Since Big Bend National Park is over 6 hours by car from my home near Austin, TX, I'm always checking out new places to stay near the park. I discovered lodges, rustic casitas, and desert retreats. Each one offering a peaceful base with starry skies, rugged views, and easy access to the park’s wild beauty.
"Embrace outdoor exploration, scenic solitude, and cozy stays just minutes from breathtaking trails and vistas."
Highlights:
Best Places to Stay Near Big Bend National Park
1. For Park Lovers and Hikers: Chisos Mountains Lodge
© Chisos Mountains Lodge
Location:
Big Bend National Park, TXHighlights:
If you’ve ever dreamed of waking up inside a national park, I think you’ll love staying at Chisos Mountains Lodge. You’ll find it right inside Big Bend—surrounded by towering peaks, starry skies, and unforgettable hiking.What I Love:
You can walk straight from your room to the best trails in the park. I always enjoy the rustic charm of the stone cottages and the peaceful sunrise views over the Chisos Basin.
- Stay in a cozy motel-style room or a rustic stone cottage. You’ll get simple comforts and epic scenery right outside your door.
- Dine without hassle at the on-site restaurant, or stock up at the general store before hitting the trail. I find it super convenient.
- Explore top hikes like Lost Mine and Emory Peak.
- Shop for local goods or park gear at the gift shop. I always find something unique to take home.
- Soak in the wide-open views and watch for wildlife right from your porch or a nearby overlook. I think you’ll find it unforgettable.
Address:
Chisos Mountains Lodge, 1 Basin Rural Station, Big Bend National Park, TX 79834Phone: 432-477-2291
2. For Luxury Seekers and Golfers: Lajitas Golf Resort and Spa
© Lajitas Golf Resort and Spa
Location:
Lajitas, TXHighlights:
When I’m craving luxury in the Texas wilderness, I head to Lajitas Golf Resort and Spa. You can find it tucked between Big Bend National Park and Big Bend Ranch State Park, and I think you’ll love how it mixes high-end comfort with desert adventure.What I Love:
I always enjoy a round of championship golf with stunning desert views, horseback rides through canyon trails, and spa treatments that help me relax after a long day in the sun.
- Play on the 18-hole championship golf course surrounded by sweeping desert scenery. I think you’ll be impressed by the views alone.
- Ride with expert guides at the full-service equestrian center. I’ve taken scenic horseback tours you won’t forget.
- Experience true Western fun with cowboy action shooting and the five-stand sporting clay range. You’ll feel like you’ve stepped into another time.
- Unwind at the spa, where I’ve found desert-inspired treatments that melt the stress away.
- Explore the trails nearby by foot or bike, then end your evening stargazing under one of the clearest skies in Texas. I think you’ll find it magical.
Address:
Lajitas Golf Resort and Spa, 100 Main St, Lajitas, TX 79852Phone: 432-424-5000
3. Motel Near Big Bend For Budget Travelers: Chisos Mining Co. Motel
© Chisos Mining Co. Motel
Location:
Terlingua, TXHighlights:
When I want a simple, homegrown place to stay near Big Bend, I choose Chisos Mining Co. Motel. You’ll find it just minutes from the parks, and I think you’ll love how cozy and convenient it feels after a day of exploring.What I Love:
I’ve stayed in everything from a single room to a full house here. You can find exactly what works for your group, and the local hospitality makes it feel like home.
- Stay in a single room, a cozy cabin, a roomy condo, or even a whole house—there’s an option for every traveler and budget.
- Cool off in your air-conditioned room after a long day in the desert sun. I always appreciate that comfort.
- Explore Big Bend National Park or Big Bend Ranch State Park—they’re both just a short drive away. I love how easy it is to get to the trailheads.
- Relax knowing you’re supporting a long-standing, locally owned spot that’s part of the Terlingua community. I think that adds a lot of heart to your stay.
- Stargaze under some of the darkest skies in the country. I always take time to sit outside and take in the stars right from my porch or patio.
Address:
Chisos Mining Co. Motel, 23280 FM170, Terlingua, TX 79852Phone: 432-371-2254
If you're interested in photography, watch this video about taking photos in Big Bend National Park.
Family-friendly Hotels Near Big Bend:
4. For Laid-Back Travelers: El Dorado Hotel
© El Dorado Hotel
Location:
Terlingua, TXHighlights:
When I want a stay full of personality, cold drinks, and easy access to Big Bend, I choose El Dorado Hotel. You’ll find it right in the middle of Terlingua Ghost Town, and I think you’ll love the funky, welcoming vibe.What I Love:
I always enjoy the live music at the High Sierra Bar & Grill. You can stay in anything from a comfortable king room to a quirky tour bus suite. I think you’ll love how close it is to both Big Bend parks too.
- Stay in a king room or try the converted tour bus suite. I’ve found each one air-conditioned and full of character.
- Dine & unwind at the High Sierra Bar & Grill. You can count on daily food, beer, and live music to keep things lively.
- Explore Big Bend National Park just 10 minutes away, or head 20 minutes to Big Bend Ranch State Park. I love the quick access.
- Soak up the creative energy of Terlingua Ghost Town. I always find something new and unexpected around every corner.
- Kick back after a hike or road trip. This spot makes it easy to relax and enjoy the spirit of West Texas.
Address:
El Dorado Hotel, 100 Terlingua Ghost Town, Terlingua, TX 79852Phone: 432-371-2111
5. Hotel Near Big Bend For Historic Charm Seekers: Gage Hotel
© Gage Hotel
Location:
Marathon, TXHighlights:
When I want to slow down and connect with the spirit of West Texas, I stay at the Gage Hotel. You’ll find historic elegance, peaceful desert views, and authentic Southwestern charm all in one place. I think you’ll love the calm it brings.What I Love:
I always enjoy walking the native garden trails and soaking in the timeless adobe architecture. You can treat yourself at the spa or simply relax by the heated pool. I think you’ll feel like you’ve stepped into another world.
- Relax by the heated outdoor pool or pamper yourself at the full-service spa. I’ve done both, and it’s pure bliss.
- Stroll through 27 acres of native gardens and trails right on the property. You’ll feel refreshed and inspired by the desert landscape.
- Stay active in the fitness center or start your morning with a yoga class. I find it helps me feel grounded for the day ahead.
- Plan your desert adventures with help from the concierge team. You can book guided Big Bend trips without any hassle.
- Explore Marathon’s local shops and dining, all just a short walk from your room. I always enjoy seeing what the town has to offer.
Address:
Gage Hotel, 102 NW 1st Street – HWY 90 West, Marathon, TX 79842Phone: 432-386-4205
6. For Stargazers and Off-Grid Adventurers: Terlingua Ranch Lodge
© Terlingua Ranch Lodge
Location:
Terlingua, TXHighlights:
When I want to disconnect and truly embrace West Texas, I head to Terlingua Ranch Lodge. You’ll find it tucked between Big Bend’s two beautiful parks, and I think you’ll love how peaceful and remote it feels.What I Love:
I always enjoy sitting on my private porch with the mountains in view and the stars overhead. You can eat at the laid-back café on-site, then spend the night stargazing under some of the darkest skies in the country. It’s hard to beat that kind of quiet magic.
- Stay in simple, comfortable lodge rooms or choose an RV site or campsite for an even closer connection to nature. I’ve tried both and loved the variety.
- Swim in the outdoor pool and take in the sweeping desert scenery while you cool off.
- Relax in the silence of the desert and stargaze from your porch—no light pollution means truly incredible skies.
- Dine at the café, where I’ve found the food to be hearty, casual, and just what I need after a day outdoors.
- Explore both Big Bend National Park and Big Bend Ranch State Park with easy access from the lodge. I think you’ll appreciate how well-located it is for adventure.
Address:
Terlingua Ranch Lodge, 16000 Terlingua Ranch Rd, Terlingua, TX 79852Phone: 432-371-3146
7. For DIY Travelers: Wild Horse Station
© Courtesy of Rafa Irusta - Fotolia.com
Location:
Terlingua, TXHighlights:
When I want peace, space, and stunning skies, I stay at Wild Horse Station. You’ll find rustic cabins and wide-open desert views just minutes from Big Bend. I think you’ll love the quiet and comfort it offers.What I Love:
I always feel at home in the two-bedroom cabins with full kitchens. You can cook, relax, and enjoy big views from the shaded porch. At night, I sit outside and watch the stars light up the sky. It’s the kind of calm you don’t forget.
- Stay in a clean, spacious cabin with two bedrooms, a private bathroom, and cozy Southwestern touches. I’ve found them perfect for families or longer stays.
- Cook your own meals in the fully equipped kitchen. I love having that flexibility during a road trip.
- Unwind on the shaded porch and take in the desert landscape. I always make time for sunset and stargazing.
- Watch satellite TV when you want to relax indoors after a long day exploring. It’s a nice bonus.
- Explore Big Bend National Park or Big Bend Ranch State Park—they’re both just a short drive away. I think you’ll love how easy it is to head out on an adventure.
Address:
Wild Horse Station, 53701 TX-118, Terlingua, TX 79852Phone: 432-371-2526
8. For Budget-Minded Explorers: Longhorn Ranch Motel
© Longhorn Ranch Motel
Location:
Terlingua, TXHighlights:
When I want to slow down and enjoy the open sky, I stay at Longhorn Ranch Motel. You’ll find it surrounded by mountain views and desert beauty, and I think you’ll love how laid-back and scenic it feels—whether you’re road tripping, RVing, or just relaxing under the stars.What I Love:
I always appreciate the clean, simple rooms and the chance to stay in the RV park when I’m on the road. The stargazing is amazing here, and Tivo’s Place next door makes it easy to grab a great meal without going far.
- Stay in a cozy room or park your RV with views of the rugged West Texas landscape.
- Swim in the outdoor pool as the sun sets over the mountains. I think it’s the perfect way to end the day.
- Bring your pets—some rooms are pet-friendly, which makes traveling even easier for me and my furry companions.
- Dine just steps away at Tivo’s Place Restaurant. I always leave full and happy thanks to the hearty food and friendly service.
- Stargaze under dark skies that stretch for miles. I never need a telescope to feel amazed out here.
Address:
Longhorn Ranch Motel, 52370 TX-118, Terlingua, TX 79852<Phone: 432-371-2541
Map:
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