Terlingua Abajo 1 2 & 3 Primitive Campsites

The road back is rough but manageable in an SUV if you drive slowly. The three sites are close to each other make privacy an issue but the sites weren’t full when we were there in February. Each site has a bear box as the only amenity. The skies are incredibly dark and open for starwatching. Big Bend is spread out, but by camping here we didn’t drive anywhere for days and we were able to do plenty of hiking and exploring, albeit not on designated trails, just on our own. We followed the adjacent stream to Santa Elena Canyon, roamed around the hills, walked the ruins of Terlingua Abaja, and relaxed. We didn’t have any cell service at the campsite but had good cell and 4G if we climbed the hill right behind the sites.

We did not stay in the sites as they're not RV appropriate, but we drove back here on our way to the canyon. The sites have a gorgeous view of the canyon and the drive in is a fun off-road experience if that's your thing. The only downside is the lack of privacy between tent sites. We'd prefer to be completely alone in dispersed camping situations.