Big Bend National Park, a Texan jewel nestled in the heart of the high desert, has captivated travelers for generations. Its dramatic landscapes, from towering peaks to natural hot springs and the stunning Santa Elena Canyon, combined with some of the darkest night skies in the world, make it an unforgettable destination. With over half a million visitors in 2023 alone, finding the perfect place to stay near Big Bend is crucial for an optimal experience. Fortunately, a diverse range of accommodations has emerged to meet the growing demand, offering everything from stylish glamping sites to comfortable vacation rentals and design-forward hotels. Let’s dive into some of the best options for lodging near Big Bend National Park, ensuring your visit is as remarkable as the park itself.
Discovering Unique Stays: Airbnb Options Near Big Bend
For travelers seeking a home-away-from-home experience with unique character, Airbnbs near Big Bend offer a compelling alternative to traditional hotels. These rentals often provide more space, privacy, and distinctive amenities, allowing you to immerse yourself in the Big Bend region’s unique atmosphere.
Big Bend Mirror Cabin: Immersive Desert Views
Bed & bath: 1 bedroom, 1 bath
Top amenities: Firepit, Wi-Fi, kitchenette, floor-to-ceiling windows
Best for: Solo adventurers or couples seeking unparalleled desert panoramas from every corner of their accommodation.
The Big Bend Mirror Cabin, managed by Ghost Town Casitas, is a marvel of design, seamlessly integrating into the captivating Chihuahuan Desert landscape. This petite yet perfectly formed cabin is an ideal retreat for individuals or couples. Imagine showering in a one-way mirrored shower, indulging in luxurious bath products while being surrounded by the desert scenery. A well-equipped kitchenette caters to your caffeine needs with a French press and pour-over setup. Waking up in the comfortable queen bed is an experience in itself, with floor-to-ceiling windows framing breathtaking desert vistas and spectacular sunrises. Located just a 15-minute drive from Big Bend National Park, this unique mirrored cabin also provides easy access to the historic Terlingua ghost town, with the renowned Starlight Theatre Restaurant & Saloon a mere 10-minute walk away.
$348 at Airbnb (starting price)
The Perch: Elevated Desert Escape
The Perch Airbnb Exterior View with Desert Landscape
Bed & bath: 3 bedrooms, 1 bath
Top amenities: Firepit and chiminea, soaking tub, expansive desert vistas
Best for: Small groups or families desiring a revitalizing wilderness retreat.
Perched atop a 60-million-year-old limestone plateau, The Perch offers an exceptional vantage point for experiencing the Big Bend region. Its expansive outdoor deck provides unparalleled panoramic views of both Big Bend National Park and the neighboring Terlingua Ghost Town, perfect for sunrise and sunset admiration. The interior is equally captivating, adorned with original artwork by Texan artists, stylish midcentury modern furniture, and industrial design elements, incorporating two repurposed shipping containers into its structure. This unique Airbnb offers three bedrooms and is ideal for families or small groups. Access to The Perch requires a 4×4 vehicle due to its remote desert location, adding to its secluded and adventurous appeal.
$671 at Airbnb (starting price)
The Juniper Moon House: Marfa’s Boho Stargazing Haven
Stargazing at The Juniper Moon House Airbnb in Marfa Texas
Bed & bath: 1 bedroom, 1 bath
Top amenities: Firepit, private yard, luxurious bedding, local art
Best for: Couples exploring Marfa’s art scene en route to Big Bend, seeking a unique and cozy base.
Located in Marfa, The Juniper Moon House is a charming one-bedroom home brimming with Texan and bohemian flair. Adorned with vibrant Mexican blankets, succulents, and vintage album art, this Airbnb exudes positive vibes. Recognized as one of the top Airbnbs for stargazing, it offers a cozy outdoor space complete with hammock chairs and an al fresco dining area – perfect for spotting the enigmatic Marfa lights. The interior is equally delightful, showcasing local art, a fully equipped kitchen, and a plush queen-size bed fitted with luxurious Parachute sheets. It’s an excellent choice for couples wanting to experience Marfa’s galleries and then venture to Big Bend National Park.
$143 at Airbnb (Starting Price)
Desert Sky Hut: Industrial Chic Meets Desert Serenity
Desert Sky Hut Airbnb Interior with Southwestern Textiles
Bed & bath: Studio, 1 bath
Top amenities: Fast Wi-Fi, split air conditioner/heater, workspace
Best for: Couples combining trips to Marfa and Big Bend, needing a comfortable and stylish base.
Desert Sky Hut is a unique studio space that blends the trendy aesthetic of a Williamsburg loft with the ruggedness of a desert bunker. Imagine a vaulted shipping container transformed into a midcentury modern haven, filled with natural light, original artwork, and Southwestern textiles. This open-plan dwelling provides essential amenities, including a kitchenette and full bathroom, allowing you to relax comfortably in the remote West Texas landscape. It’s an ideal choice for couples exploring both Marfa and Big Bend, seeking a stylish and well-equipped accommodation option.
$140 at Airbnb (starting price)
Secluded Terlingua Ghost Town Cabin: Authentic Desert Vibes
Secluded Terlingua Ghost Town Cabin Outdoor Stargazing Bed
Bed & bath: 1 bedroom, 1 bath
Top amenities: Outdoor stargazing bed, fireplace, shady hammock, clawfoot tub
Best for: Desert enthusiasts and couples seeking an authentic Terlingua experience, prioritizing outdoor living.
This petite adobe cabin in Terlingua Ghost Town exemplifies that great things come in small packages. While the indoor space is basic, featuring a queen-size bed, full kitchen, and breakfast nook, the outdoor area is the true highlight. After a day of rafting in Santa Elena Canyon or hiking the Window Trail, unwind by the handcrafted outdoor fireplace, enjoy al fresco dining in the shade, or stargaze from the expansive outdoor bed. This secluded cabin perfectly captures the spirit of Terlingua, offering a unique and memorable stay for desert lovers.
$250 at Airbnb (starting price)
Boca de la Roca Mountain Lodge: Off-Grid Bohemian R&R
Boca de la Roca Mountain Lodge Interior with Reclaimed Wood
Bed & bath: 2 bedrooms, 2 baths
Top amenities: Full kitchen, large porch, Nest New York bath products
Best for: Couples or friends aged 30 and over, desiring a peaceful and secluded Texas retreat.
Step into Boca de la Roca Mountain Lodge, an off-grid two-bedroom cabin, and be captivated by its textured reclaimed wood, expansive mountain views, floor-to-ceiling windows, and bohemian décor. Start your day with coffee in bed while admiring the arid desert peaks, relax in the airy living room with a throw blanket and a book, or dine outdoors on the spacious front porch. Set on 81 private acres, Boca de la Roca guarantees tranquility and solitude, making it an ideal escape for those seeking true relaxation in the Big Bend region.
$396 at Airbnb (starting price)
Awe-Inspiring Riverfront Home: La Centinela’s Elegance
La Centinela Riverfront Home Porch with Rio Grande Views
Bed & bath: 2 bedrooms, 2 baths
Top amenities: River views from the porch, Molton Brown products, indoor fireplace, outdoor firepit
Best for: Families with older children or small groups seeking privacy and stunning riverfront scenery.
La Centinela, named after a nearby mountain at Rio Bravo Ranch, offers an elegant and tasteful desert-inspired interior design. Arched adobe windows perfectly frame spectacular views of the Rio Grande. Hand-carved wood accents enhance the indoor space, and an open-plan living and dining area encourages communal gatherings after a day of exploring Big Bend. The expansive porch, the size of a two-bedroom apartment, is a prime spot for sunset viewing. This riverfront home is perfect for families or small groups seeking a private and luxurious base with breathtaking views of the Rio Grande.
$368 at Airbnb (starting price)
Hotels and Retreats: Curated Comfort Near Big Bend
For those who prefer the amenities and services of hotels, the Big Bend region offers unique hotels and retreats that blend comfort with the area’s distinctive character.
Hotel Saint George, Marfa: Art and Modernity
Hotel Saint George Marfa Exterior View
Bed & bath: 1 bedroom, 1 bath
Top amenities: Local artworks, Sferra bedding, on-site restaurant
Best for: Art enthusiasts who appreciate exploring both culture and the great outdoors.
Hotel Saint George, a Marfa landmark since 1886, has evolved into a sleek, modern haven for art lovers and national park visitors. Once a stop for railroad travelers, it now caters to those drawn to Marfa’s vibrant art scene and the natural beauty of Big Bend. Explore Donald Judd’s minimalist art installations, visit the iconic Prada Marfa, and then unwind at Bar St. George with a Chihuahuan Sunset cocktail or relax by the private swimming pool. While located about 1.5 hours from Big Bend’s entrance, Hotel Saint George offers a sophisticated and culturally rich base for your Big Bend adventure.
Powered By: Marfa Saint George
Willow House: Desert Minimalism and Communal Spirit
Willow House Casita Exterior with Desert Landscape
Bed & bath: 1 bedroom, 1 bath
Top amenities: Large communal house with kitchen, Aēsop bath products, private patios
Best for: Couples and small families who value high-end design and a blend of privacy and social interaction.
Willow House, with its collection of 12 desert casitas reminiscent of Donald Judd’s concrete art, is thoughtfully designed for a versatile experience. Guests can enjoy complete tranquility and privacy in their individual casitas, free from shared walls. Alternatively, socialize in the communal kitchen, perfect for preparing meals and mingling, or gather around the open-air firepit for evening conversations. With earthy, modernist décor and close proximity to Big Bend National Park (just six miles away), Willow House provides a stylish and convenient base for exploring the region.
$670 at Willow House (starting price, two-night minimum)
Glamping Sites: Luxurious Outdoor Experiences Near Big Bend
For those seeking an immersive nature experience without sacrificing comfort, glamping near Big Bend offers the perfect solution. These sites combine the allure of the outdoors with upscale amenities, providing a unique way to connect with the Big Bend environment.
Camp Elena: Glamping with Panoramic Mountain Views
Camp Elena Glamping Tent Exterior with Mountain View
Bed & bath: 1 bedroom, 1 bath
Top amenities: In-tent telescopes, Starlink Wi-Fi, private firepits, en suite kitchens
Best for: Glampers who desire luxury amenities and breathtaking views, seamlessly blending comfort and nature.
Camp Elena redefines luxury glamping, offering well-appointed canvas tents complete with unexpected amenities like complimentary Starlink Wi-Fi, Aesop bath products, and private kitchen spaces. Each glampsite is thoughtfully decorated with Southwestern textiles and includes spacious decks with grills, lounge chairs, and pour-over coffee equipment. The mind-blowing views of the Chisos Mountains from your private perch might make it challenging to leave and explore the park itself! Camp Elena provides an exceptional glamping experience where comfort and natural beauty converge.
Shop Now at Camp Elena (starting price)
Base Camp Terlingua Casitas: Funky Desert Lodging
Base Camp Terlingua Casitas Interior with Desert Furnishings
Bed & bath: Varies by accommodation
Top amenities: Outdoor showers, air conditioning, firepits, kitchenettes
Best for: Travelers seeking relaxed comfort after adventurous days in Big Bend National Park, with a range of unique lodging options to choose from.
Base Camp Terlingua is known for its eclectic lodging choices, from futuristic bubble tents to rugged campsites. However, their casitas stand out as offering exceptional value. These casitas feature chic desert furnishings, wood firepits, Keurig coffee makers, and Berkey water filters. Stay connected with high-speed Wi-Fi or disconnect and enjoy the sunset from Adirondack chairs. With Big Bend National Park just a 10-minute drive away, Base Camp Terlingua provides a funky and convenient base for your exploration.
Shop Now at Base Camp Terlingua (starting price)
Starstruck Glamping: Milky Way Views and Luxury
Starstruck Glamping Geodesic Dome Exterior at Sunset
Bed & bath: Studio, 1 bath
Top amenities: Outdoor kitchen with gas grill, million-dollar views
Best for: Couples prioritizing luxury amenities and unforgettable views of the Milky Way, seeking a romantic and unique experience.
Starstruck Glamping is aptly named, designed to showcase the celestial wonders of West Texas. Guests can savor phenomenal sunset views from their fully equipped outdoor kitchens. Each geodesic dome features a telescope for observing some of the darkest night skies globally. The interiors are equally impressive, boasting luxurious queen beds, spa-inspired en suite bathrooms, geometric rugs, and climate control. Starstruck Glamping offers a truly luxurious and star-studded glamping experience near Big Bend.
$279 $251 at Starstruck Glamping (starting price)
El Cosmico: Eclectic Shelter for the Stylish Traveler
El Cosmico Vintage Trailer Accommodation
Bed & bath: Varies by accommodation
Top amenities: Wood-fired hot tubs, hammock grove, hip on-site store
Best for: Fashion-forward travelers seeking unique photo opportunities and a diverse range of lodging and communal experiences.
El Cosmico provides a haven for travelers with varied tastes and interests. Offering a wide array of lodging options, from mirrored tiny homes and Mongolian yurts to vintage trailers and a modern apartment, El Cosmico is anything but ordinary. Enjoy unique amenities such as a shady hammock grove, workshops, and outdoor concerts. Consider the space-efficient Cosmic Kasita or the roomy Brite Building loft for your stay. El Cosmico is a destination in itself, perfect for stylish travelers seeking a memorable and Instagrammable Big Bend experience.
