapes, hiking trails, and scenic vistas to explore. However, its remote location means that amenities can be scarce, and visitors need to plan carefully to ensure they have access to the necessities. By choosing the right accommodation, you can ensure that you’re well-rested and ready to take on the park’s many adventures, from hiking and camping to birdwatching and stargazing.
Overview of Accommodation Options
In this guide, we’ll cover a range of accommodation options near Big Bend National Park, including:
- Hotels and lodges within the park and in nearby towns
- Cozy bed and breakfasts and vacation rentals
- Rustic campgrounds and RV parks
- Backcountry camping options for the more adventurous
Whether you’re looking for luxury and comfort or a more rustic, back-to-nature experience, we’ll help you find the perfect place to stay near Big Bend National Park.
Best Places to Stay Near Big Bend National Park
Big Bend National Park, located in southwest Texas, is a popular destination for outdoor enthusiasts and nature lovers. The park offers a wide range of activities, including hiking, camping, birdwatching, and stargazing. However, finding the right place to stay near the park can be a challenge, especially during peak season. In this article, we will explore the best places to stay near Big Bend National Park, including hotels, lodges, campgrounds, and vacation rentals.
Hotels and Lodges
There are several hotels and lodges near Big Bend National Park that offer comfortable accommodations and amenities. Here are some of the top options: (See Also: Melbourne Best Places To Stay)
- Chisos Mountains Lodge: Located within Big Bend National Park, Chisos Mountains Lodge is a convenient and comfortable option for visitors. The lodge offers rooms with private balconies, a restaurant, and a general store.
- Big Bend Motor Inn: Located in the nearby town of Terlingua, Big Bend Motor Inn offers simple but clean and comfortable rooms, an outdoor pool, and a restaurant.
- Lajitas Golf Resort and Spa: Located about 20 miles from Big Bend National Park, Lajitas Golf Resort and Spa offers luxurious rooms, a golf course, a spa, and several dining options.
- El Camino Del Rio: Located in the town of Study Butte, El Camino Del Rio offers basic but clean and comfortable rooms, an outdoor pool, and a restaurant.
Campgrounds
If you prefer to rough it and camp under the stars, there are several campgrounds near Big Bend National Park that offer basic amenities and stunning views. Here are some of the top options:
- Chisos Basin Campground: Located within Big Bend National Park, Chisos Basin Campground offers 60 campsites with amenities like flush toilets, showers, and potable water.
- Cottonwood Campground: Also located within the park, Cottonwood Campground offers 24 campsites with amenities like flush toilets and potable water.
- Rio Grande Village Campground: Located near the Rio Grande River, Rio Grande Village Campground offers 25 campsites with amenities like flush toilets, showers, and potable water.
- Barton Warnock Visitor Center Campground: Located near the park’s entrance, Barton Warnock Visitor Center Campground offers 10 campsites with basic amenities like picnic tables and grills.
Vacation Rentals
If you prefer to stay in a home or cabin rather than a hotel or campground, there are several vacation rentals near Big Bend National Park that offer more space and amenities. Here are some of the top options:
| Property | Location | Amenities |
|---|---|---|
| Big Bend Casita | Terlingua | Private patio, full kitchen, Wi-Fi, BBQ grill |
| Rio Grande River House | Lajitas | Private patio, Wi-Fi, BBQ grill, hot tub |
| Chisos Mountains Cabin | Study Butte | Private patio, Wi-Fi, BBQ grill, hot tub |
Vacation rentals offer more space and amenities than hotels and campgrounds, making them a great option for families or groups of friends. Be sure to book well in advance, especially during peak season.
Towns and Communities Near Big Bend National Park
There are several towns and communities near Big Bend National Park that offer amenities and activities. Here are some of the top options:
- Terlingua: A small town located about 10 miles from Big Bend National Park, Terlingua offers amenities like restaurants, shops, and a post office.
- Study Butte: A small community located about 15 miles from Big Bend National Park, Study Butte offers amenities like a general store and a restaurant.
- Lajitas: A small town located about 20 miles from Big Bend National Park, Lajitas offers amenities like a golf course, a spa, and several restaurants.
- Alpine: A small town located about 30 miles from Big Bend National Park, Alpine offers amenities like a hospital, a library, and several restaurants.
Things to Consider When Choosing a Place to Stay
When choosing a place to stay near Big Bend National Park, there are several things to consider. Here are some key factors to keep in mind: (See Also: Best Places To Stay In Frankfurt Germany)
- Distance to the park: If you want to spend most of your time exploring Big Bend National Park, consider staying in a hotel or lodge within the park or in a nearby town like Terlingua or Study Butte.
- Amenities: If you need amenities like a pool, restaurant, or Wi-Fi, consider staying in a hotel or lodge that offers these services.
- Cost: If you’re on a budget, consider staying in a campground or vacation rental, which can be more affordable than hotels and lodges.
- Activities: If you want to participate in activities like hiking, birdwatching, or stargazing, consider staying in a place that offers guided tours or equipment rentals.
Recap
In conclusion, there are several great places to stay near Big Bend National Park, including hotels, lodges, campgrounds, and vacation rentals. each with its own unique amenities and advantages. When choosing a place to stay, consider factors like distance to the park, amenities, cost, and activities. and choose the option that best fits your needs and preferences.
Whether you’re looking for a luxurious lodge or a rustic campground, there’s a place to stay near Big Bend National Park that’s right for you. so start planning your trip today and get ready to explore one of the most beautiful national parks in the country!
Frequently Asked Questions: Best Places to Stay Near Big Bend National Park
What are the closest towns to Big Bend National Park?
There are three main towns near Big Bend National Park: Terlingua, Study Butte, and Marathon. Terlingua is the closest, located just 10 miles from the park’s west entrance, while Study Butte is about 15 miles away. Marathon is a bit farther, about 45 miles from the park’s north entrance. Each town offers a range of accommodations, from camping to luxury resorts.
Are there any lodges or resorts within Big Bend National Park?
Yes, there are three lodges within Big Bend National Park: Chisos Mountains Lodge, Rio Grande Village, and Cottonwood Campground. Chisos Mountains Lodge is the most popular, offering comfortable rooms and a restaurant. Rio Grande Village has simple rooms and a camp store, while Cottonwood Campground is a primitive camping site. Keep in mind that these options are limited and often book up quickly, especially during peak season.
What are some budget-friendly options for staying near Big Bend National Park?
If you’re on a budget, consider staying in one of the many campgrounds or RV parks in the surrounding towns. You can also look into vacation rentals, such as cabins or houses, which can often be more affordable than hotels. Additionally, the park itself offers backcountry camping permits for those who want to truly immerse themselves in nature. (See Also: Best Places To Stay In Phuket For Couples)
Can I stay in a nearby city and still visit Big Bend National Park?
While it’s possible to stay in a nearby city like Alpine or Marfa, keep in mind that they are about an hour and a half to two hours away from the park. If you plan to spend multiple days exploring the park, it may be more convenient to stay in one of the closer towns or within the park itself. However, if you’re looking for more amenities or a wider range of accommodations, staying in a nearby city could be a good option.
Do I need to book my accommodations in advance?
Yes, it’s highly recommended to book your accommodations in advance, especially during peak season (October to April). Big Bend National Park is a popular destination, and the surrounding towns have limited options. Booking early will ensure that you get the accommodations you want and avoid sold-out situations. Additionally, some lodges and resorts within the park may have cancellation policies, so be sure to check those before booking.